Aquatic-insects

Guides

• Ablabesmyia

  Banded-leg Tanypods

  Ablabesmyia is a genus of non-biting midges in the bloodworm family Chironomidae, comprising approximately 85 species distributed across multiple continents. Larvae are aquatic and frequently associated with aquatic vegetation, macrophytes, or detrital substrates in freshwater habitats. The genus is divided into four subgenera, with species documented from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and other regions. Adults are typically collected using light traps.

  ChironomidaeTanypodinaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwaterdetritivoresbenthic

• Acanthametropodidae

  Acanthametropodidae is a family of sand-dwelling mayflies (Ephemeroptera) in the suborder Pisciforma. The family contains at least two genera—Acanthametropus and Analetris—with four described species. These insects are specialized for life in sandy substrates, a relatively uncommon habitat among mayflies.

  mayfliessand-dwellingaquatic-insectsrare-family

• Acentrella

  small minnow mayflies

  Acentrella is a genus of small minnow mayflies in the family Baetidae. The genus contains at least 26 species distributed across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa. Nymphs of at least some species inhabit cool, clean, swift rocky streams. Adult stages of several species remain undescribed due to the difficulty of rearing nymphs to maturity.

  EphemeropteraBaetidaeaquatic-insectsmayfliesbenthicstream-insectsmadicolous

• Acroneuria

  common stoneflies

  Acroneuria is a genus of large-bodied stoneflies in the family Perlidae, containing more than 30 described species distributed across North America and Asia. Nymphs are predatory and inhabit streams and rivers, where they serve as important bioindicators of water quality. Adults are known for distinctive emergence behaviors, including arboreal emergence in some species. Several species in the genus are experiencing range contractions and population declines due to habitat degradation and climate change.

  PlecopteraPerlidaestonefliesaquatic-insectsbioindicatorspredatory-nymphsarboreal-emergenceNorth-AmericaAsiaVietnamUSAstreamsriverswater-qualitymultivoltinelarge-bodied

• Agabini

  Agabini is a tribe of predaceous diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, comprising approximately 500 species across six genera: Agabus, Ilybius, Platambus, Agabinus, Hydronebrius, and Ilybiosoma. Members are primarily aquatic predators found in lentic (standing water) and lotic (flowing water) habitats across the Holarctic region and beyond. The tribe exhibits diverse life cycle strategies, with variation in overwintering stages and habitat use between aquatic and terrestrial environments.

  predaceous-diving-beetlesaquatic-insectsHolarctic

• Agathon

  Agathon is a genus of net-winged midges in the family Blephariceridae, established by Röder in 1890. These aquatic Diptera are characterized by their distinctive wing venation and are typically found in fast-flowing mountain streams. The genus has a broad distribution across the Holarctic and Oriental regions.

  Blephariceridaenet-winged-midgesaquatic-insectsDipteralotic-habitatsmountain-streams

• Allotrichoma

  A genus of shore flies (Diptera: Ephydridae) established by Becker in 1896. Species in this genus are recorded from Russia, including Volgograd Oblast, Saratov Oblast, and the Republic of Buryatia. The genus is part of the diverse ephydrid fauna associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats.

  DipteraEphydridaeshore-fliesRussiaaquatic-insectsBecker-1896

• Annulipalpia

  fixed-retreat makers

  Annulipalpia is a suborder of Trichoptera (caddisflies) distinguished by the flexible, multi-ringed terminal segment of the adult maxillary palps. Larvae are aquatic and construct fixed retreats—stationary structures to which they remain attached—rather than portable cases. Some families build simple silken tubes anchored to the substrate, while others spin silken nets for filter feeding. The suborder includes families such as Psychomyiidae, Ecnomidae, Xiphocentronidae, Polycentropodidae, and Dipseudopsidae.

  Trichopteraaquatic-insectsfreshwaterfilter-feedersretreat-buildersbioindicators

• Apatania

  Apatania is a genus of caddisflies in the family Apataniidae comprising at least 90 described species. The genus has a Holarctic distribution, with species recorded across Europe, Asia, and North America. Several species have been studied in detail for their larval morphology, life cycles, and behavior. Some species, including A. muliebris, are known to reproduce parthenogenetically.

  TrichopteraApataniidaecaddisflyaquatic-insectsHolarcticparthenogenesisacoustic-communicationcold-stenothermal

• Apataniidae

  Early Smoky Wing Sedges

  Apataniidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as early smoky wing sedges. The family contains approximately 18 genera and at least 180 described species. Members are primarily Holarctic in distribution, with notable diversity in Europe, Asia, and North America. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from mineral particles.

  Trichopteracaddisflyaquatic-insectsfreshwaterHolarcticparthenogenesisbioindicatorendemicmountain-streamscase-building-larvae

• Arthropleidae

  flatheaded mayflies

  Arthropleidae is a family of mayflies in the order Ephemeroptera, characterized by flattened heads. The family contains at least two genera: the extant Arthroplea and the extinct Electrogenia. Members are aquatic insects with life cycles involving aquatic nymphal stages and short-lived winged adults.

  Ephemeropteraaquatic-insectsfreshwaterextinct-genusEuropeAsia

• Athericidae

  water snipe flies, ibis flies

  Athericidae is a small family of flies in the infraorder Tabanomorpha, historically classified within Rhagionidae until separated by Stuckenberg in 1973. The family contains approximately 123 described species distributed worldwide across two subfamilies: Dasyommatinae (monotypic) and Athericinae. Adults are commonly known as water snipe flies or ibis flies. Larvae are strictly aquatic predators in fast-flowing montane streams and torrents, while adults are primarily nectar-feeders with some species exhibiting hematophagy.

  DipteraTabanomorphaaquatic-insectslotic-ecosystemspredatory-larvaeunivoltinehematophagybioindicator

• Atherix

  ibis flies

  Atherix is a genus of 'ibis flies' in the family Athericidae, a small family closely related to Rhagionidae (snipe flies). Species occur across most of Europe and the Nearctic realm. Adults are medium-sized flies; larvae are aquatic predators. Females of some species exhibit distinctive clustering behavior, forming dense aggregations on bridge undersides where eggs are deposited.

  DipteraAthericidaeaquatic-insectspredatory-larvaebridge-dwelling

• Atrichomelina

  snail-killing flies

  Atrichomelina is a genus of marsh flies (family Sciomyzidae) whose larvae are predators of freshwater snails. The genus was established by Cresson in 1920 and contains at least one described species, Atrichomelina pubera. Like other sciomyzids, members of this genus have aquatic or semi-aquatic immature stages that develop in association with mollusk hosts.

  Sciomyzidaesnail-killing-fliesaquatic-insectspredatory-larvaefreshwaterDiptera

• Atrichopogon

  biting midges, grass punkies

  Atrichopogon is a genus of small biting midges in the family Ceratopogonidae, subfamily Forcipomyiinae. Species occur across multiple continents with documented records from the Neotropical region, Patagonia, Europe, and Asia. Some species are ectoparasites of larger insects, while others develop on aquatic vegetation or in terrestrial habitats such as rotting wood. Immature stages show habitat-specific distribution patterns: larvae of A. wirthi occur on water lettuce leaves, and larvae of European Meloehelea subgenus species inhabit rotting pine wood.

  Ceratopogonidaebiting-midgesForcipomyiinaeectoparasitesaquatic-insectsterrestrial-larvaePatagoniaNeotropicalEuropeAsia

• Baetidae

  small mayflies, small minnow mayflies

  Baetidae is the most species-diverse family of mayflies, comprising approximately 1,000 described species in 110-114 genera worldwide and representing about one-third of all mayfly diversity. Adults are among the smallest mayflies, rarely exceeding 10 mm in length excluding tails, with some species much smaller. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution except for New Zealand and occupies a relatively basal position in Ephemeroptera phylogeny.

  Ephemeropteraaquatic-insectsfreshwaterbioindicatorsmultivoltineturbinate-eyesalgal-feedersswimming-nymphs

• Berosini

  Berosini is a tribe of water scavenger beetles (Hydrophilidae: Hydrophilinae) comprising 364 species in five genera: Allocotocerus, Berosus, Derallus, Hemiosus, and Regimbartia. The tribe exhibits significant larval ecological diversification, with evolutionary shifts between benthic and cryptic habitats documented. Phylogenetic analysis supports two major clades: one containing Hemiosus and Berosus, and another containing Derallus, Regimbartia, and Allocotocerus.

  water-scavenger-beetlesaquatic-insectslarval-habitat-shiftbenthic-adaptationriverine-distribution

• Bibiocephala

  net-winged midges

  Bibiocephala is a genus of net-winged midges in the family Blephariceridae, established by Osten Sacken in 1874. The genus contains five described species distributed across the Holarctic region. These midges are members of a specialized family whose larvae inhabit fast-flowing streams and rivers. Adult Bibiocephala are characterized by their distinctive wing venation with dense, net-like crossveins that give the family its common name.

  Blephariceridaenet-winged-midgesaquatic-insectsloticHolarctictorrenticolous

• Brachydeutera

  Brachydeutera is a genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, containing approximately 16 described species. Members of this genus are characterized by their association with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, where they occupy the hyponeustic zone—living just below the water surface. The genus was established by Loew in 1860 and has been documented across various regions with observations spanning multiple continents.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeDipteraaquatic-insectshyponeusticsurface-water

• Bryophaenocladius

  Bryophaenocladius is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. The genus was established by Thienemann in 1934 and includes species distributed across Europe and Asia. Species have been described from Norway, Denmark, Sweden, India, and China. Recent taxonomic work has emended generic diagnoses based on newly discovered morphological characters in multiple life stages.

  non-biting-midgesChironomidaeOrthocladiinaeDipteraaquatic-insectsbenthic-invertebrates

• Caenoidea

  Caenoidea is a superfamily of mayflies within the suborder Pannota, distinguished by the filamentous gills of their nymphs. It comprises four families: Baetiscidae, Caenidae, Neoephemeridae, and Prosopistomatidae. The filamentous gill structure serves as the primary diagnostic feature separating this group from the related superfamily Ephemerelloidea.

  mayfliesaquatic-insectsPannotafilamentous-gillsEphemeroptera

• Caloparyphus

  Caloparyphus is a genus of soldier flies (family Stratiomyidae) comprising approximately 12 described species. Species within this genus are associated with madicolous habitats—thin water films on rock surfaces—in eastern North America. The genus was established by James in 1939 and belongs to the tribe Oxycerini. Larval and adult stages have been described for at least some species.

  soldier-fliesmadicolousaquatic-insectsNorth-America

• Capniidae

  small winter stoneflies, winter stoneflies

  Capniidae, the small winter stoneflies, is one of the largest families in the order Plecoptera, comprising approximately 300 species distributed throughout the Holarctic region. Adults are active during winter months, often observed on snow-covered stream banks when most other insects are dormant. The family exhibits notable adaptations to cold environments, including antifreeze compounds and winglessness in some species, which has led to high endemism and restricted distributions. Their closest relatives are the rolled-winged stoneflies (Leuctridae).

  Plecopterawinter-activecold-adaptedaquatic-insectsbioindicatorHolarctichyporheic-zonedrumming-communicationwingless-speciesendemicstream-ecologyfly-fishing

• Ceraclea

  long-horned caddisfly

  Ceraclea is a genus of long-horned caddisflies (family Leptoceridae) containing over 140 described species. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases using silk and various materials. Multiple species have been documented as freshwater sponge specialists, though feeding habits vary including detritivory. Life cycles range from univoltine to more complex multi-cohort patterns with variable overwintering strategies.

