Even a small pond is full of fascinating predators
Even the smallest ponds are teeming with life. While a large proportion of the species found in them are microscopic, there are plenty of creatures visible to the naked eye, too. So why not take a moment to examine the life of a pond more closely? You might spot predatory diving beetles frequently coming up to the surface for air and backswimmers skimming along the underside of the surface film. Both are predators that prey on small invertebrates. If food becomes scarce, they simply fly over to a neighbouring pond. The endearing water striders skating on the surface film are also predators. In late summer, the air spaces of ponds are taken over by dragonflies, which are agile fliers and masters of catching flying insects.
Four-spotted chaser / Photo: A. Kuusela
