The Lesser Water Boatman, Corixa punctata, is one of a number of water boatmen species in the UK. It is common and widespread in weedy ponds, lakes and ditches. Like the backswimmer, it has long, oar-like legs to help it swim at the surface of the water, but it does not swim upside-down. It is also herbivorous, eating algae and detritus, unlike the carnivorous backswimmer. Like other aquatic bugs, Lesser Water Boatmen need to breathe at the water's surface, but they have developed an ingenious trick to allow them to remain under water for longer: they hang upside-down, collecting air from the water’s surface and then carry around as a bubble on their body. During warm weather the adults may take flight.
Human activity, including the drainage of land for agriculture and the loss of ponds through development, has resulted in the disappearance of many wetlands. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with planners, developers and farmers to ensure our wetlands are protected. You can help too: encourage all kinds of insects from water boatmen to dragonflies into your garden by having a wildlife-friendly pond. In turn, they'll provide vital food for other creatures such as frogs and toads. To find out more about encouraging wildlife into your garden, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.
