Belostoma flumineum

Appearance

Ovoid-elongate in body shape that is dorsoventrally flattened and brown in coloration. They can range 2–2.5 cm in length. ''B.flumineum'' are insects so naturally have six legs although the front two are strong raptorial legs for catching and holding prey in a vice grip. The other four legs are slightly flattened and used for swimming. The mouth parts consist of a stout syringe-like rostrum or beak and long piercing stylets that were once mandibles and maxillae. They also have retractable strap-like appendages that allow for snorkeling while under water which are located on the posterier end of the abdomen. They have large eyes, but lack oceli, which are small light-detecting sensory organs.

Habitat

''Belostoma flumineum'' are commonly found in wetlands, marshes and ponds throughout North America. They live among weeds and like ponds with muddy bottoms which are good for over wintering in. Common species that ''B. flumineum'' prey upon are backswimmers, water boatmen, dragonfly nymphs, and snails. While they do not regularly participate in cannibalism they will attack smaller individuals of the same species. Reproduction in this species has 2 phases, a fall cycle and a spring cycle, where in the fall they are young breeders and in spring they are over wintered adults.