  TrichopteraLeptoceridaeaquatic-insectscaddisflysponge-feedingbenthicstream-ecologycase-building-larvae

• Ceropsilopa

  Ceropsilopa is a genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, established by Cresson in 1917. These small flies are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The genus contains few described species and remains poorly known biologically.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeaquatic-insectsCresson-1917

• Chauliodinae

  Fishflies

  Fishflies (subfamily Chauliodinae) are large, winged insects in the megalopteran family Corydalidae. Adults are distinguished from their close relatives, dobsonflies, by their relatively unremarkable mandibles and feathery antennae in males. Larvae are aquatic predators that inhabit clean, flowing streams, where they prey on other aquatic insects and small vertebrates. The subfamily contains approximately 15 genera and nearly 110 species distributed across North America, South America, Africa, Australia, and Asia.

  Megalopteraaquatic-insectsstream-indicatorsfishing-baitmass-emergencefeathery-antennae

• Chiloxanthinae

  shore bugs

  Chiloxanthinae is a subfamily of shore bugs in the family Saldidae, established by Cobben in 1959. It comprises approximately 7 genera and more than 20 described species. The subfamily includes both extant and extinct taxa, with three fossil genera known from the Oligocene and Eocene. Members are found within the broader shore bug lineage adapted to marginal aquatic habitats.

  shore-bugsHemipteraHeteropteraSaldidaeaquatic-insectsmarginal-aquatic

• Chironomidae

  non-biting midges, chironomids, lake flies, bay flies, sand flies, muckleheads, muffleheads, Canadian soldiers, American soldiers, blind mosquitoes, chizzywinks, bloodworms (larval stage)

  Chironomidae is a large family of non-biting midges with over 10,000 described species globally. Adults are frequently mistaken for mosquitoes due to their similar body shape, but they lack wing scales and piercing mouthparts. The family exhibits remarkable ecological versatility, with larvae inhabiting diverse aquatic and terrestrial environments from Antarctic glaciers to tropical lakes. Males possess distinctive plumose antennae. Larvae of some species contain hemoglobin analogs that produce bright red coloration, earning them the common name 'bloodworms.'

  bioindicatoraquatic-insectsfreshwater-ecologynon-bitingplumose-antennaebloodwormswater-qualitypaleolimnologymass-emergenceextreme-environment-tolerance

• Chironominae

  non-biting midges

  Chironominae is a subfamily of non-biting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae) containing over 2,000 described species across three tribes: Chironomini, Pseudochironomini, and Tanytarsini. Members are globally distributed and primarily aquatic in their immature stages. The subfamily includes economically and ecologically significant genera such as Chironomus, Polypedilum, and Tanytarsus. Adults are characterized by reduced mouthparts and do not feed; larvae are diverse in habitat specialization, ranging from freshwater lakes and rivers to marine environments and phytotelmata.

  Chironomidaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsbioindicatorsholometabolousmating-swarmsfreshwatermarinephytotelmata

• Chironomini

  non-biting midges

  Chironomini is a diverse tribe of non-biting midges within the family Chironomidae. Adults are mosquito-like in appearance but lack piercing mouthparts and are harmless to humans. Larvae are primarily aquatic and play significant roles in freshwater food webs. The tribe contains numerous genera distributed across multiple continents, with species occupying varied freshwater habitats from oligotrophic lakes to eutrophic waters.

  Chironomidaenon-biting-midgesfreshwateraquatic-insectsDipterabioindicatorsbloodworms

• Chironomus

  nonbiting midges, bloodworms

  Chironomus is a genus of nonbiting midges in the family Chironomidae, containing over 200 species. Several species are cryptic and distinguishable only by experts using giant chromosome characteristics. The genus is notable for larvae that inhabit oxygen-poor aquatic sediments, using hemoglobin-like proteins to survive in hypoxic conditions. Adults are recognized by their habit of raising and vibrating their front legs when at rest—a behavior that inspired the genus name derived from Greek 'cheironomos' meaning 'one who moves the hands'.

  nonbiting-midgesbloodwormsaquatic-insectsbioindicatorscryptic-speciespolytene-chromosomeshypoxia-toleranceprofundal-zone

• Chloroperlini

  green stoneflies

  Chloroperlini is a tribe of green stoneflies within the family Chloroperlidae. Members are characterized by their predominantly green coloration as adults and are associated with lotic freshwater habitats. The tribe contains multiple genera distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. Larvae are aquatic and typically found in cool, well-oxygenated streams.

  PlecopteraChloroperlidaegreen-stonefliesaquatic-insectsbioindicatorslotic-habitats

• Cinygmula

  Cinygmula is a genus of flatheaded mayflies (Heptageniidae) comprising at least 30 described species. The genus is characterized by distinctive morphological features in some species, including pointed claws and a distinct frontal fold on the imago. Species occur in high-altitude alpine habitats across central Asia and the eastern Himalaya. The genus has been studied for its potential use as a bioindicator of aquatic contamination.

  EphemeropteraHeptageniidaemayfliesflatheaded-mayfliesalpinebioindicatoraquatic-insects

• Clanoneurum

  shore flies

  Clanoneurum is a genus of shore flies (family Ephydridae) established by Becker in 1903. The genus contains at least four described species distributed across multiple continents, including C. americanum, C. cimiciforme, C. menozzii, and C. orientale. Shore flies in this family are generally associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats.

  Ephydridaeshore-fliesDipteraaquatic-insects

• Climacia

  spongillaflies

  Climacia is a genus of spongillaflies in the family Sisyridae, containing more than 20 described species. Larvae of this genus are obligate associates of freshwater sponges, feeding on sponge tissues. Adults are short-lived and non-feeding. The genus is found in freshwater habitats across North America.

  NeuropteraSisyridaefreshwatersponge-parasiteaquatic-insectsNorth-America

• Clinocera binotata

  Clinocera binotata is a species of dance fly in the family Empididae, subfamily Clinocerinae. The species was described by Loew in 1876. Like other members of the genus Clinocera, it is associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The specific epithet 'binotata' refers to two spots or markings, likely describing a distinctive pattern on the body.

  EmpididaeDipteraaquatic-insectsdance-fliesClinocerinae

• Cloeon

  Double-gilled Pond Creepers

  Cloeon is a cosmopolitan genus of mayflies in the family Baetidae, commonly known as Double-gilled Pond Creepers. Species in this genus are aquatic as larvae (naiads) and inhabit diverse freshwater environments. At least one species, C. dipterum, is known to give birth to live naiads rather than laying eggs externally. The genus has been studied for its tolerance to environmental stressors including temperature and oxygen fluctuations.

  mayfliesaquatic-insectsBaetidaecosmopolitanlive-bearingwater-quality-indicator

• Coelotanypus

  Coelotanypus is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. The genus contains approximately five described species. It is classified within the tribe Coelotanypodini, a group characterized by predatory larval habits. Species in this genus have been documented in the Americas, with records from Colombia and Norway.

  ChironomidaeTanypodinaeCoelotanypodininon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectspredatory-larvae

• Coenia

  Coenia is a genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, established by Robineau-Desvoidy in 1830. The genus contains at least six described species distributed across parts of Europe and North America. Shore flies in this family are typically associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, including margins of water bodies and moist substrates.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeDipteraaquatic-insects

• Coenia curvicauda

  shore fly

  Coenia curvicauda is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae. The species was first described by Meigen in 1830, originally placed in the genus Ephydra. Shore flies in this family are typically associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats.

  shore-flyEphydridaeDipteraaquatic-insects

• Colymbetinae

  Colymbetinae is a subfamily of predaceous diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, containing approximately 11 genera and at least 130 described species. Members are aquatic predators found in diverse freshwater habitats across multiple continents. The subfamily includes the genera Colymbetes, Rhantus, Meladema, and others, with some species serving as indicators of wetland conservation value.

  diving-beetlesaquatic-insectspredaceous-beetlesfreshwater-invertebrates

• Corduliidae

  emeralds, emerald dragonflies, green-eyed skimmers, baskettails, sundragons, shadowdragons, boghaunters

  Corduliidae is a family of dragonflies commonly known as emeralds or emerald dragonflies, characterized by metallic green or yellow coloration and large emerald-green eyes. The family includes diverse genera such as baskettails (Epitheca), sundragons (Helocordulia), shadowdragons (Neurocordulia), and boghaunters (Williamsonia). Adults are typically black or dark brown with metallic markings, while larvae are black, hairy-looking, and semiaquatic. The family has a nearly worldwide distribution.

  Odonatadragonfliesemeraldsbaskettailsaquatic-insects

• Corisella

  water boatmen

  Corisella is a genus of water boatmen in the family Corixidae, established by Lundblad in 1928. The genus contains approximately five described species distributed in the Americas. Members are aquatic true bugs inhabiting freshwater environments. One species, Corisella edulis, has been documented as a host for the peritrich ciliate epibiont Orbopercularia lichtensteini in Mexico.

  CorixidaeNepomorphafreshwateraquatic-insectsepibiont-host

• Corixoidea

  water boatmen, pygmy water boatmen

  Corixoidea is a superfamily of aquatic true bugs (Nepomorpha) containing two families: Corixidae (water boatmen) and Micronectidae (pygmy water boatmen). Members are exclusively aquatic, inhabiting ponds, slow-moving streams, and other freshwater bodies. The superfamily is distinguished by adaptations for underwater life including modified antennae with mechanoreceptive and chemoreceptive sensilla, and diverse feeding strategies ranging from detritivory to predation. Corixidae is the larger family with approximately 500 species worldwide, while Micronectidae contains smaller-bodied species with distinct antennal morphology supporting its family-level recognition.

  Nepomorphaaquatic-insectsfreshwaterHemipteraHeteropterawater-boatmenMicronectidaeCorixidaeantennal-sensilladetritivorypredationAustralasiasystematicsSEM-morphologyzoogeography

• Corydalinae

  Dobsonflies

  Corydalinae is a subfamily of large megalopteran insects commonly known as dobsonflies. Adults are among the largest winged insects in their range, with males of some species possessing dramatically elongated mandibles used in intraspecific combat. Larvae, called hellgrammites, are aquatic predators inhabiting clean, fast-flowing streams. The subfamily contains nine genera distributed across the Americas, Asia, and South Africa, with notable Oriental genera including Neurhermes and Nevromus. Some Corydalinae species exhibit striking coloration patterns that likely represent Batesian mimicry of diurnal toxic moths.

  Megalopteraaquatic-insectsstream-ecologybioindicatorsBatesian-mimicrythermoregulationfishing-baitOriental-realmbenthic-predatorsamphibious-life-history

• Corynoneura

  non-biting midges

  Corynoneura is a speciose genus of small, non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae. Members occur worldwide except Antarctica, inhabiting both flowing and standing freshwater across various thermal regimes. The genus has been subject to extensive taxonomic revision, with numerous species described from the Neotropical region and Oriental China in recent decades. DNA barcoding studies support the use of molecular data for species delimitation where morphology alone is insufficient.

