When it comes to parenting, many insects tend to be uninvolved with their offspring. As any parent knows, rearing young requires an immense amount of energy and time. That’s why we’re giving the Father of the Year Award to males in the genus Abedus (Hemiptera: Belostomatidae) for their dedication to parenthood! Abedus species, also known as “water bugs,” are unique in that the females lay egg clutches directly on the backs of males.
While parenthood has its rewards, it also has its risks. Once a clutch had been laid on the back of an Abedus male, additional mating opportunities plummet, they become more obvious to predators, and they becomes less mobile (Smith 1976). To cushion these risks, males are able to abort the clutch if conditions are subpar (Smith, 1976).
In order for the offspring to successfully develop, they must be exposed to water and surface air frequently. To accomplish this feat, males swim just below the water surface and bob up and down (Smith 1976). Despite consuming a lot of energy and putting males at risk for becoming a meal, their dedication pays off. A study by Smith showed that 97% of eggs on healthy males hatched successfully and likely contain the father’s genes!
Father’s Day is right around the corner (this Sunday, June 19th). Don’t forget to thank the fathers in your life for all they have done!
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