Belostomatidae (Toesbiter)

The mouthparts of these insects, called rostrum and similar to the “jaw” in vertebrates, are one of the strongest among insects we know of. So are their bites. On average, they are 2 centimeters in size. It is known that some individuals grow up to 12 centimeters.

Habitat:

• The family Belostomatidae consists of insects that live in freshwater habitats.
• They are found in a variety of aquatic environments such as lakes, ponds, rivers, swamps, and stagnant water bodies.
• Some species live by clinging to underwater plants, while some species live floating near the water surface.

Reproduction Forms:

• Members of Belostomatidae reproduce by laying eggs.
• Females attach their eggs to the leaves or stems of aquatic plants.
• The larvae that hatch from the eggs go through a series of development stages called nymphs and turn into adult insects.

Nutritional Status:

• The Belostomatidae family consists of carnivorous insects.
• They feed on other aquatic insects, their larvae, shellfish and small fish.
• They catch their prey with their strong jaws and front legs and feed by injecting digestive enzymes.

Breed Name Origin:

• The family Belostomatidae is derived from the Greek words “belos” (arrow) and “stoma” (mouth).
• This name refers to the long, pointed beaks that insects use to catch their prey.

Extinction Status:

• Many species of the Belostomatidae family are in danger of extinction due to factors such as habitat destruction and water pollution.
• Some species are on the Red List by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Whether they are dangerous or not:

• Some species of the family Belostomatidae can be dangerous to humans.
• The insects’ powerful jaw bites can be painful and, in some cases, lead to infection.
• Therefore, it is important to avoid direct contact with these insects.

Summary:

• The family Belostomatidae consists of carnivorous insects that live in freshwater habitats.
• They catch their prey with their strong jaws and front legs and feed by injecting digestive enzymes.
• Some species of the family Belostomatidae have culinary value and are consumed as food in some countries.
• Some species of these insects can be dangerous to humans and their bites can be painful.
• Many species of the Belostomatidae family are in danger of extinction.

Culinary Value:

Some species of the family Belostomatidae have culinary value. Some insect species are consumed as food, especially in Southeast Asia and Africa.

Nutritive value:

• Belostomatidae insects are rich in protein, fat and minerals.
• They contain B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids.

Preparation of:

• These insects are usually cooked by frying or roasting.
• Some types of insects are flavored with spices and herbs.
• Insects can also be added to soups and stews.

Security:

• It is important to thoroughly cook Belostomatidae insects before eating them.
• Uncooked insects may contain bacteria and parasites that may be harmful to humans.
• People with insect allergies should not consume Belostomatidae insects.