Broad-Shouldered Water Striders or Riffle Bugs

Family Veliidae

Rhagovelia obesa. Photo:Stephanie Boucher

Riffle bugs are predaceous and feed on small arthropods and mosquito eggs on the water surface. They live on the surface of the water or on the adjacent shore line. Some species are gregarious and can be found near the riffles of small streams. Other species are found in quieter parts of streams and ponds. Riffle bugs look like small, wingless water striders. They have a broad thorax and long legs. They are dark brown or black, often with silvery markings.