Water Strider / Pond Skater by bmac62
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Description
One unusual and very fast bug:)
Because they have the unique ability to move about on the surface, water striders are known as “skaters,” “scooters,” or “wherrymen.” Sometimes they are called “Jesus Bugs” because they appear to “walk” on water.
Long middle and hind legs spread the weight evenly over the water surface. The “surface tension” of calm, smooth water keeps them afloat. Surface tension is the tendency of water molecules to cling to each other. It creates a thin film that water striders can float on without breaking through.
Water striders move in two different ways—skating in a slow, graceful glide or darting in a quick, spurting motion. Skating is done when moving upstream against a current or getting to food and other striders. Gliding is done by “rowing” with the middle legs. Feet press down on the water’s surface creating little dimples around them. Like the blades of an oar, the dimples generate hidden underwater currents that move the insect forward. Hind legs act as rudders and brakes. Front legs are free to snare prey.
Darting is done whenever quick movement is needed—to escape danger, pursue prey, or grab females. Darting uses both middle and back legs for propulsion.
Water striders can dart a distance of 100 body lengths per second. That would be 400 miles per hour for a six foot tall person.
Bill
"Between the Columns"
Comments (33)
beachzz
Love the shadow --gives the whole shot wonderful detail!! Hope your weekend is wonderful!!! :D
bimm3d
wonderful capture!!
Faemike55
This is just so cool to see. I've tried to get a picture of one of these critters...and I'll do it yet!
hipps13
That is a lot of miles in a hour wonderful capture warm hugs, Linda
jocko500
fast moveing for sure. cool shot
babuci
Great capture, like the semi see through water too.
RodS
Great detail on this little speed demon, Bill! Fantastic capture! It's not easy to get a decent shot of these little guys - I've tried, believe me! LOL!
lyron
Fantastic capture!!
helanker
THat was interesting reading, Bill. You really captured it beautifully and clear. Wish you a wonderful day. :)
durleybeachbum
That is the very best pic I've seen of one of these! Brilliant info too!
Blush
Great capture Hugs Susan~
bazza
Nice shot Bill.. Interesting bug well done.
Digitaleagle
Awesome macro, love the details excellent clarity!
DAVER2112
Wow Bill, This is an outstanding capture. Excellent. :)
fredster66
Excellent job, Bill.
cfulton
Well done, Bill, congrats on capturing one of these! Thanks for the info too! Clive
debbielove
Super capture Bill.. Yep! We have them here as well and they are quick.. So full marks for getting a real good shot.. Rob
auntietk
Nice, clear pic of this little guy, and its shadow gives the shot depth and interest. I love it that we can see the roots of the water plants. Another bit of compositional interest. Without those elements, this could have just been a picture of a bug ... with them, you've got something quite special! Your text completes the package nicely. Really fine work! :*
jared99
An awesome shot.
MagikUnicorn
Weird insect ;-) NASA study how they can flote over water ;-)
jendellas
I love to see these moving across the water!!!!
kbrog
Excellent capture! :)
MrsRatbag
Wonderful clear shot of this fellow; they are fun to watch!
flavia49
excellent capture!
sandra46
marvelous, superb image! and great info!
goodoleboy
Terrific contrast and lighting in this sensational shot of the water strider, aka skater, scooter, etc., Bill, plus very interesting information on its ability to move about to and fro.
mgtcs
WOW....Fantastic capture here, marvelous image!
npauling
A super capture of this little fellow and his shadow. I saw a TV program on how they actually walk on the water in slow motion and they are amazing.
sharky_
Interesting Bug and info... Aloha
Rainastorm
WOw you got one sitting still! lol Nice capture!