Everything you need to know about these toe biters
Why are giant water bugs called toe biters?
Giant water bugs bite humans who enter waters, where these bugs live. Their painful bite is primarily a defence mechanism and is not harmful.
How do giant water bugs hunt?
Giant water bugs are apex predators and nocturnal hunters. Their hunting strategy involves ambushing their prey and injecting toxic enzymes into them.
What do giant water bugs eat?
Aquatic invertebrates, fish, small reptiles, amphibians, and birds are a part of the giant water bug's diet.
About the contributors
Femi Ezhuthupallickal Benny
Femi is a PhD student at University College London (UCL), working on the ecology and behavior of Asian giant hornets. Passionate about insects, especially wasps, she loves fieldwork in underexplored places, studying how insects interact with their environment and discovering new species while at it!
Diviya Mehra
is a graphic designer. She was the former art director of National Geographic Traveller. Her love for animals, travel and design has shaped her career through the years.
View Profile
Published: Feb 28, 2025
Related Content
In Stages: Metamorphosis in the Insect World
Looking at the lifecycle of insects, it’s clear that each has a unique evolutionary success story, with change the only constant
Undertaking the World’s Longest Insect Migration
Scientists are beginning to unravel the details of the migratory circuit of the globe skimmer dragonfly
Insect Pollinators: Matchmakers of the Plant World
Roughly 80 per cent of all flowering plants need the help of animals to reproduce. Tiny pollinators like bees, beetles, butterflies, and flies ensure that flowering plants continue their lifecycle
Giant Water Bugs: Close Encounters with Toe Biters
From summer screams to scientific curiosity, it has been a long journey to understand these master hunters of freshwater habitats
Be My Guest: Bugs in My Bedroom
Welcome and unwelcome guests, ranging from emerald-coloured beetles to moths and butterflies, are not uncommon in this big city bedroom
A Bug’s Life: The Ant Question Hour
These tiny creatures rescue their injured friends and weather storms. A peek into some of the mysteries and intriguing behaviours of the ant world