What structure do water bugs raise to the surface to draw air, sometimes called a snorkel?
Answer
The tip of the abdomen
For respiration, water bugs possess a highly specialized adaptation located at the very posterior end of their body, specifically the tip of the abdomen. This structure functions as a physical snorkel, which the insect consciously raises above the waterline to make contact with the surface. This allows them to draw atmospheric air into their respiratory system, facilitating gas exchange while they remain submerged. This behavior of angling the rear end upward to break the water tension is a key field identification clue distinguishing them from obligate gill-breathers.
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