Aquatic-insect
Guides
Abedus breviceps
water bug
Abedus breviceps is a giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, characterized by exclusive paternal care behavior where males carry egg masses on their backs. Research using capture-recapture multistate modeling found no survival cost to males from brooding eggs, challenging assumptions about parental care trade-offs. The species inhabits aquatic environments in Middle and North America.
Abedus herberti
toe biter, ferocious water bug
Abedus herberti is a flightless giant water bug native to streams in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Adults measure 2–4 cm and are known for male parental care, where females attach eggs to the male's back and he carries them until hatching. The species is a sit-and-wait predator that captures prey with raptorial front legs and subdues it with venomous saliva. It has been documented in zoo displays and is consumed as food in some cultures, marketed as "Mexican caviar."
Abedus immaculatus
Abedus immaculatus is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae. It is the only Abedus species found in the eastern United States, with a range extending throughout Florida north into Georgia and west along the Gulf Coast to Mississippi. Adults measure 13–14 mm in length, making them the smallest species in the genus Abedus and the smallest belostomatid in the United States. The species is the sole member of the subgenus Microabedus. It is locally common in parts of the Everglades, where it occurs in shorter hydroperiod sites.
giant-water-bugaquatic-insectfreshwaterwetlandEvergladesendemiceastern-United-Statessmallest-belostomatid-USAmale-parental-careBelostomatidaeHemipteraMicroabedushydroperiodFloridaGeorgiaMississippiGulf-CoastThomas-Say1832Abedus-cantrallisynonymywater-bugtrue-bugNepomorphaHeteropteraInsectaArthropodaAnimaliaAblabesmyia annulata
Ablabesmyia annulata is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described by Thomas Say in 1823 as Tanypus annulata. The species occurs in the Nearctic region, with documented populations in Canadian freshwater lakes including Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Marion Lake, British Columbia. Like other members of the genus, it has an aquatic larval stage with instar separation approximately following Dyar's rule. The immatures and males have been formally redescribed and illustrated in taxonomic literature.
Ablabesmyia cinctipes
Ablabesmyia cinctipes is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, order Diptera. The species was described by Johannsen in 1946. Chironomidae is a large family of aquatic insects whose larvae inhabit diverse freshwater environments. Adults are generally short-lived and do not feed.
Ablabesmyia mallochi
Ablabesmyia mallochi is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae. The immature stages and males were redescribed and illustrated in a 2011 revision of Canadian Ablabesmyia. It belongs to the subgenus Ablabesmyia (Ablabesmyia).
Acentrella turbida
Acentrella turbida is a small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae, first described by McDunnough in 1924. It is one of the most widespread mayfly species in North America, occurring across the continent from Alaska and Canada through the continental United States to northern Mexico, with additional populations in Central America. The species was originally described under the genus Pseudocloeon before being transferred to Acentrella. It belongs to a diverse genus containing numerous small, delicate mayfly species often difficult to distinguish without close examination.
Acentria
watermilfoil moth, water veneer
Acentria is a monotypic moth genus in the family Crambidae containing a single species, Acentria ephemerella. The genus is notable for extreme sexual dimorphism in wing development and for having the only known fully aquatic adult female moths. Most females are flightless with rudimentary wings and spend their entire lives underwater, while males are fully winged and terrestrial. The species is native to Europe and has been introduced to North America.
Acerpenna macdunnoughi
small minnow mayfly
Acerpenna macdunnoughi is a species of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. Originally described as Baetis macdunnoughi by Ide in 1937, it was later transferred to the genus Acerpenna. The species is found in North America.
Acroneuria abnormis
Common Stone
Acroneuria abnormis, commonly known as the common stone, is a species of stonefly in the family Perlidae. It is widely distributed across North America. The species is notable for its drumming behavior during mating, which produces species-specific vibrational signals used for identification and mate recognition.
Acroneuria arenosa
Eastern Stone
Acroneuria arenosa, commonly known as the eastern stone, is a species of common stonefly in the family Perlidae. It was first described by Pictet in 1841 under the basionym Perla arenosa. This species belongs to the order Plecoptera and is part of the diverse stonefly fauna of North America. Stoneflies in the genus Acroneuria are generally considered predatory and are indicators of good water quality.
Acroneuria carolinensis
Carolina Stone
Acroneuria carolinensis, commonly known as the Carolina stone, is a predatory stonefly in the family Perlidae. It has a univoltine life cycle with emergence from late May through mid-July. Nymphs undergo an ontogenetic habitat shift, moving from leaf packs in slow water as small instars to cobble substrates in riffles as they grow larger. Adults are short-lived, do not feed, and are attracted to lights. The species functions as a top invertebrate predator in stream ecosystems.
Acroneuria evoluta
Constricted Stone
Acroneuria evoluta, commonly known as the constricted stone, is a species of stonefly in the family Perlidae. The species was described by Klapálek in 1909. It is distributed across parts of the eastern and central United States.
Acroneuriinae
Acroneuriinae is a subfamily of stoneflies within the family Perlidae, comprising approximately 32 genera and 520 described species. Members are aquatic insects whose larvae inhabit freshwater environments. The subfamily has been the subject of recent mitogenomic research, including the first documented gene rearrangements in the order Plecoptera.
Adicrophleps
Adicrophleps is a monotypic genus of caddisflies in the family Brachycentridae, established by Flint in 1965. The genus contains a single described species, A. hitchcocki. Members are classified as "humpless casemaker" caddisflies, distinguishing them from the "humped" Brachycentrinae subfamily.
Agabetes
Agabetes is a small genus of diving beetles (family Dytiscidae) in the subfamily Laccophilinae. The genus contains two described species: Agabetes acuductus, described from North America in 1828, and Agabetes svetlanae, described from the Palearctic region in 1989. The genus is the type genus of the tribe Agabetini. Members are aquatic beetles inhabiting freshwater environments.
Agabus arcticus
Agabus arcticus is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae with a Holarctic distribution, occurring in North America and the Palearctic region. It belongs to the arcticus-group of Agabus species, which is characterized by specific morphological and ecological traits adapted to northern environments. The species has three described larval stages and is known from reared material collected in northern Sweden.
Agapetus rossi
little black caddisfly
Agapetus rossi is a species of little black caddisfly in the family Glossosomatidae, first described by Denning in 1941. It is found in North America. Like other members of its family, it is a small, dark-colored caddisfly. The Glossosomatidae family, commonly known as saddle-case makers, are characterized by their distinctive larval cases.
Agathon comstocki
Comstock's Net-winged Midge
Agathon comstocki is a species of net-winged midge in the family Blephariceridae, described by Kellogg in 1903. The common name honors the American entomologist John Henry Comstock. Net-winged midges in this family are specialized for life in fast-flowing aquatic environments, with larvae adapted to cling to rocks in turbulent water. The species is rarely encountered and poorly documented in scientific literature.
Agnetina annulipes
southern stone
Agnetina annulipes, commonly known as the southern stone, is a species of stonefly in the family Perlidae. It is one of the larger stonefly species in eastern North America. The species was originally described as Perla annulipes by Hagen in 1861 before being transferred to the genus Agnetina. It is primarily found in the southeastern United States.
Agnetina capitata
Northern Stone
Agnetina capitata, commonly known as the northern stone, is a species of stonefly in the family Perlidae. It occurs in North America, with records from eastern Canada and multiple U.S. states including Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, and Illinois. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is associated with aquatic habitats during its immature stages. The species was originally described as Perla capitata by Pictet in 1841.
Agnetina flavescens
Midwestern Stone
Agnetina flavescens, commonly known as the midwestern stone, is a stonefly species in the family Perlidae. It is native to North America and has been documented in several midwestern and southeastern US states. As a member of the common stoneflies, it inhabits freshwater systems where its aquatic nymphs develop. The species was originally described as Perla flavescens by Walsh in 1862 before being transferred to the genus Agnetina.
Allocapnia maria
Two-knobbed Snowfly
Allocapnia maria, the two-knobbed snowfly, is a small winter stonefly in the family Capniidae. The species was described by Hanson in 1942 and occurs in eastern North America. Like other winter stoneflies, it is active during cold months when most other insects are dormant.
Allocapnia rickeri
Midwest Snowfly
Allocapnia rickeri is a small winter stonefly in the family Capniidae, commonly known as the Midwest Snowfly. It is one of numerous small, dark stoneflies in the genus Allocapnia that emerge during cold months when few other insects are active. The species has been documented across the central and eastern United States. Like other capniids, it is associated with clean, cold streams and is an important indicator of water quality.
winter-stoneflybioindicatorcoldwaterPlecopteraCapniidaeAllocapnialoticemergencebrachypteryapterygenitalia-identificationFrison-1942Midwestsoutheastern-USclean-water-indicatorJanuary-Marchsmall-stoneflywingless-femalestream-insectshreddergathererseasonal-resourcewater-qualityaquatic-insectterrestrial-adultshort-lived-adultovipositionsubmerged-eggshigh-dissolved-oxygenlow-temperaturecentral-USeastern-USAlabamaArkansasDelawareGeorgiaIllinoishexapodhemimetabolousEuholognathaNemouroideaArctoperlariaInsectaArthropodaAnimaliaGBIFCatalogue-of-LifeiNaturalistNCBItaxonomyaccepted-species1942FrisonRickerMidwest-Snowflysnowflysmall-dark-stoneflyclean-streamsriverswell-oxygenatedlotic-habitatcold-monthswinter-activitywing-reductionfemale-apterymale-flightepiproctparaproctterminaliataxonomic-revisioncongenersdistribution-recordsobservations9-observationseukaryotemetazoanarthropodinsectstoneflywinter-emergingJanuaryFebruaryMarchcold-weathernear-freezingbelow-freezingwater-surfacesubmerged-substratesallochthonous-organic-materialstream-ecosystemsseasonal-food-resourceinsectivorous-birdspredatorsscarce-preyunpollutedno-economic-importancestream-monitoringwater-quality-indicatorhigh-quality-coldwatermicroscopic-examinationtaxonomic-keysmale-terminaliareliable-separationgenitalic-examinationoverlapping-distributionsimilar-habitatsmall-sizeunder-10-mmbody-lengthreduced-wingsabsent-wingsfully-developed-wingsspecific-identificationpublished-descriptionsillustrationssubsequent-revisionscharacteristicfamily-Capniidaecommon-nameextended-nymphal-periodone-to-two-yearsshort-liveddoes-not-feedaquatic-nymphclean-cold-streamslow-temperaturesyear-roundwinter-monthsJanuary-through-Marchfamilycentered-Midwestextends-southeasternUnited-Statesdocumentedappearsmost-reliablydistinguishedsubtle-differencesterminal-abdominal-structuresshould-be-comparedagainstpublishedsubsequentgenus-levelcharacterizedreducedabsentfemalesfully-developedmalesrequires-examinationmale-genitaliastructureparaproctsreliableseparationoverlapssimilarmanyexternallydefinitivereliesmicroscopicexaminationcomparisonkeysusedbiologicalindicatorprogramspresenceindicatescoldconditionsno-directeconomicimportanceshreddersgatherersprocessingallochthonousorganicmaterialstreamecosystemsseasonalfoodresourceinsectivorousbirdsotherwhenalternativepreyscarceserveshigh-qualityhabitatsdevelopmentaquaticnymphalstagesterrestrialadultstagenymphsdevelopstreamsextendedperiodlikelyonetwoyearsbasedrelatedspeciesadultsdo-notfeedactiveduringweatherairtemperaturesmaynearbelowfreezingwingedcapableflightwinglessshort-wingedremainwatersurfacematingoccurwinterenteringdepositeggssubmergedsubstratessmallcommonlyknownnumerousdarkemergefewinsectscentraleasternassociatedcleanimportantundermmbodylengthmembersgenuswingspossessfullydevelopedspecificidentificationlevelwithinrequiresmalegenitaliaparticularlymostreliablysubtledifferencestheseterminalabdominalstructuresshouldcompareddescriptionstaxonomicrevisionswinter-emergingmaintainlowhighdissolvedoxygenlevelsthroughoutyearUnitedStatesdistributioncenteredextendssoutheasternmonthstypicallythroughthisactivitygivesrisecommonnamedonotprovidesqualitymonitoringnodirecthabitatmorphologysizegenitalicAlloperla concolor
Duckhead Sallfly
Alloperla concolor, commonly known as the duckhead sallfly, is a species of green stonefly in the family Chloroperlidae. It was described by Ricker in 1936 and is native to North America. The species belongs to a family whose members are typically predatory as nymphs and are indicators of clean, well-oxygenated aquatic environments.
Alluaudomyia paraspina
Alluaudomyia paraspina is a species of predaceous midge in the family Ceratopogonidae, described by Wirth in 1952. The immature stages (larvae and pupae) develop in aquatic habitats rich in decaying organic matter. As a member of the genus Alluaudomyia, it is presumed to be predatory in both larval and adult stages, though specific prey records remain limited.
Alotanypus venustus
Alotanypus venustus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. It was originally described as Tanypus venustus by Coquillett in 1902 and later transferred to the genus Alotanypus. The species is part of the tribe Pentaneurini, a group of predatory midges whose larvae inhabit aquatic environments. As a member of Chironomidae, it is distinguished from biting midges (Ceratopogonidae) such as Culicoides species, with which it shares no close relationship despite superficial similarities in common name usage.
Ambrysus arizonus
Ambrysus arizonus is a creeping water bug (family Naucoridae) in the Ambrysus guttatipennis species complex. It is distributed in both the United States and Mexico, with recent records extending its known range into Mexico. As a member of the Cryphocricinae subfamily, it shares the characteristic saucer-like, flattened body form and aquatic lifestyle typical of this group.
Ambrysus mormon
creeping water bug
Ambrysus mormon is a species of creeping water bug in the family Naucoridae, first described by Montandon in 1909. Three former subspecies (A. m. heidemanni, A. m. minor, and A. m. mormon) were synonymized by Reynoso-Velasco and Sites. The species is distributed in western North America, with records from the western United States and northwestern Mexico.
Ambrysus occidentalis
Ambrysus occidentalis is a species of creeping water bug in the family Naucoridae, described by La Rivers in 1951. It is distributed across Central America and North America. As a member of Naucoridae, it is an aquatic true bug adapted to life in freshwater environments. A study on its mating behavior has been published in the American Midland Naturalist, indicating research interest in its reproductive biology.
Ambrysus pulchellus
Ambrysus pulchellus is a creeping water bug in the family Naucoridae, part of the A. pulchellus species complex characterized by distinctive male phallosoma morphology and medial lobes of abdominal tergum VIII. The species exhibits the widest distribution within the subgenus Ambrysus, spanning parts of both the Nearctic and Neotropical biogeographic realms. Recent taxonomic revision has synonymized the subspecies A. pulchellus nitidulus and A. pulchellus pallidulus with the nominate form, and documented new country records from Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama.
Ameletidae
combmouthed minnow mayflies
Ameletidae is a family of mayflies commonly known as combmouthed minnow mayflies. The family includes the speciose genus Ameletus, which reaches its greatest diversity in southwestern North America with up to 12 species co-occurring at single sites. The genus Metreletus has a trans-Palaearctic distribution with three recognized species. Ameletidae larvae are aquatic and occur in lotic habitats from small headwater streams to larger rivers.
Ameletus browni
purple marram
Ameletus browni is a mayfly species in the family Ameletidae, commonly known as the "purple marram." It was described by McDunnough in 1933 based on nymphal specimens collected in southern British Columbia. The species belongs to the Nearctic fauna and is found in northeastern North America, including Canada and the northeastern United States. Like other members of the genus Ameletus, it is associated with cool, clean freshwater habitats.
Ameletus celer
Ameletus celer is a Nearctic species of mayfly in the family Ameletidae, described by McDunnough in 1934. As a member of the genus Ameletus, it belongs to a group of mayflies commonly known as the "prong-gilled mayflies" due to the distinctive forked structure of their gills. The species occurs in North America, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in the available literature.
Ameletus ludens
Ameletus ludens is a species of combmouthed minnow mayfly in the family Ameletidae, described by Needham in 1905. It belongs to the order Ephemeroptera, a group of aquatic insects known for their brief adult lifespans. The species is found in North America, though specific details about its ecology and life history remain limited in available sources.
Ameletus similior
Ameletus similior is a mayfly species (Ephemeroptera: Ameletidae) described by McDunnough in 1928. It occurs in western North America from southern British Columbia to Alberta, with identification keys also applicable to Saskatchewan, Montana, and northern Idaho and Washington. The species was previously known as A. monta, which has been synonymized with A. similior. Adult males have practically clear hyaline wings and differ from the similar A. alticolus in genitalic characters.
Amiocentrus
humpless casemaker caddisflies
Amiocentrus is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The genus was established by Ross in 1938 and contains at least two described species: Amiocentrus aspilus and Amiocentrus tessellatum. Members of this genus are aquatic insects whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Amphinemura wui
spiked forestfly
Amphinemura wui, commonly known as the spiked forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. It is a small, non-venomous insect belonging to the order Plecoptera. The species was described by Claassen in 1936. It is found in North America, with records from several eastern and southeastern U.S. states.
Amynothrips andersoni
Alligatorweed Thrips, Alligator Weed Thrips
Amynothrips andersoni is a species of thrips in the family Phlaeothripidae, native to South America and introduced to the United States as a biological control agent against the invasive aquatic weed alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides). Adults are small, shiny black insects approximately 2 mm in length. The species exhibits wing dimorphism, with both short-winged and long-winged flying forms present, though the latter is rare. Both larval and adult stages feed on alligator weed, causing leaf curling and plant stunting.
Anafroptilum bifurcatum
Anafroptilum bifurcatum is a species of small mayfly in the family Baetidae, first described by McDunnough in 1924. The genus Anafroptilum was established to accommodate certain Baetidae species previously placed in other genera, distinguished by specific morphological features of the genitalia and wing venation. As a member of the Baetidae, it belongs to a diverse family of small, agile mayflies commonly known as blue-winged olives or small minnow mayflies.
Anafroptilum conturbatum
Anafroptilum conturbatum is a species of small mayfly in the family Baetidae. As a member of this diverse family, it inhabits freshwater environments where it contributes to aquatic food webs. The species was described by McCafferty and Waltz in 1995. Like other baetid mayflies, it likely has a short adult lifespan focused primarily on reproduction.
Anafroptilum minor
Anafroptilum minor is a species of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. Like other members of this family, it is characterized by reduced wing venation and relatively simple morphology compared to other mayfly families. The genus Anafroptilum contains species that are typically associated with running water habitats. Specific ecological details for A. minor are limited in available literature.
Anagapetus
little black caddisflies
Anagapetus is a genus of small caddisflies in the family Glossosomatidae, commonly called little black caddisflies. The genus contains approximately seven described species. Members of this genus are part of the case-making caddisfly family Glossosomatidae, whose larvae construct portable cases from mineral grains.
Ancyronyx variegata
Spider Water Beetle
Ancyronyx variegata is a riffle beetle (Elmidae) commonly known as a Spider Water Beetle, characterized by extremely long legs and often a cross-like elytral color pattern that gives it a spider-like appearance. It inhabits clean, pristine running waters in lotic environments and has been studied for its life history and energetics in Northwest Arkansas and Southeast Texas. The species exhibits a univoltine life cycle with adults present year-round.
Anisoptera
Dragonflies
Anisoptera is the suborder of dragonflies, distinguished from damselflies (Zygoptera) by their larger, stouter bodies, eyes that touch or nearly touch at the top of the head, and wings held horizontally away from the body at rest. The name derives from Greek roots meaning 'unequal wings,' referring to the broader hindwings compared to forewings. With over 3,000 described species globally, dragonflies represent one of the most ancient lineages of flying insects, with fossil relatives dating to the Triassic Period 250 million years ago. Adults are aerial predators with exceptional flight capabilities and vision, while larvae are aquatic predators found in diverse freshwater habitats.
Anthopotamus distinctus
Golden Drake, hacklegilled burrower mayfly
Anthopotamus distinctus is a species of mayfly in the family Potamanthidae, commonly known as the Golden Drake. It belongs to a group referred to as hacklegilled burrower mayflies, indicating specialized gill structures and burrowing behavior in the nymphal stage. The species is found in the Nearctic region of eastern North America.
Apatania incerta
early smoky wing sedge
Apatania incerta is a species of caddisfly in the family Apataniidae, commonly referred to as the early smoky wing sedge. The species was originally described by Nathan Banks in 1897 under the basionym Enoicyla incerta. It is distributed across North America. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it possesses aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Arctocorisa sutilis
Arctocorisa sutilis is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Uhler in 1876. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The species is recorded from North America, particularly in the Nearctic region excluding Beringia. Like other corixids, it is an aquatic insect adapted to life in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waters. Very limited published information exists on its specific biology.
Arctopsyche grandis
netspinning caddisfly
Arctopsyche grandis is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, found in North America. Larvae construct silk nets to capture food in flowing water and complete their development in approximately one year. The species has been studied in Central Idaho streams where it reaches high population densities on rocky substrates.
Argia funebris
Springwater Dancer
Argia funebris, commonly known as the Springwater Dancer, is a species of damselfly in the family Coenagrionidae. The genus Argia is speciose and widely distributed in the New World tropics and subtropics. As a member of the suborder Zygoptera, this species exhibits the characteristic slender body and wings folded together over the abdomen when at rest. The species has been documented across Middle America and has a global presence according to distribution records. Taxonomic revisions of the genus Argia have been conducted by leading odonate specialists including Rosser Garrison, who has published multiple revisions of this complex genus.
Arigomphus furcifer
Lilypad Clubtail
Arigomphus furcifer, commonly known as the lilypad clubtail, is a dragonfly species in the family Gomphidae. It is found in North America and holds a conservation status of Least Concern (LC) according to the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival. The species is part of the genus Arigomphus, which comprises clubtail dragonflies often associated with aquatic habitats.
Arthroplea bipunctata
flatheaded mayfly
Arthroplea bipunctata is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae (sometimes historically placed in Arthropleidae). It is known from North America, with records from the Nearctic region. The species was described by McDunnough in 1924, originally as Cinygma bipunctata. Like other flatheaded mayflies, it belongs to a group adapted to clinging in fast-flowing waters.
Atherix variegata
watersnipe fly
Atherix variegata is a species of watersnipe fly in the family Athericidae. It is found in Canada and the United States. The species was described by Francis Walker in 1848. Like other members of the family Athericidae, adults are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats.
Attenella margarita
spiny crawler mayfly
Attenella margarita is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It exhibits a disjunct east-west distribution pattern across North America, which is rare among mayflies. The species has been documented from the southern half of Canada and the continental United States, with a southeastern range extension to North Carolina representing approximately 1,300 km beyond previously known western localities.
Austrotinodes
Austrotinodes is a genus of caddisflies in the family Ecnomidae, established by Schmid in 1955. The genus contains 55 species with a primarily Neotropical distribution and a few species occurring in the Australian Region. In Brazil, 23 species are now known following the description of 13 new species in 2017. Species are distinguished by morphological characters of the male genitalia.
Baetis bicaudatus
small minnow mayfly
Baetis bicaudatus is a small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae, described by Dodds in 1923. It inhabits streams across western North America from Alaska to the southwestern United States and northern Canada. The species is bivoltine, producing two generations annually, with distinct summer and winter generations that differ in size and susceptibility to parasitism. Adults exhibit characteristic mayfly behavior including swarming mating aggregations, while nymphs are important grazers on periphyton in stream ecosystems.
Baetis brunneicolor
Blue-winged Rusty Dun
Baetis brunneicolor is a small minnow mayfly species in the family Baetidae, described by McDunnough in 1925. It occurs across northern North America, with records from all of Canada and portions of the United States. As a member of the genus Baetis, it belongs to a diverse group of small, agile mayflies commonly known as blue-winged olives or small minnow mayflies.
Baetis notos
Baetis notos is a species of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. It is found in Central America and North America, with its North American range extending across southern Mexico, the southern United States, and the northwestern United States. The species was described by Allen and Murvosh in 1987.
Baetisca rogersi
Baetisca rogersi is a mayfly species in the family Baetiscidae, endemic to northwestern Florida. The species has been the subject of detailed life history and ecological research documenting its external morphology, developmental stages, seasonal distribution, and emergence patterns. Its ecology is influenced by specific environmental factors affecting growth and development.
Bagous americanus
Bagous americanus is a species of true weevil in the family Curculionidae. It is found in North America, with records from Canada and the United States. The species is associated with the aquatic plant Nymphaea odorata (American white waterlily), on which both adults and larvae feed. Larvae are leaf miners, developing within the leaves of their host plant.
Banksiola
Traveller Sedges, Giant Casemakers
Banksiola is a genus of caddisflies in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as giant casemakers or traveller sedges. The genus comprises approximately five described species distributed in North America. Larvae construct portable cases from plant material and are associated with freshwater habitats.
Belostoma
giant water bugs, electric-light bugs, toe-biters
Belostoma is a genus of giant water bugs in the family Belostomatidae, comprising approximately 70 species organized into 16 subgroups. These aquatic predators are native to freshwater habitats throughout the Americas, with highest diversity in tropical South America. The genus is distinguished by male paternal care, where males carry eggs cemented to their backs until hatching. Species range in body length from 15 to 41.5 mm.
Belostoma flumineum
giant water bug, toe biter
Belostoma flumineum is a North American giant water bug reaching 2–2.5 cm in length. This aquatic predator inhabits ponds, wetlands, and marshes with muddy bottoms, where it preys on aquatic invertebrates including backswimmers, water boatmen, dragonfly nymphs, and snails. The species exhibits exclusive paternal care: females deposit eggs on the male's back, and males carry and oxygenate the eggs for 7–14 days until hatching. Recent studies document significant shifts in reproductive phenology, with northeastern populations losing their historical fall breeding peak between 2005–2006 and 2012–2015.
Belostoma fusciventre
Belostoma fusciventre is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, first described by Dufour in 1863. Like other members of the genus Belostoma, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments. The species is known from Middle America and North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in available literature.
Belostoma lutarium
giant water bug
Belostoma lutarium is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, native to North America. This aquatic insect is notable for its distinctive paternal care behavior, in which males carry egg clutches on their backs until hatching—a rare form of male parental investment in insects. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism with females being the larger sex, and studies suggest males may be the choosier sex in mate selection. As a predator, it feeds on aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and amphibian larvae including tadpoles.
Berosus miles
Berosus miles is a species of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1855. The species is distributed across North America (including the southwestern United States) and Central America, with records from Arizona, Texas, and Mexico. As a member of the genus Berosus, it inhabits aquatic environments and contributes to decomposition processes in freshwater ecosystems.
Bibiocephala grandis
Bibiocephala grandis is a species of net-winged midge in the family Blephariceridae, a group of specialized aquatic flies. The species was described by Osten Sacken in 1874. Members of Blephariceridae are typically associated with fast-flowing streams and rivers, where larvae attach to rocks in turbulent water.
Brachycentridae
Humpless Casemaker Caddisflies
Brachycentridae is a family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) commonly known as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The family contains approximately 100 species across 8 genera and is distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. Larvae construct portable cases using plant material, rock fragments, or silk, with some species exhibiting specialized filter-feeding behaviors. The family was first described by Georg Ulmer in 1903 as a subfamily of Sericostomatidae before being elevated to family rank.
Brachycentrus appalachia
Apple Caddis, humpless casemaker caddisfly
Brachycentrus appalachia is a species of humpless casemaker caddisfly described by Flint in 1984. It belongs to the family Brachycentridae, a group of caddisflies characterized by larvae that construct portable cases from plant material. The species is known from North America, with its specific epithet suggesting association with the Appalachian region. Like other members of its genus, it is presumed to have an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage.
Brachycentrus incanus
Brachycentrus incanus is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae. The species was described by Hagen in 1861 and is known from the Nearctic region. Like other members of its family, it is associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct portable cases.
Brachycentrus lateralis
humbles casemaker caddisfly
Brachycentrus lateralis is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly known as the humpless casemaker caddisfly. It was first described by Thomas Say in 1823. The species is found in North America and belongs to a family whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Brachycentrus numerosus
humbless casemaker caddisfly
Brachycentrus numerosus is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as a humpless casemaker caddisfly. The species was first described by Thomas Say in 1823. It belongs to an order of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from environmental materials. The species is documented from North America.
Brachycentrus occidentalis
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Brachycentrus occidentalis is a species of humpless casemaker caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae. It is a filter-feeding aquatic insect whose larvae construct fixed retreats with silk nets to capture food particles from flowing water. The species has been studied for its behavioral ecology during pupation, including cannibalism and predation pressures, and for its sensitivity to suspended sediments in stream environments.
