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Notonecta

Notonecta

9.9
An insect that swims on its back under the water
  • noun
  • /ˌnɒtəˈnɛktə/
  • Specialized
: Notonecta
  • Scientists observed how Notonecta capture their prey while swimming upside down.

Examples

  • The pond was full of Notonecta gliding smoothly just beneath the surface.

  • Researchers discovered that Notonecta move by using their back legs, allowing them to swim efficiently.

  • A single Notonecta can often be identified by its pale wings and unique movement.

  • The Notonecta is known for its unique swimming style.

  • Many Notonectas can be found in freshwater ponds.

  • The pond was full of Notonecta gliding gracefully just beneath the water's surface.

  • A single Notonecta can often be seen swimming upside down, easily distinguishing it from other insects.

Synonyms

backswimmer
vsNotonecta
  • Specialized
1 9.9

An insect that swims on its back in water and gives a painful bite

is the scientific genus name for that group of aquatic insects

Compounds

Notonecta undulata
  • Specialized
9.9

A water insect that swims on its back and bites painfully

Surface Forms

Notonecta singular
Notonectas plural

Etymology

Notonecta comes from Greek parts noto- meaning 'back' and -necta meaning 'swimmer', so it literally means 'back-swimmer'. That's why Notonecta are called backswimmers: they often swim upside down just under the water surface.