Water Scorpion
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hemiptera
Family: Nepidae
While the name might seem intimidating, people generally have nothing to fear from water scorpions! The “tail” is not a stinger but two half-tube structures that can be locked together. These insects can then use it like a snorkel, sticking it above the water to carry air to their abdomens. Just imagine having built-in snorkeling gear!
University of Guelph Arboretum
College Ave East
Guelph ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
arbor@uoguelph.ca
(519) 824-4120 ext. 52113
43°32'39.06"N, 80°12'57.78"W
The land where The Arboretum now grows has been home to plants and animals for thousands of years. It was home to Indigenous peoples before settlers arrived. We recognize the Dish with One Spoon territory, the treaty lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit, and the Between the Lakes Treaty 3 lands on which the University of Guelph and The Arboretum now sit. We are honoured to work on and care for this land.