Brachydeutera argentata
shore fly, shorefly
Brachydeutera argentata is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, first described by Francis Walker in 1853. The species is known from the United States, where it inhabits moist shoreline environments. Shore flies in this family are typically small, compact dipterans associated with wet or aquatic habitats. The specific epithet 'argentata' refers to a silvery appearance, likely describing some aspect of the adult coloration.
Brachydeutera sturtevanti
Brachydeutera sturtevanti is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, first described by Wirth in 1964. It is characterized as a hyponeustic generalist, meaning it inhabits the water surface film of aquatic or semi-aquatic environments. The species has been documented in the immature stages, with larvae adapted to life at the air-water interface.
Bryelmis idahoensis
riffle beetle
Bryelmis idahoensis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Barr in 2011. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects that inhabit fast-flowing streams and rivers. The species is known from North America, with its specific epithet suggesting a connection to Idaho. As with other members of Elmidae, it likely has an aquatic larval stage and a partially aquatic adult stage, though specific biological details for this species remain undocumented in available sources.
Buenoa
backswimmer
Buenoa is a genus of backswimmers (family Notonectidae) established by George Willis Kirkaldy in 1904 to accommodate Western Hemisphere species formerly placed in Anisops. The genus is distinguished from Anisops by males having a two-segmented front tarsus, versus one-segmented in the latter genus. Buenoa contains 69 described species distributed across the Americas. Members are aquatic predators inhabiting diverse freshwater and saltwater environments.
Buenoa arida
Buenoa arida is a species of backswimmer in the family Notonectidae, first described by Truxal in 1953. The genus Buenoa comprises aquatic predatory insects that swim upside down. This species is part of a diverse group of true bugs adapted to freshwater environments.
Buenoa margaritacea
Buenoa margaritacea is a backswimmer species in the family Notonectidae, first described by Torre-Bueno in 1908. As a member of the genus Buenoa, it shares the characteristic inverted swimming posture of backswimmers. The species has been documented in both Central and North America. Like other notonectids, it is an aquatic insect adapted to freshwater environments.
Buenoa marki
Buenoa marki is a species of backswimmer in the family Notonectidae. It is currently known only from solution holes near the Pinelands Trail in Everglades National Park, Florida. The species was described by Reichart in 1971. Its actual distribution may be broader than currently documented.
Caenis
Common Square-gills
Caenis is a genus of small mayflies in the family Caenidae, commonly known as "square-gilled mayflies." Adults are among the smallest mayflies, with some species measuring only 3–4 mm in body length. The genus is globally distributed across multiple continents and serves as an indicator taxon for aquatic ecosystem health. Nymphs inhabit various freshwater environments, and adults emerge in synchronized events.
Caenis hilaris
Caenis hilaris is a species of small square-gilled mayfly in the family Caenidae. It is found in North America. As a member of the order Ephemeroptera, it shares the characteristic life history of mayflies, with aquatic nymphal stages and short-lived winged adults.
Caenis latipennis
small squaregilled mayfly
Caenis latipennis is a small squaregilled mayfly in the family Caenidae, distributed across Central and North America including Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The species inhabits small prairie streams with sandy substrates and exhibits a multivoltine life cycle with overlapping generations. Adult emergence occurs primarily at dusk, with females completing mating and oviposition in approximately 37 minutes.
Calamoceratidae
Calamoceratidae is a family of caddisflies comprising approximately 9 genera and at least 120 described species. The family is distributed across tropical and temperate regions worldwide, with notable diversity in the Neotropics. Larvae are aquatic and construct distinctive cases from plant material. The genus Phylloicus is particularly species-rich in the New World, with 66 described species.
Calineuria
common stoneflies
Calineuria is a genus of stoneflies in the family Perlidae, established by Ricker in 1954. The genus contains approximately seven described species distributed across western North America and East Asia. Species such as Calineuria californica have been subjects of life history studies in stream environments. The genus was taxonomically revised from previously broader classifications, with C. californica formerly placed in Acroneuria.
Callibaetis californicus
small minnow mayfly
Callibaetis californicus is a small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae, first described by Banks in 1900. The species occurs across Central America and western North America, including all of Mexico and the western United States. As a member of the Baetidae, it belongs to one of the most diverse families of mayflies, commonly known as small minnow mayflies for their streamlined, fish-like nymphal form.
Callibaetis ferrugineus
Red Speckled Dun
Callibaetis ferrugineus is a small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae, commonly known as the Red Speckled Dun. The species is distributed across northern and southwestern Canada, the western United States, and Alaska. As with all mayflies, it undergoes incomplete metamorphosis with aquatic nymphal stages and short-lived adult stages. The species includes two recognized subspecies: C. f. ferrugineus and C. f. hageni.
Callibaetis ferrugineus ferrugineus
Callibaetis ferrugineus ferrugineus is a subspecies of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. As a member of the genus Callibaetis, it belongs to a group of mayflies commonly known as pond mayflies or speckled mayflies. The subspecies is distributed in the Nearctic region, with records from North America including Vermont in the United States. Like other Baetidae, it has a relatively short adult lifespan focused on reproduction.
Callibaetis ferrugineus hageni
Callibaetis ferrugineus hageni is a subspecies of mayfly in the family Baetidae. The genus Callibaetis comprises small minnow mayflies found in aquatic habitats across North America. As with other mayflies in this genus, this subspecies has a multi-stage life cycle involving aquatic nymphs and short-lived winged adults. The subspecific epithet honors Hermann Hagen, a prominent 19th-century entomologist.
Callibaetis pallidus
small minnow mayfly
Callibaetis pallidus is a species of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae, first described by Banks in 1900. Like other members of the genus Callibaetis, it belongs to a group of mayflies commonly referred to as "small minnow mayflies" due to their streamlined bodies and swimming nymphal behavior. The species is documented from North America, though specific details about its ecology and distribution within this range remain limited in available literature.
Callibaetis pictus
Speckled Dun
Callibaetis pictus is a small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae, commonly known as the Speckled Dun. It is distributed across Central America and North America, including all of Mexico and the northern and southwestern United States. Like other mayflies, it has an aquatic nymphal stage lasting months to years, followed by a brief adult lifespan measured in hours to days. The species is part of the EPT index (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera) used to assess water quality in environmental monitoring.
Callibaetis pretiosus
small minnow mayfly
Callibaetis pretiosus is a small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. The species was described by Banks in 1914 and is native to North America. Larvae have been documented in wet-weather pools, with records from the southeastern United States and a northward range extension to Pennsylvania. As a member of Ephemeroptera, it undergoes aquatic nymphal development followed by a brief terrestrial adult stage.
Callicorixa
Callicorixa is a genus of water boatmen (family Corixidae) comprising nine described species. Members are aquatic insects inhabiting freshwater environments. Research on *Callicorixa vulnerata* has demonstrated sexual size dimorphism and tarsal asymmetry in mid-leg morphology. *Callicorixa praeusta* exhibits complex acoustic communication, with males producing synchronized stridulatory calls for congregation and reproduction.
Callicorixa vulnerata
water boatman
Callicorixa vulnerata is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) found in North America. The species exhibits sexual size dimorphism, with documented research focusing on tarsal asymmetry and trait size variation in relation to fitness. Mid-leg tarsi are used to cling to bottom substrate during underwater feeding. The species was described by Uhler in 1861 and is currently accepted under the genus Callicorixa.
Caloparyphus tetraspilus
Caloparyphus tetraspilus is a species of soldier fly in the family Stratiomyidae. It occurs in madicolous habitats—thin water films on rock surfaces—in eastern North America. The species was described by Loew in 1866 and is one of several Caloparyphus species adapted to this specialized aquatic microhabitat.
Calopteryx
Jewelwings
Calopteryx is a genus of large damselflies in the family Calopterygidae, commonly known as jewelwings. Males typically display brightly colored wings while females usually have clear wings, though some females develop male-like (androchrome) wing characteristics. The genus lacks a pterostigma, a wing cell found in most other odonates. Species occupy distinct zones within running water systems, with differential thermal adaptations driving habitat segregation.
Calopteryx amata
Superb Jewelwing
Calopteryx amata, commonly known as the superb jewelwing, is a damselfly species in the family Calopterygidae. Native to North America, it occurs in eastern Canada and the northeastern United States, with records extending south to Tennessee. As a member of the jewelwing group, it is characterized by the metallic wing coloration typical of the genus Calopteryx.
Cardiocladius
Cardiocladius is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. These aquatic insects are part of the diverse group of chironomid flies commonly known as bloodworms, though adults do not feed on blood. The genus was established by Jean-Jacques Kieffer in 1912. Larval stages are aquatic and contribute to freshwater food webs.
Cardiocladius fulvus
Cardiocladius fulvus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. The genus Cardiocladius comprises small, delicate midges whose larvae are typically associated with aquatic habitats. This species was described by Johannsen in 1908. Like other chironomids, adults are short-lived and do not feed; larvae are the primary feeding and growth stage.
Caudatella
Caudatella is a genus of mayflies in the family Ephemerellidae, established by Edmunds in 1959. Species within this genus are primarily distributed in western North America, with documented occurrences in Montana and other regions. The genus has been subject to taxonomic revision, particularly regarding species complexes such as C. heterocaudata and C. hystrix. Larval stages are aquatic and associated with stream habitats.
Caudatella heterocaudata
A species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, originally described by McDunnough in 1929. The species has undergone taxonomic revision, with Caudatella circia previously treated as distinct but now recognized as a synonym. Larvae possess diagnostic morphological characters that allow separation from the related C. hystrix complex.
Celina grossula
Celina grossula is a species of predaceous diving beetle (family Dytiscidae) described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1863. It belongs to the subfamily Hydroporinae and tribe Methlini. The genus Celina comprises small to minute diving beetles that inhabit aquatic environments. Information regarding the specific biology and ecology of C. grossula remains limited in the available literature.
Cenocorixa bifida
water boatman
Cenocorixa bifida is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) first described by Hungerford in 1926. It is found in North America and possesses the characteristic rowing hind legs typical of water boatmen, which it uses for propulsion through synchronous swimming strokes. The species has been studied for its swimming hydrodynamics and Malpighian tubule ultrastructure, revealing specialized adaptations for aquatic life.
Cenocorixa dakotensis
Cenocorixa dakotensis is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) described by Hungerford in 1928. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs found in northern regions. The species is known from North America, particularly in the Nearctic region.
Ceraclea cancellata
Ceraclea cancellata is a species of caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Betten in 1934. As a member of the long-horned caddisfly family, this species is characterized by antennae that are notably longer than the body. The genus Ceraclea is widely distributed across North America.
Ceraclea enodis
Ceraclea enodis is a species of caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. Members of this genus are characterized by elongated, slender bodies and long antennae. The species is part of a diverse group of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from environmental materials.
Ceraclea maculata
long-horned caddisfly
Ceraclea maculata is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Banks in 1899. It belongs to an order of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from silk and environmental materials. The species is recorded from North America.
Ceraclea slossonae
long-horned caddisfly
Ceraclea slossonae is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Banks in 1938. It belongs to a genus characterized by adults with exceptionally long antennae, often exceeding body length. The species is documented from North America, with limited observational records.
Cercyon connivens
Cercyon connivens is a small water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae, described by Fall in 1924. It belongs to the genus Cercyon, which comprises numerous species of tiny beetles commonly found in moist or aquatic environments. The species is documented from scattered localities across eastern North America.
Chaoborus astictopus
Clear Lake gnat
Chaoborus astictopus is a phantom midge (family Chaoboridae) commonly known as the Clear Lake gnat. The species has a univoltine life cycle with adults emerging in spring. Older larvae exhibit diel vertical migration, occupying deep profundal zones during daylight hours and moving to open waters at night, indicating negative phototaxis. The species has been studied as a target for insecticide control and is known to host microsporidian and fungal pathogens.
Chaoborus flavicans
phantom midge
Chaoborus flavicans is a phantom midge (Diptera: Chaoboridae) whose larval stages are important aquatic predators in lake ecosystems. Recent taxonomic revision indicates it represents a complex of at least four species, with C. flavicans sensu stricto primarily inhabiting lakes across the Holarctic region. Larvae are notable for their diel vertical migration behavior, which changes ontogenetically and serves as a predator avoidance mechanism against fish predation.
Chaoborus maculipes
phantom midge
Chaoborus maculipes is a species of phantom midge in the family Chaoboridae, described by Stone in 1965. Phantom midges are small, delicate flies whose larvae are aquatic predators known for their transparent bodies. The species name "maculipes" refers to spotted legs. Like other Chaoborus species, adults are typically non-feeding and short-lived, with most of the life cycle spent in larval form in freshwater habitats.
Chasmatonotus bicolor
Chasmatonotus bicolor is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Rempel in 1937. The genus Chasmatonotus belongs to the subfamily Orthocladiinae, one of the most diverse subfamilies within Chironomidae. Larvae of this genus are typically found in aquatic environments. The specific epithet "bicolor" refers to a two-colored appearance, though detailed descriptions of this coloration pattern are not well documented in available sources.
Chauliodes
Spring and Summer Fishflies
Chauliodes is a genus of fishflies in the family Corydalidae, commonly known as spring and summer fishflies. The genus contains approximately five described species distributed in North America, including the well-known spring fishfly (C. rastricornis) and summer fishfly (C. pectinicornis). Adults are nocturnal and frequently attracted to lights. The genus is distinguished from other fishflies by specific antennal and wing characteristics.
Chauliodes pectinicornis
Summer Fishfly
Chauliodes pectinicornis, commonly known as the Summer Fishfly, is a species of fishfly in the family Corydalidae native to eastern North America. First described by Carl Linnaeus in 1763, this species has a notably wide distribution across eastern Canada and the United States. A distinctive ecological feature is its commensal relationship with Plecopteracoluthus downesi larvae, which complete their entire life cycle including pupation on the fishfly's mesothorax.
Cheumatopsyche campyla
Cheumatopsyche campyla is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Ross in 1938. As a member of this family, it constructs fixed retreats and capture nets to filter food from flowing water. The species is known to occur in North America.
Cheumatopsyche ela
Cheumatopsyche ela is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, first described by Denning in 1942. The species occurs in North America and is part of a genus known for constructing silk capture nets in flowing water habitats. Larvae exhibit density-dependent dispersion patterns in laboratory settings, with aggressive behavior and cannibalism observed at high population densities. As with other hydropsychids, adults are short-lived and primarily focused on reproduction.
Chilostigmodes areolatus
Chilostigmodes areolatus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Walker in 1852. It belongs to the tribe Chilostigmini, a group of limnephilid caddisflies primarily associated with lentic (still-water) habitats. The genus Chilostigmodes is small and poorly studied, with limited published information on the biology of its constituent species.
Chimarra obscura
fingernet caddisfly
Chimarra obscura is a species of fingernet caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae, found in North America. The genus Chimarra is characterized by blackish body and wings. This species has been documented from Missouri, specifically from Sam A. Baker State Park in the Ozark Highlands, where it was recorded alongside C. feria and an unidentified Chimarra species. The species was originally described by Walker in 1852.
Chimarra texana
Texas fingernet caddisfly
Chimarra texana is a species of fingernet caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1920. As a member of the genus Chimarra, it possesses the characteristic blackish body and wings typical of this group. The species is distributed in North America and belongs to an ancient lineage of aquatic insects closely related to moths and butterflies. Adults are recognized by their distinct maxillary and labial palps, lack of a coiled proboscis, and hairy (rather than scaled) wings.
Chironomus melanescens
Chironomus melanescens is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, described by Keyl in 1961. Like other members of the genus Chironomus, it is a holometabolous insect with aquatic larval stages. The species is part of one of the most well-studied groups of non-biting midges, though specific biological details for this particular species remain limited in available sources.
Chironomus plumosus
buzzer midge
Chironomus plumosus, commonly known as the buzzer midge, is a nonbiting midge species distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Adults are known for forming large mating swarms during spring and summer. The species is part of a sibling-species complex that includes C. muratensis and C. nudiventris, which cannot be morphologically distinguished from C. plumosus in adult form. The larvae, often called bloodworms due to their red coloration, are important food sources for fish and other aquatic predators.
Chironomus staegeri
Chironomus staegeri is a non-biting midge (Diptera: Chironomidae) characterized by extensive chromosomal inversion polymorphism. Populations exhibit significant genetic differentiation between deep and shallow water habitats in North America, with inversion patterns suggesting possible incipient speciation. The species has been used as a standard test organism in aquatic ecotoxicology studies, particularly for heavy metal toxicity research.
Chironomus tuberculatus
Chironomus tuberculatus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae. It was described by Townes in 1945. Like other members of the genus Chironomus, it is a small, aquatic fly with a life cycle involving egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The species is part of one of the most well-studied groups of non-biting midges, a genus comprising over 200 species.
Chloroperlidae
Green Stoneflies, Green Sallies, Yellow Sallies, Yellow Sallflies
Chloroperlidae is a family of stoneflies comprising over 200 species across 22 genera, commonly known as green stoneflies for their characteristic yellowish-green to green coloration. Adults range from 6–20 mm in body length and are distinguished by relatively short cerci, slender labial palps, and wings pads that remain parallel to the body midline. The family exhibits hemimetabolous development with egg, nymph, and adult stages but no pupal stage. Nymphs are aquatic inhabitants of cold, clean streams and rivers across five continents, where their sensitivity to pollutants makes them important bioindicators of water quality. Adults are primarily terrestrial, dwelling in riparian vegetation near water bodies with a brief lifespan focused on reproduction.
Chloroperlinae
Chloroperlinae is a subfamily of stoneflies within the family Chloroperlidae, established by Okamoto in 1912. Members are commonly known as green stoneflies due to their characteristic coloration. The subfamily occurs across multiple continents in cold freshwater habitats. Adults emerge from aquatic environments to inhabit riparian zones.
Cinygma lyriforme
Cinygma lyriforme is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, originally described as Ecdyonurus lyriformis by James Halliday McDunnough in 1924. The species name "lyriforme" refers to the lyre-shaped pattern characteristic of this taxon. Like other members of Heptageniidae, it possesses dorsoventrally flattened nymphs adapted for clinging to substrates in flowing water. The genus Cinygma is a small Nearctic genus with limited species diversity.
Cinygmula reticulata
Cinygmula reticulata is a species of mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, first described by McDunnough in 1934. It is a member of the Nearctic fauna, occurring in North America. Like other members of the genus Cinygmula, it is associated with running water habitats where the aquatic nymphs develop. The species is represented by limited observation records, with only four observations documented on iNaturalist.
Cinygmula subaequalis
flatheaded mayfly
Cinygmula subaequalis is a flatheaded mayfly species in the family Heptageniidae. It is distributed across northern North America, including Alaska, northern Canada, and the eastern United States. The species belongs to a genus characterized by distinctive head morphology. Limited observational data suggests it is rarely encountered.
Cirrula hians
Alkali Fly
Cirrula hians, commonly known as the alkali fly, is a brine fly in the family Ephydridae. This species is notable for its association with alkaline and saline aquatic habitats. The species was originally described by Thomas Say in 1830 under the name Ephydra hians. It has been documented in 474 iNaturalist observations, indicating moderate public awareness and detectability. The species serves as an important food source for migratory birds and has been historically harvested by Indigenous peoples of the Mono Lake region.
Claassenia sabulosa
Shortwing Stonefly, short-wing stone
Claassenia sabulosa, commonly known as the shortwing stonefly, is a species of common stonefly in the family Perlidae. It is found in North America, with documented populations in the western United States including Colorado, as well as Canada. The species has been studied for its life cycle dynamics in Colorado streams and its adult mate-finding behaviors.
Climacia areolaris
spongillafly
Climacia areolaris is a small spongillafly (Sisyridae) native to North America. Adults measure slightly over 3 mm from head to wingtips. The species is distinguished from congeners by wing pattern. It is active from March through December, with adults attracted to lights and feeding on pollen.
Clistoronia magnifica
northern caddisfly
Clistoronia magnifica is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, commonly referred to as a northern caddisfly. It is known from North America and has been the subject of laboratory toxicity studies examining the effects of heavy metals on its aquatic life cycle. The species completes a full life cycle from egg through larval, pupal, and adult stages in freshwater environments.
Clostoeca
Clostoeca is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, established by Banks in 1943. The genus is monotypic, containing only one described species: Clostoeca disjuncta. As a member of the Limnephilidae family, it belongs to a group of caddisflies commonly known as northern caddisflies, which are predominantly found in cool, temperate regions.
Coelotanypus atus
Coelotanypus atus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, described by Roback in 1971. It belongs to the subfamily Tanypodinae, a group of predatory midges commonly found in aquatic habitats. The genus Coelotanypus contains relatively few described species and is distinguished by specific morphological features of the adult and larval stages.
Coelotanypus scapularis
Coelotanypus scapularis is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Loew in 1866. The species belongs to the subfamily Tanypodinae, a group of predatory midges whose larvae are aquatic. Larvae have been documented feeding on diatoms, crustaceans, oligochaetes, and other insects. The species is established in North America with 277 observations recorded on iNaturalist.
Coelotanypus tricolor
Coelotanypus tricolor is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. It belongs to the tribe Coelotanypodini and was first described by Loew in 1861. As a member of the Tanypodinae, it is classified among the predatory midges rather than the filter-feeding Chironominae. The species epithet 'tricolor' suggests a three-colored appearance, though specific color pattern details are not well documented in available sources.
Copelatus chevrolati
Chevrolat's Dytiscid
Copelatus chevrolati is a small diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, subfamily Copelatinae. Adults measure 5.3–6.7 mm in length and 2.6–3.1 mm in width, with coloration ranging from pale to dark reddish brown. The species is distinguished from other North American Copelatus by having 8 or 9 discal striae on the elytra. Two subspecies are recognized: the eastern C. c. chevrolati and the western C. c. renovatus. The species has been recorded across the southern and central United States and was recently documented from Cuba, representing a significant range extension.
Copelatus distinctus
Copelatus distinctus is a species of diving beetle described by Aubé in 1838. It belongs to the genus Copelatus within the subfamily Copelatinae of the family Dytiscidae. The species is recorded from Middle America based on available distribution data. Like other members of Copelatus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments.
Coquillettidia
A genus of mosquitoes erected by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1905, distinguished primarily by unique features of male genitalia. The genus name honors entomologist Daniel William Coquillett. It comprises 57 species in three subgenera: Coquillettidia (primarily Afrotropical with some Asian, Australasian, Palearctic, and one North American species), Austromansonia (restricted to New Zealand), and Rhynchotaenia (confined to the Neotropical Region). Larvae are unique among mosquitoes in attaching to submerged plant roots and stems throughout development using modified respiratory structures.
Cordulegaster erronea
tiger spiketail
Cordulegaster erronea, the tiger spiketail, is a large, uncommon dragonfly in the family Cordulegastridae. It is a habitat specialist requiring small, pristine, spring-fed forest streams with muck bottoms and overhanging vegetation. The species has a long larval period estimated at 3-4 years and a brief adult flight period of approximately 2-3 weeks in early summer. Radio-telemetry studies in New Jersey have revealed limited adult movement, with individuals typically remaining within 100-200 meters of natal streams and showing strong site fidelity.
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Dobsonflies and Fishflies
Corydalidae is a family of large megalopteran insects commonly known as dobsonflies and fishflies. Adults typically exceed 25 mm in body length and possess long filamentous antennae—feathered in male fishflies—and four large, translucent, smoky-grey wings with the anterior pair slightly longer than the posterior. The family is divided into two subfamilies: Corydalinae (dobsonflies), whose males bear distinctive elongated mandibles used in combat, and Chauliodinae (fishflies), whose males have normal mandibles. Aquatic larvae, called hellgrammites, are predatory and possess strong sharp mandibles and abdominal branchial filaments for respiration. They develop over one to three years before leaving water to pupate in terrestrial chambers dug under stones or logs.
Corydalus
dobsonflies, hellgrammites (larvae), go-devil, grampus
Corydalus is a genus of large flying insects in the family Corydalidae, commonly known as dobsonflies. The genus contains approximately 35 species endemic to North, Central, and South America. Adults are among the largest winged insects in their range, with wing lengths reaching up to 85 millimetres. The genus exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism: males possess greatly elongated, sickle-shaped mandibles used in male-male combat and to grasp females during mating, while females have smaller but still formidable jaws capable of delivering a painful bite. The aquatic larvae, known as hellgrammites, are predatory and serve as important indicators of stream health.
Corydalus cornutus
Eastern Dobsonfly, Hellgrammite (larval form), Go-devil, Grampus
Corydalus cornutus, the eastern dobsonfly, is among the largest insects in eastern North America, with adults reaching 140 mm in length and wingspans up to 130 mm. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism: males possess elongated, sickle-shaped mandibles up to 40 mm long used in combat with rivals, while females have shorter, powerful mandibles capable of delivering a painful bite. The aquatic larval stage, known as hellgrammites, are apex invertebrate predators in fast-flowing streams, feeding on other aquatic insects for one to three years before emerging to pupate in terrestrial soil chambers. Adults are short-lived, non-predatory, and primarily nocturnal, attracted to lights near waterways.
Corydalus luteus
hellgrammite, dobsonfly
Corydalus luteus is a species of dobsonfly in the family Corydalidae, found across the Americas from the United States through Central America to South America. Adults are large, spectacular insects with prominent mandibles—greatly elongated in males, shorter but powerful in females. The larvae, known as hellgrammites, are aquatic predators inhabiting streams and rivers. The species is attracted to lights at night and is occasionally encountered by entomologists during field surveys.
Corydalus texanus
Western Dobsonfly
Corydalus texanus is a large megaloopteran insect commonly known as the Western Dobsonfly. Adults are among the largest winged insects in their range, with males distinguished by elongated sickle-shaped mandibles used in combat with rivals. Females possess shorter but powerful jaws capable of delivering a painful bite. The aquatic larval stage, known as hellgrammites, are predaceous and serve as important indicators of stream health. Adults are attracted to lights and may be observed near water bodies at night.
Corynoneura lobata
Corynoneura lobata is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. First described by Edwards in 1924, this species belongs to a genus of small chironomids characterized by reduced wing venation and distinctive genitalic structures. The genus Corynoneura is taxonomically complex, with numerous species described from multiple biogeographic regions. C. lobata has documented distribution records in northern Europe.
Cricotopus bicinctus
Cricotopus bicinctus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Meigen in 1818. The species is distributed across the Palearctic region, with documented records from northern Europe including Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, as well as Madeira Island and Hawaii. It belongs to the genus Cricotopus, a diverse group of chironomid midges commonly found in aquatic and semi-aquatic environments. The species is one of many in a genus that includes both aquatic larvae and terrestrial adults.
Cricotopus lebetis
Hydrilla Tip Mining Midge
Cricotopus lebetis is a chironomid midge native to Africa whose larvae are specialized stem miners of the invasive aquatic weed Hydrilla verticillata. It is being investigated as a classical biological control agent for hydrilla management in Florida and other regions where the plant has become established. The species completes its entire larval development within hydrilla shoot tips, where mining activity disrupts apical meristem function and suppresses vertical growth.
Cricotopus sylvestris
Cricotopus sylvestris is a non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae with a broad distribution spanning Asia, Europe, and North America. In the United Kingdom, it is considered native with a sporadic range. Laboratory studies indicate that larval development is strongly temperature-dependent, with completion in 10 days at 22–29°C versus 28 days at 15°C. The species exhibits one of the highest production-to-biomass (P/B) ratios reported for chironomids, suggesting rapid turnover and high ecological productivity.
Crocothemis
Scarlet Skimmers
Crocothemis is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, subfamily Sympetrinae. Species occur across southern Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Southwest Pacific. These are small to medium-sized dragonflies known for bright coloration in males, ranging from vivid red to rich blue, while females are typically dull brown or orange. They are aerial predators that perch on vegetation near water and fly out to capture prey.
Cultus
Cultus is a genus of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae, established by Ricker in 1952. The genus belongs to the tribe Diploperlini and is part of the diverse Perlodinae subfamily within the order Plecoptera. Species in this genus are found in western North America.
Cultus verticalis
Spiny Springfly
Cultus verticalis, commonly known as the spiny springfly, is a species of stonefly in the family Perlodidae. The species was first described by Banks in 1920 under the basionym Perla verticalis. It is known from scattered localities in eastern North America, with confirmed records from Georgia, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Québec. As a member of the Perlodidae, it belongs to a family of predatory stoneflies commonly found in cool, well-oxygenated streams.
Curicta scorpio
waterscorpion
Curicta scorpio is a species of waterscorpion in the family Nepidae. It occurs in Central America and North America, with a documented first record for Costa Rica on the Caribbean slope. Waterscorpions are aquatic true bugs characterized by their raptorial forelegs and breathing siphons.
