Amphinemurinae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Plecoptera
Superfamily: Nemouroidea
Family: Nemouridae
Subfamily: Amphinemurinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Amphinemurinae: //ˌæmfɪnɪˈmjʊrɪniː//

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

Summary

Amphinemurinae is a subfamily of stoneflies within the Nemouridae family, consisting of over 27 species in North America and more than 400 species worldwide, primarily found in cooler regions and often associated with clean, flowing waters.

Physical Characteristics

Broad-bodied, bristly nymphs with divergent wing pads.

Identification Tips

Look for distinctive body shape and bristly texture in nymphs; adults can be identified by their size and coloration. Fly fishermen may recognize them as tiny winter blacks.

Habitat

Primarily found in flowing-water habitats, especially in smaller streams.

Distribution

Holarctic and Oriental regions; common throughout North America, including 23 species in the lower 48 states.

Diet

Nymphs are herbivorous, feeding on algae and detritus in streams.

Life Cycle

Incomplete metamorphosis; life cycle includes egg, nymph, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Reproduction occurs in freshwater environments, with eggs laid in the substrate of streams.

Predators

Common predators include larger aquatic insects, fish, and birds.

Ecosystem Role

Play a significant role in aquatic ecosystems as detritivores and indicators of water quality.

Economic Impact

Important for recreational fishing; some species can be used as bioindicators for pollution levels in freshwaters.

Collecting Methods

Sweep netting from stream edges
Light trapping
Seining in shallow waters

Preservation Methods

Ethanol fixation
Drying and pinning
Preservation in 70% ethanol

Evolution

Part of the ancient order Plecoptera, suggesting a long evolutionary history dating back to the Paleozoic era.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some people confuse stoneflies with mayflies; they can be distinguished by their body shape and the position of their wings.