Lethocerus americanus, sometimes called the electric light bug, toe biter or fish killer,[1] is a giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, native to southern Canada and the United States (north of 35°N; other Lethocerus species are found southwards).

A pair of front fore limbs is used for capturing and latching onto its intended prey, which it then injects with digestive toxins through a somewhat retractable proboscis much like that of a mosquito.

[citation needed] Under water, the adult breathes air that it traps under its wings using two snorkel-like tubes that extend from the rear of its abdomen.

If disturbed in the water, the speed of L. americanus allows it to quickly break away while its natural camouflage easily conceals it.

Even if agitated on dry land, L. americanus will first attempt to escape or play dead before raising its fore limbs and hind quarters in what resembles a fighting stance.