Micronecta scholtzi occurs in still or slow flowing water where the preferred habitat of plant free shallow water over gravel or stones with some sediment is present.

Unlike most water bugs which overwinter as adults Micronecta species overwinter as nymphs, second or third instar in the case of M. scholtzi, which develop into adults by June. A summer generation becomes adult in August and this second generation gives rise to the nymphs which overwinter.

The males of M. scholtzi are able to produce a very loud ‘song’ to attract females that can be heard from the bank above the water. The sound is made by rubbing a ridged aedeagus (penis) against a small corrugated structure on the abdomen called a strigil. It is so loud that the insect has been dubbed the loudest animal on earth (relative to body size). (AHRC, AAC)

Three of the Micronecta family are found in Northants and with more searching we are hopeful to find all 4.

Distribution:

This is a Midlands species Nationally and while distributed across Northants it is perhaps slightly under recorded. It is found in the shallow areas of gravel pits especially down the Nene Valley. Being recorded in 17 10km squares it is Un-common in Northants.

Habitat:

It is confined to lakes, or lake-like large ponds, canals and rivers; gravelly, weed- free shallows with little organic matter and a good light are preferred (S&L, 1959).

Identification:

It's size of 2 to 2.5mm is larger than the other 3 species and it has glossy forewings with longitudinal streaks. It also has a distinctive brown mark between the eyes.