Surface Tension - Water Strider and Mayfly

August 01, 2017

SurfaceTension_SchnarkHaan L3 II- 011 - det1 g0 63 sharp (2)

Photographer: Hans Juergen Heyen

Featured above are a mayfly (Ephemeroptera) and a water strider (Gerridae) on a small pond as observed near Haan, Germany, on June 7, 2017. While the strider's very long legs compared to its body length, body covered with water-repelling micro hairs and the effects of surface tension allow it to effortlessly walk along the water surface, the hapless mayfly has a large surface to volume ratio and no water repellent qualities. Therefore, it's in serious trouble when it comes in contact with water, especially when a predator such as the water strider is nearby. Note the fly's iridescent wings.
 
Photo Details: Camera: Panasonic DMC-FZ300; Focal Length: 108mm (35mm equivalent: 1200mm); Aperture: ƒ/2.8; Exposure Time: 0.0050 s (1/200); ISO equiv: 100; Software: Microsoft Windows Photo Gallery 6.0.6001.18000. 

[1/21]