Cylloepus
riffle beetles
Cylloepus is a genus of riffle beetles in the family Elmidae, first described by Erichson in 1847. The genus contains approximately six described species distributed across the Americas. Members are aquatic beetles associated with flowing water habitats. Species have been documented from North America, the Caribbean, and South America.
Cymatia
water boatmen
Cymatia is a genus of water boatmen in the family Corixidae, comprising approximately six described species. Members are aquatic true bugs inhabiting lentic waterbodies. The genus includes the neonative species Cymatia rogenhoferi, which has shown significant range expansion across Europe and the UK since 2005. Cymatia species are characterized by their tolerance of diverse environmental conditions and strong dispersal abilities.
Cymatia americana
water boatman
Cymatia americana is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Hussey in 1920. It belongs to the subfamily Cymatiinae and is one of several species in the genus Cymatia found in North America. Water boatmen in this family are aquatic true bugs that inhabit freshwater environments.
Cymatiainae
Cymatiainae is a subfamily of water boatmen within the family Corixidae. Members are aquatic insects adapted to freshwater habitats. The subfamily is distinguished by morphological features of the genitalia and wing venation. Cymatiainae represents one of several lineages within the diverse Corixidae family.
Cyrnellus
Cyrnellus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Polycentropodidae. Larvae of at least one species, C. fraternus, are specialized inhabitants of submerged wood (snags) in river systems, where they construct retreats. The genus was established by Nathan Banks in 1913. Species within this genus appear to exhibit specific microhabitat preferences related to flow conditions and substrate stability.
Cyrtobagous
salvinia weevil
Cyrtobagous is a genus of small weevils in the family Curculionidae, native to South America. The genus contains species specialized as biological control agents for invasive aquatic ferns in the genus Salvinia. C. salviniae has been introduced to multiple continents to manage giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta), while C. singularis has more limited effectiveness. Both species complete their life cycles within or on their host plants in aquatic environments.
Dactylolabis montana
Dactylolabis montana is a species of limoniid crane fly inhabiting madicolous environments in eastern North America. The species develops in thin water films on rock surfaces, with distinct larval and pupal stages described. It occurs from Ontario and Newfoundland south to Kansas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and South Carolina.
Dasycorixa rawsoni
Dasycorixa rawsoni is a species of water boatman described by Hungerford in 1948. It belongs to the family Corixidae, a group of aquatic true bugs adapted to life in freshwater environments. The species is known from North America and is classified within the tribe Glaenocorisini.
Demeijerea
Demeijerea is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Chironominae. The genus was established by Kruseman in 1933 and contains four described species. Members of this genus are found in Europe, with distribution records from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Like other chironomids, the larvae are aquatic and the adults do not feed.
Demeijerea brachialis
Demeijerea brachialis is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Coquillett in 1901. As a member of the tribe Chironomini, it belongs to one of the most diverse groups of aquatic insects. The genus Demeijerea is distinguished from related chironomid genera by specific morphological features of the adult male genitalia and larval structures.
Deuterophlebia shasta
Deuterophlebia shasta is a species of mountain midge in the family Deuterophlebiidae, first described by Wirth in 1951. This family represents one of the most primitive lineages of true flies (Diptera), with larvae that are highly specialized for life in cold, fast-flowing mountain streams. The species epithet 'shasta' refers to Mount Shasta in northern California, indicating the type locality. Deuterophlebiidae larvae are notable for their unusual body plan, featuring six pairs of ventral suckers that allow them to cling to rocks in torrential currents.
Dicosmoecinae
northern caddisflies
Dicosmoecinae is a subfamily of caddisflies within the family Limnephilidae, comprising approximately 19 genera and at least 80 described species. The group is commonly referred to as "northern caddisflies," reflecting its predominantly Holarctic distribution. The subfamily was established by Schmid in 1955, with Dicosmoecus as its type genus. Members are case-making caddisflies, with larvae constructing portable shelters from plant materials.
Dicosmoecus pallicornis
Dicosmoecus pallicornis is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1943. It belongs to a genus of case-making caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species is documented from North America within the Nearctic region. As with other Limnephilidae, it likely has a holometabolous life cycle with aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Dicranopselaphus variegatus
variegated false water penny beetle
Dicranopselaphus variegatus is a species of water penny beetle in the family Psephenidae, commonly known as the variegated false water penny beetle. The species was described by George Henry Horn in 1880. Like other members of Psephenidae, adults are terrestrial while larvae are aquatic, living on submerged rocks and logs in flowing water. It is found in North America.
Dineutus nigrior
whirligig beetle
A species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae, found across North America. Adults are surface-dwelling aquatic beetles known for their distinctive circular swimming patterns and social aggregations on water. Males possess enlarged protarsal pads used during mating attempts, and accessory glands that show positive allometry associated with increased mating success. The species serves as host to water mites, with parasitism levels linked to host body condition and sex.
Dineutus serrulatus
whirligig beetle
Dineutus serrulatus is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae, first described by LeConte in 1868. The species occurs in the Appalachian Mountains of the southeastern United States, with records from northeastern Georgia and the southwestern Carolinas. A subspecies, D. s. analis, has been recorded from Kansas and the southeastern United States.
Dineutus sublineatus
whirligig beetle
Dineutus sublineatus is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae, found in Central America and the Southwestern United States. Like other members of its genus, it possesses two separate pairs of compound eyes—one pair viewing above and one below the water surface—an adaptation for simultaneous aerial and underwater vision. Neuroanatomical studies have shown this species exhibits a unique sensory modality switch: its mushroom body calyces, brain structures typically associated with olfactory processing in insects, receive exclusive visual input from the dorsal eye optic lobes rather than olfactory input.
Diphetor
Diphetor is a genus of small mayflies in the family Baetidae, established by Waltz and McCafferty in 1987. These insects belong to the order Ephemeroptera, characterized by their short adult lifespan and aquatic nymphal stages. The genus is part of the diverse Baetidae family, one of the largest families of mayflies.
Diphetor hageni
Hagen's Small Minnow Mayfly
Diphetor hageni is a small mayfly species in the family Baetidae, commonly known as Hagen's Small Minnow Mayfly. It is native to the Nearctic region, primarily distributed across North America. The species is part of the diverse Baetidae family, which are among the most abundant and widespread mayflies in running waters.
Diplectrona modesta
Diplectrona modesta is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, first described by Banks in 1908. It is native to North America, with documented occurrences in the Nearctic region including Vermont. The species has been studied for its life history and production dynamics in freshwater stream habitats, particularly in Walker Branch, Tennessee.
Diploperla
springflies
Diploperla is a genus of springflies (family Perlodidae) comprising five described species found in eastern North America. These stoneflies inhabit stream environments where their nymphs develop as predators in leaf packs and riffle areas. The genus exhibits univoltine life cycles with adult emergence occurring in spring.
Diura
Diura is a genus of stoneflies (Plecoptera) in the family Perlodidae, comprising approximately seven described species distributed across Europe and North America. Species such as Diura nanseni are univoltine, completing their life cycle in one year with nymphal growth primarily during spring months. Nymphs are typically associated with lotic environments and exhibit predatory or grazing feeding habits depending on species.
Dixella californica
Dixella californica is a species of meniscus midge in the family Dixidae (Order: Diptera). These small, delicate flies are associated with aquatic habitats where their larvae develop. The species was described by Johannsen in 1923 and is known from California. Dixidae larvae are recognized by their distinctive habit of hanging upside down from the water surface film, feeding on microorganisms and organic matter.
Dixella dorsalis
Dixella dorsalis is a species of midge in the family Dixidae, described by Garrett in 1924. Dixidae, commonly known as meniscus midges or dixid midges, are small non-biting flies closely related to mosquitoes (Culicidae). Larvae of this family are aquatic, typically inhabiting the surface film of standing water where they feed on microorganisms. The family is relatively small and understudied, with most species poorly known beyond basic taxonomic descriptions.
Djalmabatista pulcher
Djalmabatista pulcher is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae, tribe Procladiini. First described by Johannsen in 1908, this species belongs to a genus of predatory midges whose larvae inhabit aquatic environments. The genus Djalmabatista is part of the diverse chironomid fauna, with this particular species having documented occurrence records from Brazil (São Paulo state).
Dolophilodes dorca
Dolophilodes dorca is a species of caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae. Members of this genus are small, slender caddisflies associated with lotic (flowing water) habitats. The larvae construct silken retreats and capture nets for feeding on fine particulate organic matter. Like other philopotamids, adults are typically nocturnal and are attracted to light.
Doroneuria baumanni
Cascades Stonefly, cascades stone
Doroneuria baumanni, known as the Cascades Stonefly, is a species of common stonefly in the family Perlidae. It was described by Stark & Gaufin in 1974. The species occurs in western North America, with documented records from British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, California, and Nevada. Like other Perlidae, it is predatory in its aquatic nymph stage.
Drunella coloradensis
Small Western Green Drake
Drunella coloradensis is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, commonly known to anglers as the Small Western Green Drake. The species is found in freshwater streams across western North America, with a range extending from Alaska and northern Canada through the western United States to northern Mexico and Central America. Nymphs are known to alter their behavior in response to short-term pH reductions, becoming more active under acidic conditions. The species is of particular importance to fly fishermen, who imitate its various life stages with artificial flies.
Drunella cornutella
spiny crawler mayfly
Drunella cornutella is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, originally described by McDunnough in 1931 as Ephemerella cornutella. It is found in North America, with records from the Nearctic region including the northeastern United States. Like other members of the genus Drunella, it is an aquatic insect with immature stages living in freshwater habitats.
Drunella doddsii
Western Green Drake
Drunella doddsii is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, commonly known as the Western Green Drake. Originally described as Ephemerella doddsi by Needham in 1927, this species is significant to fly fishing communities in western North America. The species is part of the diverse Drunella genus, which includes other notable green drake species such as D. grandis.
Drunella grandis
Western Green Drake, Green Drake, Spinner Green Drake
Drunella grandis is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It is commonly known as the Western Green Drake among fly fishermen, who highly value this species for its importance as a trout food source. The species is native to North America and has been documented with three recognized subspecies. Adults are notable for their large size and greenish coloration, making them a prominent feature of western North American streams.
Drunella lata
Drunella lata is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It was first described by Morgan in 1911. The species is found in North America and belongs to a genus commonly known as "green drakes" among fly fishermen. Like other members of Ephemerellidae, it has aquatic nymphs and winged adults.
Drunella pelosa
Drunella pelosa is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It is native to North America. As a member of the Ephemerellidae family, it shares characteristics with other spiny crawler mayflies, including a robust body form and adaptations for clinging to substrates in flowing water. The species was originally described as Ephemerella pelosa by Mayo in 1952.
Drunella spinifera
Western Slate Olive
Drunella spinifera is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It is found in southwestern and northern Canada, the western United States, and Alaska. The common name "Western Slate Olive" reflects its regional distribution and likely coloration. Like other members of the genus Drunella, it belongs to a group of mayflies commonly targeted by fly fishermen, though specific angling references for this species are limited.
Drunella tuberculata
spiny crawler mayfly
Drunella tuberculata is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, described by Morgan in 1911. It is found in North America and is closely related to D. allegheniensis, from which it can be distinguished by specific morphological characters. The species is part of a group of mayflies important to fly fishermen, where nymphs and adults serve as significant food sources for trout and other sport fish.
Drunella walkeri
Small Blue-winged Olive
Drunella walkeri is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, commonly known as the Small Blue-winged Olive among anglers. It is found in North America and is one of the mayfly species frequently imitated by fly fishermen. The species was first described by Eaton in 1884.
Dubiraphia brevipennis
Dubiraphia brevipennis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Hilsenhoff in 1973. Like other elmid beetles, it is adapted to life in flowing water environments. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Dysmicohermes
Dysmicohermes is a genus of fishflies in the family Corydalidae, established by Munroe in 1953. The genus contains two described species: Dysmicohermes disjunctus and Dysmicohermes ingens. As members of Megaloptera, these insects represent a relatively small and ancient order of holometabolous insects. The genus is part of the diverse Corydalidae family, which includes some of the largest aquatic insects in North America.
Dytiscus verticalis
Vertical Diving Beetle
Dytiscus verticalis is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. As a member of the genus Dytiscus, it is among the largest diving beetles in North America. The species inhabits freshwater aquatic systems and, like other members of its genus, is an active predator in both larval and adult stages. The specific epithet 'verticalis' refers to a characteristic morphological feature of this species.
Enallagma exsulans
Stream Bluet
Enallagma exsulans, commonly known as the Stream Bluet, is a species of damselfly in the family Coenagrionidae. It is distinguished from many other bluet species by its strong association with flowing water rather than still ponds and lakes. The species ranges across much of eastern and central North America.
Endochironomus subtendens
Endochironomus subtendens is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described as Tanytarsus subtendens by Townes in 1945. The species was later transferred to the genus Endochironomus. Like other members of this genus, it is an aquatic insect with larval stages developing in freshwater habitats. The genus Endochironomus is known for larvae that construct portable cases using silk and environmental materials.
Enochrus sayi
Enochrus sayi is a species of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae. It occurs across much of eastern and central North America, with introduced populations in the Hawaiian Islands. The species inhabits freshwater aquatic environments.
Epeorus deceptivus
flatheaded mayfly
Epeorus deceptivus is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. First described by McDunnough in 1924, it was originally placed in the genus Cinygma before being transferred to Epeorus. It is found in North America.
Epeorus fragilis
flatheaded mayfly
Epeorus fragilis is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, first described by Morgan in 1911. It is distributed across North America. As a member of the order Ephemeroptera, it undergoes aquatic larval development before emerging as a short-lived adult.
Epeorus longimanus
flatheaded mayfly
Epeorus longimanus is a flatheaded mayfly species in the family Heptageniidae. Nymphs inhabit stream riffles and show specific microhabitat preferences, being more abundant in areas with smaller sediment sizes, higher live periphyton biomass, and lower densities of invertebrate predators. The species is distributed across western North America from Alaska through the western United States to southwestern and northern Canada.
Epeorus pleuralis
Quill Gordon
Epeorus pleuralis, commonly known as the Quill Gordon, is a flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. It is native to North America and is recognized as an important species in aquatic entomology and fly fishing. The species is known for its relatively early emergence in the spring, making it a significant hatch for anglers in eastern North American streams.
Epeorus punctatus
Epeorus punctatus is a species of flat-headed mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. The species was originally described by McDunnough in 1925 under the genus Iron before being transferred to Epeorus. It is known from North America within the Nearctic region. Like other members of the genus, it likely inhabits flowing water environments where the nymphs cling to submerged substrates.
Ephemera blanda
common burrower mayfly
Ephemera blanda is a species of burrower mayfly in the family Ephemeridae, characterized by its fossorial lifestyle in aquatic sediments. The species inhabits running waters in the southeastern Nearctic region. As with other members of the genus Ephemera, adults are short-lived and primarily focused on reproduction.
Ephemera guttulata
Eastern Green Drake, Shad Fly, Coffinfly
Ephemera guttulata, commonly known as the eastern green drake, is a burrowing mayfly species native to eastern North America. It is one of the largest mayfly species in the region and is highly significant to fly fishing, where its emergence events are eagerly anticipated. The species has a fully aquatic larval stage, followed by a winged subimago (dun) stage and a short-lived sexually mature adult (imago) stage. Its conservation status is G5 (secure) according to NatureServe.
Ephemera varia
Yellow Drake
Ephemera varia, commonly known as the Yellow Drake, is a species of burrower mayfly in the family Ephemeridae. It is native to North America, with documented presence in the northeastern United States including Vermont. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with aquatic environments and has a brief adult lifespan. The species is represented by 59 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is documented but not extensively studied.
Ephemerella dorothea
Pale Dun
Ephemerella dorothea is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, commonly known as the Pale Dun. It is native to North America, with documented occurrence in southwestern and northern Canada, the western United States, and Alaska. The species was first described by Needham in 1908 and includes two recognized subspecies: E. d. dorothea and E. d. infrequens.
Ephemerella dorothea infrequens
Pale Morning Dun
Ephemerella dorothea infrequens is a subspecies of mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, commonly known as the Pale Morning Dun. It is an aquatic insect whose nymphal stage inhabits freshwater environments. The species is recognized as an important food source for trout and is frequently imitated by fly fishers using artificial flies. It was described by McDunnough in 1924 and is accepted as a valid subspecies within the Ephemerella dorothea complex.
Ephemerella excrucians
Pale Morning Dun
Ephemerella excrucians, commonly known as the pale morning dun, is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It is distributed across all of Canada and the continental United States. The species is of particular interest to fly fishers due to its importance as a trout food source and its frequent use as a model for artificial flies.
Ephemerella invaria
Sulphur Dun
Ephemerella invaria, commonly known as the sulphur dun, is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It occurs in headwater streams across eastern North America, from southeastern and northern Canada through the eastern United States. The species has been studied for population genetic impacts associated with deforestation of its stream habitats. As a member of the Ephemerellidae, it belongs to a group of mayflies characterized by distinctive spiny or tuberculate body features.
Ephemerella maculata
spiny crawler mayfly
Ephemerella maculata is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It exhibits a migratory life cycle involving upstream flight of adults, downstream drift of nymphs, and upstream crawling by nymphs to compensate for displacement. The species is found in North American streams.
Eucorethra underwoodi
Eucorethra underwoodi is a species of phantom midge in the family Chaoboridae, described by Underwood in 1903. As a member of this family, it belongs to a group of non-biting midges known for their aquatic larvae and transparent, reduced mouthparts in adults. The genus Eucorethra is a distinctive lineage within Chaoboridae. Specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented in published literature.
Euhrychiopsis
milfoil weevil
Euhrychiopsis is a genus of small aquatic weevils in the tribe Phytobiini, family Curculionidae. The genus contains at least one well-studied species, Euhrychiopsis lecontei, commonly known as the milfoil weevil. Members of this genus are fully submersed freshwater specialists that feed on watermilfoil plants (Myriophyllum species). The genus has gained attention for its potential use in biological control of invasive aquatic plants.
Euhrychiopsis lecontei
Milfoil Weevil
A small submersed aquatic weevil native to North America, investigated as a biological control agent for invasive Eurasian watermilfoil. Adults and larvae feed on watermilfoil species, with larvae acting as stem borers that damage plant tissue. Populations occur naturally on native northern watermilfoil and have expanded to exotic Eurasian watermilfoil. The species exhibits plastic host preferences influenced by rearing experience, with faster development and larger adult sizes observed on Eurasian watermilfoil despite higher larval survivorship on native hosts.
Euparyphus stigmaticalis
Euparyphus stigmaticalis is a species of soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) described by Loew in 1866. It is known from eastern North America, where it occurs in specialized madicolous habitats—seepage areas on rock faces with thin films of flowing water. The species has been studied for its biology and immature stages, which are adapted to life in these thin water film environments.
Eurekapnia maculata
Spotted Snowfly
Eurekapnia maculata is a species of winter stonefly in the family Capniidae, commonly known as the Spotted Snowfly. It belongs to a group of small stoneflies adapted to cold environments, with adults typically emerging during winter months when temperatures are near freezing. The species is native to North America and shares characteristics typical of the Capniidae family, including reduced wing venation and small body size.
Eurylophella aestiva
spiny crawler mayfly
Eurylophella aestiva is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It was originally described by McDunnough in 1931 as Ephemerella aestiva. The species is known from North America and belongs to a genus characterized by distinctive spiny projections on the body. Like other members of Ephemerellidae, it exhibits the subimago stage typical of mayflies.
Eurylophella bicolor
bicolor spiny crawler mayfly
Eurylophella bicolor is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, originally described as Ephemerella bicolor by Clemens in 1913. The species is distributed across the Nearctic region, particularly in North America. Like other members of the genus Eurylophella, it is associated with freshwater aquatic habitats during its nymphal stages.
Eurylophella funeralis
Eurylophella funeralis is a mayfly species in the family Ephemerellidae, described by McDunnough in 1925. Originally placed in the genus Ephemerella, it was later transferred to Eurylophella. The species is known from the Nearctic region, with records from North America including Vermont. As a member of the order Ephemeroptera, it has an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage, though specific ecological details for this species remain limited in available literature.
Eurylophella lodi
Eurylophella lodi is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, described by Mayo in 1952. It belongs to a genus of mayflies found in North America. The species is known from limited observations, with only two documented occurrences in iNaturalist. Like other members of Ephemerellidae, it is likely associated with freshwater aquatic habitats during its immature stages.
Eurylophella prudentalis
spiny crawler mayfly
Eurylophella prudentalis is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, first described by James Halliday McDunnough in 1931. As a member of the genus Eurylophella, it belongs to a group of mayflies commonly known as spiny crawlers, characterized by their distinctive body armature. The species is known from North America, with documented occurrences in the northeastern United States including Vermont. Like other Ephemerellidae, it completes its aquatic larval development in freshwater habitats before emerging as a short-lived adult.
Frenesia missa
Failed Northern Caddisfly
Frenesia missa is a rare species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Milne in 1935. The species was originally placed in the genus Chilostigma as Chilostigma missum before being transferred to Frenesia. It is considered vulnerable to anthropogenic stressors and has a restricted distribution in North America.
Frisonia
Frisonia is a genus of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae, established by Ricker in 1943. It belongs to the tribe Arcynopterygini within the subfamily Perlodinae. The genus is part of the diverse systellognathan stonefly assemblage, characterized by flexible gill structures and predatory habits in the nymphal stage.
Frisonia picticeps
Painted Springfly
Frisonia picticeps is a species of stonefly in the family Perlodidae, known by the common name Painted Springfly. It was originally described as Arcynopteryx picticeps by Hanson in 1942 before being transferred to the genus Frisonia. The species is distributed in western North America, with records from British Columbia through the Pacific Northwest to California and Nevada. As a member of the tribe Arcynopterygini, it belongs to a group of predatory stoneflies.
Galerucella nymphaeae
water-lily beetle, water lily leaf beetle
Galerucella nymphaeae is a univoltine skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Adults and larvae feed on aquatic and semi-aquatic host plants, primarily in the families Nymphaeaceae and Polygonaceae. The species exhibits a distinctive reproductive diapause strategy where adults mate in summer but delay oviposition until spring after overwintering. Populations show genetically based polymorphisms in morphology, size, and reproductive traits associated with host plant use, suggesting incipient host race formation.
Gerris buenoi
water strider
Gerris buenoi is a small water strider species native to North America, first described in 1911. Adults measure 8-10 mm in length and possess elongated mid-legs adapted for locomotion on water surfaces. The species exhibits wing polymorphism, with multiple wing forms corresponding to different seasons and environmental conditions. It has been extensively studied as a model organism for sexual conflict research and was the first water strider to have its genome sequenced.
Glaenocorisa propinqua
Glaenocorisa propinqua is a water boatman species (family Corixidae) found in lakes across Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. Its abundance and distribution are strongly influenced by fish predation pressure, which primarily targets larvae. The species preys upon the water flea Holopedium gibberum, placing it as both predator and prey in lacustrine food webs.
Glossosoma nigrior
little black caddisfly
Glossosoma nigrior is a caddisfly species in the family Glossosomatidae, commonly known as the little black caddisfly. It is native to North America and has been extensively studied in Michigan trout streams and Alabama streams. The species exhibits respiratory adaptations to flowing water conditions and serves as a dominant benthic grazer in stream ecosystems.
Glossosomatidae
tortoise-case makers, saddle-case makers, little black caddisflies
Glossosomatidae is a family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) containing 23 genera across three subfamilies. Larvae construct distinctive domed cases from pebbles bound with silk, giving rise to the common names "tortoise-case makers" or "saddle-case makers." The family has a worldwide distribution with particular diversity in the Americas. Larvae are primarily found in cool, fast-flowing streams where they serve as important bioindicators of water quality due to their sensitivity to pollution and long aquatic life stages.
Glossosomatinae
Glossosomatinae is a subfamily of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Glossosomatidae. Larvae construct distinctive dome-shaped or tortoise-like portable cases from sand grains and small stones, earning them the common name 'tortoise case makers.' The subfamily is distinguished from the other glossosomatid subfamily, Protoptilinae, primarily by adult genitalic characters and larval case morphology. Members are found in running waters across multiple continents, with larvae serving as important indicators of stream health due to their sensitivity to pollution and habitat disturbance.
Goeldichironomus
Goeldichironomus is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, containing approximately 14 described species. The genus is distributed across the Neotropical and Nearctic regions, with records from Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia. Species in this genus are notable for their short life cycles, tolerance to environmental stress, and colonization of ephemeral aquatic habitats as pioneer species. They serve as important bioindicators in water quality assessments and are widely used in laboratory toxicity studies. The type species Goeldichironomus holoprasinus has been extensively studied in laboratory conditions, completing development from egg to adult in approximately 13 days at 26°C.
Goeldichironomus carus
Goeldichironomus carus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae. The species was described by Townes in 1945. It belongs to the tribe Chironomini within the subfamily Chironominae. As with other members of this genus, it is likely associated with freshwater aquatic habitats, though specific ecological details remain limited in published literature.
Gomphidae
Clubtails, Club-tailed Dragonflies
Gomphidae is a family of dragonflies commonly known as clubtails, containing approximately 90 genera and 900 species worldwide. The family name derives from the Greek 'gomphos' meaning 'bolt' or 'nail,' referring to the club-like widening of abdominal segments 7-9, though this feature is reduced in females and absent in some species. Clubtails are distinguished from other dragonfly families by their small, widely separated compound eyes—a trait shared only with Petaluridae and damselflies. The family is the sole member of the superfamily Gomphoidea and has a global distribution across North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa.
Grammotaulius
Grammotaulius is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, established by Kolenati in 1848. The genus contains species distributed across Europe and North America, including at least two recognized species: G. alascensis and G. bettenii. As limnephilid caddisflies, members of this genus are aquatic in their larval stages and terrestrial as adults.
Graphoderus perplexus
predacious diving beetle
Graphoderus perplexus is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by Sharp in 1882. It is distributed across the Holarctic region, occurring in both North America and the Palearctic. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments. The species is part of the tribe Aciliini, which includes other medium to large diving beetles.
Graptocorixa californica
Graptocorixa californica is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Hungerford in 1925. It belongs to the tribe Graptocorixini within the subfamily Corixinae. The species is known to occur in North America, with its specific epithet suggesting a California distribution. Water boatmen in this family are aquatic insects found in freshwater habitats.
Gumaga
bushtailed caddisflies
Gumaga is a genus of bushtailed caddisflies in the family Sericostomatidae, established by Tsuda in 1938. The genus comprises approximately six described species distributed across East Asia and North America. The type species is Gumaga okinawaensis M. Tsuda. Species within this genus are characterized by their association with the bushtailed caddisfly group, a morphologically distinct lineage within Trichoptera.
Gyretes sinuatus
Gyretes sinuatus is a whirligig beetle (family Gyrinidae) inhabiting freshwater systems of North America. Like other gyrinids, it lives on the water surface where it feeds and forms aggregations. The genus Gyretes represents the third North American gyrinid genus alongside Dineutus and Gyrinus, and has been documented across the Ozark region and Arkansas. This species was described by LeConte in 1852.
Gyrinus pugionis
whirligig beetle
Gyrinus pugionis is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae, found in North America. Like other members of the genus, it inhabits the surface of freshwater bodies where it exhibits characteristic erratic, circular swimming patterns. The species was described by Fall in 1922. Specific details regarding its biology and ecology remain limited in published literature.
Habrophlebia vibrans
pronggilled mayfly
A small stream-dwelling mayfly with a 2-year life cycle, notable for its extended development compared to most mayflies. Adults emerge synchronously in June. Nymphs inhabit gravel substrates and show distinct drift patterns across life stages. The species has been studied in Québec populations, where it reaches final sizes of approximately 5 mm before emergence.
Halesochila taylori
Halesochila taylori is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It is a small to medium-sized caddisfly with a Nearctic distribution, documented primarily from North America. The species was originally described as Halesus taylori by Banks in 1904 and later transferred to the genus Halesochila. As a member of the Limnephilidae, it is presumed to have an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage, though specific life history details remain poorly documented in published literature.
Hedriodiscus truquii
Hedriodiscus truquii is a soldier fly (family Stratiomyidae) whose larval ecology has been studied in thermal spring habitats. The species was described by Bellardi in 1859 and occurs in North and Central America. A detailed 4-year ecological study documented its role as a dominant herbivore in two thermal spring communities in Washington State, where larvae feed on algae and serve as a significant energy conduit in these extreme ecosystems. Larvae are aquatic and subject to heavy predation pressure, particularly from spiders on newly emerged adults.
Helicopsyche
Speckled Peter, Spiral Caddisflies
Helicopsyche is a genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Helicopsychidae) containing more than 230 species with highest diversity in tropical and sub-tropical regions. The genus is represented on all major faunal regions worldwide. Larvae construct distinctive helical, snail-shell-like cases from sand grains and silk. Adults are known to fly fishers as the 'Speckled Peter'. The genus was first described by Siebold in 1856.