  ChironomidaeOrthocladiinaenon-biting-midgesfreshwateraquatic-insectsDNA-barcodingcryptic-specieswater-treatmentmultivoltine

• Cryptochironomus

  non-biting midges

  Cryptochironomus is a genus of non-biting midges (family Chironomidae) with over 80 described species distributed worldwide. The genus belongs to the Harnischia generic complex within the subfamily Chironominae. Larvae are aquatic and inhabit bottoms of lakes and large rivers, with some species also found in small streams. Species have been documented from North America, Europe, and Asia, including detailed studies from Lake Winnipeg, Michigan, and China.

  Chironomidaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwaterHarnischia-complexindicator-species

• Diamesa

  Winter Midges, Snow Midges

  Diamesa is a genus of non-biting midges in the subfamily Diamesinae of the family Chironomidae. Adults are commonly known as winter midges or snow midges due to their unusual cold-season activity. The genus exhibits remarkable cold tolerance, with adults active at sub-zero temperatures and larvae inhabiting cold, running waters. Some species display wing dimorphism, with brachypterous (short-winged) forms adapted for ground mating on snow and ice, and macropterous (fully-winged) forms that swarm in flight during spring.

  ChironomidaeDiamesinaewinter-activitycold-adaptationbrachypterywing-dimorphismglacial-streamssnow-midgesbioindicatormountain-insectsarctic-alpinemultivoltinecrenalaquatic-insects

• Dicrotendipes

  non-biting midges

  Dicrotendipes is a globally distributed genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae. The genus was established by Kieffer in 1913 and contains approximately 25 described species. Larvae of some species have been documented from lotic (flowing water) habitats in Australia, where they exhibit distinctive morphological features including unique arrangements of ventral tubules and characteristic head capsule pigmentation.

  chironomidaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectslotic-habitats

• Dimecoenia

  shore flies

  Dimecoenia is a genus of shore flies established by Cresson in 1916, comprising approximately 18 described species. Members of this genus belong to the family Ephydridae, a diverse group of small flies commonly associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The genus is characterized by morphological features typical of ephydrid flies, though specific diagnostic traits distinguishing Dimecoenia from related genera require detailed examination.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeaquatic-insectsDipterawetland-insectsCresson-1916

• Diplectrona

  diplectronan caddisflies

  Diplectrona is a genus of net-spinning caddisflies in the family Hydropsychidae, containing over 100 described species distributed across multiple continents. The genus exhibits considerable morphological diversity in both larvae and adults, with larvae inhabiting various lotic freshwater habitats. Recent studies have revealed cryptic diversity within currently recognized species, particularly in North America, suggesting the genus requires taxonomic revision. Species occur in Asia, Europe, North America, and other regions, with new country records continuing to be documented.

  TrichopteraHydropsychidaecaddisflyaquatic-insectsnet-spinning-caddisfliesfreshwater-invertebratesbenthic-macroinvertebratescryptic-diversityDNA-barcodinglotic-habitats

• Diplocladius

  Diplocladius is a genus of non-biting midges in the bloodworm family Chironomidae. It belongs to the subfamily Orthocladiinae, a diverse group of chironomid midges commonly found in aquatic and semi-aquatic environments. The genus was established by Kieffer in 1908 and contains four recognized species. These midges are part of the benthic macroinvertebrate communities of freshwater systems.

  ChironomidaeOrthocladiinaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsbenthic-macroinvertebratesfreshwater

• Diploperlini

  springflies

  Diploperlini is a tribe of springflies (Plecoptera) in the family Perlodidae, established by Stark & Szczytko in 1984. The tribe comprises approximately 13 genera and more than 30 described species. Members of this tribe are aquatic insects in the nymphal stage and terrestrial as adults.

  stonefliesspringfliesaquatic-insectsPerlodidaePlecoptera

• Dixa

  Dixa is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Dixidae, established by Johann Wilhelm Meigen in 1818. The genus has cosmopolitan distribution, with species recorded across Europe, North America, and other regions. Species-level taxonomy within Dixa has been subject to recent revision, with several new species described from North America and taxonomic confusion resolved for historically problematic names such as D. modesta. Larvae develop in aquatic environments, particularly lotic (flowing water) habitats.

  DipteraDixidaeaquatic-insectsmidgeslotic-habitatscosmopolitan-distributionMeigen-1818

• Djalmabatista

  Djalmabatista is a genus of non-biting midges (Chironomidae) established by Fittkau in 1968. The genus belongs to the subfamily Tanypodinae and tribe Procladiini. Approximately 14 species have been described. These midges are aquatic in their larval stages and are part of the diverse chironomid fauna found in freshwater habitats.

  chironomidaemidgesaquatic-insectsfreshwatertanypodinae

• Donaciinae

  Aquatic Leaf Beetles, Reed Beetles

  Donaciinae is a subfamily of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) comprising approximately 100 species across six genera, including Donacia, Macroplea, and Plateumaris. Members are strongly associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats, with larvae developing underwater attached to plant roots. The subfamily is characterized by distinctive morphological adaptations and an obligate symbiosis with bacteria that produce the silk-like material used to construct waterproof pupal cocoons. Donaciinae are primarily distributed in the Northern Hemisphere with extensions into Africa, Madagascar, and Australasia.

  aquatic-insectswetland-beetlesbacterial-symbiosisleaf-beetlesChrysomelidaeHolarcticherbivoresfreshwater

• Drunella

  Blue-winged Olives, Spiny Crawler Mayflies

  Drunella is a genus of spiny crawler mayflies in the family Ephemerellidae, comprising at least 20 described species. These mayflies are aquatic insects with nymphs that inhabit stream environments and are significant components of freshwater food webs. Adults are important to fly fishermen, who commonly refer to them as "Blue-winged Olives" and imitate them with artificial flies. Some species, such as Drunella grandis (the green drake), are particularly valued as trout food sources.

  Ephemeropteramayfliesaquatic-insectsfly-fishingstream-ecologybioindicatorstrout-food

• Dytiscinae

  predaceous diving beetles

  Dytiscinae is a subfamily of predaceous diving beetles (family Dytiscidae) containing at least 20 genera and approximately 380 described species. Members are medium to large diving beetles found in aquatic habitats across most continents. The subfamily includes well-known genera such as Dytiscus, Cybister, Acilius, and Hydaticus. Species are predatory in both adult and larval stages, with larvae often called 'water tigers' for their voracious feeding habits.

  Dytiscidaepredaceous-diving-beetlesfreshwaterpredatorbioindicatoraquatic-insectsColeopteraAdephaga

• Ecdyonurus

  Ecdyonurus is a genus of mayflies in the family Heptageniidae, comprising approximately 66 described species distributed primarily across Europe and parts of North Africa and Asia. The genus is taxonomically well-studied, with multiple species described in recent decades from mountain regions including the Carpathians, Crimean Peninsula, and Aurès Mountains. Species within this genus are typically associated with running waters and have been subjects of ecological studies on larval growth and thermal biology.

  EphemeropteraHeptageniidaemayfliesfreshwateraquatic-insectsPalearcticmountain-streamslotic-habitats

• Elliptera

  Elliptera is a genus of crane flies in the family Limoniidae, established by Schiner in 1863. The genus comprises ten described species distributed across the Holarctic region, including North America, Europe, and East Asia. Immature stages have been described for only a few species, with larvae inhabiting aquatic, hygropetric environments on wet rocks in mountainous areas.

  crane-flyLimoniidaeDipteraaquatic-insectshygropetricmadicolousHolarcticmountain-streams

• Endochironomus

  Endochironomus is a genus of non-biting midges in the bloodworm family Chironomidae. The genus was established by Kieffer in 1918 and contains at least six described species distributed across Europe and North America. Members belong to the subfamily Chironominae and tribe Chironomini. As with other chironomid midges, adults do not feed and lack functional mouthparts.

  chironomidaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwater

• Ephemeridae

  Burrowing Mayflies

  Ephemeridae is a family of large mayflies comprising approximately 150 described species distributed worldwide except Australia and Oceania. Adults range up to 35 mm in length and possess either two or three elongated caudal filaments. Many species exhibit distinctively patterned wings. The family is commonly known as "burrowing mayflies" due to the fossorial adaptations of their nymphs, which inhabit silty or sandy substrates in freshwater systems. Nymphs possess specialized morphological features including spur-like projections on foretibiae, dorsally positioned plumose and lanceolate abdominal gills, and mandibular tusks that facilitate burrowing behavior.

  Ephemeropteramayfliesburrowingaquatic-insectsbioindicatorsdetritivoresbenthicfreshwaterfossorialEPT-index

• Ephemeroptera

  mayflies, Canadian soldiers, shadflies, fishflies, up-winged flies

  Mayflies (Ephemeroptera) represent the oldest known winged insects, with fossil evidence dating to approximately 350 million years ago in the lower Carboniferous. The order contains over 3,000 described species across more than 400 genera and 42 families worldwide. Adults are characterized by short lifespans—typically hours to days—and a unique subimaginal stage where the winged but sexually immature subimago undergoes a final molt to become a reproductive imago. Larvae are exclusively aquatic and serve as important indicators of water quality in freshwater ecosystems.

  aquatic-insectsbioindicatorsPalaeopteraancient-winged-insectsfreshwater-ecologydiel-driftsubimagowater-quality-indicatorsmass-emergenceentomology

• Ephydrinae

  shore flies

  Ephydrinae is a subfamily of shore flies within the family Ephydridae, first described by Zetterstedt in 1837. The subfamily contains four recognized tribes: Ephydrini, Scatellini, Parydrini, and Dagini. Members are commonly found in association with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The group includes genera such as Ephydra, Scatella, and Parydra.

  shore-fliesaquatic-insectsDipteraEphydridaebrackish-water

• Eucorethra

  phantom midges

  Eucorethra is a monotypic genus of phantom midges in the family Chaoboridae, containing the single species Eucorethra underwoodi. This genus belongs to a family of non-biting midges known for their distinctive aquatic larvae. The genus was established by Underwood in 1903.

  monotypicphantom-midgeaquatic-insectsnon-biting-midges

• Euparyphus

  Euparyphus is a genus of soldier flies (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) in the tribe Oxycerini. Species in this genus are associated with madicolous habitats—thin water films on rock surfaces—in eastern North America. The genus contains approximately 30 described species distributed across the Americas, with adults and immature stages described for several North American species.

  DipteraStratiomyidaesoldier-fliesmadicolousaquatic-insectsNorth-AmericaOxycerini

• Feuerborniella opposita

  Feuerborniella opposita is a species of moth fly in the family Psychodidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1901. The genus Feuerborniella comprises small, delicate flies commonly associated with moist or aquatic environments. As a member of Psychodidae, it belongs to a diverse family of nematoceran Diptera with larvae typically found in wet habitats. The species is documented from a limited number of observations, suggesting it may be uncommon or underrecorded.

