Ephemerelloidea

Definition

A superfamily of mayflies in the suborder Pannota, characterized by nymphs with non-filamentous gills—a trait distinguishing them from the related superfamily Caenoidea. The group is considered basal within Pannota and has a worldwide distribution.

Etymology

From the type genus Ephemerella (diminutive of Ephemera, mayfly) + -oidea (superfamily suffix).

Example

The nymph of Drunella (family Ephemerellidae, superfamily Ephemerelloidea) bears plate-like or leaf-like gills on the abdomen, whereas Caenoidea nymphs such as Caenis possess long, thread-like filamentous gills.

Related Terms

• Pannota
• Caenoidea
• Ephemerellidae
• Mayfly
• gill
• nymph

Usage Notes

The superfamily is diagnosed primarily by nymphal gill morphology; adults are more difficult to assign without associated nymphs. Formerly, some constituent families were placed in other superfamilies, so older literature may use conflicting classifications. Not to be confused with the family Ephemerellidae, which is contained within this superfamily.