Life history and biology of the riffle bug Rhagovelia obesa Uhler (Heteroptera: Veliidae) in Southern Ontario

Abstract

The life history of Rhagovelia obesa (Heteroptera: Veliidae) was investigated using field collected and laboratory reared material. The nymphal instars and adults are described and figured. This is the first life-history study of Rhagovelia or its related genera Tetraripis and Trochopus. These genera together have almost a worldwide distribution and are characterized by a unique swimming plume beating underwater. Four nymphal instars occur instead of the usual five. The overwintering stage is the egg, another unusual feature for aquatic Hemiptera. The site(s) of egg laying have not been located. For the first time Rhagovelia has been raised in the laboratory from first instar to adult.