Virtual Exhibit on Canada´s Biodiversity

	Habitat Adults: aquatic Immatures: aquatic Feeding Habits Adults: predaceous Immatures: predaceous Size: 2 to 6 mm Flight : flightless North American Species: over 30	Hemiptera Veliidae Broad-shoulder water striders or riffle bugs Front Wings: absent Hind Wings: absent Mouthparts: sucking Antenna Length: shorter than body Antenna Shape: straight Front Legs: unmodified Hind Legs: unmodified Special Characteristics: 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.
	Comments: 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.

	Species: Rhagovelia obesa Uhl Common Name: Distribution: Southern Canada Comments: This species is gregarious and is often found in large groups in fast moving riffles of streams.