  Psychodidaemoth-flyDipteranematoceraaquatic-insectsNorth-America

• Gastrops

  shore flies

  Gastrops is a genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, established by Williston in 1897. The genus contains approximately eight described species distributed across the Neotropical and Nearctic regions. Members of this genus are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats typical of ephydrid flies.

  shore-fliesaquatic-insectsDipteraEphydridaeNeotropicalNearctic

• Gerridae

  water striders, water bugs, pond skaters, water skippers, Jesus bugs, water skeeters, water scooters, water gliders, water skimmers, puddle flies

  Gerridae are a family of true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) renowned for their ability to walk on water. They possess hydrofuge hairpiles covering the body and specialized leg structures that exploit water surface tension. Most species inhabit freshwater, though the genus Halobates is exceptional as the only truly oceanic insect, living on open ocean surfaces. Over 1,700 species have been described, with body lengths ranging from 2–36 mm. They are predatory, feeding on surface-trapped invertebrates.

  aquatic-insectssurface-tensionwing-polymorphismmarine-insectspredatory-bugsneustonpleustonbiomechanicsterritorialityvibration-communication

• Goeridae

  Armour-ballast Caddisflies

  Goeridae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) comprising approximately 12 genera and at least 160 described species. Larvae are primarily lotic, inhabiting streams and rivers, with some species occupying madicolous habitats such as wet cliff faces. The family is distinguished by larval case construction incorporating ballast stones for weight and stability. Adults exhibit highly modified male genitalia and maxillary palps in some species. Goeridae has a Holarctic distribution with records from North America, Europe, and Asia.

  Trichopteracaddisflyaquatic-insectsloticcase-buildingballast-stonesHolarcticbioindicatorstream-ecologymadicolous

• Greniera

  Greniera is a genus of black flies in the family Simuliidae, established by Doby and David in 1959. The genus belongs to the tribe Prosimuliini and includes at least two described species: Greniera abdita and Greniera abditoides. Species are known from Europe and North America.

  black-fliesSimuliidaeProsimuliiniaquatic-insectslotic

• Guttipelopia

  Guttipelopia is a genus of non-biting midges in the subfamily Tanypodinae, family Chironomidae. The genus is distinguished by distinctive wing pigmentation patterns featuring darkened areas (guttae) on the wing membrane. Taxonomic review has clarified species boundaries, confirming the conspecificity of Nearctic G. multipunctata and Palaearctic G. guttipennis, with G. currani synonymized under the latter. The genus contains three recognized species: G. guttipennis, G. currani, and G. rosenbergi.

  ChironomidaeTanypodinaenon-biting-midgesbloodwormswing-pigmentationguttaePentaneuriniaquatic-insectsDiptera

• Gymnochthebius

  minute moss beetles

  Gymnochthebius is a genus of minute moss beetles in the family Hydraenidae, containing more than 60 described species. The genus is particularly diverse in Australia and Papua New Guinea, where 36 species have been documented. These small water beetles inhabit marginal zones of aquatic habitats and show microhabitat specialization correlated with morphological adaptations.

  water-beetlesaquatic-insectsmicrohabitat-specializationAustralian-endemismtaxonomic-revision

• Gymnomyzinae

  shore flies

  Gymnomyzinae is a subfamily of shore flies within the family Ephydridae. The subfamily comprises approximately seven genera and nine described species. Members are classified into five tribes: Discocerinini, Gastropini, Gymnomyzini, Hecamedini, and Lipochaetini, plus the unplaced tribe Ochtherini. The genus Ochthera, with approximately 37 described species, is the most species-rich and well-known group within this subfamily.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeaquatic-insectspredatory-flieswetland-faunabiological-control

• Habrophlebiodes

  Habrophlebiodes is a genus of mayflies in the family Leptophlebiidae, established by Ulmer in 1920. The genus contains species distributed across Asia and the Americas, with at least four Asian species documented. Asian species include three endemics to China (H. gilliesi, H. tenella, H. zijinensis) plus H. prominens. The genus is divided into two distinct clades with morphological differences separating Asian and American species.

  mayfliesaquatic-insectsAsiaChina

• Helopicus

  springflies

  Helopicus is a genus of springflies (order Plecoptera) in the family Perlodidae, established by Ricker in 1952. The genus contains at least four described species distributed across eastern North America and parts of Asia. Species in this genus are part of the stonefly group Systellognatha, characterized by their predatory or omnivorous feeding habits as nymphs.

  PlecopteraPerlodidaespringfliesstonefliesaquatic-insectsbioindicators

• Hemerodromiini

  Hemerodromiini is a tribe of dance flies (family Empididae) within the subfamily Empidinae. Members of this tribe are small to medium-sized predatory flies characterized by their distinctive leg structure and behavior. The tribe is distinguished from related groups by morphological adaptations associated with their characteristic hunting strategy. Hemerodromiini species are found across various habitats, particularly in association with running water and moist environments.

  DipteraEmpididaedance-fliespredatory-fliesaquatic-insectsraptorial-legsrunning-waterriparian

• Heptageniidae

  Stream Mayflies, Flat-headed Mayflies

  Heptageniidae is a family of mayflies comprising over 500 described species, commonly known as stream mayflies or flat-headed mayflies. Members are generally small with three long tails, clear wings with prominent venation, and males possess large compound eyes that are not divided into upper and lower parts. The family is primarily distributed across the Holarctic, Oriental, and Afrotropical regions, with additional presence in Central American tropics and extreme northern South America. Nymphs are flattened in shape, typically dark in coloration, and inhabit fast-flowing streams where they exhibit diverse feeding strategies including herbivory, scavenging, and predation.

  mayfliesaquatic-insectsstream-ecologybioindicatorsEphemeroptera

• Heterocloeon

  small minnow mayflies

  Heterocloeon is a genus of small minnow mayflies in the family Baetidae, containing approximately nine described species. These mayflies are part of the diverse Baetidae family, which is one of the largest families of mayflies. The genus was established by McDunnough in 1925. Species within this genus have been studied in relation to environmental modifications, particularly the effects of reservoir impoundment on their life history.

  EphemeropteraBaetidaemayfliesaquatic-insectsbenthic-macroinvertebratesNorth-America

• Heteroplectron

  Heteroplectron is a genus of caddisflies in the family Calamoceratidae, established by McLachlan in 1871. The genus contains at least three described species: Heteroplectron americanum (eastern North America), Heteroplectron californicum (western North America), and Heteroplectron yamaguchii (East Asia). As members of the Calamoceratidae, species in this genus construct distinctive larval cases.

  TrichopteraCalamoceratidaecaddisflyaquatic-insectscase-building-larvaeNorth-AmericaEast-Asia

• Homoeoneuria

  brushleg mayflies

  Homoeoneuria is a genus of brushleg mayflies in the family Oligoneuriidae, established by Eaton in 1881. The genus contains at least five described species, with confirmed records in North America (including the type species H. salviniae) and South America (Brazil, Peru, Argentina, and Colombia). A new species, H. (H.) watu, was described from Southeastern Brazil based on distinctive adult and nymphal morphological characters. The genus is poorly documented in northern South America, with recent confirmations extending its known range.

  EphemeropteraOligoneuriidaemayfliesSouth-Americafreshwater-insectsaquatic-insects

• Homoplectra

  homoplectran caddisflies

  Homoplectra is a genus of netspinning caddisflies in the family Hydropsychidae, established by Ross in 1938. The genus comprises approximately 11 described species distributed in North America and Japan. As members of Hydropsychidae, larvae construct fixed capture nets to filter food from flowing water. The genus includes the recently described species H. gracilis from Japanese headwater streams.

  TrichopteraHydropsychidaenetspinning-caddisfliesaquatic-insectsfilter-feedersstream-ecology

• Hydrelliinae

  Hydrelliinae is a subfamily of shore flies within the family Ephydridae, comprising approximately 10 genera and at least 130 described species. These small flies are primarily associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic environments. The subfamily is distinguished by ecological and morphological traits that separate it from other ephydrid groups. Members are found across multiple continents with varying habitat preferences.

  shore-fliesaquatic-insectsEphydridaeDipterawetland-fauna

• Hydroporinae

  Hydroporinae is a large subfamily of predaceous diving beetles (family Dytiscidae) containing at least 2,200 described species. Members are primarily aquatic, inhabiting diverse freshwater habitats from lentic pools to lotic streams across all continents except Antarctica. The subfamily exhibits remarkable diversity in body size, with some species among the smallest diving beetles known. Many species are habitat specialists, including stygobiont forms adapted to subterranean waters.

  diving-beetlesDytiscidaefreshwaterpredatoryaquatic-insectsbiodiversitystygobiontgroundwater

• Hydroporini

  Hydroporini is a tribe of predaceous diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, containing at least 730 described species. Members are primarily aquatic, inhabiting freshwater environments including streams, rivers, and groundwater systems. The tribe exhibits a broad geographic distribution spanning Australia, New Guinea, Europe, and other regions, with notable diversity hotspots in south-western Australia.

  ColeopteraDytiscidaediving-beetlespredaceous-diving-beetlesfreshwateraquatic-insectsHydroporinae

• Hydropsychidae

  Net-spinning Caddisflies

  Hydropsychidae, commonly known as net-spinning caddisflies, is a family of aquatic insects in the order Trichoptera. Larvae construct silk nets at the openings of their retreats to capture food particles from flowing water. The family is globally distributed in freshwater habitats and serves as important bioindicators of stream health. Larvae exhibit unique behaviors including territorial defense through stridulation and competitive interactions for retreat ownership.

  aquatic-insectsbioindicatorsnet-spinning-caddisfliesstridulationstream-ecologyfilter-feedersterritorial-behaviorfreshwater-biodiversity

• Hydroptilidae

  Microcaddisflies, Purse-case Caddisflies

  Hydroptilidae is the largest family of caddisflies (Trichoptera), comprising over 2,600 species in 76 genera and six subfamilies. Adults are minute, rarely exceeding 5 mm in length, making them the smallest caddisflies. They are characterized by simple hypermetamorphosis in larvae: early instars (I–IV) are caseless and free-living, while the final instar (V) constructs a distinctive purse-shaped portable case and develops a greatly enlarged (physogastric) abdomen as the primary feeding and growing stage. The family has a worldwide distribution, with subfamilies showing distinct regional patterns. Adults are strongly attracted to ultraviolet lights and may congregate in large numbers.

  Trichopteracaddisfliesmicrocaddisfliesaquatic-insectshypermetamorphosispurse-caseUV-light-attractionworldwide-distributionhigh-diversitysmall-size

• Hyporhygma

  Hyporhygma is a genus of non-biting midges (Chironomidae) described by Reiss in 1982. As a member of this large dipteran family, adults are characterized by reduced mouthparts and aquatic larval stages. The genus is part of the diverse chironomid fauna found in freshwater habitats worldwide.

  chironomidaedipteranon-biting-midgeaquatic-insectsfreshwater

• Ilytheinae

  shore flies

  Ilytheinae is a subfamily of shore flies within the family Ephydridae (order Diptera). The subfamily comprises two tribes: Ilytheini and Hyadinini, containing approximately 12 genera including Donaceus, Ilythea, Hyadina, and Nostima. Members of this subfamily are associated with moist or aquatic habitats, consistent with the broader ecology of Ephydridae.

  shore-flieswetland-insectsEphydridaeDipteraaquatic-insects

• Ioscytus

  Ioscytus is a genus of shore bugs in the family Saldidae, established by Reuter in 1912. The genus contains seven described species distributed in North America. These insects are associated with moist shoreline habitats. Members of this genus are part of the leptopodomorphan lineage within the true bugs.

  shore-bugsSaldidaeLeptopodomorphaNorth-Americaaquatic-insectsHemiptera

• Isonychiidae

  Brush-legged Mayflies

  Isonychiidae is a monogeneric family of mayflies containing the single extant genus Isonychia Eaton, 1871, with approximately 37 species distributed across the Holarctic and Oriental regions. The family is characterized by distinctive brush-like or hairy legs in the adult stage, giving rise to the common name "brush-legged mayflies." Species inhabit flowing water habitats, with nymphs occurring on rocky substrates in streams and creeks. The family is among the earliest reported groups of Chinese Ephemeroptera and is relatively abundant at suitable sampling sites.

  mayfliesaquatic-insectsfreshwaterHolarcticOrientalChinastreamsbrush-legged

• Krenosmittia

  Krenosmittia is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. The genus contains approximately 20 described species. Larvae have been documented inhabiting the hyporheic zone—the saturated interstitial spaces beneath and alongside stream beds—rather than typical surface sediments. Species occur across parts of Europe, Asia, and Russia.

  chironomidaeorthocladiinaehyporheic-zoneaquatic-insectsgroundwater-fauna

• Labrundinia

  Labrundinia is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. The genus was established by Fittkau in 1962 and is predominantly tropical in distribution, though its type species Labrundinia longipalpis exhibits an anomalous Holarctic range. Species in this genus are aquatic in their immature stages and belong to the bloodworm group of chironomids.

  ChironomidaeTanypodinaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsDiptera

• Leptocerus

  long-horned caddisflies

  Leptocerus is a genus of long-horned caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, comprising more than 140 described species. Larvae construct species-specific protective cases. The genus includes species of conservation concern, such as the critically endangered Leptocerus interruptus.

  Trichopteracaddisflyaquatic-insectsfreshwaterconservationEuropeNorth-America

• Leptopodomorpha

  shore bugs, spiny shore bugs

  Leptopodomorpha is an infraorder of true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) comprising over 380 species across four families. The group is commonly known as shore bugs or spiny shore bugs due to their association with riparian and intertidal habitats. The family Saldidae dominates the infraorder with approximately 350 species and is notable for jumping ability. The remaining families—Leptopodidae, Omaniidae, and Aepophilidae—are considerably smaller, with Leptopodidae containing about 30 species and the latter two families being highly reduced.

  HemipteraHeteropterashore-bugsaquatic-insectsintertidalriparian

• Liancalus hydrophilus

  Liancalus hydrophilus is a species of long-legged fly in the family Dolichopodidae, described by Aldrich in 1893. It belongs to a genus whose members are associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. Like other dolichopodids, adults are predatory on small insects. The species epithet 'hydrophilus' (water-loving) reflects its affinity for moist environments. Very few observations of this species have been documented.

  DipteraDolichopodidaelong-legged-fliesaquatic-insectspredatory-flies

• Liancalus limbatus

  Liancalus limbatus is a species of long-legged fly in the family Dolichopodidae, described by Van Duzee in 1917. The genus Liancalus belongs to the subfamily Hydrophorinae, a group associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. Like other dolichopodids, members of this genus are predatory as adults. The specific epithet "limbatus" refers to a bordered or edged characteristic, though the precise morphological basis for this name is not documented in available sources.

  DolichopodidaeHydrophorinaelong-legged-fliesaquatic-insectspredatory-fliesNorth-America

• Libellulidae

  skimmers, perchers, chasers, darters, meadowhawks

  Libellulidae is the largest family of dragonflies, comprising over 1000 species with nearly worldwide distribution. Members are commonly known as skimmers, perchers, chasers, or darters. The family is characterized by broad, often flattened abdomens and a tendency to perch frequently. Many species display bright colors or banded wings. The family name derives from Latin "libella," meaning a carpenter's level, referencing the insect's ability to remain level when hovering. Larvae have stout bodies with the labium developed into a mask over the lower face. The earliest fossil record dates to the Late Cretaceous (Turonian) of Kazakhstan.

  dragonfliesodonataanisopteraaquatic-insectspredatorswetland-indicatorswidespread-family

• Limnellia

  Limnellia is a genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, established by Malloch in 1925. These small dipterans are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic environments. The genus has been recorded from northern European countries including Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. As with other ephydrid flies, species in this genus likely develop in moist habitats with organic matter.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeaquatic-insectsDipteranorthern-EuropeMalloch-1925

• Limnephiloidea

  Limnephiloidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) established by Kolenati in 1848. It encompasses several families of case-making caddisflies, including the diverse family Limnephilidae. Members of this superfamily are predominantly found in freshwater aquatic habitats during their larval stages.

  Trichopteracaddisflyfreshwateraquatic-insectscase-makers

• Limnichidae

  Minute Marsh-loving Beetles

  Limnichidae is a family of small beetles in the superfamily Byrrhoidea, comprising at least 30 genera and 350 described species. The family exhibits considerable ecological diversity: while many species inhabit water-adjacent habitats such as riparian zones and coastal areas, others are fully terrestrial in leaf litter or arboreal environments. The subfamily Hyphalinae is uniquely specialized for intertidal marine habitats, with larvae capable of activity in seawater—a rarity among beetles. The oldest known fossils date to the mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber.

  beetlesaquatic-insectsintertidalripariantropical-diversityCretaceous-fossils

• Limnophyes

  Limnophyes is a genus of non-biting midges (Chironomidae) in the subfamily Orthocladiinae. Species occupy diverse aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats including springs, wetlands, and leaf mines. The genus has a Holarctic distribution with some species showing global ranges, and contains approximately 40 described species. Several species exhibit specialized ecological associations, including crenophily (spring-dwelling) and commensal leaf-mining behavior.

  ChironomidaeOrthocladiinaenon-biting-midgescrenophilousleaf-minersHolarcticaquatic-insects

• Limonia

  Limonia is a genus of crane flies in the family Limoniidae, established by Meigen in 1803. The genus is taxonomically broad and serves as a provisional grouping for species that may require reclassification to other genera. Species of Limonia are found across multiple continents, with documented diversity in East Asia, Europe, and North America. The genus includes both widespread and regionally endemic species.

  crane-flyLimoniidaeaquatic-insectsKorean-faunaHolarctic-distribution

• Lipogomphus

  Lipogomphus is a genus of velvet water bugs in the family Hebridae, established by Berg in 1879. The genus contains at least four described species distributed in the New World. Members of this genus are small predatory aquatic insects associated with wet habitats.

  Hebridaevelvet-water-bugsaquatic-insectsDipsocoromorphaNeotropicalNearctic

• Lytogaster excavata

  Lytogaster excavata is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, first described by Sturtevant and Wheeler in 1954. The genus Lytogaster belongs to a group of small flies commonly associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. Records indicate this species has been documented in natural history collections, though detailed biological information remains limited.

  shore-flyEphydridaeDipteraaquatic-insects

• Macdunnoa

  Macdunnoa is a genus of mayflies in the family Heptageniidae, established by Lehmkuhl in 1979. The genus belongs to the order Ephemeroptera, a group of aquatic insects known for their brief adult lifespan. Very few observations of this genus have been recorded, with only a single documented observation in iNaturalist. As a member of Heptageniidae, it is part of a diverse family of flat-headed mayflies commonly found in running water habitats.

  mayfliesHeptageniidaeaquatic-insectsrarely-recorded

• Macromiidae

  cruisers, skimmers

  Macromiidae is a family of large dragonflies commonly called cruisers or skimmers, containing approximately 125 species in three genera (Epophthalmia, Macromia, Phyllomacromia). Adults are known for their distinctive flight pattern of patrolling straight down the middle of water bodies and roads. The family is widely distributed across the Holarctic, Afrotropical, Australasian, and Indo-Malayan regions, with highest diversity in East and Southeast Asia, North America, and sub-Saharan Africa. Females lack an ovipositor and deposit eggs by dipping their abdomen into water during flight.

  dragonfliesodonatacruisersaquatic-insects

• Martarega

  backswimmers

  Martarega is a genus of backswimmers in the family Notonectidae, containing approximately 13-20 described species distributed throughout the Western Hemisphere from the southern United States to Argentina. The genus was established by White in 1879 and is classified within the tribe Nychiini. Brazil harbors the greatest diversity with 14 recorded species, though distributional gaps remain across 11 Brazilian states. Recent records have documented the first occurrence of the genus in the United States and expanded known ranges in eastern Brazil.

  backswimmersNotonectidaeaquatic-insectsHemipteraNeotropical

• Maruina

  Maruina is a genus of moth flies (Psychodidae) containing approximately 39 described species. The genus is unique among Psychodidae in being strictly aquatic, with larvae and pupae specially adapted for life in flowing water. It is restricted to the Western Hemisphere, with the majority of species occurring in the Neotropical region. The genus is divided into two subgenera: Aculcina and Maruina.

  Psychodidaemoth-fliesaquatic-insectsNeotropicalWestern-Hemisphereflowing-water

• Matriella

  Matriella is a genus of mayflies in the family Ephemerellidae, established by Jacobus & McCafferty in 2008. As a relatively recently described genus within the spiny crawler mayfly family, it represents part of the ongoing taxonomic refinement of Ephemerellidae. The genus belongs to the order Ephemeroptera, an ancient group of aquatic insects with aquatic immature stages and terrestrial adults. Specific details about species diversity and biology within Matriella remain limited in available sources.

  EphemeropteraEphemerellidaemayfliesspiny-crawler-mayfliesaquatic-insects

• Megaloptera

  alderflies, dobsonflies, fishflies

  Megaloptera is a small order of holometabolous insects containing approximately 300 described species across two extant families: Corydalidae (dobsonflies and fishflies) and Sialidae (alderflies). Adults are characterized by large, membranous wings that fold over the abdomen, and many species have short adult lifespans during which they do not feed. Larvae are exclusively aquatic, predatory, and serve as important indicators of stream health due to their sensitivity to pollution. The order was formerly classified within Neuroptera but is now recognized as a distinct order within the superorder Neuropterida.

  aquatic-insectspredatory-larvaebioindicatorsfishing-baitweak-flierscrepuscularholometabolousbasal-metamorphosisNeuropterida

• Megarcys

  springflies

  Megarcys is a genus of springflies in the family Perlodidae, comprising approximately 11 described species. The genus was established by Klapálek in 1912. Species occur primarily in cold-water habitats across northern regions of North America and Asia. Megarcys belongs to the tribe Arcynopterygini within the subfamily Perlodinae.

  PlecopteraPerlodidaespringflyaquatic-insectscold-waterHolarcticArcynopterygini

• Merragata

  velvet water bugs

  Merragata is a genus of small aquatic true bugs in the family Hebridae, commonly known as velvet water bugs. The genus contains seven described species distributed primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. Members of this genus inhabit moist, vegetated shoreline habitats where they prey on small invertebrates.

  aquatic-insectsvelvet-water-bugsshoreline-predatorsNeotropicalHebridaeHemiptera

• Metretopodidae

  cleftfooted minnow mayflies

  Metretopodidae is a family of mayflies in the order Ephemeroptera, commonly known as cleftfooted minnow mayflies. The family contains at least 3 genera (Metreplecton, Metretopus, Siphloplecton) and more than 20 described species. These mayflies are part of the diverse aquatic insect fauna associated with freshwater habitats.

