Ephoron leukon

Williamson, 1802

white fly

Ephoron leukon, commonly known as the , is a of pale burrower in the . are burrowing and inhabit tubular burrows associated with stones in river rapids, particularly in fine silt . The species undergoes dramatic morphological changes during early nymphal development, including specialized mouthpart modifications for filter feeding and progressive elaboration of abdominal .

Bulletin (1953) (20427829945) by Illinois. Natural History Survey Division. Used under a No restrictions license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ephoron leukon: /ˈɛfərɒn ˈljuːkɒn/

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Identification

can be distinguished from other burrowing by their association with tubular burrows in specific microhabitats—stones partly embedded in fine grey silt rather than loose stones. Early nymphs exhibit distinctive mandibular tusks that outgrow from the proper, galealacinia and of the , and a split into multiple lobes with dense setal brushes. Abdominal originate as short threads and progressively develop long thin marginal extensions, branching into two separate , and additional structural adornments.

Images

Habitat

River rapids with stones partly embedded in fine grey silt originating from shale breakdown. construct tubular burrows in this specific microhabitat and are not found on loose stones.

Distribution

North America. Documented from the Credit River near Erindale, Ontario, Canada.

Seasonality

observed in June. Full-grown nymphs present by summer (1934 collection data). Time of day affects success.

Diet

Filter feeding. possess dense brushes of on mouthparts functioning in filter feeding.

Life Cycle

Nymphal development includes early with progressive morphological changes. Very found in June; full-grown nymphs present in subsequent months. Mature mouthparts and abdominal develop during early nymphal ontogeny, potentially facilitating transitions.

Behavior

are burrowers that cling to sides and bottom of stones within remnants of their tubes. success depends on time of day and specific microhabitat conditions.