Keyed to species in Slater & Baranowski 1978 (How to know the true bugs). Antennae hidden on the underside of the head, 4-segmented; ocelli not present; labium clearly segmented; no elongate respiratory filaments at the end of the abdomen; no apical claws on the metatarsi. Eyes clearly separated from each other; mesofemora each with a spine near the apical end. Central keel on 4th visible sternite bare with hairs only on sides. Interocular space greater than half the width of an eye; plate between meso- and metacoxae black.

Somewhat common in pond constructed in old, incised stream channel. With Chara sp. and other algae - swimming about halfway down in the water column. Very active once captured. Elevation ca 4000 feet. Disturbed, shrubby riparian corridor on stream restoration site within a patchwork of native and non-native grassland.