Pale Burrower Mayflies
Polymitarcyidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Ephemeroptera
- Suborder: Furcatergalia
- Infraorder: Scapphodonta
- Superfamily: Ephemeroidea
- Family: Polymitarcyidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Polymitarcyidae: /ˌpɒlɪmɪˈtɑːrsɪaɪdiː/
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Summary
Polymitarcyidae is a family of pale burrower mayflies abundant in freshwater habitats, with diverse forms primarily in the Neotropical region.
Physical Characteristics
Nymphal mandibular tusks have spines on the top surface and are not curved upward; the ventral apex of the hind tibia is rounded, not pointed.
Identification Tips
Similar to Ephemeridae but can be distinguished by specific morphological features of the nymphs and adults.
Habitat
Burrows in sandy or silty substrates near freshwater.
Distribution
Found on all continents except Australia; most diverse in the Neotropics.
Diet
Nymphs are detritivores and filter feeders in aquatic environments.
Life Cycle
Mayflies undergo incomplete metamorphosis with distinct nymph and adult stages.
Reproduction
Nymphs emerge from burrows into the water to molt into adults, which reproduce in aquatic environments.
Predators
Fish and other aquatic predators.
Ecosystem Role
Play a role in aquatic ecosystems as both detritivores and prey for fish.
Collecting Methods
- Hand netting
- Molecular sampling
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinning for adult specimens
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
May be confused with Ephemeridae due to similar habitats and adult morphology.
Tags
- Ephemeroptera
- mayflies
- Polymitarcyidae
- burrower mayflies
- freshwater insects