Giant water bug

6837.        May 2020 found in backyard. Moncton, NB. Canada

Number 6837. This is a giant water bug, Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae. Also known as toe-biters or electric light bugs, they are voracious predators on other aquatic life forms, including other insects, tadpoles, and minnows. They are strong fliers that can be found quite some distance from water, and can deliver a very painful ‘bite’ if mishandled. Click here for more detailed information