Toothed Pondskater - Gerris odontogaster

Gerris odontogaster is 7 to 9 mm in length and is most easily distinguished in the male, which has two distinct ‘teeth’ on the underside of the 7th abdominal segment, otherwise it is quite similar to the Common Pondskater (G. lacustris).

A good photograph of the male may be sufficient evidence to support a record providing it shows the projecting teeth at the ventral abdomen.  In all other cases detailed examination is necessary. A good description of distinguishing features can be found here https://aquaticbugs.com/gerris-odontogaster/

Found in well vegetated lakesides, ponds and canals.

All year round.

Gerris odontogaster has two generations per year and overwinters as an adult, often some distance from water in habitats such as grass tussocks.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.