Notonecta

The genus Notonecta, commonly known as backswimmers, belongs to the insect order Heteroptera. These insects are characterized by their unique ability to swim upside down, using their long, oar-like hind legs for propulsion. Their bodies exhibit countershading, with a light-colored back that blends with the water's surface when viewed from below, and a darker underside that merges with the aquatic environment when seen from above.1

Backswimmers are predators, feeding on insects, small tadpoles, and fish by sucking their body fluids with their beaks. They can store air under their wings to remain submerged and are capable of leaping out of the water to fly. The genus Notonecta is found worldwide and can be destructive to fish and tadpoles. They are also known to bite humans, with the sensation described as similar to a bee sting.1