Helopicus subvarians
vernal springfly
Helopicus subvarians is a species of springfly in the family Perlodidae, described by Banks in 1920. It is commonly known as the vernal springfly. Records indicate occurrence in the eastern United States. Like other Plecoptera, it is associated with aquatic habitats during immature stages.
Heptagenia flavescens
flatheaded mayfly
Heptagenia flavescens is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. The species has been documented in North America and Central America, with records indicating a southwestern range extension. As with other members of Heptageniidae, it possesses the characteristic flattened head morphology associated with this group of mayflies.
Heptagenia marginalis
Margined Flat-headed Mayfly
Heptagenia marginalis is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, first described by Banks in 1910. It belongs to a family characterized by dorsoventrally flattened body forms adapted to clinging in fast-flowing water. The species is known from North America, though detailed biological information remains limited in available literature.
Hesperocorixa interrupta
Hesperocorixa interrupta is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1825. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs distributed across North America. Water boatmen in this family are characterized by their oar-like hind legs adapted for swimming and their aquatic lifestyle in freshwater habitats.
Hesperocorixa lucida
Hesperocorixa lucida is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Abbott in 1916. The species is recorded from North America and belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs commonly found in freshwater habitats. Like other corixids, it is adapted to life in water with oar-like hind legs modified for swimming.
Hesperocorixa michiganensis
Hesperocorixa michiganensis is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) described by Hungerford in 1926. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The species is recorded from North America, specifically within the Nearctic region. Like other Corixidae, it is adapted to underwater life with modified hind legs for swimming.
Hesperocorixa semilucida
Hesperocorixa semilucida is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Walley in 1930. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The species is documented from North America. Like other Corixidae, it is an aquatic insect adapted to life in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waters.
Hesperoperla pacifica
golden stonefly, Golden Stone
Hesperoperla pacifica, commonly known as the golden stonefly, is a species of common stonefly in the family Perlidae. It is native to western North America, with documented populations in Colorado streams and broader distribution across Alberta, Arizona, Alaska, British Columbia, and California. The species has been studied for its life history responses to varying flow regimes and serves as an indicator of stream health in its aquatic habitats.
Hesperophylax
Hesperophylax is a genus of northern caddisflies (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) comprising seven described species distributed across western North America. The genus is characterized by morphological plasticity and broad habitat tolerance compared to other Trichoptera. Larvae construct portable protective cases and exhibit chemically-mediated antipredator behaviors. All species appear to be univoltine with extended adult flight periods.
Hesperophylax magnus
northern caddisfly
Hesperophylax magnus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1918. It is native to North America and is one of seven recognized species in the genus Hesperophylax. Larvae are more predaceous than other Hesperophylax species and exhibit opportunistic omnivory. The species is univoltine with an extended flight period.
Heterelmis glabra
riffle beetle
Heterelmis glabra is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, found in Central America and North America. The largest known populations occur in springs associated with the upper Devils River in south-central Texas. As a spring-adapted organism, it has life-history patterns requiring surface habitat components, making it vulnerable to changes in spring flow. The species has been studied using N-mixture models to assess abundance and distribution across spring sources.
Heterelmis obscura
Heterelmis obscura is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by Sharp in 1882. It inhabits freshwater environments in Central and South America. Like other elmid beetles, it is fully aquatic throughout its life cycle, with adults possessing a plastron—a layer of air trapped by body hairs that enables underwater respiration.
Heterelmis vulnerata
riffle beetle
Heterelmis vulnerata is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by LeConte in 1874. It is distributed across Central America and North America. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects that inhabit fast-flowing, oxygen-rich waters where they spend their entire life cycle submerged. Adults possess a plastron—a layer of air trapped by body hairs that allows them to breathe underwater without surfacing.
Heterlimnius corpulentus
Corpulent Riffle Beetle
Heterlimnius corpulentus is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, commonly known as the Corpulent Riffle Beetle. It was described by LeConte in 1874 and is found in western North America, with records from the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. Riffle beetles in this family are aquatic and associated with flowing water habitats.
Heterocerus pallidus
Heterocerus pallidus is a species of small, elongated beetle in the family Heteroceridae, commonly known as variegated mud-loving beetles. The species was described by Thomas Say in 1823. Members of this family are typically associated with moist, muddy habitats near water bodies. Heterocerus pallidus is one of approximately 250 species in the genus Heterocerus, which has a cosmopolitan distribution with highest diversity in tropical and subtropical regions.
Hexagenia
giant mayflies, burrowing mayflies, fishflies
Hexagenia is a genus of large burrowing mayflies in the family Ephemeridae, comprising eight recognized species. Nymphs construct distinctive U-shaped, ventilated burrows in soft aquatic sediments of lakes, streams, and ponds. Adults are notable for their synchronous mass emergences, which can produce swarms dense enough to appear on weather radar. The genus serves as an important bioindicator of water quality due to its intolerance of pollution and anoxia.
Hexagenia atrocaudata
Lake Hex
Hexagenia atrocaudata is a burrowing mayfly species in the family Ephemeridae, known from North American lakes and rivers. As a member of the common burrower mayflies, it spends the vast majority of its life as an aquatic nymph in bottom sediments, emerging as a short-lived winged adult for reproduction. Adults lack functional mouthparts and do not feed. Mass synchronous emergences can occur, producing swarms that attract fish and anglers alike. The species serves as an important indicator of clean freshwater ecosystems and provides substantial food resources for aquatic and terrestrial predators.
Hexagenia bilineata
Emergent Mayfly
Hexagenia bilineata is a burrowing mayfly native to the Upper Mississippi Valley of North America. The aquatic nymphs construct U-shaped burrows in mud and silt, filtering organic detritus for food. Adults emerge synchronously in enormous numbers during summer evenings, creating spectacular swarms that have caused documented traffic hazards and infrastructure damage. The species exhibits mixed voltinism, with some populations completing development in one year while others require two years.
Hexagenia orlando
Florida Hex
Hexagenia orlando is a burrower mayfly in the family Ephemeridae, described by Traver in 1931. The species is endemic to North America, with the common name "Florida Hex" suggesting a primary association with Florida. As a member of the genus Hexagenia, it exhibits the subterranean burrowing habits characteristic of this group during its nymphal stage. Adult mayflies in this genus typically emerge in synchronized swarms.
Hexagenia rigida
Great Olive-winged Drake
Hexagenia rigida is a burrowing mayfly (Ephemeroptera: Ephemeridae) native to North America. As a member of the common burrower mayfly genus, it spends most of its life as an aquatic nymph in lake and reservoir sediments, with adults emerging synchronously in large swarms. The species has a multi-year life cycle, typically requiring 3-4 years to complete development from egg to adult in northern climates. Laboratory studies indicate that larval growth and mortality are significantly influenced by food availability and density, with food limitation increasing size variation and mortality rates.
Himalopsyche
Himalopsyche is a genus of free-living caddisflies in the family Rhyacophilidae, containing more than 40 described species. The genus is primarily distributed in alpine to montane environments across Central and East Asia and North America, with its greatest diversity concentrated in the Himalayas and surrounding mountain ranges. Species within the genus have been divided into five morphological groups: kuldschensis, lepcha, navasi, phryganea, and tibetana. The genus has served as a model system for studying mountain biodiversity, gene flow, and the mountain-geobiodiversity hypothesis due to its endemic distribution in geologically dynamic regions.
caddisflyRhyacophilidaemountain-biodiversityTibeto-Himalayanaquatic-insectphylogeographygenome-assemblyindicator-speciesgene-flowHengduan-MountainsHimalayasalpinemontanerunning-waterfree-living-caddisflycocoon-makerpredatory-larvaewater-quality-monitoringadaptive-evolutionmountain-geobiodiversity-hypothesisHomophylax
Homophylax is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1900. It belongs to the tribe Chilostigmini within the subfamily Limnephilinae. As a limnephilid genus, its members are associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct protective cases. The genus is poorly documented in public sources, with minimal observational records available.
Husseyella
Husseyella is a genus of small water striders in the family Veliidae, established by Herring in 1955. It belongs to the subfamily Microveliinae, a group of minute aquatic true bugs commonly known as riffle bugs or small water striders. Members of this genus inhabit aquatic environments where they skate on the water surface film. The genus is poorly known, with few documented observations and limited published biological information.
Hydaticus aruspex
Hydaticus aruspex is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It occurs across the Holarctic region, including North America and Eurasia. As a member of Hydaticus, it is adapted to aquatic life and functions as an active predator in freshwater systems.
Hydaticus bimarginatus
Hydaticus bimarginatus is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, occurring across North America. The species is moderately well-documented with over 1,000 observations on iNaturalist, indicating established presence in aquatic habitats. As a member of Hydaticus, it is associated with lentic and lotic freshwater systems where it functions as an active predator.
Hydatophylax hesperus
Hydatophylax hesperus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Banks in 1914. The species belongs to the order Trichoptera, an insect group characterized by aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults. As a member of the Limnephilidae family, it is part of one of the most diverse families of caddisflies, commonly known as case-making caddisflies. Very little specific biological information is available for this particular species.
Hydrellia
hydrilla leaf mining flies (unofficial, for some species)
Hydrellia is a large genus of shore flies (family Ephydridae) comprising more than 240 described species. The genus is notable for containing aquatic leaf-mining species whose larvae develop inside the tissues of submerged aquatic plants. Several species, particularly H. pakistanae and H. balciunasi, have been introduced to North America as biological control agents against the invasive aquatic weed Hydrilla verticillata. Other species, such as H. tarsata, mine leaves of Water Soldier (Stratiotes aloides) in Eurasian freshwater systems.
Hydrometra martini
water measurer
Hydrometra martini is a species of water measurer in the family Hydrometridae. It is found in North America.
Hydropsyche alhedra
Hydropsyche alhedra is a species of caddisfly described by Ross in 1939. The species is currently recognized as a synonym of Ceratopsyche alhedra, reflecting taxonomic revisions that have moved this taxon to the genus Ceratopsyche. It belongs to the family Hydropsychidae, a group of net-spinning caddisflies known for constructing capture nets in flowing water.
Hydropsyche betteni
Common Netspinner
Hydropsyche betteni is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Ross in 1938. It is one of the most widespread and commonly encountered members of its genus in North America. Like other hydropsychids, the larvae construct fixed capture nets to filter food from flowing water. The species is well-documented in freshwater biomonitoring studies due to its abundance and sensitivity to water quality.
Hydropsyche bifida
Hydropsyche bifida is a caddisfly species described by Banks in 1905, currently treated as a synonym of Ceratopsyche morosa. It belongs to the family Hydropsychidae, a group of net-spinning caddisflies whose larvae construct capture nets in flowing water to filter food particles. The species has been recorded from North America, specifically from Vermont in the United States.
Hydropsyche bronta
A net-spinning caddisfly species in the family Hydropsychidae. In summer-warm rivers of southern Ontario, populations exhibit trivoltine life cycles, completing three generations per year. Smaller than the sympatric H. morosa and overwinters in slightly older larval instars.
Hydropsyche incommoda
Hydropsyche incommoda is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. Described by Hermann Hagen in 1861, this species is part of a large genus of aquatic insects whose larvae construct fixed capture nets in flowing water. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. The species is documented from North America.
Hydropsyche morosa
A net-spinning caddisfly species found in summer-warm rivers of southern Ontario. Has been observed to be bivoltine in lower river reaches where summer water temperatures exceed 24°C for extended periods. Larger-bodied than the sympatric Hydropsyche bronta, with which it shares habitat in the Credit and Humber river systems.
Hydropsyche oslari
Hydropsyche oslari is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) in the family Hydropsychidae, first described by Banks in 1905. The species has been reclassified under the genus Ceratopsyche by some authorities, though it is still widely referenced as Hydropsyche oslari. It belongs to a group of net-spinning caddisflies that construct fixed retreats and capture nets in flowing water environments. Like other hydropsychids, the larvae are aquatic filter-feeders that play important roles in stream ecosystems.
Hydropsyche rossi
netspinning caddisfly
Hydropsyche rossi is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Flint, Voshell & Parker in 1979. It is found in North America within the Nearctic region. As a member of the genus Hydropsyche, it belongs to a group of caddisflies known for constructing fixed retreats and capture nets to filter food from flowing water.
Hydropsyche scalaris
Hydropsyche scalaris is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, first described by Hagen in 1861. It belongs to one of the largest genera of caddisflies, with larvae that construct fixed retreats and capture nets in flowing water to filter food particles. The species is documented from North America within the Nearctic region.
Hydropsyche simulans
Hydropsyche simulans is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Ross in 1938. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic insect whose larvae construct silk nets to capture food in flowing water. The species occurs in North America and is part of the diverse fauna of caddisflies that are ecologically important in freshwater ecosystems and relevant to fly fishing.
Hydropsyche sparna
Hydropsyche sparna is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. It has been studied primarily for its behavioral responses to suspended particles and deposited bedload sediment in flowing water environments. The species is currently treated as a synonym of Ceratopsyche sparna in some taxonomic databases. Research on this species has contributed to understanding how filter-feeding aquatic insects modify their foraging behaviors in response to changing environmental conditions.
Hydropsyche walkeri
Hydropsyche walkeri is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. Originally described by Betten and Mosely in 1940, it is currently treated as a synonym of Ceratopsyche walkeri. The species belongs to a diverse genus of aquatic insects whose larvae construct elaborate silk nets to capture food in flowing water. Like other hydropsychids, it is associated with freshwater lotic habitats.
Hydropsychinae
net-spinning caddisflies
Hydropsychinae is a subfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) within the family Hydropsychidae, commonly known as net-spinning caddisflies. Larvae construct fixed capture nets in flowing water to filter food particles. The subfamily is taxonomically diverse, with generic revisions documented in multiple regions including New Zealand and the Americas.
Hydropsychoidea
net-spinning caddisflies
Hydropsychoidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) first described by Curtis in 1835. The constituent families, particularly Hydropsychidae, are commonly known as net-spinning caddisflies due to the distinctive capture nets constructed by their larvae. These insects are predominantly aquatic in their immature stages and are among the most frequently observed caddisflies in stream environments worldwide.
Hydroptila arctia
Hydroptila arctia is a species of microcaddisfly in the family Hydroptilidae, first described by Ross in 1938. It belongs to the diverse genus Hydroptila, which comprises numerous small caddisfly species found across various aquatic habitats. The species is known from North America and has been recorded in both Nearctic and Neotropical regions.
Hydroptila grandiosa
microcaddisfly
Hydroptila grandiosa is a species of microcaddisfly in the family Hydroptilidae, described by Ross in 1938. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects closely related to moths and butterflies. The species is recorded from North America. Microcaddisflies in this genus are generally small-bodied and associated with freshwater habitats.
Hydroptila rono
microcaddisfly
Hydroptila rono is a species of microcaddisfly (family Hydroptilidae) described by Ross in 1941. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it is an aquatic insect with larvae that develop in freshwater habitats. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its ecology and biology remain limited in available literature.
Hydroptiloidea
microcaddisflies, purse-case caddisflies
Hydroptiloidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) containing the family Hydroptilidae. Members are distinguished by their minute size, rarely exceeding 5 mm, and the distinctive purse-shaped larval cases constructed only in the final instar. The group has a worldwide distribution and represents one of the most species-rich lineages within Trichoptera.
Hydrovatus
Hydrovatus is a genus of diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, subfamily Hydroporinae, and tribe Hydrovatini. The genus comprises approximately 214 species globally, with documented presence across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Members are aquatic beetles inhabiting lentic and slow-moving lotic freshwater environments. The genus was established by Motschulsky in 1853.
Hylogomphus apomyius
Banner Clubtail
Hylogomphus apomyius, commonly known as the Banner Clubtail, is a dragonfly species in the family Gomphidae. It is one of several small clubtail species within the genus Hylogomphus, characterized by relatively modest abdominal clubbing compared to larger gomphids. The species was described by Donnelly in 1966 and occurs in eastern North America. It is associated with riverine habitats and is considered uncommon throughout its range.
Hylogomphus viridifrons
Green-faced Clubtail
Hylogomphus viridifrons, commonly known as the Green-faced Clubtail, is a dragonfly species in the family Gomphidae. It is a medium-sized clubtail characterized by distinctive green facial coloration. The species is found in eastern North America, where it inhabits clean, flowing streams and rivers.
Integripalpia
Integripalpia is a suborder of caddisflies (Trichoptera) distinguished by adults having unringed terminal segments on their maxillary palps. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable protective cases from debris beginning in the first instar, enlarging them through subsequent developmental stages. Case construction is often highly specific, with distinctive architectural patterns characteristic of particular families and genera. The suborder includes diverse lineages distributed across aquatic habitats worldwide.
Ironodes
Ironodes is a genus of mayflies in the family Heptageniidae, first described by Traver in 1935. Members of this genus are part of the diverse Heptageniidae family, commonly known as flat-headed mayflies due to their distinctive head morphology. The genus is represented by relatively few observations, suggesting it may be uncommon, geographically restricted, or underreported in surveys.
Ironodes nitidus
Ironodes nitidus is a species of flat-headed mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. The species was described by Eaton in 1885. It belongs to a genus of mayflies found in North America, with records from the Nearctic region including Middle America and North America. The genus Ironodes is part of the diverse Heptageniidae family, which contains many species adapted to running water habitats.
Ironoquia lyrata
eastern boxed-wing sedge
Ironoquia lyrata is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as the eastern boxed-wing sedge. It was described by Ross in 1938 and is found in North America. The species belongs to the subfamily Dicosmoecinae, a group of northern caddisflies.
Ironoquia parvula
northern caddisfly
Ironoquia parvula is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1900. It is classified within the subfamily Dicosmoecinae and is one of the species in the genus Ironoquia. The species is known to occur in North America.
Ironoquia punctatissima
northern caddisfly
Ironoquia punctatissima is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. Its life cycle has been documented from populations in temporary streams of southern Ontario, including a description of its previously undescribed pupal stage. The species occurs in North America within the Nearctic region.
Isogenoides frontalis
Hudsonian springfly
Isogenoides frontalis, known as the Hudsonian springfly, is a stonefly species in the family Perlodidae. It is one of several species in the genus Isogenoides found in North America. The species has been documented in the northern United States and Canada, including Michigan, Minnesota, Maine, and Manitoba. Research on the genus indicates that Isogenoides species exhibit complex vibrational communication (drumming) behaviors and extended egg diapause lasting up to several years.
Isonychia
Slate Drakes, Brushlegged Mayflies
Isonychia is a genus of mayflies comprising over 30 described species, commonly known as Slate Drakes or brushlegged mayflies. The genus is the sole member of the family Isonychiidae. Nymphs are notable for possessing raptorial forelegs adapted for predation, a trait uncommon among mayflies. Some species exhibit habitat generalist ecology while others are specialized to intermittent streams.
Isonychia arida
arid howdy mayfly
Isonychia arida is a species of brushlegged mayfly in the family Isonychiidae. It was described by Thomas Say in 1839, originally as Baetis arida. The species is found in North America and is known by the common name "arid howdy mayfly." Like other members of the genus Isonychia, it belongs to a group commonly referred to as "slate drakes" by anglers.
Isonychia bicolor
mahogany dun
Isonychia bicolor, commonly known as the mahogany dun, is a species of brushlegged mayfly in the family Isonychiidae. It is found in southeastern Canada and the eastern United States. Like all mayflies, it undergoes incomplete metamorphosis with aquatic nymphal stages and short-lived winged adults. The species is part of the EPT (Ephemeroptera-Plecoptera-Trichoptera) biological index used to assess water quality.
Isonychia campestris
Isonychia campestris is a filter-feeding mayfly species described by McDunnough in 1931. The immature nymphs inhabit lotic aquatic systems where they employ specialized morphological structures to capture suspended particulate matter from the water column. This species has been studied specifically for its filter feeding mechanisms, which involve interception and diffusive deposition of particles smaller than the pore spaces between filtering structures. The species occurs in the Nearctic region of North America.
Isonychia georgiae
Isonychia georgiae is a brushlegged mayfly species in the family Isonychiidae, first described by McDunnough in 1931. It is part of the order Ephemeroptera, an ancient lineage of aquatic insects dating to the Carboniferous period. Like other Isonychia species, it is known to anglers as a "slate drake" mayfly. The species is documented from North America.
Isonychia intermedia
Isonychia intermedia is a species of mayfly in the family Isonychiidae. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic insect with a life cycle consisting of an extended nymphal stage in freshwater habitats followed by a brief adult stage. The species is found in North America and is part of the EPT (Ephemeroptera-Plecoptera-Trichoptera) assemblage used in water quality biomonitoring. Adults are known to anglers as 'slate drakes' due to their dark wing coloration.
Isonychia obscura
brushlegged mayfly
Isonychia obscura is a species of brushlegged mayfly in the family Isonychiidae. It is native to North America. Like other members of the genus Isonychia, it is an aquatic insect with a life cycle that includes nymphal stages in water and brief adult stages. Adults are known as "slate drakes" among anglers.
Isonychia sicca
Brushlegged mayfly
Isonychia sicca is a brushlegged mayfly species in the family Isonychiidae, distributed across Central America and North America including southeastern Canada and Mexico. As a member of the order Ephemeroptera, it exhibits the characteristic aquatic nymphal stage and brief adult lifespan typical of mayflies. A life history study has documented this species in intermittent stream habitats in north central Texas, indicating adaptation to temporary aquatic environments.
Isonychia tusculanensis
Isonychia tusculanensis is a species of brushlegged mayfly in the family Isonychiidae, described by Berner in 1948. It belongs to a genus commonly referred to as "slate drake" mayflies. Like other members of the order Ephemeroptera, it has an aquatic nymphal stage and a short-lived adult stage. The species is documented from North America.
Isoperla bilineata
Two-lined Stripetail
Isoperla bilineata, commonly known as the two-lined stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. The species is found in North America, with distribution records from Alabama, Connecticut, Colorado, Florida, and Illinois. Adults feed on pollen, while larvae are predatory and emerge from water in spring.
Isoperla davisi
Alabama stripetail
Isoperla davisi, commonly known as the Alabama stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. The species was described by James in 1974 and is native to North America, with recorded occurrences in Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, and Louisiana. Like other members of the genus Isoperla, it belongs to the subfamily Isoperlinae within the stonefly order Plecoptera.
Isoperla lata
Dark Stripetail
Isoperla lata, commonly known as the dark stripetail, is a green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. It is native to North America with documented populations in Labrador, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Minnesota. The species inhabits cold-water trout streams where it functions as a predator on other aquatic insects. Research from Wisconsin indicates a slow univoltine life cycle with synchronous spring emergence and temperature-dependent egg development.
Isoperla marmorata
red stripetail
Isoperla marmorata, commonly known as the red stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. It was described by Needham and Claassen in 1925. The species is found in western North America, with documented occurrences in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Like other perlodid stoneflies, it belongs to the order Plecoptera, an ancient group of aquatic insects with incomplete metamorphosis.
Isoperla montana
Montane Stripetail
Isoperla montana is a stonefly species in the family Perlodidae, commonly known as the montane stripetail. It belongs to the green-winged stonefly subfamily Isoperlinae. The species was first described by Banks in 1898 and is found in North America.
Isoperla orata
Colorless Stripetail
Isoperla orata, known as the colorless stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. It was described by Frison in 1942. The species has been recorded from scattered locations in eastern and central North America including Connecticut, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, and New Brunswick. As a member of the genus Isoperla, it belongs to a group of predatory stoneflies commonly referred to as stripetails.
Isoperla pinta
Checkered Stripetail
Isoperla pinta, commonly known as the checkered stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. It was described by Frison in 1937. The species is found in North America, with distribution records from Alberta, British Columbia, California, Colorado, and Idaho. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is an aquatic insect with nymphal stages occurring in freshwater environments.
Isoperla signata
transverse stripetail
Isoperla signata, commonly known as the transverse stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. It has been documented in North America, with specific life cycle studies conducted in Central Wisconsin trout streams. The species belongs to the order Plecoptera, which comprises aquatic insects commonly known as stoneflies.
Isoperla similis
Black Stripetail
Isoperla similis, commonly known as the black stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. First described by Hagen in 1861, this stonefly is found in North America, with confirmed distribution records from Connecticut, Delaware, Kentucky, Maine, and Massachusetts. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects whose nymphal stages develop in freshwater environments.
Isoperlinae
Stripetail Stoneflies, Springflies
Isoperlinae is a subfamily of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae, distributed across the Palaearctic and Nearctic regions. Members are commonly known as stripetails or springflies. The subfamily includes approximately 12 genera, with Isoperla being the most speciose and well-known. These stoneflies are aquatic insects whose nymphs inhabit running waters.
Ithytrichia
Ithytrichia is a genus of microcaddisflies (family Hydroptilidae) established by Eaton in 1873. The genus contains at least two described species, I. aquila and I. bosniaca. Members of this genus are found in Europe and the Americas, with distribution records from Colombia, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Like other Hydroptilidae, these are small caddisflies with reduced wing venation.
Johannsenomyia annulicornis
Johannsenomyia annulicornis is a species of biting midge in the family Ceratopogonidae, described by Malloch in 1918. It belongs to the tribe Sphaeromiini within the subfamily Ceratopogoninae. The genus Johannsenomyia comprises small, delicate flies associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. Specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
Kiefferulus dux
Kiefferulus dux is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae, originally described as Chironomus dux by Johannsen in 1905. The species belongs to a genus of aquatic midges whose larvae develop in freshwater habitats. Like other chironomids, adults do not feed and have reduced mouthparts.
Kribiodorum
Kribiodorum is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, containing six described species distributed across Africa, North America, the Neotropics, and Asia. The genus was established by Kieffer in 1921. Species have been described from diverse freshwater habitats including streams and rivers in Borneo, Namibia, Thailand, and the Amazon basin.
Labiobaetis
Labiobaetis is a genus of small mayflies in the family Baetidae, comprising over 150 described species distributed across tropical and temperate regions worldwide. The genus exhibits exceptional diversity in Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Indonesia, with significant representation also in Africa, India, and western North America. Species identification relies primarily on larval morphology, particularly characters of the mouthparts, antennae, and gills. Adults are generally difficult to distinguish at the generic level.
Laccophilus pictus insignis
Laccophilus pictus insignis is a subspecies of diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by Sharp in 1882. It belongs to the genus Laccophilus, a group of small predatory diving beetles commonly known as water beetles. The subspecies is distributed across Middle America and North America. As with other members of its genus, it is likely an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments, though specific ecological details for this subspecies remain poorly documented in available sources.
Lara avara
riffle beetle
Lara avara is a xylophagous riffle beetle in the family Elmidae. It inhabits freshwater streams in western North America, where larvae feed on submerged decaying wood. The life cycle spans 4–6 years, with extended larval development and brief adult emergence from May to August. The species contributes to aquatic wood decomposition through larval feeding and fecal production.
Larsia
Larsia is a genus of non-biting midges in the bloodworm family Chironomidae, established by Fittkau in 1962. It belongs to the subfamily Tanypodinae and tribe Pentaneurini. The genus contains at least three described species, including L. atrocincta, L. angusticornis, and L. curticalcar. Like other chironomid midges, adults do not feed and lack functional mouthparts.
Lenarchus rho
Lenarchus rho is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Milne in 1935. It belongs to the order Trichoptera, an aquatic insect group whose larvae construct protective cases. The species is recorded from North America within the Nearctic region. As a member of Limnephilidae, it is likely associated with freshwater habitats, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Lepidostoma cinereum
Lepidostoma cinereum is a species of caddisfly in the family Lepidostomatidae. It was described by Banks in 1899 and is known from North America. The species belongs to a family characterized by distinctive larval case construction using plant material.
Lepidostoma stigma
Lepidostoma stigma is a species of caddisfly in the family Lepidostomatidae, described by Banks in 1907. It belongs to an order of aquatic insects known for their larval case-building behavior. The species is documented from North America with limited observational records.
Leptoceridae
long-horned caddisflies, silverhorns
Leptoceridae is the second largest family of caddisflies (Trichoptera), comprising over 1,850 species in approximately 68 genera. Members are distinguished by exceptionally long antennae—typically 1.5–2 times the forewing length—giving rise to their common name "long-horned caddisflies." The family exhibits remarkable diversity in larval feeding strategies, habitat preferences, and adult mating behaviors. Larvae are effective swimmers and construct portable cases, inhabiting ponds, marshes, lakes, and slower stream reaches across all faunal regions except Antarctica.
