Small Squaregilled Mayflies

Caenidae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Caenidae: /ˈsɛːnɪdiː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Aquatic insects of California, with keys to North American genera and California species (1956) (19559655168) by Internet Archive Book Images. Used under a No restrictions license.

Summary

The Caenidae family, or small squaregilled mayflies, encompasses a diverse group of species that are mostly found in saturated environments and are critical to aquatic food webs.

Physical Characteristics

Caenidae species are generally small, with adaptations such as small size and special gill structures for low-flow and stagnant water environments.

Identification Tips

Often overlooked due to their small size; can be identified by their unique squaregill structure and specific body shapes in various genera.

Habitat

Primarily occur in lotic, depositional environments, such as quiet and stagnant water bodies with silty substrates.

Distribution

Found worldwide, with particular abundance in North America; approximately 37 species across 7 genera in local areas, around 230 species in 26 genera globally.

Diet

Caenidae nymphs primarily feed on detritus and organic matter present in the sediment of their habitat.

Life Cycle

Life cycle consists of egg, nymph, and adult stages typical of mayflies; nymphs are usually found submerged in water.

Reproduction

Reproduction involves laying eggs in water; the specific reproductive behaviors can vary among genera.

Predators

Predators include fish and various aquatic insects that prey on mayfly nymphs and adults.

Ecosystem Role

As nymphs, they contribute to the detrital food web and serve as prey for predators like fish; adults are important for pollination.

Collecting Methods

  • Net sampling in still or slow-moving waters
  • Light traps for adults

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Drying specimens in a cool, dry environment

Evolution

Caenidae is a family of mayflies categorized within the order Ephemeroptera, showing distinct evolutionary adaptations to their aquatic habitats.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for other small mayflies; their ecological importance may be underestimated due to their size.

Tags

  • mayflies
  • Caenidae
  • aquatic insects
  • biodiversity
  • lotic environments