  Ephemeropteramayfliesaquatic-insectsfreshwaterbenthic

• Micracanthia

  Micracanthia is a genus of shore bugs in the family Saldidae, established by Reuter in 1912. The genus comprises approximately 15 described species. These insects belong to the true bugs (Heteroptera) and are part of the Saldoidini tribe within the Saldinae subfamily. The genus has been documented in comparative taxonomic studies regarding its relationship to the closely related genus Saldula.

  shore-bugsSaldidaeHeteropteraaquatic-insectstrue-bugs

• Micropsectra

  non-biting midges

  Micropsectra is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, tribe Tanytarsini, described by Kieffer in 1909. The genus contains over 170 described species, though taxonomic revision indicates approximately 83 valid species with many former species reassigned to other genera. Species are primarily distributed across the Holarctic region, with most occurring in the Palaearctic and Nearctic regions and limited representation in the northern Oriental region. The genus forms part of the Micropsectra series, a monophyletic group within Tanytarsini that includes Rheotanytarsus, Parapsectra, Krenopsectra, and Paratanytarsus.

  ChironomidaeTanytarsininon-biting-midgesHolarcticfreshwateraquatic-insectsbioindicator

• Narpus

  riffle beetles

  Narpus is a genus of riffle beetles in the family Elmidae, established by Casey in 1893. The genus contains three described species: Narpus angustus, Narpus arizonicus, and Narpus concolor. These beetles are restricted to western North America and are strongly associated with clean, fast-flowing stream habitats. As members of the Elmidae family, they are adapted to life in running water environments.

  riffle-beetlesaquatic-insectswestern-North-Americastream-insectsElmidaeElmini

• Natarsia

  Natarsia is a genus of non-biting midges in the bloodworm family Chironomidae, established by Fittkau in 1962. It is the sole genus in the monotypic tribe Natarsiini within the subfamily Tanypodinae. The genus contains six described species distributed across the Holarctic region. Members are aquatic insects with larvae that develop in freshwater habitats.

  chironomidaetanypodinaenatarsiininon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwaterholarctic

• Naucoridae

  creeping water bugs, saucer bugs

  Naucoridae is a family of aquatic predatory true bugs comprising approximately 400 species in 46 genera across five subfamilies. Members are commonly known as creeping water bugs or saucer bugs due to their dorsoventrally flattened, oval body shape. They inhabit freshwater environments worldwide with greatest diversity in tropical regions, ranging from still waters to torrential streams. Most species are lotic, occurring in flowing waters rather than lentic habitats. They are predatory, feeding on other small invertebrates using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

  aquatic-insectspredatory-bugsfreshwater-ecologyNepomorphaHeteropteratropical-diversitystream-ecologyplastron-respirationbubble-respirationhemimetabolous-developmenthydrological-disturbancesensilla-morphology

• Nemoura

  spring stoneflies

  Nemoura is a genus of spring stoneflies in the family Nemouridae, with more than 190 described species. The genus belongs to the subfamily Nemourinae within the superfamily Nemouroidea. Species in this genus are part of the EPT (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera) complex, a group of aquatic insects with significant ecological importance in freshwater ecosystems.

  aquatic-insectsEPT-taxabioindicatorsmountain-streamsspring-stoneflies

• Nemouridae

  spring stoneflies, brown stoneflies, forestflies, tiny winter blacks

  Nemouridae is a family of stoneflies (Plecoptera) comprising over 700 described species, primarily distributed in the Holarctic region. Members are commonly known as spring stoneflies, brown stoneflies, or forestflies, and are important indicators of water quality in aquatic ecosystems. The family is characterized by small size, with adults typically measuring 5–8 millimeters in body length. Nemouridae occupy diverse flowing-water habitats, though they are most prevalent in smaller streams.

  stonefliesaquatic-insectsbioindicatorsPlecopteraHolarcticshreddersfly-fishing

• Neoephemera

  large squaregill mayflies

  Neoephemera is a genus of large squaregill mayflies in the family Neoephemeridae, established by McDunnough in 1925. The genus contains approximately six extant species distributed across North America and Asia, plus one extinct species from the Eocene of Washington State. Species range from moderate to large size within the family, with body lengths varying considerably. The genus has been subject to taxonomic revision, with at least one species (N. projecta) transferred to a new genus Pulchephemera based on phylogenetic analysis of plesiomorphic characters.

  EphemeropteraNeoephemeridaemayfliesaquatic-insectspalearcticnearcticfossil-taxon

• Neoephemeridae

  large squaregill mayflies

  Neoephemeridae is a small family of mayflies in the suborder Furcatergalia, containing approximately 13-17 described species across four genera: Neoephemera (Nearctic), Ochernova (Central Asia), Leucorhoenanthus (West Palearctic), and Potamanthellus (East Palearctic and Oriental). Nymphs are characterized by distinctive fimbriate (fringed) dorsal-oriented gills on abdominal segments, giving rise to the common name "large squaregill mayflies." The family has a disjunct Holarctic-Oriental distribution with recent findings in southwestern and northwestern China linking previously isolated genera biogeographically.

  EphemeropteraFurcatergaliamayfliesaquatic-insectsbenthicHolarcticOrientalChinastreamsriversfringed-gillssquaregill-mayfliesmitochondrial-genomicsbiogeographyphylogeneticsPulchephemeraPotamanthellusOchernovaLeucorhoenanthusNeoephemera

• Neophylax mitchelli

  Neophylax mitchelli is a North American caddisfly species in the family Uenoidae. Like other members of its genus, it has aquatic larvae that construct protective cases from silk and environmental materials. The species was described by Carpenter in 1933.

  TrichopteracaddisflyNorth-Americaaquatic-insectscase-building-larvae

• Neoplasta

  Neoplasta is a genus of dance flies in the family Empididae, subfamily Empidinae, tribe Hemerodromiini. The genus contains approximately 27 described species distributed across the Americas, with records from North and South America. At least one species, N. parahebes, has been studied in detail and exhibits a life cycle tied to submerged decaying wood in freshwater streams, with predatory habits in both adult and larval stages.

  Empididaedance-fliesaquatic-insectspredatory-fliesstream-insectswood-inhabiting

• Neothremma

  Neothremma is a genus of caddisflies in the family Uenoidae, established by Dodds and Hisaw in 1925. The genus contains at least one described species, Neothremma siskiyou, known as the Siskiyou caddisfly, which is found in California. As a member of the Uenoidae, it belongs to a family of case-making caddisflies associated with cool, flowing waters.

  TrichopteraUenoidaecaddisflyaquatic-insects

• Nepa

  water scorpion

  Nepa is a genus of aquatic true bugs in the family Nepidae, commonly known as water scorpions. These insects inhabit freshwater environments and are characterized by their elongated bodies, raptorial forelegs adapted for capturing prey, and a long respiratory siphon extending from the abdomen. The genus belongs to the subfamily Nepinae and is distinguished from related genera primarily by morphological features of the pronotum and respiratory siphon structure.

  NepidaeHemipteraaquatic-insectsfreshwaterpredatory

• Nepoidea

  Nepoidea is a superfamily of aquatic true bugs comprising two families: Belostomatidae (giant water bugs) and Nepidae (water scorpions). These are the largest-bodied members of the infraorder Nepomorpha and function as top predators in freshwater ecosystems. A distinctive morphological trait is the reduction and concealment of antennae in grooves behind the eyes, an adaptation to submerged aquatic life. The antennal sensilla exhibit remarkable structural diversity, with 11 morphological types identified including mechanosensilla, thermo-hygrosensilla, and olfactory sensilla that facilitate environmental sensing and prey detection.

  Nepomorphawater-bugsBelostomatidaeNepidaeantennal-sensillaaquatic-insectspredatory-insectsfreshwater-ecologyscanning-electron-microscopymechanosensillachemosensilla

• Nepomorpha

  true water bugs, water bugs

  Nepomorpha is an infraorder of aquatic true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) comprising approximately 2,000 species worldwide. Members are characterized by reduced, weakly muscled antennae typically concealed against the head, and absent or vestigial ocelli. Most species inhabit freshwater environments, with the exception of the superfamily Ochteroidea, which occupies riparian zones along water margins. The group includes diverse forms such as giant water bugs, water scorpions, water boatmen, and backswimmers.

  aquatic-insectsfreshwaterpredatorybioindicatorHemipteraHeteropteratrue-bugswater-bugshemimetabolous

• Nigronia

  Dark Fishflies

  Nigronia is a genus of megalopteran insects commonly known as dark fishflies. The genus contains two species, Nigronia serricornis and Nigronia fasciata, distinguished primarily by wing pattern. Adults are medium-sized insects measuring 20-30 millimeters in length. The genus belongs to the family Corydalidae, which includes dobsonflies and fishflies.

  megalopteracorydalidaefishfliesaquatic-insects

• Nymphomyiidae

  nymph flies

  Nymphomyiidae are a family of minute (approximately 2 mm), delicate flies with highly reduced morphology. They are considered among the most archaic living Diptera, sometimes placed in their own suborder Archidiptera. Larvae are strictly aquatic, inhabiting cold, fast-flowing streams in northern and high-altitude regions. Adults are short-lived, non-feeding, and form aggregative swarms; their wings fracture at the base after mating. The family contains approximately one dozen extant species, currently classified in the single genus Nymphomyia.

  aquatic-insectscold-water-specialistsarchaic-Dipteraneotenywing-fractureswarmingbioindicatorsHolarctic

• Ostrocerca

  forestflies

  Ostrocerca is a genus of spring stoneflies (Plecoptera) in the family Nemouridae, containing six described species distributed in eastern North America. Members are small to medium-sized stoneflies commonly known as forestflies. The genus was established by Ricker in 1952. Species are distinguished by subtle morphological differences in wing venation and genitalia.

  PlecopteraNemouridaespring-stonefliesaquatic-insectsstream-ecologyNorth-Americabioindicators

• Palingeniidae

  spiny-headed burrowing mayflies

  Palingeniidae is a family of large mayflies commonly known as spiny-headed burrowing mayflies. Adults are characterized by having more than four longitudinal cross-veins on their wings, with males possessing short, wide pronota and well-developed legs in both sexes. Female cerci are shorter than the body. Nymphs are burrowers in muddy substrates of large rivers. The family includes notable species such as Palingenia longicauda, the largest European mayfly at up to 12 cm in length.

  mayfliesEphemeropteraburrowinglarge-riversaquatic-insectsPalingenia-longicaudaEuropeMadagascarMiddle-EastneotenyriverinebenthicTisza-mayflywater-quality-indicatorEU-Water-Framework-Directive

• Paracloeodes

  Paracloeodes is a genus of small minnow mayflies in the family Baetidae, established by Day in 1955. The genus contains at least 23 described species distributed across the Americas, with the highest diversity concentrated in the Neotropical region. Nymph-adult associations have been established for only nine species, indicating significant gaps in life stage knowledge. Recent taxonomic work has focused on describing new species and clarifying previously unknown adult stages, such as for P. carolinae.

  EphemeropteraBaetidaemayfliessmall-minnow-mayfliesNeotropicalPanamericanaquatic-insects

• Paralimna

  shore flies

  Paralimna is a genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, first described by Loew in 1862. The genus contains at least 90 described species. These small flies are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, consistent with the ecological habits of the family Ephydridae.

  shore-fliesaquatic-insectsDiptera

• Parametriocnemus

  Parametriocnemus is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution, occurring on all continents except Antarctica. It was established by Goetghebuer in 1931. Species-level identification of adult males in the Nearctic region requires examination of genitalia and other morphological features detailed in specialized taxonomic keys.

  ChironomidaeOrthocladiinaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsDiptera

• Paraphaenocladius

  non-biting midges

  Paraphaenocladius is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. Originally described from Europe, the genus has since been documented in the Neotropical region, with records from Costa Rica, Brazil, and other Central and South American localities. Species in this genus are associated with aquatic and semi-terrestrial habitats, particularly springs and mossy margins.

  ChironomidaeOrthocladiinaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsEuropeNeotropicalBrazilspringsmoss-associated

• Parapoynx

  China-mark moths

  Parapoynx is a genus of aquatic moths in the family Crambidae, subfamily Acentropinae, established by Jacob Hübner in 1825. The genus contains approximately 60 described species distributed across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Many species have aquatic or semi-aquatic larvae that feed on submerged aquatic plants. Several species are of economic importance as pests of rice and other aquatic crops, while others have been investigated as potential biological control agents for invasive aquatic weeds such as hydrilla.

  aquatic-mothsCrambidaeAcentropinaerice-pestsbiological-controlleaf-cutting-larvaeaquatic-insects

• Paratendipes

  non-biting midges

  Paratendipes is a widespread genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, established by Kieffer in 1911. The genus belongs to the 'Microtendipes' group within tribe Chironomini. Species occur in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Larvae are aquatic and inhabit freshwater systems. Adult males possess distinctive genitalic structures useful for species identification.

  Chironomidaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwaterChironominaeChironominiMicrotendipes-group

• Pediciidae

  Hairy-eyed Crane Flies

  Pediciidae, commonly known as hairy-eyed crane flies, is a family of about 500 species worldwide. They are medium-sized to large flies (5–35 mm) closely related to true crane flies (Tipulidae). The family is distinguished by pubescent compound eyes with short erect hairs between the facets, a trait absent in related families. They occupy diverse habitats but are particularly associated with clean, cold aquatic environments. The family was established as a separate lineage from Tipulidae based on morphological and molecular evidence, representing one of two primary lineages within the superfamily Tipuloidea.

  crane-flieshairy-eyedaquatic-insectscold-waterstream-dwellersDipteraTipuloidea

• Pelonomus

  long-toed water beetles

  Pelonomus is a genus of long-toed water beetles in the family Dryopidae, first described by Erichson in 1847. The genus contains approximately five described species distributed primarily in the Americas. These beetles are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. Members of this genus are characterized by elongated tarsi adapted for clinging to submerged substrates.

  beetlesColeopteraaquatic-insectsDryopidaeNeotropicalNearctic

• Peltoperlidae

  roach-like stoneflies, roachflies

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

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

• Pentaneura

  Pentaneura is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. These aquatic insects are members of the tribe Pentaneurini and are found in freshwater habitats. The genus was established by Philippi in 1865 and contains predatory species whose larvae inhabit various aquatic environments.

  ChironomidaeTanypodinaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectspredatory-larvaefreshwater

• Perlodidae

  perlodid stoneflies, stripetails, springflies, Stripetail and Springfly Stoneflies

  Perlodidae is a family of stoneflies comprising at least 50 genera and over 350 species, with fossil records extending to the Triassic. Adults are commonly known as stripetails or springflies and typically emerge from April to June. The family is characterized by larvae with flattened bodies, patterned heads and thoraces, long tails, and divergent hind wing pads that lack the branching thoracic gills found in similar stonefly families.

  stonefliesaquatic-insectsstream-insectsbioindicatorspredatorsspring-emergenceegg-diapausedrumming-communication

• Perlodinae

  Springflies

  Perlodinae is a subfamily of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae, first described by Klapálek in 1909. The subfamily comprises at least 20 genera and approximately 60 described species. Perlodinae is distributed across Asia and other regions, with notable diversity in China. The tribal classification within Perlodinae remains under discussion, with three recognized tribes but ongoing questions about their validity.

  stonefliesPlecopteraPerlodidaefreshwater-insectsaquatic-insects

• Petrophila

  Petrophila is a genus of aquatic moths in the family Crambidae, described by Lansdown Guilding in 1830. The genus comprises approximately 30-40 species distributed primarily in North America. Larvae are fully aquatic and inhabit flowing water systems, where they graze on algae and diatoms. Adults are diurnal and typically found resting on rocks near water bodies. The genus has become a notable subject of citizen science research due to the cryptic nature of many species, which can be difficult to distinguish without detailed examination.

  aquatic-insectsfreshwater-ecologydiurnal-mothsCrambidaeNorth-Americacitizen-sciencecryptic-speciesacoustic-communication

• Philygria

  shore flies

  Philygria is a genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, established by Stenhammar in 1844. The genus contains at least 40 described species, with 44 species listed in major databases. These small flies are associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeaquatic-insectsStenhammar-1844

• Phryganea cinerea

  Rush Sedge Caddisfly

  Phryganea cinerea is a caddisfly species in the family Phryganeidae, one of the most primitive families of tube-case-building caddisflies. Larvae are characterized by abundant setae (bristles) across the body surface, which play a significant role in sensory perception and behavior given their poor eyesight. The species has been studied for its tactile responses, with setae on different body regions producing distinct directional responses to mechanical stimulation.

  TrichopteraPhryganeidaecaddisflysensory-biologysetaemechanoreceptioncase-buildingaquatic-insectsNorth-America

• Phryganeidae

  Giant Casemaker Caddisflies

  Phryganeidae is a family of large caddisflies comprising approximately 16 genera and at least 80 described species. Adults are among the largest caddisflies, with wingspans reaching 40 mm or more. Larvae are aquatic case-makers, constructing distinctive cylindrical cases from plant fragments arranged in ring-like patterns. The family occurs across the Holarctic region, with species inhabiting diverse freshwater habitats from cool mountain streams to acidic bog pools.

  Trichopteracaddisflyaquatic-insectscase-makersHolarcticfreshwatergiant-caddisfly

• Platystoechotes lineatus

  Platystoechotes lineatus is a species of spongillafly in the family Sisyridae, a group of lacewing relatives specialized for feeding on freshwater sponges. The species is native to western North America. Like other sisyrids, its larvae are aquatic predators with piercing-sucking mouthparts adapted for extracting fluids from sponge tissue. Adults are terrestrial and typically found near streams or lakes where their larval hosts occur.

  NeuropteraSisyridaespongillafliesfreshwater-spongesaquatic-insectsspecialized-predatorswestern-North-AmericaPacific-Northwest

• Plauditus

  small minnow mayflies

  Plauditus is a genus of small minnow mayflies in the family Baetidae, established by Lugo-Ortiz & McCafferty in 1998. The genus contains approximately 10 described species distributed in North America. These mayflies are aquatic insects with larvae that exhibit considerable morphological and color variation, particularly in abdominal patterning.

  EphemeropteraBaetidaemayfliesaquatic-insectsNorth-Americafreshwater

• Plecoptera

  stoneflies

  Plecoptera, commonly known as stoneflies, comprises approximately 3,500 described species worldwide. This order represents one of the most primitive groups of Neoptera, with fossil relatives dating to the Carboniferous and Lower Permian periods, though modern diversity appears to be of Mesozoic origin. Stoneflies are found on every continent except Antarctica, with distinct populations in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. All species are aquatic in their immature stages and are highly sensitive to water pollution, making them important bioindicators of stream and river health.

  aquatic-insectsbioindicatorsEPT-indexstream-ecologywinter-active

• Pleidae

  pygmy backswimmers, pleids

  Pleidae, the pygmy backswimmers, is a family of minute aquatic true bugs (Hemiptera: Nepomorpha) containing approximately 52 species in four genera. Adults measure only 2–3.5 mm and inhabit stagnant or slow-moving freshwater with abundant vegetation. They are predatory, feeding on mosquito larvae and other small arthropods, and swim upside-down while carrying an air reserve beneath the body. The family is distributed worldwide except polar regions and remote oceanic islands, with genus Plea in the Old World, Neoplea in the Americas, Paraplea globally in warmer regions, and the recently described Heteroplea from Venezuela.

  aquatic-insectsfreshwater-predatorshemipteranepomorphaupside-down-swimmersstridulationbiological-controlweak-flight

• Potamyia

  netspinning caddisflies

  Potamyia is a genus of netspinning caddisflies in the family Hydropsychidae, containing more than 20 described species. Larvae are aquatic and inhabit streams, with five instars characterized by progressive increases in head capsule width. They are omnivorous filter-feeders that consume diatoms, green algae, filamentous algae, detritus, and arthropod fragments. The genus is distributed across Asia, with documented species in Thailand, China, and other regions.

  TrichopteraHydropsychidaeaquatic-insectsfilter-feedersstream-ecologyAsia

• Protanypus

  Protanypus is a genus of non-biting midges in the subfamily Diamesinae of the family Chironomidae. The genus comprises approximately 10 described species distributed across Europe, North America, and Asia. Species within this genus are found in aquatic environments, with larvae inhabiting freshwater habitats. The genus was established by Kieffer in 1906.

  Chironomidaenon-biting-midgesDiamesinaeaquatic-insectsbenthic-invertebratescold-water-specieslotic-habitats

• Protoptila

  Protoptila is a genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the family Glossosomatidae, subfamily Protoptilinae. The genus is primarily Neotropical in distribution, with numerous species described from Central America, northern South America, and Mexico. Species-level taxonomy relies heavily on male genitalia morphology. The genus has been subject to multiple regional revisions, with 19 species recorded from Costa Rica alone and new species continuing to be described.

  TrichopteraGlossosomatidaeProtoptilinaeNeotropicalcaddisflyaquatic-insectsstream-insectsmale-genitalia-taxonomy

• Pseudostenophylax

  northern caddisflies

  Pseudostenophylax is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, containing at least 80 described species. The genus was established by Martynov in 1909 with Pseudostenophylax fumosus as the type species. Species are primarily distributed across northern regions of North America and Eurasia, with notable diversity in Japan and alpine regions. Research on Japanese species has revealed strong phylogeographic patterns linked to mountain formation and glacial history.

  alpinesubalpinephylogeographyaquatic-insectsmountain-biodiversityJapancaddisflyTrichopteraLimnephilidaenorthern-hemispherePseudostenophylacinaelotic-systemsdiapauseunivoltine

• Psychoda

  moth fly, drain fly, filter fly

  Psychoda is a large genus of moth flies (family Psychodidae) containing over 400 described species. These tiny, moth-like flies are characterized by their dense body hair, broad wings held roof-like over the body, and long antennae. They are commonly associated with moist, decaying organic matter and are frequently encountered in sewage systems, drains, and bathrooms where they can become nuisance pests. The genus has worldwide distribution with records from North America, Europe, the Middle East, and South America.

  sewage-fliesdrain-fliesfilter-fliesmoth-fliesnuisance-pestsdecomposersaquatic-insectsindoor-pests

• Psychomyia

  Psychomyia is a genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the family Psychomyiidae, established by Latreille in 1829. The genus has an almost cosmopolitan distribution with species recorded across Europe, Asia, and other regions. Larval stages have been described for at least some species, with diagnostic morphological characters established for instar identification. The genus is taxonomically active, with new species continuing to be described, particularly from China.

  caddisflyPsychomyiidaecosmopolitanaquatic-insects

• Psychomyiidae

  Net Tube Caddisflies, tube-making caddisflies, trumpet-net caddisflies

  Psychomyiidae is a family of tube-making caddisflies (order Trichoptera) characterized by larvae that construct silken galleries or tubes on submerged surfaces. Adults are typically small with reduced wing venation, including absence of forewing fork I and shortened hindwing forks. The family is distinguished from similar Polycentropodidae by leg spur formula 2-4-4, short thyridial cell, and male genitalia with elongate preanal appendages and reduced tergum IX. Larvae possess separated submental sclerites, broad foretrochantin, and whip-like pupal mandible apices. The family contains approximately 10 extant genera and has a global distribution with notable diversity in the Oriental and Western Palearctic regions.

  caddisflyTrichopteraaquatic-insectsfreshwaterbioindicatortube-makingsilkgalleriesrunning-waterbenthic

• Pteronarcella

  giant stoneflies, least salmonfly, dwarf salmonfly

  Pteronarcella is a genus of giant stoneflies (family Pteronarcyidae) containing at least two described species: Pteronarcella badia (least salmonfly) and Pteronarcella regularis (dwarf salmonfly). These are among the largest stoneflies in North America, with adults known for their distinctive drumming communication behavior. Research on P. badia has provided significant insights into aquatic insect phylogeography and dispersal mechanisms in western North America.

