Spatial pattern of water bugs (Nepomorpha, Gerromorpha) at different scales in the Szigetköz (Hungary)

In 2003, 26 Heteroptera species (16 aquatic and 10 semiaquatic) were collected from 53 sampling sites in the Szigetköz region in Hungary. Hyocoris cimicoides and Gerris argentatus were the most frequent aquatic and semiaquatic species, respectively. Large differences both in the species number and species composition were observed among the different flood-prevention areas, arm systems and habitats. Strong negative correlation was found between the average number of aquatic species and current velocity, and a strong positive correlation between the average number of aquatic and semiaquatic species and macrophyte density. From a faunistic point of view, the marsh at Arak is the most interesting and valuable site.