Dolania americana

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Ephemeroptera
Suborder: Furcatergalia
Family: Behningiidae
Genus: Dolania
Species: americana

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dolania americana: /dɔˈlɑniə əˌmɛrɪˈkænə/

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Summary

Dolania americana is a monotypic mayfly species in the Behningiidae family, known for its short adult lifespan of about thirty minutes post-emergence. It occupies sandy riverbeds in southeastern US streams and rivers, and its life cycle includes both aquatic nymph and short-lived adult phases.

Physical Characteristics

Pale brownish-purple body; membranous wings 10 to 13 mm (0.4 to 0.5 in) in length; thin and twisted vestigial legs retaining some function; cerci longer and more robust than terminal filaments; cylindrical nymph body with a flattened head and ventral antennae; small tuskless mandibles; spiny head and prothorax; gill-bearing abdomen with dense bristles and 3 tail filaments.

Identification Tips

Look for pale brownish-purple adults with short lifespan; males patrol river stretches; females only live about five minutes post-mating.

Habitat

Streams and rivers of the coastal plains in the southeastern United States; nymphs burrow into sandy riverbeds.

Distribution

Southeastern United States, as far south as Florida; generally uncommon.

Diet

Nymphs feed on larvae of chironomids and ceratopogonids.

Life Cycle

Nymphs mature within a year, emerging as adults; they transform into subimagos quickly before becoming adults.

Reproduction

Females deposit eggs in water shortly after mating and die within about five minutes; eggs are among the largest for mayflies (approx. 1 mm in diameter).

Misconceptions

The short adult lifespan is often misunderstood as a flaw rather than an adaptation for rapid reproduction.