Leptocerus americanus
American Long-horned Caddisfly
Leptocerus americanus is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Banks in 1899. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it represents one of the most diverse groups of aquatic insects. The species is distributed across North America, with observational records spanning from Vermont westward. Like other leptocerids, adults are characterized by their elongated antennae, which are often longer than the body.
Leptophlebia intermedia
Leptophlebia intermedia is a species of pronggilled mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae. It was described by Traver in 1932. The species is found in North America.
Lestes unguiculatus
Lyre-tipped Spreadwing
Lestes unguiculatus, commonly known as the Lyre-tipped Spreadwing, is a species of damselfly in the family Lestidae. The species is native to North America and holds its wings at approximately 45 degrees to the body when at rest, a characteristic trait of the Lestidae family that distinguishes spreadwings from most other damselflies. The IUCN lists the species as Least Concern (LC) with a stable population, last reviewed in 2017.
Leucrocuta hebe
flatheaded mayfly
Leucrocuta hebe is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. This species is found across parts of North America, including the northern and southeastern United States and northern Canada. As a member of the order Ephemeroptera, it has an aquatic larval stage and a short-lived adult stage.
Leucrocuta juno
Leucrocuta juno is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, described by McDunnough in 1924. It belongs to the order Ephemeroptera, a group of aquatic insects known for their brief adult lifespan. The species is native to North America and is part of a genus characterized by distinctive morphological features typical of heptageniid mayflies.
Leucrocuta minerva
Leucrocuta minerva is a species of mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, described by McDunnough in 1924. It belongs to a genus of small to medium-sized flat-headed mayflies commonly known as "little yellow quills" or similar vernacular names. Species in this genus are typically associated with running water habitats. The specific epithet "minerva" refers to the Roman goddess of wisdom, though the etymological reasoning behind this choice is not documented in available sources.
Leuctra ferruginea
Eastern Needlefly
Leuctra ferruginea, commonly known as the eastern needlefly, is a species of rolled-winged stonefly in the family Leuctridae. It is found in North America, with distribution records from the eastern and southeastern United States including Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is associated with aquatic habitats during its immature stages.
Leuctra laura
Hampshire needlefly
Leuctra laura, commonly known as the Hampshire needlefly, is a species of rolled-winged stonefly in the family Leuctridae. It was described by Hitchcock in 1969. The species is known from the northeastern United States, specifically New Hampshire and Vermont. As a member of Plecoptera, it is an aquatic insect whose immature stages develop in freshwater environments.
Leuctra truncata
Truncate Needlefly
Leuctra truncata, known as the truncate needlefly, is a species of rolled-winged stonefly in the family Leuctridae. The species was described by Claassen in 1923 and is distributed in eastern North America, with records from Connecticut, Maine, Newfoundland, New York, and Pennsylvania. As a member of Plecoptera, it has aquatic immature stages and terrestrial adults.
Leuctra variabilis
variable needlefly
Leuctra variabilis, known as the variable needlefly, is a species of rolled-winged stonefly in the family Leuctridae. It was described by Hanson in 1941. The species is found in eastern North America, with records from Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, and New Jersey.
Leuctrinae
Leuctrinae is a subfamily of stoneflies (order Plecoptera) within the family Leuctridae. Members of this group are small to medium-sized stoneflies commonly known as 'rolled-winged stoneflies' due to their distinctive wing posture at rest. The subfamily was established by Klapálek in 1905 and represents one of the major lineages within the Nemouroidea superfamily. Leuctrinae species are primarily associated with cool, clean running waters and are widely distributed across the Holarctic region.
Libellula composita
Bleached Skimmer
Libellula composita, commonly known as the bleached skimmer, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It occurs in North America, with documented records from Colorado and other regions. The species is characterized by notably pale, almost translucent wing coloration, particularly in females. Its IUCN conservation status is Least Concern (LC) as of 2017, with a stable population and no immediate threats identified.
Libellula forensis
Eight-spotted Skimmer
The eight-spotted skimmer (Libellula forensis) is a dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is a medium-sized skimmer native to western North America. Like other dragonflies in the genus Libellula, it is a predatory species with aquatic larvae and aerial adults. The species is named for the distinctive pattern of spots on its wings.
Libellula vibrans
Great Blue Skimmer
Libellula vibrans, commonly known as the Great Blue Skimmer, is a large dragonfly in the skimmer family Libellulidae. It is one of the largest skimmers, with a total body length of 50 to 63 mm. Immature individuals are brown, while mature adults develop blue coloration. The species inhabits lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams in the eastern United States, with rare occurrences in southern Ontario.
Limnellia anna
shore fly
Limnellia anna is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, first described by Cresson in 1935. It belongs to a family commonly associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. The species has been recorded in Canada and the United States, though detailed ecological and behavioral information remains limited.
Limnellia balioptera
A species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, described by Wayne Mathis in 1978. Like other members of the genus Limnellia, it is associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The species name 'balioptera' refers to the distinctive wing markings.
Limnephilus concolor
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus concolor is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Nathan Banks in 1899. It belongs to the genus Limnephilus, a large and diverse group of case-making caddisflies. The species is recorded from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented.
Limnephilus fagus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus fagus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to the diverse genus Limnephilus, which comprises numerous species of northern caddisflies. The species is recorded from North America.
Limnephilus flavastellus
Yellowstar Northern Caddisfly
Limnephilus flavastellus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Nathan Banks in 1918. It is found in North America within the Nearctic region. The common name Yellowstar Northern Caddisfly refers to this species. As a member of Limnephilidae, it belongs to a family of caddisflies whose larvae are known for constructing portable cases from plant material and other debris.
Limnephilus hyalinus
Limnephilus hyalinus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Hagen in 1861. The species belongs to the large and widespread genus Limnephilus, which contains numerous species primarily associated with lentic and slow-flowing aquatic habitats. As with other members of the family, the larvae are aquatic and construct protective cases from available materials. The specific epithet "hyalinus" refers to the hyaline or glass-like quality of some body parts, likely the wings.
Limnephilus moestus
Limnephilus moestus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Nathan Banks in 1908. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with lentic (still water) habitats. The species is recorded from North America with distribution records in the Nearctic region. As with many Limnephilus species, adults are typically active in late summer and fall.
Limnephilus morrisoni
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus morrisoni is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It is found in North America. The species was described by Banks in 1920. As a member of the large genus Limnephilus, it is part of one of the most diverse groups of caddisflies in the Holarctic region.
Limnephilus nogus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus nogus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Ross in 1944. It is distributed across North America, particularly in the Nearctic region. As a member of the Limnephilidae, it is associated with aquatic environments during its larval stage.
Limnephilus ornatus
Ornate Northern Caddisfly
Limnephilus ornatus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1897. It is found in North America across the Nearctic region, with some records indicating possible presence in the Palaearctic. Like other members of the genus Limnephilus, this species is associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct protective cases from plant material.
Limnephilus spinatus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus spinatus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1914. It is known from the Nearctic region, specifically North America. Like other members of the genus Limnephilus, it likely inhabits freshwater aquatic environments during its larval stage.
Limnephilus submonilifer
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus submonilifer is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Francis Walker in 1852. It belongs to a large genus of northern caddisflies that are primarily associated with lentic (still water) habitats. The species is recorded from the Nearctic region with documented occurrences in the northeastern United States, including Vermont. Larvae construct portable cases using plant material and sand grains.
Limnocoris
Limnocoris is a genus of creeping water bugs in the family Naucoridae, comprising over 70 described species distributed primarily in the Neotropics. The genus was established by Stål in 1860 and represents the type genus of the subfamily Limnocorinae. Recent taxonomic revisions have significantly revised species boundaries, describing numerous new species and resolving synonymies across North America, the tropical Andes, and the Amazon/Guiana Shield regions. Species exhibit wing polymorphism and are distinguished by detailed morphological characters of the genitalia and terminalia.
Limnocoris moapensis
moapa warm springs naucorid, Warm Springs Naucorid
Limnocoris moapensis is a rare species of creeping water bug in the family Naucoridae. It is endemic to warm spring habitats in the Moapa Valley of Nevada, USA. The species is known from very few observations and is considered vulnerable due to its restricted range and dependence on thermal spring ecosystems. It belongs to the subfamily Limnocorinae, a group specialized for life in aquatic environments.
Limnohydrobius tumidus
Limnohydrobius tumidus is a species of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae, described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1855. It is a small aquatic beetle distributed across the eastern and central United States. The species belongs to the tribe Hydrobiusini, which includes aquatic beetles associated with freshwater habitats. Records indicate it has been collected from Maine to Florida and west to Illinois and Indiana.
Limnophyes fumosus
Limnophyes fumosus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. Originally described as Camptocladius fumosus by Johannsen in 1905, it was later transferred to the genus Limnophyes. The genus Limnophyes comprises small chironomids commonly associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats.
Liodessus
Liodessus is a genus of small diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, tribe Bidessini. Species occur across the Americas from North America through the Andes to southern South America, with notable diversity in high-altitude wetlands and páramo ecosystems. Many species inhabit shallow, exposed pools and temporary water bodies, showing phenotypic plasticity in body form correlated with habitat permanence. The genus contains numerous species, with several new species described from the high Andes of Peru and Colombia in recent years. Taxonomic resolution relies heavily on male genital morphology.
diving-beetleaquatic-insecthigh-altitudepáramoAndesphenotypic-plasticityBidessiniHydroporinaeDytiscidaeColeopterawetlandtemporary-poolpeatlandsubantarctictaxonomymale-genitaliaCOI-barcodecryptic-speciesincipient-speciationhybridizationgeometric-morphometricsenvironmental-sentineldrought-indicatorSouth-AmericaNorth-AmericaFijiNavarino-IslandMagallanesPeruColombiaChileArgentinaBoliviaBogotáJunínCuscoHuánucoCundinamarcaSumapazPunasteppepeat-bogshallow-poolpuddlealtitude-3400-4900mL.-affinis-complexL.-bogotensis-complexL.-chilensisL.-affinisL.-obscurellusL.-noviaffinisL.-saratogaeL.-picinusL.-santarositaL.-alpinusL.-hauthiL.-rhigosL.-thespesiosGuignot-1939ZimmermannSharpLeConteSaySteinheilRégimbartBiströmMillerBalkeFranciscoloSanfilippoPederzaniNilssonYoungClarkHatchMannerheimCaseyAubéBalfour-BrowneBrinckPeschetSolierWhiteZootaxaZooKeysInsect-Systematics-&-EvolutionAnales-del-Instituto-de-la-PatagoniaPLoS-ONEGBIFiNaturalistCatalogue-of-LifeNCBI-TaxonomyBOLDBarcode-of-Life-Data-SystemCOImitochondrial-DNAphylogeographypopulation-structurerange-expansionlineagegenetic-structuresubspecieslectotypeneotypesynonymynew-speciesnew-subspeciesrevisionmorphometricsallometrybody-sizebody-shapeelytrapronotumstriaecolorationpunctationhabitusoccipital-linegenital-morphologyaedeagusparamerediagnosisidentification-keytype-localitytype-specimenetymologybionomicsnatural-historygeographic-distributiondistribution-mapNearcticNeotropicalPatagoniaCape-Horn-Biosphere-Reservedroughtclimate-changeenvironmental-changesentinel-speciesplasticityadaptationphenotypic-variationhydrological-landscapewater-permanencepoolbogAltiplanoAndeanhigh-elevationmontanealpineaquaticfreshwaterlenticloticinsectbeetleAdephagaLiodessusLiodessus flavicollis
Liodessus flavicollis is a species of predaceous diving beetle (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae) described by LeConte in 1855. The species belongs to the tribe Bidessini within the subfamily Hydroporinae, a group of small diving beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. The specific epithet flavicollis refers to the yellowish coloration of the pronotum. The genus Liodessus contains numerous small-bodied species that are often challenging to distinguish without detailed examination.
Lipogomphus brevis
velvet water bug
Lipogomphus brevis is a species of velvet water bug in the family Hebridae. It belongs to the infraorder Dipsocoromorpha, a group of small predatory true bugs often associated with moist or aquatic habitats. The species was described by Champion in 1898 and is known from Central America and North America. Like other members of Hebridae, it is presumed to inhabit the surface film of quiet waters.
Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus
Rice Water Weevil
Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus, the rice water weevil, is a major agricultural pest of rice and the most destructive invertebrate pest of California rice. Native to the southeastern United States, it has spread invasively to Asia since 1976 and Europe since 2004, with populations establishing in California for over 50 years. The species exhibits a unique reproductive strategy: most populations reproduce sexually, but a small percentage in the native range reproduces by triploid parthenogenesis, facilitating rapid range expansion. Adults feed on rice leaves and sheaths, while aquatic larvae feed on roots, causing yield losses up to 25-30% in severe infestations.
Listronotus scapularis
Listronotus scapularis is a species of underwater weevil in the beetle family Curculionidae. It is found in North America. The species is provisionally accepted in taxonomic databases and is distinguished from other Listronotus species by its aquatic or semi-aquatic habits.
Listronotus sparsus
Listronotus sparsus is an underwater weevil in the family Curculionidae, described by Say in 1832. It is one of relatively few weevil species adapted to aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The species occurs in North America, with records from Canada including Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. Like other members of the genus Listronotus, it likely has associations with aquatic vegetation, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Lype
net tube caddisfly
Lype is a genus of net tube caddisflies in the family Psychomyiidae, containing more than 20 described species. Adults are small to medium-sized caddisflies with reduced mouthparts. Larvae construct fixed, silken retreat nets on submerged surfaces in flowing water. The genus has been studied for female identification and reproductive biology in Denmark.
Lysathia
Lysathia is a genus of flea beetles (Chrysomelidae: Alticini) containing approximately 10 described species distributed in North America and the Neotropics. Several species have been investigated or deployed as biological control agents for invasive aquatic plants, including Ludwigia grandiflora subsp. hexapetala and Myriophyllum aquaticum. The genus exhibits morphological variation that has complicated taxonomic resolution, with integrative approaches combining genetics and morphology used to clarify species boundaries.
Maccaffertium
flatheaded mayflies
Maccaffertium is a genus of mayflies in the family Heptageniidae, commonly known as flatheaded mayflies. The genus was established by Bednarik in 1979 and contains approximately 19–20 described species. Like other members of Heptageniidae, these mayflies are characterized by their flattened, streamlined bodies adapted for life in flowing water. The genus is found in North America, with species distributed across various freshwater habitats.
Maccaffertium exiguum
flatheaded mayfly
Maccaffertium exiguum is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. This aquatic insect is native to North America, with a documented range extending across southeastern Canada and the eastern United States. Like other members of the genus, it develops through aquatic nymphal stages in freshwater habitats before emerging as a winged adult.
Maccaffertium luteum
Maccaffertium luteum is a species of flat-headed mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, originally described by Clemens in 1913. The genus Maccaffertium was historically treated as a subgenus of Stenonema but was elevated to full generic status based on morphological and phylogenetic studies. Like other members of its family, this species exhibits the characteristic subimago stage—a sexually immature winged form unique to mayflies that requires one final molt to reach reproductive adulthood.
Maccaffertium mediopunctatum
flat-headed mayfly
Maccaffertium mediopunctatum is a species of flat-headed mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. It occurs in Southeastern Canada and the Eastern United States. The species has two recognized subspecies: M. m. arwini and M. m. mediopunctatum. Like other members of its genus, it exhibits the unique mayfly developmental trait of having a fully winged subadult stage (subimago) that requires one additional molt to reach sexual maturity.
Maccaffertium mediopunctatum arwini
A subspecies of mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. Like other members of its genus, it exhibits the characteristic subimago stage—fully winged but sexually immature—unique among insects. Adults are short-lived, emerging from aquatic habitats to mate. The subspecific epithet honors an individual, following the pattern of other Maccaffertium subspecies.
Maccaffertium meririvulanum
fresh flat-headed mayfly
Maccaffertium meririvulanum is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, characterized by its distinctive flattened head morphology typical of this group. The species is known from North America, where it inhabits freshwater lotic environments. As with other members of the genus, it undergoes the unique mayfly developmental pattern involving a winged subadult (subimago) stage that molts once more to reach sexual maturity.
Maccaffertium mexicanum
flatheaded mayfly
A flatheaded mayfly species in the family Heptageniidae. Adults are attracted to light sources near aquatic habitats. The species possesses the unique mayfly trait of developing fully functional wings during the subimago (sub-adult) stage, requiring one additional molt to reach sexual maturity. Two subspecies are recognized: M. m. integrum and M. m. mexicanum.
Maccaffertium mexicanum integrum
Maccaffertium mexicanum integrum is a subspecies of mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. Like other members of its order, it undergoes a unique developmental process involving a winged subadult stage (subimago) that molts once more before reaching sexual maturity. The subspecies has been documented in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions, with observations from the Mississippi River lowlands of southeastern Missouri.
Maccaffertium modestum
flatheaded mayfly
Maccaffertium modestum is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. It occurs in North America, specifically in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. The species exhibits the characteristic subimago stage typical of mayflies, where fully functional wings develop before the final molt to adulthood.
Maccaffertium pudicum
flatheaded mayfly
Maccaffertium pudicum is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. It is found in North America. The species exhibits the characteristic subimago stage typical of mayflies, where fully functional wings develop before the final molt to adulthood.
Maccaffertium smithae
Maccaffertium smithae is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, described by Traver in 1937. As a member of the Heptageniidae family, it possesses the characteristic flattened head shape typical of this group. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Maccaffertium terminatum
flatheaded mayfly
Maccaffertium terminatum is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. It is widely distributed across Canada and the Nearctic region. The species possesses the characteristic subimago stage typical of mayflies, where sexually immature adults with opaque, milky-white wings emerge from water before undergoing a final molt to the reproductive adult stage. Two subspecies are recognized: M. t. terminatum and M. t. placitum.
Macronematinae
net-spinning caddisflies
Macronematinae is a subfamily of net-spinning caddisflies (Trichoptera: Hydropsychidae) established by Ulmer in 1905. Larvae construct silk webs to capture prey drifting in flowing water. The subfamily includes genera such as Macronema, Macrostemum, Leptonema, Leptopsyche, and the Neotropical endemic Centromacronema. Members occupy diverse freshwater habitats across multiple continents.
Macronychus
riffle beetles
Macronychus is a genus of riffle beetles in the family Elmidae, comprising approximately 11 described species. Members of this genus inhabit flowing water environments, particularly riffle zones of streams. The genus was established by Müller in 1806 and includes species distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Macropelopiini
Macropelopiini is a tribe of non-biting midges within the subfamily Tanypodinae of family Chironomidae. Members are characterized by distinctive morphological features that distinguish them from related tribes, including specific arrangements of tergal setation in adults and thoracic horn aeropyles in pupae. The tribe includes genera such as Macropelopia, Apsectrotanypus, Psectrotanypus, and the more recently described Bilyjomyia and Chaudhuriomyia. Macropelopiini species have been documented across multiple continents including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Macrostemum carolina
Macrostemum carolina is a net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. Larvae construct silken catchnets within protective retreats to filter food from flowing water. Multiple retreat-building phenotypes exist within this species, including retreats with water entrance holes at the end of silken tubes, with 180° silken backstops, or flush with the retreat top. Molecular genetic analysis confirms these phenotypes represent a single panmictic population rather than cryptic species.
Macrostemum zebratum
Zebra Caddisfly
Macrostemum zebratum, commonly known as the zebra caddisfly, is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. It is a medium to large caddisfly recognized by its distinctive patterned wings. As a member of the Hydropsychidae, it constructs silk capture nets in flowing water to filter food particles.
Malirekus hastatus
Brook Springfly
Malirekus hastatus, commonly known as the brook springfly, is a species of stonefly in the family Perlodidae. First described by Banks in 1920 under the name Isogenus hastatus, this species is native to eastern North America. It belongs to the order Plecoptera, a group of aquatic insects commonly known as stoneflies or springflies.
Malirekus iroquois
Iroquois Springfly
Malirekus iroquois is a species of springfly in the family Perlodidae, described by Stark and Szczytko in 1988. It belongs to the order Plecoptera, an ancient group of aquatic insects commonly known as stoneflies or springflies. The species is known from a limited number of observations and has a documented distribution in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Marilia
Marilia is a genus of caddisflies in the family Odontoceridae, order Trichoptera. Caddisflies in this family are aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from sand grains and small particles. The genus was established by Mueller in 1880 and is distributed primarily in the Neotropical region, with records from Colombia and other parts of South America.
Marilia flexuosa
mortarjoint casemaker
Marilia flexuosa is a species of mortarjoint casemaker caddisfly in the family Odontoceridae, described by Ulmer in 1905. It belongs to the order Trichoptera, an aquatic insect group known for larval cases constructed from environmental materials. The species has been documented in North America, with additional distribution records in Brazil. As with other Odontoceridae, larvae likely inhabit flowing water environments where they construct characteristic cases.
Martarega mexicana
backswimmer
Martarega mexicana is a species of backswimmer (family Notonectidae) first described by Truxal in 1949. As a member of the genus Martarega, it belongs to a group of aquatic predatory insects known for swimming upside down beneath the water surface. The species has been documented in both Central America and North America, though specific details about its biology remain limited in published literature.
Matriella teresa
Matriella teresa is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, described by Traver in 1934. It belongs to a genus of mayflies found in North America. As with other members of Ephemerellidae, it likely inhabits freshwater streams and rivers during its aquatic nymphal stage.
Megamelus
Water Hyacinth Planthopper (for M. scutellaris)
Megamelus is a genus of delphacid planthoppers in the family Delphacidae, comprising at least 30 described species. The genus is widely distributed and primarily associated with freshwater aquatic environments. Several species, particularly M. scutellaris, have been extensively studied as biological control agents for invasive aquatic weeds such as water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes). The genus exhibits wing dimorphism influenced by population density and host plant quality. Recent phylogenetic studies have clarified interspecific relationships and supported the monophyly of the genus.
Megamelus scutellaris
water hyacinth planthopper, waterhyacinth planthopper
Megamelus scutellaris is a small delphacid planthopper native to South America, where it is monophagous on water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes). The species has been introduced to multiple regions including Florida (2010) and South Africa (2013) as a classical biological control agent for invasive water hyacinth. It exhibits wing dimorphism, with adults occurring as either wingless (brachypterous) or winged (macropterous) forms. Population genetic studies indicate three main lineages in its native range associated with major river basins, shaped by Pleistocene climatic shifts and Holocene hydrological changes.
Megarcys subtruncata
Truncate Springfly
Megarcys subtruncata, commonly known as the truncate springfly, is a stonefly species in the family Perlodidae. It was described by Hanson in 1942. The species occurs in western North America, with documented records from British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, and Nevada. It belongs to a genus of predatory stoneflies typically associated with cold, well-oxygenated streams.
Merragata hebroides
velvet water bug
Merragata hebroides is a species of velvet water bug in the family Hebridae, a group of small predatory true bugs associated with moist or aquatic habitats. The species has a remarkably broad geographic distribution spanning multiple continents and oceanic regions. It is one of the more widely recorded species within its genus.
Mesovelia amoena
water treader
Mesovelia amoena is a species of water treader (family Mesoveliidae), a group of semiaquatic true bugs adapted to life at the water surface. The species was described by Uhler in 1894 and has a remarkably broad distribution spanning five continents. Water treaders in this family are characterized by their ability to walk on water using surface tension, aided by their hydrophobic body covering and specialized leg structure.
Metretopus borealis
Metretopus borealis is a mayfly species in the family Metretopodidae, originally described as Heptagenia borealis by Eaton in 1871. It is distributed across the Nearctic and Palearctic regions, with confirmed presence in North America. The species belongs to a small family of mayflies whose members are typically associated with cool, flowing waters.
Metrobates hesperius
Metrobates hesperius is a water strider (family Gerridae) distributed across eastern North America and the Caribbean. It belongs to the subfamily Trepobatinae, a group of semiaquatic bugs that inhabit flowing water habitats. The species was described by Uhler in 1871 and includes three recognized subspecies with distinct geographic distributions.
Micrasema
humpless casemaker caddisflies
Micrasema is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The genus contains more than 70 described species. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from plant material. At least one species, Micrasema quadriloba, has been studied as a grazing insect in stream ecosystems.
Micrasema charonis
humbless casemaker caddisfly
Micrasema charonis is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, described by Banks in 1914. It belongs to the group commonly known as humpless casemaker caddisflies, distinguishing it from other caddisfly families by its case construction behavior. The species is documented from North America.
Micrasema rusticum
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Micrasema rusticum is a species of humpless casemaker caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, first described by Hagen in 1868. The species is known from North America, with confirmed records from the United States including Vermont. As a member of the Brachycentridae family, it belongs to a group of caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Micrasema wataga
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Micrasema wataga is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly known as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The species was described by Ross in 1938 and is known from North America. Like other members of Brachycentridae, larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species is represented by minimal observational records.
Microcylloepus
Microcylloepus is a genus of riffle beetles (family Elmidae) established by Hinton in 1935. The genus contains approximately nine described species distributed primarily in the Americas, with records from the United States to Colombia. These beetles are aquatic and inhabit flowing water environments, particularly springs and spring-runs. One species, Microcylloepus pusillus, has been studied in detail at Comal Springs, Texas, where it coexists with the endangered beetle Heterelmis comalensis.
Microvelia americana
Broad-Shouldered Water Strider
Microvelia americana is a small water strider in the family Veliidae, commonly known as the Broad-Shouldered Water Strider. It inhabits aquatic environments across North America. As a member of the Gerromorpha, it is adapted to life on the water surface, using surface tension to move and forage.
Microvelia signata
Microvelia signata is a small water strider in the family Veliidae, found in aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats across North and Middle America. Like other members of the genus Microvelia, it is adapted for life on the water surface, using surface tension to skate across ponds, streams, and other freshwater bodies. The species was described by Philip Uhler in 1894 and is recognized as a valid taxon in current classifications.
Molanna blenda
hood casemaker
Molanna blenda is a species of caddisfly in the family Molannidae, commonly referred to as hood casemakers. The species was described by Sibley in 1926. It is known from North America, where it inhabits freshwater environments. Like other members of Molannidae, larvae construct distinctive portable cases using silk and sand particles.
Mosillus tibialis
shore fly
Mosillus tibialis is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, first described by Cresson in 1916. The species is distributed across North America, including Canada, the United States, Mexico, and the Bahamas, with introduced populations in the Hawaiian Islands. Shore flies in this family are typically associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The specific epithet "tibialis" refers to a characteristic of the tibiae (leg segments), though the precise diagnostic feature is not detailed in available sources.
Nebrioporus depressus
Nebrioporus depressus is a predaceous diving beetle (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae) first described by Fabricius in 1775. It belongs to the N. depressus-group, the most speciose species-group within the genus Nebrioporus. The species is distributed across the Holarctic region, occurring in Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. As a member of Dytiscidae, it is adapted to aquatic habitats where it functions as an active predator.
Nectopsyche
White Miller Caddisflies, White Millers
Nectopsyche is a genus of caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, commonly known as white millers. The genus contains at least 70 described species distributed across the Americas, with records from North America through the tropical Andes. Species occupy diverse freshwater habitats ranging from lentic (still-water) environments to lotic (flowing) highland streams. Several species have been studied as bioindicators of aquatic pollution due to their sensitivity to pesticides and heavy metals.
Nectopsyche albida
White Miller Caddisfly
Nectopsyche albida is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is found in North America. The species is associated with lentic (still-water) habitats including lakes and ponds.
Nectopsyche candida
Radiant Long-horned Caddisfly
Nectopsyche candida is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is found in North America. The species belongs to a genus characterized by elongated antennae, a trait reflected in the common name for this group. Like other caddisflies, it has an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage.
Nectopsyche exquisita
exquisite long-horned caddisfly
Nectopsyche exquisita is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, characterized by its distinctive wing patterning and banded antennae. Adults are medium-sized caddisflies with striking yellow and white hair patterns on the wings. The species is found in eastern North America near slow-moving aquatic habitats. Adults are attracted to light and have been documented in urban settings.
Neochetina
water hyacinth weevil, waterhyacinth weevils
Neochetina is a genus of weevils native to South America, comprising at least two species: N. eichhorniae (mottled water hyacinth weevil) and N. bruchi (chevroned water hyacinth weevil). Both species are highly host-specific biological control agents used worldwide to manage invasive water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes). The genus has been introduced to over 30 countries including the United States, where releases began in Florida in 1972 (N. eichhorniae) and 1974 (N. bruchi).
Neochetina bruchi
chevroned water hyacinth weevil, chevroned waterhyacinth weevil
Neochetina bruchi is a South American marsh weevil introduced to over 30 countries as a biological control agent for invasive water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes, formerly Eichhornia crassipes). First released in the United States in Florida in 1974, it now occurs throughout the Gulf Coast states and California. The species has been studied extensively for its effectiveness in managing water hyacinth infestations, with research showing its performance varies with environmental factors including salinity, temperature, and nutrient availability.
