In the northeast region of Thailand, eating insects is common. In other parts of Thailand, including the Central and Southern regions, the aromatic essence from this species of insect, known as malaeng da (), malaeng da na () or maeng da na (), is also popular. The water bug can be eaten whole and fried, and as an extract.http://www.thaibugs.com/edible%20insects.htm - ThaiBugs.com Malaeng da is used to make nam phrik malaeng Da, a type of chili sauce used as a condiment.Chapter 24 SE Asia Thailand
