Animals That Can Run on Water: Fascinating Adaptations and Scientists Behind Them

Have you ever imagined an animal capable of running on water, much like a fairy tale coming to life? This is not just a wonder of imagination; nature has already provided us with fascinating examples of animals that can walk on water. Among these, the Basilisk Lizard (also known as the Jesus Lizard) is perhaps the most well-known. Furthermore, the Water Striders, a diverse family of insects, also possess this unique adaptation.

The Basilisk Lizard: A True Master of Water

The Basilisk Lizard (Basiliscus basiliscus) is a remarkable animal found in Central and South America. This lizard has an incredible ability to run on water, a feat that earned it the nickname Jesus Lizard due to its resemblance to Jesus walking on water in a religious context. This adaptation allows it to escape from predators and cross water with ease.

The Basilisk Lizard achieves this extraordinary ability through a combination of speed, agility, and specialized physical features. When in danger, the lizard sprints across the water's surface using its powerful hind legs, creating a series of rapid strides. Its large, webbed feet assist with this by increasing surface area and preventing the lizard from sinking. Additionally, the fringes of skin on the toes act as paddles, generating lift and momentum necessary to stay above the water.

The Water Striders: An Entire Family Adapted to Water

In addition to the Basilisk Lizard, the Water Striders (Gerridae) are a family of insects known for their ability to walk on water. These insects belong to the order Hemiptera and are part of the suborder Heteroptera. With over 1200 species, Water Striders are commonly known by various names such as water skeeters, water scooters, water bugs, pond skaters, water skippers, and puddle flies.

Unlike the Basilisk Lizard, Water Striders use their long, slender legs to distribute their weight evenly across the water's surface. Their legs are covered in tiny, hair-like structures that trap air, creating a water-repelling effect. This allows them to stay afloat and move efficiently across the water's surface. This adaptation not only serves as a means of locomotion but also as a way to hunt for prey or avoid predators.

Other Animals That Can Walk on Water

While the Basilisk Lizard and Water Striders are the most well-known, there are numerous other animals that can run or walk on water. These include spiders, frogs, lizards, snakes, birds, and mammals. Each of these animals has evolved unique adaptations to help them navigate the surface of water.

For example, frogs and lizards often use their long, flat toes and large surface area to stay above the water. Spiders are even more specialized, using their short, dense hairs to trap air and remain buoyant. Birds such as the grebe and ducks have denser plumage that provides additional buoyancy, while mammals like the Namib Desert golden mole have flattened feet that increase their surface area and help them run on water.

Conclusion

The ability to run or walk on water is a remarkable feat that has captured the imagination of many. From the Basilisk Lizard to the diverse family of Water Striders, these animals have evolved unique physical adaptations and behaviors to excel in this challenging environment. Understanding these adaptations not only broadens our knowledge of the natural world but also provides insight into the incredible diversity of life on our planet.

Keywords: Jesus Lizard, Water Striders, Running on Water