Notes on the Semiaquatic Hemiptera. 
Under this section of the paper, and the next one on page 
141, each family is treated under two heads: “A. Taxonomy 
of the Family” and “B. Biology of the Family.” 
Under the first head is given the family characteristics fol- 
lowed, perhaps, by a brief historical note, then by a key to 
the genera. A brief characterization of the genus is given 
and each genus is provided with a key to its species where 
possible. Specific descriptions are given for most of the in- 
sects listed in Van Duzee’s Catalog. Sometimes they have 
been shortened a trifle if the same information is presented 
in the synoptic key preceding. In one family comparative 
notes have been used and in two families undergoing revision 
(one of them by the writer), the description of species is 
omitted for the most part. 
It is hoped that this taxonomic matter may be found valu- 
able to the general student. The special student, as a matter 
of course, will go to the sources for his information. 
Under the second head, the “Biology of the Family,” are 
given some general notes which relate to the family as a whole. 
This is followed by a treatment of the species of each genus. 
Under each species the notes are arranged in a general way 
as follows: Habitat, hibernation, oviposition, incubation, 
hatching, behavior of newly hatched, number of instars, ma- 
turity, fecundity, longevity, food habits, description of stages, 
and then a brief summary. 
The field of investigation in the realm of the biology of 
the water bugs is full of intensely interesting and promising 
problems on every hand. The notes which follow give us 
some idea of what has been discovered and what yet remains 
unknown. 
Family GELASTOCORIDA) Kirk 1897. 
A. TAXONOMY OF GELASTOCORIDZ. 
Family Characteristics. More or less squat, toad-shaped bugs, to be 
found upon the moist sand or mud bordering streams or marshes. The 
eyes are very protuberant and the entire body often has a mottled, 
rough, warty appearance. The antenne are four segmented, shorter than 
the head, and concealed beneath the eyes. Ocelli are present.* The 
* Absent in Nerthra. 
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