Euthyplociidae

Definition

A family of mayflies (order Ephemeroptera) comprising approximately seven genera and more than twenty described species. Members are recognized as part of the diverse assemblage of aquatic insects with aquatic immature stages and short-lived, non-feeding adults.

Etymology

Example

Euthyplocia is a representative genus within Euthyplociidae, with nymphs inhabiting flowing freshwater habitats where they contribute to benthic food webs as detritivores and prey for fish.

Related Terms

• Ephemeroptera
• Mayfly
• Baetidae
• Heptageniidae
• Leptophlebiidae
• aquatic insect
• benthic macroinvertebrate

Usage Notes

A relatively small family within the mayfly order; specialists distinguish Euthyplociidae from larger families such as Baetidae or Heptageniidae by combinations of wing venation, genital structure, and nymphal gill morphology. The family is not to be confused with the similarly named Euthyplocia, which is a genus within it.