Siphloplecton basale
(Walker, 1853)
Siphloplecton basale is a cleftfooted minnow in the Metretopodidae. It is the most widely distributed in its , occurring across all of Canada and the eastern United States. The species belongs to a small family of mayflies characterized by specialized leg adaptations. Like other mayflies, it has an aquatic larval stage and a short-lived stage.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Siphloplecton basale: /sɪfloʊˈplɛktɒn bɑːˈseɪli/
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Identification
The can be distinguished from other Siphloplecton species by its broad North American distribution; are more geographically restricted. As a member of Metretopodidae, it possesses the -diagnostic 'cleft foot' structure on the forelegs, with the first tarsal segment deeply cleft. have the reduced mouthparts typical of Ephemeroptera. Specific diagnostic features separating S. basale from S. interlineatum and S. speciosum require examination of genitalia and wing venation patterns.
Distribution
All of Canada and the eastern United States. The has the widest range of any member of its .
Similar Taxa
- Siphloplecton interlineatumOverlaps partially in range; distinguished by more restricted western and northern distribution, and subtle differences in male genitalia and wing pigmentation
- Siphloplecton speciosumEastern North American distribution overlapping with S. basale; distinguished by differences in penes structure and subanal plate
- MetretopusSame (Metretopodidae); distinguished by different wing venation and geographic distribution primarily in Eurasia