Gerris thoracicus

10-12mm. Similar to the Common Pondskater, Gerris lacustris, but usually with an orange disc in the centre of the thorax. Two other Gerris species have this but Gerris thoracicus is the commonest of these. It is usually fully winged and able to fly. The antennal segments are all dirty yellow and the yellow stripe of the side of the thorax widens towards the rear.

The other two species with an orange thoracic disc are G. costai (which is larger) and G. lateralis which has patches of silver hairs along each side of the ventral surface of the abdomen.

Similar to other members of this family and detailed examination is needed to identify it to species level.

Found in ponds and lakes, often those with organically enriched or slightly polluted waters.

Eggs are laid in April and May, which give rise to a first generation of adults by mid-summer. These produce a second generation, the adults of which overwinter. 

Eggs are laid on the floating leaves of aquatic plants.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Uncommon or under-recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.