Abstract
A survey, involving the sampling of 83 sites, investigated the aquatic hemiptera of north-eastern Algeria, a well known hotspot of aquatic biodiversity. The study recorded 35 species with data on distribution and phenology presented and discussed. Aspects of the life history of some species (Notonecta glauca and Notonecta obliqua) were inferred from their distribution and phenology and they were found to aestivate at high altitude refuges. Insect conservation in North Africa is still embryonic, relying mainly on protected areas to provide surrogate conservation to a rich and diverse group. This is inadequate in view of the current distribution of aquatic insects, often located in unprotected habitats (intermittent streams, temporary pools, dunary ponds) and the fact that diverse manifestations of global changes (loss of habitats due to water extraction and dam construction, invasive species, habitat fragmentation) are fast eroding the biodiversity of protected areas.