Appalachian-streams

Guides

• Paracapnia angulata

  angulate snowfly

  Paracapnia angulata is a small winter stonefly in the family Capniidae. The species occurs in headwater streams across eastern North America, with documented populations in Appalachian streams affected by acid precipitation. Research indicates it tolerates a wide pH range (4.5–7.5) and can achieve high secondary production in acidic conditions due to increased abundance and biomass, despite lower individual growth rates. Nymphs serve as prey for steelhead trout.

  PlecopteraCapniidaewinter-stoneflyacid-precipitationAppalachian-streamsaquatic-insectacid-tolerancesecondary-productionsteelhead-trout-prey

• Peltoperlidae

  roach-like stoneflies, roachflies

  Peltoperlidae is a family of stoneflies comprising 11 genera and approximately 46 known species. Larvae are dorsoventrally flattened with expanded thoracic plates, giving them a distinctive roach-like appearance. The family exhibits semivoltine life cycles lasting one to two years, with adult emergence typically occurring from April through June. Members are classified as shredder-detritivores, playing a significant role in leaf litter decomposition in lotic systems.

  Plecopterastonefliesaquatic-insectsshreddersbioindicatorsdrumming-behaviorlotic-systemsleaf-litter-processingsemivoltineAppalachian-streamsCretaceous-fossil-record