The Life of Animals | Gerridae | Family Gerridae are physically characterized by having hydrofuge hairpiles, preapical retractable claws, and elongated legs and body Hydrofuge hairpiles are small, hydrophobic microhairs. Wing polymorphism is Important to the variety and dispersals of Gerridae. The ability for one to have young Brood with wings and the next note allows water striders to adapt to changing environments. Long, medium, short, and non-existent wing forms are all Necessary Depending on the environment and season. Long wings allow for flight to a neighboring water body one gets too crowded however They can get wet and weigh down a water strider. Short wings may allow for short travel, but limit how far a gerrid can disperse. Non-existent wings Prevent a gerrid from being weighed down, but Prevent dispersals.
