The entire body of G. lacustris including its legs is covered with many tiny hairs that have a wax-like coating.

The species hunts on or below water surface for insects and other small invertebrates using their strong forelegs which end with claws.

With their front pair of legs they’re able to detect ripples and sense vibrations in the surface film from struggling insects and handle or grasp their prey.

Through evolution, water striders have developed a unique arrangement of legs which gives them the gliding ability with greatly elongated med-legs.

If its pool should dry out during a drought, a water strider will travel overland to find wetter pastures to settle in.

[3][5][6] The front pair of legs of a water strider do not act as a rudder - they are very short and are held up in the air, ready to grab prey.