Review on Predatory Aquatic insect Backswimmer Notonecta (Hemiptera, notonectidae) species

Annu Kumari

doi:10.52711/2349-2988.2026.00039

Research Journal of Science and Technology

ISSN

2349-2988 (Online)
0975-4393 (Print)

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Review on Predatory Aquatic insect Backswimmer Notonecta (Hemiptera, notonectidae) species

Author(s): Annu Kumari

Email(s): sainiannu6553@gmail.com

DOI: 10.52711/2349-2988.2026.00039

Address: Annu Kumari
Research Scholar, Jai Prakash University, Chapra, Bihar, India.
*Corresponding Author

Published In: Volume - 18, Issue - 3, Year - 2026

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ABSTRACT:
Backswimmers, belonging to the family Notonectidae and particularly the genus Notonecta, are key predatory insects found in freshwater habitats across the globe. These insects serve a dual ecological function: they help control mosquito larvae and other aquatic invertebrates, yet they also pose a significant risk to fish seed production by preying on fish eggs, spawn, fry, and fingerlings. This review provides an overview of the taxonomy, morphology, distribution, life cycle, predatory habits, and ecological importance of Notonecta species, with a focus on their effects on aquaculture. Backswimmers have developed impressive adaptations for life in water, such as specialized swimming legs, body hairs that retain air, and effective predatory mouthparts, allowing them to capture and eat a variety of prey. Their predatory success is affected by factors like prey density, prey size, habitat features, and environmental conditions. Numerous studies have reported significant losses of fish larvae due to Notonecta spp., especially in nursery ponds used for cultivating Indian major carps (Catla catla, Labeo rohita, and Cirrhinus mrigala). The review emphasizes the economic impact of backswimmer infestations in aquaculture and explores available management strategies, including selective insecticides and traditional pond management techniques. Gaining insight into the biology and predatory behavior of Notonecta species is crucial for creating effective control methods that reduce fish seed mortality while maintaining beneficial aquatic life. This review offers valuable information for fisheries scientists, aquaculture professionals, and aquatic entomologists engaged in sustainable fish production and aquatic ecosystem management.

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Cite this article:
Annu Kumari. Review on Predatory Aquatic insect Backswimmer Notonecta (Hemiptera, notonectidae) species. Research Journal of Science and Technology. 2026; 18(3):279-3. doi: 10.52711/2349-2988.2026.00039

Cite(Electronic):
Annu Kumari. Review on Predatory Aquatic insect Backswimmer Notonecta (Hemiptera, notonectidae) species. Research Journal of Science and Technology. 2026; 18(3):279-3. doi: 10.52711/2349-2988.2026.00039 Available on: https://www.rjstonline.com/AbstractView.aspx?PID=2026-18-3-6

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