Neochetina eichhorniae
Mottled Waterhyacinth Weevil, Mottled Water Hyacinth Weevil
Neochetina eichhorniae is a host-specific weevil native to Argentina and neighboring South American regions. It was introduced to Florida in 1972 as a biological control agent for the invasive aquatic weed water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and has since been established in more than three dozen countries worldwide. Adults feed on leaves and petioles, producing characteristic feeding scars, while larvae tunnel into petioles and the plant crown. The species has demonstrated substantial suppression of water hyacinth growth, reducing biomass, flower production, and water surface coverage.
Neocloeon
Neocloeon is a genus of mayflies in the family Baetidae. The species Neocloeon triangulifer has emerged as an important laboratory model organism for aquatic ecotoxicology and physiological studies due to its sensitivity to environmental stressors and ability to complete its life cycle in controlled conditions. The genus is distinguished by parthenogenetic reproduction in at least some populations, a trait that facilitates laboratory culture. Species in this genus inhabit freshwater streams and serve as bioindicators for water quality assessment.
Neoclypeodytes amybethae
Neoclypeodytes amybethae is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by K. B. Miller in 2001 as part of a comprehensive revision of the New World genus Neoclypeodytes. The genus contains 25 valid species distributed in western North America and northern Central America. Species in this genus are characterized by a distinctive pattern of two maculae on each elytron, which represents a possible synapomorphy supporting the monophyly of Neoclypeodytes.
Neoclypeodytes cinctellus
Neoclypeodytes cinctellus is a small predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It is distributed across western North America and northern Central America. The species has been documented as a predator of the critically endangered Devils Hole pupfish (*Cyprinodon diabolis*), representing a notable conservation concern. It was formerly described under the name *N. centralis* before being synonymized.
Neohermes angusticollis
narrow-collared fishfly
Neohermes angusticollis is a fishfly species in the family Corydalidae, order Megaloptera. It occurs in North America. As with other fishflies, adults are typically nocturnal and are attracted to lights. The genus Neohermes is distinguished from related genera by features of the male genitalia and wing venation.
Neohermes californicus
California fishfly
Neohermes californicus is a species of fishfly in the family Corydalidae, first described by Walker in 1853 as Chauliodes californicus. It belongs to the order Megaloptera, a small group of primitive holometabolous insects that includes fishflies, dobsonflies, and alderflies. The species is found in North America, particularly in western regions including California. Fishflies in this genus are associated with aquatic habitats during their larval stages. Adults are typically nocturnal and attracted to lights.
Neohermes concolor
fishfly
Neohermes concolor is a species of fishfly in the family Corydalidae, order Megaloptera. It is found in North America, with distribution records from the United States including Vermont. The species was originally described by K. Davis in 1903 under the basionym Chauliodes concolor before being transferred to the genus Neohermes. Fishflies in this family are characterized by their elongated bodies, large membranous wings, and aquatic larval stages.
Neohermes filicornis
Fishfly
Neohermes filicornis is a long-lived aquatic fishfly (Megaloptera: Corydalidae) inhabiting intermittent streams across North America. The species exhibits burrowing behavior and is adapted to temporary water systems with periodic drying. Adults are terrestrial while larvae are aquatic predators with extended larval development periods.
Neohydronomus
waterlettuce weevils
Neohydronomus is a genus of subaquatic weevils comprising three species native to South and Central America. All species are obligate specialists on waterlettuce (Pistia stratiotes), an invasive floating aquatic plant. The genus has been utilized as a biological control agent, with N. affinis successfully introduced to Florida in 1987 to manage waterlettuce infestations.
Neohydronomus affinis
Waterlettuce Weevil
Neohydronomus affinis is a subaquatic weevil native to South and Central America that has been deployed as a biological control agent against the invasive aquatic plant waterlettuce (Pistia stratiotes). First introduced to Florida in 1987, it has successfully established populations in peninsular Florida and Louisiana. The weevil's exoskeleton is covered in white scales and lacks water-resistant features, an unusual trait for an insect living in aquatic environments.
Neoleptophlebia assimilis
Southeastern Prong-gilled Mayfly
Neoleptophlebia assimilis is a species of prong-gilled mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae. It is known from the southeastern United States. The species belongs to a genus characterized by gills with divided, finger-like lobes. Mayflies in this family are typically associated with running water habitats and serve as important indicators of water quality.
Neoleptophlebia mollis
soft prong-gilled mayfly
Neoleptophlebia mollis is a species of prong-gilled mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae. The species was first described by Eaton in 1871. It belongs to a genus characterized by forked gills on abdominal segments, a trait reflected in the common name "prong-gilled mayfly." The specific epithet "mollis" (Latin for "soft") likely refers to some aspect of the species' morphology or texture.
Neophylax concinnus
Neophylax concinnus is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) described by McLachlan in 1871. As a member of the family Uenoidae, it belongs to a group of case-building caddisflies whose larvae construct protective cases using silk and gathered materials. The species is recorded from North America, though specific details regarding its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Neophylax consimilis
Neophylax consimilis is a caddisfly species in the family Uenoidae, first described by Betten in 1934. Its larvae construct protective cases using silk and materials gathered from aquatic environments, with documented instances of exceptionally beautiful cases built from stones of varying colors. The species is found in North America and is part of the Nearctic fauna.
Neophylax kolodskii
Kolodski's caddisfly
Neophylax kolodskii is a species of caddisfly in the family Uenoidae (formerly placed in Thremmatidae), described by Parker in 2000. It is known from North America. Larvae of the genus Neophylax are case-building caddisflies that construct protective cases using silk and gathered materials such as sand, stones, and plant fragments.
Neophylax rickeri
Neophylax rickeri is a caddisfly species in the family Uenoidae, described by Milne in 1935. Larvae construct protective cases using silk and materials gathered from their aquatic environment. The species has been studied in northern California streams, where its life history characteristics have been documented.
Neoplea striola
pygmy backswimmer
Neoplea striola is a minute predaceous true bug in the family Pleidae, commonly known as the pygmy backswimmers. Adults measure approximately 1.5 mm in length. The species inhabits lentic freshwater habitats across Central and North America, including small fishless ponds and temporary water bodies, and has been observed to tolerate low oxygen conditions. It is an active visual predator that hunts zooplankton and small aquatic invertebrates using sight, vibrations, and possibly chemical cues. Research suggests it is univoltine, overwintering as adults with activity from March through November in temperate regions.
Neothremma alicia
Neothremma alicia is a species of caddisfly in the family Uenoidae, first described by Dodds & Hisaw in 1925. It belongs to the order Trichoptera, a group of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from silk and environmental materials. The genus Neothremma is part of the subfamily Uenoinae within the superfamily Limnephiloidea. Very little specific biological information is available for this species.
Nerophilus
mortarjoint casemakers
Nerophilus is a monotypic genus of caddisflies in the family Odontoceridae, containing the single described species N. californicus. These insects are commonly known as mortarjoint casemakers, a name reflecting their larval case-building behavior. The genus was established by Nathan Banks in 1899 and is endemic to western North America. As members of the order Trichoptera, adults possess hairy wings and aquatic larval stages.
Nerophilus californicus
California Mortarjoint Caddisfly
Nerophilus californicus is a species of caddisfly in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as the California Mortarjoint Caddisfly. It was described by Hagen in 1861 and is native to North America. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it represents one of approximately 60 observation records documented on iNaturalist. The species belongs to a family whose larvae are typically associated with lotic (flowing water) habitats.
Neureclipsis crepuscularis
tube maker caddisfly
Neureclipsis crepuscularis is a species of tube-making caddisfly in the family Polycentropodidae. It is a small aquatic insect whose larvae construct silk tubes for shelter. The species is documented in North America, with records from the northeastern United States including Vermont. As a member of Polycentropodidae, it belongs to a family of predatory or parasitic caddisflies.
Nigronia fasciata
Banded Dark Fishfly
Nigronia fasciata is a species of dark fishfly in the family Corydalidae, order Megaloptera. Adults measure 22–28 mm in body length. The species occurs in the eastern United States and is not present in Canada. Like other fishflies, it has aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Nixe
Nixe is a genus of mayflies in the family Heptageniidae, established by Flowers in 1980. These aquatic insects belong to the order Ephemeroptera, characterized by their short adult lifespan and complex life cycles involving aquatic nymphal stages. The genus has been documented in 451 iNaturalist observations, indicating moderate levels of citizen science engagement. As heptageniid mayflies, members of this genus likely inhabit flowing water environments where their nymphs develop.
Nixe inconspicua
Nixe inconspicua is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, first described by McDunnough in 1924. As a member of the Heptageniidae, it possesses the characteristic dorsoventrally flattened body form typical of this family. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Nixe lucidipennis
clear-winged flat-headed mayfly
Nixe lucidipennis is a species of flat-headed mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, distributed across North America. The species was described by Clemens in 1913. It is known from a limited number of observations, with records indicating presence in the Nearctic region. As a member of the genus Nixe, it belongs to a group of mayflies characterized by their flattened head morphology and association with running water habitats.
Notonecta indica
backswimmer
Notonecta indica is a predatory aquatic true bug in the family Notonectidae, commonly known as backswimmers. The species has been documented in eastern Jamaica where it preys on mosquito larvae, particularly Aedes aegypti, with consumption rates increasing exponentially through nymphal development. Adults consume approximately 38 mosquito larvae daily under laboratory conditions. The species occurs across a broad geographic range including the Caribbean, Central America, North America, Oceania, and South America. Development from egg to adult takes approximately 36 days under warm conditions, with shorter development times than temperate backswimmer species attributed to higher temperatures and food availability.
Notonecta lunata
Backswimmer
Notonecta lunata is a species of backswimmer in the family Notonectidae. It is found in North America, with specific records from Vermont and other parts of the United States. Backswimmers in the genus Notonecta are aquatic insects known for swimming upside down and preying on small aquatic organisms.
Notonecta undulata
Grousewinged Backswimmer
Notonecta undulata, commonly known as the grousewinged backswimmer, is an aquatic true bug (Hemiptera: Notonectidae) found across North America. Adults measure 10–12 mm in length and are distinguished from other backswimmers by their 4-segmented antennae and wing pattern featuring a large black spot on the wing membrane median line. The species inhabits small ponds and lakes with slow-moving water, swimming upside down beneath the water surface to capture prey. It is a generalist predator with documented preference for mosquito larvae, and has been studied as a potential biological control agent.
Notonecta unifasciata
backswimmer
Notonecta unifasciata is a species of backswimmer in the family Notonectidae. It is distributed across Central America, North America, and South America. The species was described by Guérin-Méneville in 1857 and includes three recognized subspecies: Notonecta unifasciata andersoni, Notonecta unifasciata cochisiana, and the nominate subspecies Notonecta unifasciata unifasciata. As a member of the genus Notonecta, it shares the characteristic habit of swimming upside down near the water surface.
Odontoceridae
Mortarjoint Casemaker Caddisflies
Odontoceridae is a family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) commonly known as mortarjoint casemakers. The family contains approximately 12 genera and at least 100 described species. Larvae are aquatic case-builders that typically construct cases from mineral particles such as sand and small stones. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution with representatives in North America, Europe, South America, and other regions. Adults are generally active during spring and summer months.
Oecetis
long-horned caddisflies
Oecetis is a genus of long-horned caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, containing over 500 described species worldwide. Adults are distinguished by exceptionally long maxillary palps and an unbranched forewing M vein. Larvae inhabit freshwater environments including lakes, streams, and rivers with sandy substrates. The genus is among the largest and most widely distributed caddisfly genera, occurring in all faunal regions.
Oecetis inconspicua
Inconspicuous Long-horned Caddisfly
Oecetis inconspicua is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is found in North America, with additional records from Brazil. The species belongs to a family characterized by larvae that construct portable cases and adults with notably elongated antennae.
Oemopteryx
winter stoneflies, willowflies
Oemopteryx is a genus of winter stoneflies in the family Taeniopterygidae, established by Klapálek in 1902. The genus comprises approximately six described species distributed primarily in the Nearctic region, with some records from Europe. Species are commonly known as willowflies, including the dark willowfly (O. contorta) and Canadian willowfly (O. glacialis). Recent taxonomic work has described additional Nearctic species from the southeastern United States using integrated morphological and molecular data.
Oemopteryx contorta
Dark Willowfly
Oemopteryx contorta, commonly known as the dark willowfly, is a species of winter stonefly in the family Taeniopterygidae. The species was described by Needham and Claassen in 1925. It is native to North America, with documented records from Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Kentucky, and Maine. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects whose nymphal stages develop in freshwater environments.
Oligostomis ocelligera
giant casemaker
Oligostomis ocelligera is a species of giant casemaker caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It has been documented inhabiting acidic mine drainage environments in Pennsylvania, demonstrating tolerance to extreme conditions including low pH and high metal concentrations. The species is known from North America.
Omisus pica
Omisus pica is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Townes in 1945. The genus Omisus belongs to the tribe Chironomini within the subfamily Chironominae. As with other chironomid midges, this species likely has an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage, though specific biological details remain poorly documented. The species is known from very few records, with only two observations documented on iNaturalist and no distribution records in GBIF.
Onocosmoecus unicolor
northern caddisfly
Onocosmoecus unicolor is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as the northern caddisfly. It was described by Banks in 1897. The species is distributed across North America and is part of the diverse caddisfly fauna associated with freshwater habitats.
Ophiogomphus
snaketails
Ophiogomphus is a genus of dragonflies in the family Gomphidae, commonly known as snaketails. The genus contains approximately 25 described species distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. Most species exhibit green markings on club-shaped abdomens, with males typically displaying more prominent coloration. The genus includes both widespread species and localized endemics with restricted ranges.
Optioservus browni
Brown's optioservus riffle beetle
Optioservus browni is a species of riffle beetle (family Elmidae) described by White in 1978. The species is known from North America and is part of a genus of aquatic beetles typically found in flowing water habitats. Like other elmid beetles, it is adapted to life in fast-moving streams and rivers.
Optioservus immunis
Optioservus immunis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by Fall in 1925. It is one of thirteen Nearctic species in the genus, distinguished from congeners primarily by male genitalia and elytral pattern. The species was previously known under the synonym Optioservus cryophilus.
Optioservus ovalis
Optioservus ovalis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by LeConte in 1863. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects whose larvae and adults inhabit running water environments. The species is found in North America, with records from Canada and the United States. Like other elmid beetles, it is likely associated with clean, well-oxygenated streams and rivers.
Oreodytes alaskanus
Oreodytes alaskanus is a small predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Fall in 1926. It belongs to the subfamily Hydroporinae, one of the most diverse lineages of diving beetles. The species is associated with freshwater habitats in northern North America.
Orohermes crepusculus
Orohermes crepusculus is a species of fishfly in the family Corydalidae, originally described as Dysmicohermes crepusculus by Chandler in 1954. It is one of several species in the genus Orohermes, which comprises small to medium-sized megalopterans found in western North America. The species epithet "crepusculus" refers to twilight, possibly alluding to crepuscular activity patterns. Adults are weak fliers and are often attracted to lights.
Oroperla barbara
Gilltail Springfly
Oroperla barbara is a stonefly species in the family Perlodidae, first described by Needham in 1933. It is commonly known as the Gilltail Springfly. The species is recorded from California and Nevada in western North America. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it belongs to an ancient group of aquatic insects with gilled immature stages and terrestrial adults.
Orthocladius
Orthocladius is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae. Larvae are aquatic and construct silk tubes that serve as microhabitats for associated microbial communities. The genus includes species adapted to diverse freshwater environments, including streams and hygropetric habitats.
Osobenus
Osobenus is a genus of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae, first described by Ricker in 1952. The genus belongs to the tribe Diploperlini within the subfamily Perlodinae. Species in this genus are found in western North America, with records from British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California.
Osobenus yakimae
Yakima Springfly
Osobenus yakimae is a species of stonefly in the family Perlodidae, commonly known as the Yakima Springfly. It is distributed across the Pacific Northwest of North America, with records from British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is an aquatic insect with nymphal stages developing in freshwater habitats. The species was first described by Hoppe in 1938.
Ostrocerca albidipennis
white-tailed forestfly, whitetailed forestfly
Ostrocerca albidipennis, commonly called the white-tailed forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. It was originally described as Nemoura albidipennis by Walker in 1852. The species is found in eastern North America, with records from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Maryland. As a member of the Nemouridae family, it belongs to the group of small stoneflies commonly known as forestflies.
Ostrocerca complexa
Notched Forestfly
Ostrocerca complexa, commonly known as the notched forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. First described by Claassen in 1937 as Nemoura complexa, it is now placed in the genus Ostrocerca. It occurs in eastern North America, with documented records from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
Ostrocerca dimicki
Hooked Forestfly
Ostrocerca dimicki, commonly known as the hooked forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. It belongs to the order Plecoptera, a group of aquatic insects whose nymphs inhabit cold, clean streams. The species was described by Frison in 1936. It is recorded from the Pacific Northwest region of North America.
Ostrocerca truncata
Truncate Forestfly
Ostrocerca truncata, commonly known as the truncate forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. Originally described as Nemoura truncata by Claassen in 1923, it is one of approximately 50 species in the genus Ostrocerca. The species is found in eastern North America, with records from Connecticut, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, and other states. Like other Nemouridae, it is associated with cool, clean streams and emerges in spring.
Oxyethira pallida
Oxyethira pallida is a species of microcaddisfly in the family Hydroptilidae, first described by Banks in 1904. It inhabits lentic and slow lotic freshwater systems across North America. As a microcaddisfly, it belongs to a group characterized by reduced larval cases and small adult size compared to other caddisflies.
Oxyethira zeronia
microcaddisfly
Oxyethira zeronia is a species of microcaddisfly described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to the family Hydroptilidae, the largest family of caddisflies, whose members are characterized by their small size and reduced wing venation. The species is recorded from North America, though specific habitat and ecological details remain poorly documented.
Palmacorixa buenoi
Palmacorixa buenoi is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) described by Abbott in 1913. It is an aquatic heteropteran known for producing acoustic signals, with diel periodicity patterns that differ substantially from those observed in related genera. Most aquatic heteropterans show increased acoustic activity in early evening, but P. buenoi exhibits atypical patterns in song type periodicity. The species occurs in North America, particularly in the Nearctic region excluding the Western Cordillera and Beringia.
Palmacorixa gillettei
Palmacorixa gillettei is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) in the infraorder Nepomorpha. It was described by Abbott in 1912. The genus Palmacorixa is a small group within the Corixidae, and this species appears to be rarely recorded based on limited observation data. Members of this family are aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats.
Pannota
Pannota is an infraorder of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) distinguished from its sister group Schistonota by the degree of wing pad fusion in final-stage nymphs: in Pannota, fusion along the mesothorax is less than half the fore-wing length, whereas in Schistonota it exceeds half. Nymphs are slow-moving crawlers with modified gill morphology, contrasting with the active swimmers, burrowers, and sprawlers of Schistonota. The group includes two superfamilies, Caenoidea and Ephemerelloidea, encompassing seven families. Members are important bioindicators of freshwater ecosystem health due to their sensitivity to pollution.
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.
Parachironomus
Parachironomus is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Chironominae. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution with approximately 85 valid species worldwide. Some species are free-living aquatic larvae, while others are endoparasites of freshwater snails. Species have been recorded from diverse habitats including standing and flowing waters, soft sediments, aquatic macrophytes, and artificial urban waterbodies.
Paracloeodes minutus
small minnow mayfly
Paracloeodes minutus is a small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. It is found in Central America and North America, including southeastern Canada, northern Mexico, and the continental United States. The species was described by Daggy in 1945.
Paragnetina media
embossed stonefly, Embossed Stone
Paragnetina media, commonly known as the embossed stonefly, is a predaceous stonefly species in the family Perlidae. It is found in North America, with documented populations in Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, and Indiana. The species has been studied for its sensory morphology, particularly the distribution of sensilla on mouthparts and antennae, and its ecological responses to habitat variables including current speed and substrate composition.
Paraleptophlebia bicornuta
pronggilled mayfly
Paraleptophlebia bicornuta is a species of pronggilled mayfly described by James Halliday McDunnough in 1926. As a member of the family Leptophlebiidae, it possesses the forked gills characteristic of this group. The species is known from North America, with records from the Nearctic region. Like other mayflies, it has an aquatic nymphal stage and a short-lived adult stage.
Paraleptophlebia debilis
mahogany dun
Paraleptophlebia debilis, commonly known as the mahogany dun, is a species of pronggilled mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae. It was first described by Francis Walker in 1853 under the basionym Baetis debilis. The species is found in North America, though specific details about its ecology and biology remain limited in available sources.
Paraleptophlebia guttata
dappled prong-gilled mayfly
Paraleptophlebia guttata is a prong-gilled mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae. Adults are known from southeastern Canada, northern Canada, and the eastern United States. The species is part of a diverse genus of stream-dwelling mayflies characterized by forked gills on abdominal segments.
Paraleptophlebia helena
pronggilled mayfly
Paraleptophlebia helena is a species of pronggilled mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae. The species was described by Day in 1952 and is known to occur in North America. As a member of the Leptophlebiidae, it possesses the characteristic forked gills (pronggills) that give the group its common name.
Paraleptophlebia strigula
streaky prong-gilled mayfly
Paraleptophlebia strigula is a species of prong-gilled mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae. It was described by McDunnough in 1932. The species occurs in North America. As a member of Leptophlebiidae, it possesses the characteristic forked gills on abdominal segments that give the family its common name.
Paraleuctra sara
Appalachian needlefly
Paraleuctra sara, commonly known as the Appalachian needlefly, is a species of rolled-winged stonefly in the family Leuctridae. It was first described by Claassen in 1937. The species is found in eastern North America, with documented records from Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, and Indiana. As a member of the Leuctridae family, it belongs to a group of stoneflies characterized by their distinctive wing posture at rest.
Paranemoura
Paranemoura is a genus of spring stoneflies in the family Nemouridae, established by Needham & Claassen in 1925. The genus contains at least two described species: P. claasseni (1996) and P. perfecta (1852), the latter commonly known as the spotted forestfly. As members of the order Plecoptera, these insects are aquatic during their immature stages and terrestrial as adults.
Paranemoura perfecta
spotted forestfly
Paranemoura perfecta, commonly known as the spotted forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. It was first described by Walker in 1852 under the basionym Nemoura perfecta. The species is found in eastern North America, with documented records from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Maryland. As a member of the Nemouridae, it belongs to the group of spring stoneflies characterized by small size and cold-water habitat associations.
Paraperla
green stoneflies
Paraperla is a genus of green stoneflies in the family Chloroperlidae, established by Banks in 1906. It contains at least two described species: P. frontalis (the hyporheic sallfly) and P. wilsoni. The genus belongs to the subfamily Paraperlinae and is characterized by its association with subterranean or hyporheic aquatic habitats. These stoneflies are part of the Arctoperlaria, a suborder of Plecoptera found primarily in the Northern Hemisphere.
Paraphaenocladius exagitans
Paraphaenocladius exagitans is a non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae. The subspecies P. e. longipes has been recorded from Costa Rica, St. Vincent, Trinidad and Tobago, Guatemala, possibly Bolivia, and more recently from southeastern Brazil. Larvae inhabit small springs with slow water flow and construct delicate tubes using fine-sand grains while mining moss leaves. Development from collection to pupation has been observed to take approximately 20 days.
Parapsyche apicalis
Parapsyche apicalis is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, originally described as Arctopsyche apicalis by Banks in 1908. The species belongs to the subfamily Arctopsychinae and is found in North America. As a member of Hydropsychidae, larvae construct fixed retreats and capture nets to filter food particles from flowing water.
Paratendipes albimanus
Paratendipes albimanus is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae, found in freshwater habitats across Europe and North America. The species has been studied for its life history and growth patterns in Michigan headwater streams. As a member of the Chironomidae, it completes its larval development in aquatic environments before emerging as an adult.
Parydra quadrituberculata
shore fly
Parydra quadrituberculata is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, first described by Loew in 1862. Shore flies in this family are typically associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The specific epithet 'quadrituberculata' suggests four tubercles, likely referring to a diagnostic morphological feature. The species has been documented in scientific literature including a study of its immature stages.
Pedomoecus sierra
Pedomoecus sierra is a species of caddisfly in the family Apataniidae, described by Ross in 1947. It is known from the Sierra Nevada region of California. Like other members of the order Trichoptera, the larvae are aquatic and construct protective cases from silk and environmental materials. The specific epithet 'sierra' refers to its type locality in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Pelocoris biimpressus shoshone
Pahranagat Naucorid Bug
Pelocoris biimpressus shoshone is a subspecies of creeping water bug in the family Naucoridae, described by La Rivers in 1948. It belongs to the true bug order Hemiptera and is part of the aquatic true bug infraorder Nepomorpha. The subspecies is known from Middle and North America, with records indicating presence in both regions. Very limited observational data exists for this taxon, with only two observations recorded in iNaturalist.
Penelomax septentrionalis
Penelomax septentrionalis is a species of mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, first described by McDunnough in 1925. It is native to the Nearctic region of North America. As a member of the order Ephemeroptera, it has a short-lived adult stage and aquatic nymphal development.
Pentagenia vittigera
riverbed burrower mayfly
Pentagenia vittigera is a riverbed burrower mayfly in the family Palingeniidae. The species was described by Walsh in 1862 and is native to North America. It is characterized by its burrowing lifestyle in riverbed substrates. The genus Pentagenia is distinguished from related mayflies by specific morphological features of the wing venation and genitalia.
Perlesta nitida
Tiny Stone
Perlesta nitida, commonly known as the tiny stone, is a species of stonefly in the family Perlidae. It was described by Banks in 1948. This species belongs to the order Plecoptera, a group of aquatic insects commonly known as stoneflies. The common name "tiny stone" reflects its small size relative to other stoneflies in the family.
Perlinella drymo
Striped Stone
Perlinella drymo, commonly known as the striped stone, is a stonefly species in the family Perlidae. It was first described by Newman in 1839 under the basionym Isogenus drymo. The species is distributed across eastern North America, with records from Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, and other states. As a member of Perlidae, it belongs to a family of predatory stoneflies commonly referred to as common stoneflies.
Perlinella ephyre
Vernal Stone
Perlinella ephyre, commonly known as the vernal stone, is a species of common stonefly in the family Perlidae. It is found in North America, with records from the northeastern United States and several southeastern states including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, and Georgia. As a member of Perlidae, it is likely a predatory stonefly, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Perlinodes
Perlinodes is a genus of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae. It was established by Needham and Claassen in 1925 and is classified within the tribe Arcynopterygini. The genus is found in western North America, with records from Alberta and several western U.S. states. Like other perlodid stoneflies, members of this genus are aquatic as nymphs and terrestrial as adults.
Perlinodes aurea
Perlinodes aurea is a species of stonefly in the family Perlodidae. The genus Perlinodes is part of the subfamily Isoperlinae, a group of predatory stoneflies characterized by their streamlined bodies and aquatic larval stages. Like other members of Perlodidae, P. aurea has a life cycle tied to clean, well-oxygenated freshwater habitats. Adult stoneflies are generally short-lived and do not feed, focusing instead on reproduction. The specific epithet "aurea" (golden) likely refers to coloration characteristics of the species.
Perloidea
common stoneflies, perloid stoneflies
Perloidea is a superfamily of stoneflies within the suborder Arctoperlaria, characterized by well-developed mouthparts adapted for predation or omnivory. Members are primarily found in the Northern Hemisphere. The superfamily includes several families of medium to large-sized stoneflies with diverse ecological roles in freshwater ecosystems.
Phaedon viridis
watercress leaf beetle
Phaedon viridis, commonly known as the watercress leaf beetle, is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America and has been documented across multiple Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. The species is associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats where its host plants grow.
Phaenopsectra flavipes
Phaenopsectra flavipes is a non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae. It occurs across the Palearctic region, with records from Scandinavia, Denmark, and Slovakia. The species has been documented in pond habitats. As with other chironomids, adults are short-lived and do not feed.
Phaenopsectra obediens
Phaenopsectra obediens is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Johannsen in 1905. It belongs to the tribe Chironomini within the subfamily Chironominae. The species has been documented in iNaturalist with 91 observations, indicating it is encountered with some frequency by naturalists.
Phaenopsectra profusa
Phaenopsectra profusa is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, described by Townes in 1945. It belongs to the tribe Chironomini within the subfamily Chironominae. The species is rarely recorded, with limited observational data available.
Phaenopsectra punctipes
Phaenopsectra punctipes is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Christian Rudolph Wilhelm Wiedemann in 1817. It belongs to the subfamily Chironominae and tribe Chironomini. The species is recorded from Europe, with confirmed presence in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden based on distribution records.
