The Sting
Posted by Pam Kruvand on September 16, 2006
Q: When cleaning my lower pond I was stung twice by something I could not see. It was very painful, much like a wasp sting and swelled slightly and turned red. It sounds like it could be a hydra but then I read that it can't affect humans. What else could it be?
Habitat: pond/lake
State: Texas
Habitat: pond/lake
A: You're right that it wasn't hydra that caused your problem. In all probability,if hydra were causing the stings since there were tens of thousands of hydra (maybe even millions) you would have been covered in stings - not just two.
However it is likely that you came in contact with some Giant Water Bugs. These are large bugs (true bugs) that prey on a variety of small critters in a pond and are most likely found in the plants. Take a look at this web site and you'll see what they look like and learn a bit about them at www.pca.state.mn.us The next time you work on the pond and handle the plants etc there, you may want to wear gloves. I realize this is a nuisance but will keep you from being bitten. Thanks for asking and I trust this solves your mystery.
John Wiessinger ( September 17, 2006)