What is this creature?

[Gavin Adcock]

I couldn't find the pond life section, so posting here in general... I'm in Switzerland, 800m altitude, no other water sources nearby.

I found this new resident in my pond today. Any ideas what it is?

It is about 5cm long, looks like a grasshopper. Those are legs, it appears to walk on them but also swims. The photos are not the greatest - but it is underwater and I have not seen it above the surface.

 

[mrsclem]

Possibly a dragonfly nymph?

 

[Gavin Adcock]

Possibly a dragonfly nymph?

Would never have guessed this, but you couldn't have provided a better answer!

 

[Mmathis]

@mrsclem That’s what I would say, as well. Those are creepy looking critters!

 

[AlyssaFish]

It's kinda ooky when you are pulling out string algae and you feel something wriggling around, and it turns out to be one of these guys. I try to remind myself they turn awesome as adults, but, they still ook me out...

 

[seandelevan]

Yes ..baby dragonfly...

 

[addy1]

I always save them, so what if they eat a few fry, got plenty. They are great bug eaters!

 

[IPA]

Did I read correctly that they live for 2 years as a nymph before becoming a dragon fly?