Phanocelia canadensis
Phanocelia canadensis is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Banks in 1924. The species has been documented at the southern extreme of its range, where studies have examined its habitat preferences and life history traits adapted to northern conditions. As a member of the Limnephilidae, it belongs to a diverse family of caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material or sand.
Phanocerus clavicornis
riffle beetle
Phanocerus clavicornis is a small riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, measuring approximately 3 mm in length. The species exhibits a broad Neotropical distribution, ranging from Texas and the Caribbean through Central America to southeastern Brazil. Populations in Atlantic Rainforest streams demonstrate significant phenotypic plasticity in body size in response to hydraulic conditions, with smaller larvae occurring during periods of greater rainfall. Both larvae and adults are fully aquatic and occupy the same freshwater environments.
Philopotamoidea
Philopotamoidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) comprising two families: Philopotamidae and Stenopsychidae. The superfamily is considered paraphyletic in current phylogenetic treatments. Members are aquatic insects with larval stages inhabiting freshwater environments. The group is recognized by morphological features of adult mouthparts and larval case construction.
Phryganea
giant caddisfly, giant caddisflies
Phryganea is a genus of large caddisflies in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as giant caddisflies. The genus contains approximately 25–30 described species distributed across the northern hemisphere, with particularly high diversity in Europe and Asia. Larvae construct portable cases from plant material and are among the most primitive of the tube-case-building caddisflies. Adults are notable for their relatively large size compared to other caddisfly genera.
Phryganea sayi
Say's Giant Caddisfly, Say's Giant Casemaker
Phryganea sayi is a species of giant caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as Say's Giant Caddisfly or Say's Giant Casemaker. It is one of the larger caddisfly species in North America. Like other members of Phryganeidae, the larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species was described by Milne in 1931.
Phylloicus aeneus
Phylloicus aeneus is a caddisfly species in the family Calamoceratidae, first described by Hagen in 1861. It is known from Central America and is part of a genus of caddisflies whose larvae construct distinctive leaf-case shelters. The species belongs to an order of aquatic insects with high ecological importance in freshwater ecosystems.
Phylloicus mexicanus
Phylloicus mexicanus is a species of caddisfly in the family Calamoceratidae, described by Nathan Banks in 1900. The genus Phylloicus is known for larvae that construct distinctive leaf cases using cut pieces of living leaves. This species occurs in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions, with the specific epithet suggesting Mexican distribution. As with other Calamoceratidae, larvae are likely associated with freshwater habitats where they feed on plant material.
Phylocentropus lucidus
Phylocentropus lucidus is a species of caddisfly in the family Dipseudopsidae. It is found in North America. The species was first described by Hagen in 1861. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects closely related to moths and butterflies, with larvae that typically inhabit freshwater environments.
Pisciforma
Pisciforma is a suborder of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) encompassing at least 410 described species across 11 families. It includes diverse aquatic insects commonly known as minnow mayflies, flatheaded mayflies, and sand-dwelling mayflies. Members occupy varied freshwater habitats and exhibit morphological diversity in mouthpart structure and leg morphology.
Platycentropus radiatus
Chocolate-and-cream Sedge, chocolate and cream sedge
Platycentropus radiatus is a northern caddisfly species in the family Limnephilidae. Adults are recognized by their distinctive chocolate-brown and cream color pattern. The species occurs across North America and is one of the more frequently observed caddisflies in its range, with over 2,000 documented records. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from plant material.
Plauditus dubius
small minnow mayfly
Plauditus dubius is a species of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. It has been documented across a broad geographic range including all of Canada, the northern and southeastern United States, and Alaska. The species belongs to a genus of mayflies commonly associated with running water habitats. Limited observational records exist, with only three documented observations in iNaturalist.
Plectrocnemia
tube maker caddisflies
Plectrocnemia is a genus of tube maker caddisflies in the family Polycentropodidae comprising more than 120 described species. Larvae are aquatic predators that construct silken capture nets to intercept prey. The genus has been extensively studied for its larval silk production, vibration-mediated predatory behavior, and population genetics. Species occur across Europe and into western Asia, with detailed biological information available for several well-studied species including P. conspersa and P. brevis.
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crassicornis
tube maker caddisfly
Plectrocnemia crassicornis is a species of tube maker caddisfly in the family Polycentropodidae, first described by Walker in 1852. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases or retreats. The species is known from North America, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented in published literature.
Polycentropodidae
Tube Maker Caddisflies, Trumpet-net Caddisflies
Polycentropodidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as tube makers or trumpet-net caddisflies. The family contains at least 33 genera and over 720 described species globally. Larvae construct distinctive silken retreats—short flattened tubes in rock hollows or slender tubular structures among aquatic vegetation—often surrounded by silken threads that function as prey detection devices. The family exhibits a disjunct distribution pattern in some regions, with species found in both tropical and temperate zones.
Polycentropus
tube maker caddisflies
Polycentropus is a large genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the family Polycentropodidae, containing more than 190 described species. The genus is commonly referred to as 'tube maker caddisflies' due to the silken retreat structures constructed by larvae. Species occur across multiple continents including Europe, Asia, and South America. Larvae are predatory and inhabit running waters, where they build silken retreats with capture nets to trap prey.
Polycentropus arizonensis
Polycentropus arizonensis is a species of caddisfly in the family Polycentropodidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1905. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it represents one of the diverse aquatic insect groups whose larvae develop in freshwater environments. The species is known from the southwestern United States and adjacent regions of Mexico. Like other Polycentropus species, it likely possesses larvae adapted for predatory or filter-feeding lifestyles in lotic or lentic habitats.
Polypedilum fallax
Polypedilum fallax is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described by Johannsen in 1905. The species is part of the large and diverse genus Polypedilum, which contains numerous species often difficult to distinguish morphologically. Records of this species exist from Norway and Sweden, though some Swedish records are marked as doubtful. The species is known from 145 observations on iNaturalist, suggesting it is moderately documented but not extensively studied.
Polypedilum illinoense
Polypedilum illinoense is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described by Malloch in 1915 from Illinois. As a member of the large genus Polypedilum, it is part of a diverse group of aquatic insects whose larvae inhabit freshwater environments. The species is known from observational records across North America, though detailed biological studies remain limited. Adults are small, delicate flies that do not feed, while larvae are aquatic detritivores.
Polypedilum ontario
Polypedilum ontario is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae, described by Walley in 1926. As a member of the genus Polypedilum, it belongs to one of the most diverse and widespread genera of chironomid midges. The species name reflects its type locality in Ontario, Canada. Like other chironomids, its larvae are aquatic and serve as important indicators of water quality in freshwater ecosystems.
Polypedilum sordens
Polypedilum sordens is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae, originally described by van der Wulp in 1874 as Tanytarsus sordens. It belongs to the subgenus Pentapedilum and is the namesake of the 'sordens group,' a monophyletic clade of 13 species distributed across Asia, the Indo-Pacific, and Africa. The species has documented presence in Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway, Sweden).
Polypedilum trigonus
Polypedilum trigonus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, order Diptera. As a member of the genus Polypedilum, it belongs to a diverse group of aquatic insects whose larvae are commonly found in various freshwater habitats. The species epithet "trigonus" (Greek for "triangular") likely refers to a morphological feature of the adult or larva. Chironomid larvae are important components of aquatic food webs and are widely used as bioindicators of water quality.
Potamyia flava
Yellow Net-spinning Caddisfly
Potamyia flava is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, distributed across North America. As a member of the Hydropsychidae, larvae construct fixed capture nets to filter food particles from flowing water. Adults are recognized by their yellow coloration, which distinguishes them from related species. The species has been well-documented through citizen science observations, with over 2,000 records on iNaturalist.
Procladius bellus
Procladius bellus is a non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Loew in 1866. It inhabits freshwater systems, particularly reservoirs with fluctuating water levels. Research in Laurel Creek Reservoir, Ontario, documented its ability to survive winter drawdown periods and complete three generations annually under favorable conditions.
Procloeon nelsoni
Procloeon nelsoni is a species of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae, described by Wiersema in 1999. It is known from the southern United States. As a member of Baetidae, it belongs to a diverse family of mayflies commonly associated with running water habitats.
Prosimulium mixtum
Mixed-up Black Fly
Prosimulium mixtum is a species of black fly in the family Simuliidae, commonly known as the mixed-up black fly. It is native to North America and has been studied in the context of spring snowmelt environments and physiological responses to environmental stressors. The species is part of the Prosimulium fuscum/mixtum complex, which has historically caused taxonomic confusion. Adults are small blood-feeding flies, with females requiring blood meals for egg development.
Prostoia completa
central forestfly
Prostoia completa, known as the central forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. It has been recorded from scattered localities in the eastern and central United States. As a member of the Nemouridae, it belongs to a family of small, cold-adapted stoneflies often associated with forested streams. The species was originally described as Nemoura completa by Walker in 1852.
Prostoia similis
Longhorn Forestfly
Prostoia similis, commonly known as the longhorn forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. It is found in North America, with records from states including Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it belongs to an ancient group of aquatic insects whose nymphs typically inhabit cool, clean streams.
Protochauliodes minimus
small fishfly
Protochauliodes minimus is a small fishfly species in the family Corydalidae, order Megaloptera. The species was described by K. Davis in 1903 and is native to North America. Like other fishflies, it belongs to an ancient lineage of holometabolous insects with aquatic larval stages. The specific epithet "minimus" suggests it is among the smaller members of its genus.
Protoplasa fitchii
Protoplasa fitchii is a species of primitive crane fly in the family Tanyderidae. It is one of the few North American representatives of this relict family, which retains many ancestral dipteran characteristics. The species is primarily known from eastern North America, where larvae develop in aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. Adults are rarely encountered and poorly studied.
Protosialis americana
American alderfly
Protosialis americana is a species of alderfly in the family Sialidae, order Megaloptera. It is one of the few North American species in the genus Protosialis, which was historically classified within the broader genus Sialis. Alderflies are aquatic insects with predatory larvae that inhabit flowing water environments.
Protosialis glabella
Protosialis glabella is a species of alderfly in the family Sialidae, order Megaloptera. The genus Protosialis represents one of several genera within Sialidae, a family of aquatic insects whose larvae are predatory and develop in freshwater habitats. Adults are typically nocturnal and short-lived, with reduced mouthparts and a primary focus on reproduction. The species was described by Ross in 1937. Megalopterans as a group are considered primitive holometabolous insects, retaining many ancestral characteristics.
Psectrotanypus dyari
Psectrotanypus dyari is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. The species was originally described as Tanypus dyari by Coquillett in 1902. Like other chironomids, it is frequently observed at artificial lights at night and is often mistaken for mosquitoes. The larvae are aquatic, typical of the family.
Psephenus
water penny beetles
Psephenus is a genus of water penny beetles comprising approximately 13 described species. Larvae are aquatic, highly flattened, and cling to submerged stones in streams using ventral sucking discs. Adults are terrestrial, do not feed, and aggregate near water for mating. The genus exhibits strong associations with stream riffles and turbulent water environments.
Psephenus falli
Western Water Penny Beetle
Psephenus falli is a species of water penny beetle in the family Psephenidae. It is known from the west coast of North America. Like other members of its family, the larvae are aquatic and have a distinctive flattened, disc-like form that gives the group its common name. The species was described by Thomas Casey in 1893.
Psilotreta
mortarjoint casemakers
Psilotreta is a genus of caddisflies in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as mortarjoint casemakers. The genus contains more than 30 described species. These insects are aquatic in their larval stage and are found in freshwater habitats. Adults are terrestrial and short-lived.
Psilotreta indecisa
mortarjoint casemaker
Psilotreta indecisa is a species of caddisfly in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as a mortarjoint casemaker. The species has been documented in North America, with confirmed records from Michigan indicating it is widely distributed within that state. As a member of Odontoceridae, it belongs to a group of caddisflies known for constructing distinctive larval cases.
Psilotreta rufa
mortarjoint casemaker
Psilotreta rufa is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as the mortarjoint casemakers. The species was described by Hagen in 1861. Like other members of its family, larvae construct distinctive case coverings using mineral materials. The species occurs in North America, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in available literature.
Psychoglypha avigo
Psychoglypha avigo is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to the "northern caddisfly" group within this family. The species is documented from North America, specifically within the Nearctic region. Available records for this species remain limited.
Pteronarcella badia
Least Salmonfly
Pteronarcella badia, commonly known as the least salmonfly, is a stonefly species in the family Pteronarcyidae found in western North America. It is one of two species in the genus Pteronarcella. The species occupies mid-elevation mountain streams and exhibits complex population genetic structure with six deeply divergent clades across its range. Adults are capable of overland flight, which serves as an important dispersal mechanism between drainage systems.
Pteronarcys
Giant Stoneflies, Salmonflies
Pteronarcys is a genus of giant stoneflies in the family Pteronarcyidae, commonly known as salmonflies. The genus comprises approximately 8 described species distributed across North America and Far Eastern Russia. These are among the largest stoneflies, with nymphs reaching substantial sizes in lotic freshwater habitats. Life cycles are notably long, ranging from 1 to 5 years depending on species and thermal conditions, with multiple larval diapause stages and temperature-dependent egg development documented in several species.
Pteronarcys californica
giant salmonfly, salmonfly, California giant stonefly
Pteronarcys californica, commonly called the giant salmonfly, is among the largest stoneflies in North America. The nymphal stage lasts 3–4 years in cold, well-oxygenated rivers, after which adults emerge in synchronized mass events during late spring to early summer. Adults are strikingly colored with bright orange abdomens, leg joints, and thorax segments, and carry egg masses resembling clusters of salmon roe. The species serves as a critical food source for salmonid fishes and is highly valued by fly anglers, making it both ecologically and culturally significant across western North American river systems.
Pteronarcys pictetii
Midwestern Salmonfly
Pteronarcys pictetii, commonly known as the midwestern salmonfly, is a species of giant stonefly in the family Pteronarcyidae. It is one of the largest stoneflies in North America. The species is found primarily in the central United States. Like other members of its family, it has aquatic nymphs and terrestrial adults.
Pteronarcys princeps
Ebony Salmonfly
Pteronarcys princeps, commonly known as the ebony salmonfly, is a species of giant stonefly in the family Pteronarcyidae. It is among the largest stonefly species in North America. The species is found in the western United States and southwestern Canada, with records from British Columbia, California, Idaho, Nevada, and Oregon. As a member of the Pteronarcyidae, it belongs to a primitive family of stoneflies whose larvae are aquatic and typically require well-oxygenated, cold-water habitats.
Pteronarcys proteus
Appalachian Salmonfly
Pteronarcys proteus, commonly known as the Appalachian salmonfly, is a giant stonefly in the family Pteronarcyidae. It is among the largest stonefly species in North America. Adults are known for their distinctive appearance and are most frequently encountered near clean, fast-flowing streams. The species has been documented in the eastern United States, with records from Kentucky through New England.
Ptilostomis
Giant Rusty Sedges, Giant Casemakers
Ptilostomis is a genus of large caddisflies commonly known as giant casemakers or giant rusty sedges. The genus comprises at least four described species distributed in North America. Adults are recognized by their substantial size relative to other caddisflies and rusty or brownish coloration. Larvae construct portable cases using plant material, characteristic of the family Phryganeidae.
Ptilostomis postica
giant casemaker
Ptilostomis postica is a species of giant casemaker caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It is found in North America. The species was originally described as Neuronia postica by Walker in 1852. As a member of Phryganeidae, it belongs to a family of relatively large caddisflies known for constructing portable cases from plant material.
Pycnopsyche
northern caddisflies
Pycnopsyche is a genus of northern caddisflies comprising approximately 17 described species. Larvae are aquatic shredders inhabiting leaf packs in temperate streams, where they construct portable cases from leaf material. The genus exhibits temporal niche partitioning among sympatric species, with differences in case materials, habitat preferences, and adult flight periods reducing interspecific competition.
Pycnopsyche antica
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche antica is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, a group of aquatic insects known for their larval cases constructed from plant material. The species occurs in North America, with records from the Nearctic region including the northeastern United States. As with other Limnephilidae, larvae are likely case-building and aquatic, though specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented in available sources.
Pycnopsyche guttifera
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche guttifera is a species of northern caddisfly described by Walker in 1852. It belongs to the family Limnephilidae, one of the largest families of caddisflies. The species is known from North America and is part of the Nearctic fauna. As with other members of its genus, it likely has an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage.
Pycnopsyche limbata
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche limbata is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It occurs in North America, with records from the Nearctic region including the northeastern United States. As a member of Limnephilidae, it belongs to one of the most species-rich families of caddisflies, commonly known as northern caddisflies or case-makers.
Pycnopsyche scabripennis
giant red sedge
Pycnopsyche scabripennis, commonly known as the giant red sedge, is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. Larvae inhabit allochthonous organic materials in stream environments. The species exhibits rapid larval growth followed by early aestivation and emergence, a temporal pattern that reduces competition with congeners. Adult males display distinct peak arrival times at light sources when active alongside related species, suggesting temporal partitioning as a coexistence mechanism.
Pycnopsyche virginica
Virginia Caddisfly
Pycnopsyche virginica is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1900. It is native to North America within the Nearctic region. As a member of the genus Pycnopsyche, it belongs to a group of case-making caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species is part of the diverse Limnephilidae family, which contains many species with aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Radotanypus
Radotanypus is a genus of non-biting midges (Chironomidae) established by Fittkau and Murray in 1985. The genus belongs to the subfamily Tanypodinae, a group of predatory midges whose larvae inhabit aquatic environments. Species-level taxonomy remains poorly documented in public sources.
Ranatra brevicollis
Western Waterscorpion
Ranatra brevicollis is a species of waterscorpion in the family Nepidae, first described by Montandon in 1910. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The species belongs to a genus of aquatic predatory insects commonly known as waterscorpions due to their elongated, scorpion-like appearance. It is recognized by the common name Western Waterscorpion.
Ranatra buenoi
waterscorpion
Ranatra buenoi is a species of waterscorpion in the family Nepidae, described by Hungerford in 1922. It occurs in North America. Waterscorpions in this genus are aquatic predatory insects characterized by elongated bodies and raptorial forelegs. The specific epithet honors an individual, though the source context does not clarify the namesake.
Ranatra nigra
Ranatra nigra is a waterscorpion species in the family Nepidae, occurring in aquatic environments of the Mobile/Tensaw Delta. The species has been documented in association with the water mite Hydrachna magniscutata, which exhibits temporal distribution patterns linked to R. nigra. As a member of the genus Ranatra, it possesses the elongated body form and raptorial forelegs characteristic of waterscorpions.
Rhagovelia plumbea
Rhagovelia plumbea is a species of small water strider in the family Veliidae, first described by Uhler in 1894. It is one of the most widespread members of its genus, occurring across the Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America. The species inhabits freshwater surface habitats where it uses the water surface tension to move.
Rhagovelia rivale
smaller water strider
Rhagovelia rivale is a species of water strider in the family Veliidae, first described by Torre-Bueno in 1924. It belongs to the genus Rhagovelia, a group of smaller water striders characterized by their ability to skate on water surfaces using modified legs. The species is documented from North America, though specific details about its ecology and distribution within that range remain limited in available sources.
Rheumatobates tenuipes
Rheumatobates tenuipes is a water strider in the family Gerridae, first described by Meinert in 1895. It belongs to the subfamily Rhagodotarsinae, a group characterized by specialized adaptations for life on the water surface. The species occurs in North and Middle America. Like other gerrids, it occupies the air-water interface, exploiting surface tension to move and forage.
Rhionaeschna californica
California Darner
Rhionaeschna californica, the California darner, is a medium-sized dragonfly in the family Aeshnidae. Adults are distinguished by bright blue diagonal spots on the abdomen and exhibit sexual dimorphism in coloration and eye color. The species occupies aquatic habitats across western North America and Central America, with larvae requiring several years of aquatic development before nocturnal emergence as adults.
Rhopalosiphum nymphaeae
waterlily aphid, water lily aphid
Rhopalosiphum nymphaeae, the waterlily aphid, is a cosmopolitan, host-alternating aphid species with a unique ability to thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. It is a significant agricultural pest that damages crops through direct herbivory and as a vector for plant viruses, particularly affecting Prunus spp. fruits and various aquatic plants. The species exhibits complex life history traits including rapid population growth (intrinsic rate of increase 0.315 day⁻¹, doubling time 2.2 days) and strong host preferences among aquatic vegetation.
Rhyacophila
caseless caddisflies
Rhyacophila is a large genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the family Rhyacophilidae, comprising at least 640 described species. The genus is cosmopolitan in distribution, with significant diversity in Europe, Asia, and North America. Larvae are commonly known as 'caseless caddis' because they do not construct portable cases, instead using silk to anchor themselves to substrates in running water. The genus exhibits high endemism in certain regions, with multiple species restricted to specific mountain ranges or islands.
Rhyacophila acutiloba
Rhyacophila acutiloba is a species of free-living caddisfly in the family Rhyacophilidae, first described by Morse & Ross in 1971. As a member of the genus Rhyacophila, it belongs to a group commonly known as "caseless caddis" or "free-living caddisflies" whose larvae do not construct portable cases. The species is known from North America, with records from Vermont and other parts of the Nearctic region. Like other rhyacophilids, it is associated with lotic (flowing water) habitats.
Rhyacophila angelita
Rhyacophila angelita is a species of free-living caddisfly described by Banks in 1911. It belongs to the family Rhyacophilidae, a group characterized by predatory larvae that do not construct portable cases. The species is known from North America.
Rhyacophila formosa
Rhyacophila formosa is a species of free-living caddisfly first described by Nathan Banks in 1911. As a member of the family Rhyacophilidae, it belongs to a group of caddisflies whose larvae do not construct portable cases, instead living freely on rocky substrates in freshwater habitats. The species is known to occur in North America.
Rhyacophila grandis
Rhyacophila grandis is a species of free-living caddisfly in the family Rhyacophilidae, first described by Banks in 1911. Unlike many caddisflies, it does not construct portable cases as larvae. The species is documented from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Rhyacophila oreta
Rhyacophila oreta is a species of caseless caddisfly in the family Rhyacophilidae, described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to a genus whose larvae are free-living predators in freshwater habitats, constructing no protective cases. The species is known from North America in the Nearctic region. As with other Rhyacophila species, the larvae are aquatic and the adults are terrestrial, short-lived, and primarily reproductive in function.
Rhyacophilidae
Free-living Caddisflies
Rhyacophilidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as free-living caddisflies. Larvae are distinctive for not constructing portable cases, instead living freely on substrates in freshwater habitats. Most species are predatory. The family contains over 700 described species, with the genus Rhyacophila alone comprising approximately 500 species distributed primarily across the Northern Hemisphere.
Salmoperla
Salmoperla is a genus of stoneflies (Plecoptera) in the family Perlodidae, tribe Arcynopterygini. Described in 1987 by Baumann and Lauck, this genus is known from California. As a member of the Systellognatha, Salmoperla belongs to a group of predatory stoneflies characterized by specialized mouthpart adaptations.
Scatella arizonensis
Scatella arizonensis is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, described by Cresson in 1935. The genus Scatella comprises small flies commonly associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. As a member of the Ephydridae, this species is part of a diverse family of true flies adapted to various wet environments. Very few specific details are documented about this particular species beyond its taxonomic description.
Sepedon gracilicornis
snail-killing fly
Sepedon gracilicornis is a species of snail-killing fly in the family Sciomyzidae, described by Orth in 1986. It belongs to a genus of approximately twenty North American species whose larvae are obligate predators of aquatic pulmonate snails. The species has been documented through limited observations, with records indicating presence in wetland and aquatic edge habitats.
Sepedon tenuicornis
marsh fly
Sepedon tenuicornis is a species of marsh fly in the family Sciomyzidae, first described by Cresson in 1920. Like other members of the genus Sepedon, this species has aquatic predatory larvae that feed on pulmonate snails. The genus comprises approximately 20 recognized species in North America, arranged into species groups based on shared morphological characteristics. Adults are slender flies with elongated bodies, concave faces, and prominent antennae.
Serratella serratoides
spot-bellied spiny crawler mayfly
Serratella serratoides is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It was originally described as Ephemerella serratoides by McDunnough in 1931 before being transferred to the genus Serratella. The species is known from North America.
Sialis iola
Sialis iola is a species of alderfly described by Ross in 1937. As a member of the family Sialidae, it belongs to the order Megaloptera, a small group of aquatic insects closely related to dobsonflies and fishflies. The species is known to occur in North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented. Like other alderflies, its larvae are presumed to be aquatic predators in freshwater habitats.
Sialis itasca
Sialis itasca is a species of alderfly in the family Sialidae, described by Ross in 1937. As a member of the order Megaloptera, it belongs to a small group of primitive holometabolous insects. The species is known from North America, with minimal observational records available. Like other alderflies, adults are associated with riparian habitats near the aquatic environments where their larvae develop.
Sialis mohri
alderfly
Sialis mohri is a species of alderfly in the family Sialidae, described by Ross in 1937. It is found in North America. Like other alderflies, it belongs to the order Megaloptera, a small group of aquatic insects whose larvae are predatory and develop in freshwater habitats. The species name honors Dr. Charles Mohr, an entomologist who collected the type specimens.
Sialis nevadensis
Sialis nevadensis is a species of alderfly in the family Sialidae, order Megaloptera. It was described by K. Davis in 1903 and is native to North America. The genus Sialis comprises aquatic insects whose larvae are predatory and develop in freshwater environments. Adults are typically found near streams and rivers during their brief aerial phase.
Sigara alternata
water boatman
Sigara alternata is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae. It inhabits lentic aquatic environments in North America. Laboratory studies demonstrate that its egg development and growth rates are strongly influenced by thermal conditions, with developmental acceleration occurring at daily temperature maxima exceeding 15.0°C and a critical temperature threshold of 11.0–12.5°C required for egg-laying initiation.
Sigara bradleyi
Sigara bradleyi is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Abbott in 1913. As a member of the genus Sigara, it belongs to a diverse group of aquatic insects commonly found in freshwater habitats. The species is known to occur in North America and the Caribbean, though detailed biological information remains limited. Like other corixids, it likely inhabits ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waters where it occupies the benthic zone.
Sigara hubbelli
Sigara hubbelli is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Hungerford in 1928. It belongs to the genus Sigara, a diverse group of aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The species is documented from North America, though detailed ecological and biological information remains limited in available sources.
Sigara hydatotrephes
Sigara hydatotrephes is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae. It belongs to the large genus Sigara, which contains numerous species of aquatic insects found in freshwater habitats. The species was described by Kirkaldy in 1908. Like other corixids, it is adapted to life in water with modified hind legs for swimming.
Sigara lineata
Sigara lineata is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae. It is found in North America. Water boatmen are aquatic insects that inhabit freshwater environments.
Sigara mississippiensis
Sigara mississippiensis is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Hungerford in 1942. As a member of the genus Sigara, it belongs to a diverse group of aquatic true bugs commonly found in freshwater habitats across North America. The species is poorly documented in public scientific literature, with minimal observational records available.
Sigara omani
Sigara omani is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Hungerford in 1930. Despite its specific epithet suggesting a connection to Oman, the species is native to North America. Water boatmen in this genus are aquatic insects that inhabit freshwater environments. Available information about this particular species is limited.
Sigara ornata
ornate water boatman
Sigara ornata is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) found in North America. Water boatmen are aquatic true bugs that inhabit freshwater environments, where they are known for their oar-like hind legs adapted for swimming. The specific epithet "ornata" suggests distinctive patterning or markings, though detailed morphological descriptions for this species are limited in available sources.
Sigara sigmoidea
Sigara sigmoidea is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Abbott in 1913. The species name 'sigmoidea' refers to an S-shaped or sigma-like characteristic, likely of the male genitalia or abdominal structure, a common naming convention in this genus. Like other Corixidae, it is an aquatic insect inhabiting freshwater environments. The genus Sigara is one of the most species-rich genera of water boatmen in the Northern Hemisphere.
Sigara virginiensis
Sigara virginiensis is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Hungerford in 1948. Water boatmen are aquatic true bugs characterized by their oar-like hind legs adapted for swimming. This species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Simulium fibrinflatum
Inflated Gnat
Simulium fibrinflatum, commonly known as the inflated gnat, is a species of black fly in the family Simuliidae. It was described by Twinn in 1936. As a member of the genus Simulium, it shares the typical characteristics of black flies, including small size and aquatic larval development in flowing water. No species-specific biological details have been documented in the available sources.
Simulium longithallum
black fly
Simulium longithallum is a species of black fly in the family Simuliidae, described by Díaz Nájera and Vulcano in 1962. Black flies in this genus are small, blood-feeding dipterans with aquatic larval and pupal stages. Females require blood meals for egg development, while males do not feed on blood. The species is part of a diverse genus containing numerous vectors of disease agents affecting birds and mammals.
Siphlonurus columbianus
Columbian gray drake
Siphlonurus columbianus is a species of mayfly in the family Siphlonuridae, described by James Halliday McDunnough in 1925. It is native to the Nearctic region and is one of several Siphlonurus species known to fly fishermen as "gray drakes." Adults are medium-sized mayflies with distinctive body segmentation. Like other members of its genus, it has a two-winged adult stage and an aquatic nymphal stage. The species is occasionally referenced in angling literature, though detailed biological studies appear limited.
Siphlonurus occidentalis
primitive minnow mayfly
Siphlonurus occidentalis is a species of primitive minnow mayfly in the family Siphlonuridae. It belongs to a group of mayflies considered evolutionarily basal within the order Ephemeroptera. The species has a broad distribution spanning from Central America through North America, including Alaska and northern Canada. Like other members of its family, it likely inhabits cool, flowing waters and exhibits the characteristic aquatic nymph and terrestrial adult life stages typical of mayflies.
Siphlonurus phyllis
primitive minnow mayfly
Siphlonurus phyllis is a species of primitive minnow mayfly in the family Siphlonuridae. It was described by McDunnough in 1923. The species is distributed across all of Canada and the northern United States.
Siphlonurus quebecensis
early brown quill mayfly, gray drake
Siphlonurus quebecensis is a species of primitive minnow mayfly in the family Siphlonuridae. It occurs in North America and is known to anglers as the 'early brown quill' or 'gray drake,' a name reflected in fly-fishing patterns designed to imitate its adult form. The species is part of a group of mayflies whose aquatic nymphs and winged adults serve as important prey for trout and other sport fish.
Siphlonurus rapidus
Siphlonurus rapidus is a species of primitive minnow mayfly in the family Siphlonuridae. It was described by McDunnough in 1924. The species is found in North America. Like other members of the genus Siphlonurus, it is considered a "gray drake" mayfly of interest to fly fishermen.
Siphlonurus securifer
primitive minnow mayfly
Siphlonurus securifer is a species of primitive minnow mayfly described by McDunnough in 1926. It belongs to the family Siphlonuridae, a group of mayflies characterized by their relatively unspecialized morphology compared to more derived mayfly families. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in published literature.
Siphlonurus spectabilis
primitive minnow mayfly
Siphlonurus spectabilis is a species of primitive mayfly in the family Siphlonuridae, first described by Traver in 1934. It belongs to a group commonly known as minnow mayflies, characterized by their relatively primitive morphological features compared to other mayfly families. The species has a documented distribution in northern Canada and the western United States.
Siphlonurus typicus
primitive minnow mayfly
Siphlonurus typicus is a species of primitive minnow mayfly in the family Siphlonuridae. It inhabits temporary ponds in eastern North America, where nymphs develop from March through June and adults emerge from late May to mid-June. Development is strongly temperature-dependent, with degree days serving as an excellent predictor of population maturity.
Siphloplecton basale
Siphloplecton basale is a cleftfooted minnow mayfly in the family Metretopodidae. It is the most widely distributed species in its genus, 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 adult stage.
Sisyra apicalis
spongillafly
Sisyra apicalis is a species of spongillafly in the family Sisyridae, first described by Banks in 1908. Spongillflies are a small family of aquatic insects with specialized larval biology tied to freshwater sponges. The species has a broad Neotropical and Nearctic distribution, spanning from North America through Central America and the Caribbean to South America, with documented records across Brazil including the semiarid Caatinga biome.
Sisyra vicaria
spongillafly
Sisyra vicaria is a species of spongillafly (family Sisyridae) found in North America. Spongillaflies are small, delicate neuropteran insects whose larvae are obligate associates of freshwater sponges (Porifera), feeding on the sponge tissue. The species was originally described by Francis Walker in 1853 as Hemerobius vicarius. As with other members of the genus Sisyra, the adults are typically nocturnal and attracted to light.
Skwala americana
American springfly
Skwala americana, commonly known as the American springfly, is a species of stonefly in the family Perlodidae. It is distributed across western North America, with records from Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, and other regions. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it has an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage, typical of stoneflies.
Smicridea dispar
Smicridea dispar is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, originally described by Banks in 1905 as Polycentropus dispar. It belongs to the order Trichoptera, an aquatic insect order whose larvae are commonly known as caddisflies. The species is documented from North America. As a member of Hydropsychidae, its larvae likely construct fixed retreats with capture nets in flowing water, though specific behavioral details for this species remain limited.
Smicridea signata
netspinning caddisfly
Smicridea signata is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. The species is found in North America and belongs to the Smicridea (Smicridea) fasciatella species group, which is characterized by a phallic apparatus that is a simple tube with eversible internal sclerites at the apex. The fasciatella group has a broad distribution from the southwestern USA through Central America, the Greater Antilles, and most of South America.
Soyedina nevadensis
Nevada Forestfly
Soyedina nevadensis is a species of stonefly in the family Nemouridae, commonly known as the Nevada Forestfly. It was described by Claassen in 1923. The species belongs to the order Plecoptera, a group of aquatic insects whose nymphs typically inhabit cold, clean streams.
Soyedina washingtoni
vernal forestfly
Soyedina washingtoni, commonly known as the vernal forestfly, is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. It was first described by Claassen in 1923 under the basionym Nemoura washingtoni. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects whose nymphal stages develop in freshwater habitats.
Spinadis simplex
Wallace's Deepwater Mayfly
Spinadis simplex is a species of mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, commonly known as Wallace's Deepwater Mayfly. It is a North American species first described by Walsh in 1863. The genus Spinadis is distinguished within the Heptageniidae by specific morphological characteristics related to wing venation and genitalia structure. Like other members of the family, S. simplex has aquatic nymphal stages and winged adult stages with brief adult lifespans.
Stegopterna mutata
mutated black fly
Stegopterna mutata is a species of black fly in the family Simuliidae, first described by Malloch in 1914 under the basionym Prosimulium mutatum. The species belongs to the tribe Prosimuliini, a group of primitive black flies. Like other simuliids, adults are small, blood-feeding dipterans with aquatic larval stages. The specific epithet "mutata" (Latin for "changed" or "mutated") gives rise to its common name "mutated black fly."
Stenacron carolina
Carolina flat-headed mayfly
Stenacron carolina is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. It is found in North America. The species was described by Banks in 1914. Like other members of the genus Stenacron, it is associated with aquatic habitats.
Stenacron minnetonka
flatheaded mayfly
Stenacron minnetonka is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, first described by Daggy in 1945. It is known from North America. The species belongs to a genus of aquatic insects whose larvae inhabit flowing freshwater environments. Limited observational data are available for this species specifically.
Stenacron pallidum
flatheaded mayfly
Stenacron pallidum is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. It is found in the eastern United States. Like other members of the genus Stenacron, it is associated with freshwater stream habitats.
Stenelmis cheryl
Cheryl's Riffle Beetle
Stenelmis cheryl, commonly known as Cheryl's riffle beetle, is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae. The species was described by Brown in 1987. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects typically associated with flowing water habitats. Stenelmis cheryl has been documented in Central America and North America based on occurrence records.
Stenelmis crenata
riffle beetle
Stenelmis crenata is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, occurring in North America. It inhabits fast-flowing stream environments, particularly riffle habitats in tallgrass prairie streams. The species exhibits a multivoltine life cycle with overlapping cohorts and year-round larval presence. Adults are active from late spring through autumn.
Stenelmis decorata
Stenelmis decorata is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Sanderson in 1938. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects associated with flowing water habitats. The species is known to occur in North America.
Stenelmis occidentalis
Neararctic Riffle Beetle
Stenelmis occidentalis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Schmude and Brown in 1991. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects adapted to life in fast-flowing freshwater habitats. The species is found in both Central America and North America, reflecting a transcontinental distribution across the Nearctic region.
Stenelmis sexlineata
riffle beetle
Stenelmis sexlineata is a riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Sanderson in 1938. It inhabits flowing water environments in North America and has a multi-year life cycle with distinct larval stages. Like other elmid beetles, it is adapted to life in fast-moving streams and rivers.
Stenochironomus albipalpus
Stenochironomus albipalpus is a species of non-biting midge (Chironomidae) described by Borkent in 1984. The species belongs to the subfamily Chironominae and tribe Chironomini. It is currently recognized as a valid species in GBIF and iNaturalist databases, though Catalogue of Life lists it as a synonym. Records indicate limited observational data with only 10 observations documented on iNaturalist.
Stenochironomus colei
Stenochironomus colei is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, described by Malloch in 1919. The genus Stenochironomus comprises small to medium-sized chironomid midges. As with many members of this large family, specific ecological and biological details for this particular species remain poorly documented in available literature.
Stenochironomus hilaris
Stenochironomus hilaris is a non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described by Walker in 1848. The species has been recognized under three junior synonyms (S. taeniapennis, S. zonopterus, and S. exquisitus) that were synonymized based on revisionary work on the Stenochironomus complex. As a member of the subgenus Stenochironomus s.str., its larvae are specialized wood miners with highly modified morphology including dorsoventrally flattened head capsules, expanded thoracic segments, and long, flaccid abdomens. The species occurs in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions.
Stenochironomus poecilopterus
Stenochironomus poecilopterus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described by Mitchell in 1908. As a member of the genus Stenochironomus, it belongs to a group of chironomid midges characterized by reduced wing venation and specific larval adaptations. The species is recognized as valid and accepted in current taxonomic databases.
Stenochironomus pulchripennis
Stenochironomus pulchripennis is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Coquillett in 1902. The genus Stenochironomus is characterized by reduced wing venation and includes species often associated with decaying wood and aquatic habitats. Like other chironomids, adults do not feed and rely on larval energy reserves.
Stenochironomus woodi
Stenochironomus woodi is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, described by Borkent in 1984. It belongs to the genus Stenochironomus, a group of chironomid midges characterized by reduced mouthparts and often associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The species is known from limited records, with 11 observations documented on iNaturalist.
Stenonema
Stenonema is a genus of mayflies in the family Heptageniidae. Species within this genus are aquatic insects found in freshwater environments, with nymphs inhabiting both riffle and pool habitats. The genus has been extensively studied in ecological and toxicological research, particularly regarding morphological variation, behavioral responses to environmental cues, and sensitivity to pollutants. Multiple species, including S. modestum, S. tripunctatum, and S. vicarium, serve as bioindicators for water quality assessment.
Stenopelmus
marsh weevils
Stenopelmus is a genus of marsh weevils comprising at least two described species. The genus is best known for Stenopelmus rufinasus, a North American weevil introduced to Europe in the late 19th century alongside its host plant Azolla filiculoides. Members of this genus are specialized herbivores associated with aquatic ferns and have been employed as biological control agents for invasive water fern management.
Stenopelmus rufinasus
Azolla Weevil, Waterfern Weevil
Stenopelmus rufinasus is a small weevil native to North America, introduced to Europe in 1898 alongside its host plant Azolla filiculoides. The species is a specialized herbivore with rapid development, completing its life cycle in approximately 20 days and producing 4-6 generations annually under favorable conditions. It has been widely deployed as a biological control agent for invasive Azolla species, particularly in South Africa where it has achieved dramatic population reductions. Adults exhibit exceptional dispersal capabilities, documented to travel up to 350 km, and frequently occur in water bodies lacking visible host plants.
Stilobezzia sybleae
Stilobezzia sybleae is a species of predaceous biting midge in the family Ceratopogonidae, described by Wirth in 1953. The genus Stilobezzia comprises small, predatory midges whose larvae and adults feed on other small invertebrates. The species epithet honors Syble, likely referring to a person significant to the describer.
Susulus venustus
Susulus venustus is a stonefly species in the family Perlodidae, described by Jewett in 1965. It belongs to the genus Susulus within the tribe Perlodini. The species is known from California in western North America. As a member of the Plecoptera order, it is part of the aquatic insect community associated with freshwater habitats.
Suwallia
green stoneflies
Suwallia is a genus of green stoneflies (Plecoptera: Chloroperlidae) in the tribe Suwalliini, comprising more than 20 described species. The genus is distributed across the East Palearctic and Nearctic regions, including Russia, Mongolia, Japan, North America, and China. Adult males possess distinctive genitalic structures used for species identification, such as specialized sclerites on tergum X. The genus was established by Ricker in 1943.
Sweltsa borealis
Boreal Sallfly
Sweltsa borealis, known as the boreal sallfly, is a species of green stonefly in the family Chloroperlidae. It is native to North America with documented records from Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, California, and Colorado. As a member of the Chloroperlidae family, it belongs to a group commonly referred to as green stoneflies or sallflies. The species was first described by Banks in 1895.
Sweltsa coloradensis
Colorado Sallfly
Sweltsa coloradensis, known as the Colorado sallfly, is a green stonefly species in the family Chloroperlidae. It is found in western North America, with records from Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, California, and Arizona. Like other members of its family, it likely inhabits cold, clean streams. The species was described by Nathan Banks in 1898.
Sweltsa naica
Northeastern Sallfly
Sweltsa naica, commonly known as the northeastern sallfly, is a species of green stonefly in the family Chloroperlidae. It is known from a restricted distribution in northeastern North America. The species was described by Provancher in 1876. As a member of Chloroperlidae, it belongs to a family commonly referred to as green stoneflies or sallflies.
Sweltsa onkos
Ontario Sallfly
Sweltsa onkos, commonly known as the Ontario sallfly, is a species of green stonefly in the family Chloroperlidae. It belongs to the order Plecoptera, an ancient group of aquatic insects. The species has been documented in northeastern North America.
Taenionema
winter stoneflies
Taenionema is a genus of winter stoneflies (Plecoptera: Taeniopterygidae) comprising approximately 14 described species. The genus was established by Banks in 1905 with Taenionema analis as the type species. Species are distributed across the Nearctic and eastern Palearctic regions, with 13 species native to North America and one species (T. japonicum) ranging across Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Russia and northeastern China. A second Eastern Hemisphere species, T. sinensis, was described in 2023 from southeastern China.
Taenionema californicum
California willowfly
Taenionema californicum, commonly known as the California willowfly, is a species of winter stonefly in the family Taeniopterygidae. It is native to North America, with documented presence in California. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is associated with freshwater habitats. The species was first described by Needham and Claassen in 1925.
Taenionema oregonense
Oregon Willowfly
Taenionema oregonense, commonly known as the Oregon Willowfly, is a species of winter stonefly in the family Taeniopterygidae. The species was described by Needham & Claassen in 1925. It belongs to the order Plecoptera, a group of aquatic insects whose nymphs develop in freshwater habitats.
Taeniopteryx nivalis
boreal willowfly
Taeniopteryx nivalis, commonly known as the boreal willowfly, is a winter stonefly species in the family Taeniopterygidae. It is native to North America and has been recorded from multiple regions including Alberta, California, Connecticut, Delaware, and Idaho. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects whose nymphs develop in freshwater habitats. The species was first described by Fitch in 1847.
Tallaperla maria
common roachfly
Tallaperla maria, commonly known as the common roachfly, is a stonefly species in the family Peltoperlidae. It is found in North America, with records from Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, and Kentucky. The species has been studied at the Fernow Experimental Forest in West Virginia, where research examined its abundance, life history, and production alongside the related Peltoperla arcuata.
Tanypus
non-biting midges
Tanypus is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae, comprising at least 100 described species. Larvae are aquatic and benthic, occurring in freshwater lakes and other lentic environments. Species within the genus exhibit bioturbation activity that modifies sediment oxygen dynamics. Life cycle patterns vary by species, with some showing multivoltine generations and specific overwintering strategies.
Tanypus neopunctipennis
Tanypus neopunctipennis is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, described by Sublette in 1964. It belongs to the subfamily Tanypodinae, a group of predatory or scavenging midges. The species is accepted in modern taxonomic databases, though some sources list it as a synonym. Available records indicate limited published information on its biology and ecology.
Tanypus punctipennis
Tanypus punctipennis is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. It has been documented in European freshwater habitats, particularly Lake Balaton in Hungary, where research indicates a trivoltine life cycle with overlapping generations and extended emergence periods. The species is part of the diverse Tanypus genus, which are predatory midges found in aquatic environments.
Teloganopsis
spiny crawler mayfly
Teloganopsis is a genus of spiny crawler mayflies (Ephemeroptera: Ephemerellidae) comprising approximately 17 described species. The genus was established by Ulmer in 1939 and occurs primarily in the Oriental region. Recent taxonomic work in Thailand has used integrative approaches combining morphology and molecular data (COI and 28S rDNA) to distinguish species, with abdominal color patterns serving as consistent diagnostic characters across developmental stages. Species in this genus have been documented from Thailand and other parts of Asia, though many remain poorly known due to limited collection and study.
Teloganopsis deficiens
little black quill
Teloganopsis deficiens, commonly known as the little black quill, is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It was first described by Morgan in 1911. The species occurs in North America and is part of a mayfly group characterized by crawling behavior and spiny body features. Like other Ephemerellidae, it has an aquatic larval stage and short-lived adult form.
Thraulodes speciosus
Thraulodes speciosus is a species of mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae, described by Traver in 1934. It belongs to the order Ephemeroptera, an ancient group of aquatic insects with brief adult stages. The genus Thraulodes is distributed across the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. Like other leptophlebiid mayflies, this species has aquatic nymphal stages and terrestrial adults that do not feed.
Timpanoga hecuba
Great Red Quill
Timpanoga hecuba, commonly known as the Great Red Quill, is a species of mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. This Nearctic species is significant in fly fishing, where its adult and subimago (dun) forms are imitated by artificial flies. The species was originally described as Ephemerella hecuba by Eaton in 1884 and later transferred to the genus Timpanoga.
Tinodes
Tinodes is a genus of caddisflies in the family Psychomyiidae, first described by John Curtis in 1834. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution with the richest species assemblages in the Oriental region and southern Western Palearctic. Species have been documented from Europe, Africa, Madagascar, the Comoros, and Asia. Larvae of at least some species construct fixed tunnel-like retreats (galleries) on stone surfaces in freshwater streams. The genus serves as an important bioindicator of freshwater ecosystem health due to its sensitivity to environmental changes.
Tortopsis primus
Manitoba white burrowing mayfly
Tortopsis primus is a species of burrowing mayfly in the family Polymitarcyidae, described by McDunnough in 1924. It is commonly known as the Manitoba white burrowing mayfly. The species belongs to the order Ephemeroptera, an ancient group of aquatic insects with aquatic immature stages and short-lived winged adults. As a member of Polymitarcyidae, it exhibits the family characteristic of burrowing habits in its nymphal stage.
Tortopsis puella
Tortopsis puella is a species of burrowing mayfly in the family Polymitarcyidae, originally described by Pictet in 1843. It belongs to a genus characterized by fossorial (burrowing) larvae that inhabit sandy or muddy substrates in freshwater environments. The species is known from the Nearctic region, with records from North America.
Trepobates taylori
Trepobates taylori is a water strider species in the family Gerridae, characterized by its broad Neotropical distribution spanning from southern Texas through Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America to northern Argentina. The species was described by Kirkaldy in 1899 and belongs to the subfamily Trepobatinae, a group of gerrids adapted to life on the water surface.
Triacanthagyna caribbea
Caribbean Darner
Triacanthagyna caribbea is a species of darner dragonfly in the family Aeshnidae, described by Williamson in 1923. It is endemic to the Caribbean region, with confirmed records from Colombia (departments of Antioquia, Bolívar, Magdalena, and Sucre) and broader Caribbean distribution. The species is part of the genus Triacanthagyna, which is characterized by three-spined abdominal appendages in males. As with other aeshnids, it is likely a strong flier adapted to tropical environments.
Triaenodes
Triaenodes is a genus of long-horned caddisflies (family Leptoceridae) containing at least 170 described species. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution, with species documented across the Neotropics, North America, Europe, and Asia. Larvae construct portable cases and are primarily aquatic, with some species exhibiting specialized swimming behavior to navigate between aquatic macrophytes. The genus serves as the type genus for the tribe Triaenodini.
Triaenodes aba
Aba's Long-horned Caddisfly
Triaenodes aba is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, described by Milne in 1935. The common name references its notably elongated antennae, which extend well beyond the body length—a characteristic trait of the genus. As with other Leptoceridae, the larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from plant material or sand grains. Adult emergence patterns and specific habitat preferences for this species remain poorly documented, with only four verified observations recorded on iNaturalist.
Triaenodes baris
Triaenodes baris is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, described by Ross in 1938. The species is found in North America and belongs to a genus characterized by elongated antennae in adults. As with other Leptoceridae, larvae likely inhabit aquatic environments and construct portable cases from plant material.
Triaenodes flavescens
Triaenodes flavescens is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, described by Banks in 1900. It belongs to a genus characterized by elongated antennae that often exceed body length. The species is known from North America. As with other members of Leptoceridae, adults are associated with aquatic habitats where larvae develop.
Triaenodes injusta
Triaenodes injusta is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. The genus Triaenodes is characterized by elongated antennae, often exceeding body length, and larvae that construct distinctive portable cases. This species is part of a diverse Nearctic fauna of Triaenodes, though specific biological details remain limited in published literature.
Triaenodes marginata
Triaenodes marginata is a species of caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. The genus Triaenodes belongs to the tribe Triaenodini within the subfamily Leptocerinae. The species has been treated taxonomically with at least one recognized synonym, Triaenodes marginata tarda Milne, 1934, which is now considered a synonym of Triaenodes tardus. Information regarding the biology, ecology, and distribution of this specific species is limited in the provided sources.
Triaenodes tardus
long-horned caddisfly
Triaenodes tardus is a North American long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. Larvae construct portable cases and are capable swimmers, using setae on their extended metathoracic legs to move between aquatic macrophytes. Swimming speed averages 1.47 cm/s even while carrying cases nearly double their body mass. The species exhibits reduced swimming activity when vegetation is available, indicating swimming functions primarily for habitat relocation rather than escape.
Trichocorixa kanza
water boatman
Trichocorixa kanza is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) described by Sailer in 1948. It belongs to the genus Trichocorixa, a group of small aquatic true bugs characterized by hair-fringed hind legs adapted for swimming. The species has been documented in both North and Central America. Like other corixids, it inhabits freshwater environments where it swims upside-down near the water surface.
Trichocorixa minima
Trichocorixa minima is a small water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Abbott in 1913. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs found in various freshwater habitats. The species is recorded from North America and the Caribbean, though detailed ecological information remains limited. Like other Corixidae, it is adapted to life in water with oar-like hind legs for swimming.
Tricorythodes explicatus
Tricorythodes explicatus is a species of small mayfly in the family Leptohyphidae, first described by Eaton in 1892. It belongs to a genus commonly known as stout crawler mayflies, characterized by reduced wing venation and robust body proportions. The species has been documented in Middle America and North America, though detailed biological studies remain limited.
Tsalia berneri
Tsalia berneri is a species of mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, originally described as Ephemerella berneri by Allen & Edmunds in 1958. The genus Tsalia was later established to accommodate this and related species based on distinctive morphological features. This Nearctic species is known from limited records in North America. Like other members of Ephemerellidae, it is a small to medium-sized mayfly with aquatic nymphal stages.
Typopsilopa nigra
Typopsilopa nigra is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, first described by Williston in 1896. Shore flies in this family are generally associated with moist habitats including shorelines, wetlands, and aquatic environments. The specific epithet 'nigra' refers to its dark coloration. Very few observations of this species have been documented, with only a single observation recorded on iNaturalist.
Visoka
Visoka is a genus of small winter stoneflies in the family Nemouridae, established by Ricker in 1952. These insects are part of the order Plecoptera, a group of aquatic insects whose nymphs inhabit cold, well-oxygenated freshwater environments. The genus has been recorded from western North America including Alberta, Alaska, British Columbia, California, and Idaho. As with other nemourids, adults are typically small with reduced wing venation.
Visoka cataractae
Cataract Forestfly
Visoka cataractae is a species of stonefly in the family Nemouridae, commonly known as the Cataract Forestfly. It is a small, winter-emerging stonefly distributed across western North America from Alaska to California. The species was originally described as Nemoura cataractae by Neave in 1933 before being transferred to the genus Visoka. Like other nemourids, it is associated with forested stream habitats.
Wormaldia
Wormaldia is a diverse genus of fingernet caddisflies (family Philopotamidae), comprising approximately 175 extant species globally. It is the second-largest genus in Philopotamidae after Chimarra. Species occur across all biogeographic regions except Australasia, with notable diversification in the Neotropics and Nearctic. The genus includes fossil species from Late Cretaceous Burmese amber, indicating an ancient evolutionary history. Taxonomic revisions have focused heavily on male genitalia morphology for species identification.
Wormaldia arizonensis
Wormaldia arizonensis is a species of caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae, originally described by Ling in 1938. It belongs to the second largest genus in its family, with approximately 175 extant species worldwide. The species is known from the southwestern United States and Mexico. As with other philopotamid caddisflies, it is presumed to have aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adult stages, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented.
Wormaldia moesta
fingernet caddisfly
Wormaldia moesta is a species of fingernet caddisfly described by Banks in 1914. It belongs to the family Philopotamidae, a group of caddisflies characterized by their distinctive net-spinning larval behavior. The species has been documented in North America, with specific records from Vermont in the United States.
Yoraperla
roach-like stoneflies
Yoraperla is a genus of stoneflies in the family Peltoperlidae, commonly known as "roach-like stoneflies" due to their resemblance to cockroaches. The genus contains eight described species distributed across North America and Asia. Yoraperla was established by Ricker in 1952 and is classified within the subfamily Peltoperlinae.
Yugus
Yugus is a genus of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae, established by Ricker in 1952. Members of this genus are part of the diverse Nearctic stonefly fauna, with documented occurrence in the eastern United States. As with other perlodid stoneflies, they are aquatic insects with nymphal stages in streams and rivers. The genus is classified within the tribe Perlodini, reflecting close relationships with other genera in this group.
Zaitzevia
riffle beetles
Zaitzevia is a genus of riffle beetles (family Elmidae) comprising approximately 19–29 described species, depending on taxonomic treatment. The genus was established by George Charles Champion in 1923 and is named after Russian entomologist Filipp Zaitsev. Species diversity is concentrated in East, Southeast, and Central Asia, with additional representation in North America. Chinese species are particularly well-documented, with multiple new species described from Sichuan, Yunnan, Hunan, Hubei, and Guizhou provinces.
Zapada
forestflies, spring stoneflies, little brown stoneflies
Zapada is a genus of small spring stoneflies in the family Nemouridae, commonly known as forestflies or little brown stoneflies. The genus contains at least 10 described species distributed across western North America, from Alaska and the Rocky Mountains to California. Adults are 5–8 mm in body length and emerge in early spring, often February through April depending on elevation and species. Nymphs are aquatic shredders that process leaf litter and other organic matter in cold, well-oxygenated streams.
Zapada cinctipes
Common Forestfly
Zapada cinctipes, the common forestfly, is a small spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae. Adults measure 5–8 mm in body length and emerge primarily from mid-March to mid-April, with some appearing as early as late February. The species is univoltine, completing one generation per year. Nymphs are aquatic shredders that feed on decaying leaf material in flowing waters.
Zapada columbiana
Columbian forestfly
Zapada columbiana is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae, commonly known as the Columbian forestfly. It is a small stonefly with a life cycle spanning 2-3 years in Rocky Mountain streams. The species is notable for retaining cervical gills into adulthood, a diagnostic feature of the genus. Nymphs are shredders that feed on moss and detritus, playing a significant role in stream ecosystem nutrient cycling.
Zapada cordillera
Cordilleran Forestfly
Zapada cordillera is a species of spring stonefly in the family Nemouridae, commonly known as the Cordilleran Forestfly. Described in 1971 from specimens in the western United States, this small aquatic insect is part of a genus whose nymphs are characterized by distinctive branched cervical gills retained into adulthood. As a member of the Nemouridae, it contributes to stream ecosystem function as a leaf-shredding detritivore and serves as an indicator of water quality in its montane habitat.
Zavrelimyia bifasciata
Zavrelimyia bifasciata is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. It belongs to the tribe Pentaneurini, a group of predatory midges commonly found in aquatic environments. The species was described by Coquillett in 1901. As a member of the Tanypodinae, it is likely predatory in the larval stage, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Zavrelimyia fragilis
Zavrelimyia fragilis is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae. Like other members of this family, it belongs to the order Diptera and is characterized by a life cycle that includes aquatic larval stages. The genus Zavrelimyia is part of the diverse chironomid fauna, with larvae typically inhabiting freshwater environments. Adult midges are generally short-lived and do not feed.