  PlecopteraPteronarcyidaegiant-stoneflieswestern-North-Americadrumming-behaviorvibrational-communicationphylogeographyaquatic-insects

• Ptychoptera

  phantom crane flies

  Ptychoptera is a genus of phantom crane flies comprising at least 70 described species. The genus is characterized by larvae that are aquatic or semi-aquatic detritivores inhabiting freshwater environments. Adults are recognized by their distinctive wing folding behavior, giving rise to the common name "fold-winged crane flies." Species occur across the Holarctic and Oriental regions, with significant diversity in China.

  DipteraPtychopteridaephantom-crane-fliesdetritivorefreshwateraquatic-insectsfold-wingedChina-biodiversityHolarcticOriental-region

• Rhagovelia

  smaller water striders, riffle bugs

  Rhagovelia is a large genus of small aquatic bugs in the family Veliidae, with over 390 described species. Members are distinguished by a swimming fan on the distal tarsomere of the middle leg, an adaptation that enables rapid maneuvering on water surfaces. The genus has colonized lotic freshwater systems and coastal marine environments across the Americas, with additional species in Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Evolutionary origins trace to gene duplications ('geisha' and 'mother-of-geisha') that created this propelling fan structure, allowing exploitation of faster-flowing and more turbulent streams than relatives lacking this adaptation.

  Veliidaewater-stridersriffle-bugsaquatic-insectsrunning-waterbioinspirationlocomotionHemipteraNeotropicalAfrotropicalOrientalAustralasian

• Rheopelopia

  Rheopelopia is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. Members are aquatic in their larval stage and belong to the tribe Pentaneurini. The genus was established by Fittkau in 1962. Larvae are generally found in running water habitats.

  ChironomidaeTanypodinaePentaneurininon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectslotic

• Rhyacophiloidea

  Rhyacophiloidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) established by Stephens in 1836. The group has been treated variously in classification systems, sometimes encompassing the entire suborder Spicipalpia when that group is ranked as a superfamily within Annulipalpia. The superfamily includes families of free-living caddisfly larvae that do not construct the portable cases characteristic of many other trichopteran groups.

  Trichopteracaddisfliesaquatic-insectsstream-insectspredatory-larvae

• Saetheria

  Saetheria is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, established by Jackson in 1977. It belongs to the subfamily Chironominae and is distributed across the Nearctic and Palaearctic regions, including Europe and the Russian Far East. The genus comprises at least four described species. Taxonomic revisions have provided detailed morphological descriptions of adult males, pupae, and larvae for multiple species.

  Chironomidaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwaterNearcticPalaearctic

• Scatella

  shore flies

  Scatella is a large genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, with at least 140 described species worldwide. Species are primarily aquatic or semi-aquatic, associated with streams, seeps, and other moist habitats. Some species have adapted to artificial environments including greenhouses, where they can develop in substrates such as rockwool. The genus has notable diversity in the Pacific basin, including 17 species in the Hawaiian Islands with 15 endemics.

  shore-fliesaquatic-insectsgreenhouse-pestsPacific-basinHawaiian-endemics

• Scatellini

  Scatellini is a tribe of small shore flies in the family Ephydridae. Members are characterized by their association with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, often found near the margins of water bodies. The tribe includes the genus Scatella, which is the most speciose and well-known group within this lineage. Scatellini flies are generally small, dark-colored, and possess distinctive wing patterns that aid in identification.

  shore-fliesaquatic-insectsEphydridaewetland-indicatorsalgal-grazers

• Sciomyza

  snail-killing flies

  Sciomyza is a genus of marsh flies (Sciomyzidae) whose larvae are specialized predators or parasitoids of freshwater snails. Adults inhabit moist environments near gastropod populations. The genus includes seven described species distributed across northern Europe and North America.

  snail-killing-fliesmarsh-fliesbiological-controlaquatic-insectspredatory-larvaeparasitoidSciomyzidae

• Sciomyzidae

  Marsh Flies, Snail-killing Flies

  Sciomyzidae is a family of acalyptrate flies in the order Diptera, commonly known as marsh flies or snail-killing flies. The family contains 543 extant species in 63 genera with worldwide distribution, though poorly represented in the Australasian and Oceanian realms. Adults are small to medium-sized flies (2–14 mm) typically found in wet habitats. The larvae are predominantly predators or parasites of freshwater and terrestrial mollusks, particularly snails and slugs, making this family notable for its specialized feeding biology.

  Dipteraacalyptratemarsh-fliessnail-killing-fliesmollusk-predatorswetland-insectsbiocontrolaquatic-insects

• Sepedon

  Snail-killing Flies

  Sepedon is a genus of marsh flies in the family Sciomyzidae, commonly known as snail-killing flies. The genus contains approximately 70 described species distributed across multiple subgenera. All species share a distinctive life history: larvae are obligate predators or parasitoids of aquatic pulmonate snails. Adults are slender, elongate flies found in association with freshwater habitats. Several species have been investigated as potential biological control agents for snails that serve as intermediate hosts of schistosomes and other trematode parasites.

  Sciomyzidaemarsh-fliessnail-killing-fliesmalacophagousbiocontrolschistosomiasisfascioliasisaquatic-insectsfreshwater-ecologyDiptera

• Setacera

  Setacera is a genus of shore flies (family Ephydridae) established by Cresson in 1930. The genus occurs in multiple continents including Australia, where at least one species (S. breviventris) has been documented. As ephydrid flies, members of this genus are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in published literature.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeDipteraaquatic-insectsCresson-1930

• Setodes

  long-horned caddisfly

  Setodes is a genus of long-horned caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, established by Rambur in 1842. The genus contains at least 230 described species, making it one of the largest genera within the family. Species occur across multiple continents including Africa, Asia, and Madagascar, with colonization patterns suggesting potential dispersal from India to Madagascar. Larval stages are aquatic and inhabit freshwater lotic environments.

  TrichopteraLeptoceridaecaddisflyaquatic-insectsfreshwaterlotic

• Shipsa rotunda

  Intrepid Forestfly

  Shipsa rotunda is a Nearctic stonefly species in the family Nemouridae with an extensive distribution across Canada and the United States. Despite its wide geographic range, the species exhibits remarkably little morphological variation in both males and females. Reproductive terminalia have been examined using scanning electron microscopy from specimens across its range, revealing consistent structural features. The species was originally described as Nemoura rotunda by Claassen in 1923 and later transferred to the genus Shipsa.

  PlecopteraNemouridaestonefliesNearcticNorth-Americafreshwater-insectsaquatic-insectslotic-habitatsrunning-water

• Simulium

  black flies, buffalo gnats, turkey gnats

  Simulium is a large genus of black flies in the family Simuliidae, containing nearly 2,000 described species across 38 subgenera. Adult females are obligate blood-feeders that use blade-like mandibles to slice skin and lap pooled blood, while males feed on nectar. The genus includes significant disease vectors, most notably species that transmit Onchocerca volvulus, the nematode causing human onchocerciasis (river blindness). Larval stages are strictly aquatic, inhabiting fast-flowing streams and rivers where they filter-feed using specialized cephalic fans.

  medical-entomologyvectorsaquatic-insectslotic-ecologyonchocerciasisleucocytozoonosis

• Siphlonurus

  primitive minnow mayflies, gray drakes

  Siphlonurus is a genus of primitive minnow mayflies in the family Siphlonuridae, comprising more than 40 described species. Species inhabit temporary and intermittent ponds, with nymphal development occurring during spring months and adult emergence in late May to June. Adults are non-feeding and rely on energy reserves accumulated during the aquatic larval stage. The genus is notable among fly fishers for species such as Siphlonurus quebecensis (early brown quill), which is imitated with specialized fly patterns.

  EphemeropteraSiphlonuridaemayflytemporary-pondsfly-fishinggray-drakenon-feeding-adultssexual-dimorphism-in-flightaquatic-insectsspring-emergence

• Sisyridae

  spongillaflies, spongeflies

  Sisyridae, commonly known as spongillaflies or spongeflies, are a small family of aquatic Neuroptera with approximately 60 extant species worldwide. Adults are small, brownish or greyish insects resembling brown lacewings (Hemerobiidae), with forewings spanning 4–10 mm. The family is distinguished by their unique larval biology: larvae are aquatic and obligate predators of freshwater sponges (Porifera: Spongillidae) and bryozoans (Phylactolaemata), using elongated piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract cell contents. Larvae possess seven pairs of jointed, movable tracheal gills on the abdomen—a trait unique among extant insects. The family has a fossil record extending to the Late Cretaceous, with two extant subfamilies (Sisyrinae and Paradoxosisyrinae) and four living genera: Climacia, Sisyborina, Sisyra, and Sisyrina.

  aquatic-insectsNeuropteraspongivoryspecialist-predatorsfreshwater-ecologycrepuscularfossil-insectsCretaceous-survivorstracheal-gillsunique-morphologyhost-specific-larvaeparasitoid-hosts

• Skwala

  springflies

  Skwala is a genus of springflies (Plecoptera: Perlodidae) established by Ricker in 1943, containing approximately five described species distributed across North America and Asia. Species in this genus are amphibiotic, with aquatic nymphal stages in freshwater streams and terrestrial adults. At least one species, Skwala pusilla, has been documented as predatory. The genus has been subject to cytogenetic study, with Skwala compacta representing the first photographic documentation of stonefly chromosomes.

  PlecopteraPerlodidaespringfliesstonefliesaquatic-insectsamphibioticpredatoryunivoltinemontane-streamslotic-ecosystems

• Stilobezzia coquilletti

  Stilobezzia coquilletti is a species of predaceous biting midge in the family Ceratopogonidae, first described by Jean-Jacques Kieffer in 1917. The species is known from Brazil, with records from Amazonas and São Paulo states. As a member of the genus Stilobezzia, it belongs to a group of ceratopogonids characterized by predatory larval and adult stages. The specific epithet honors the American entomologist Daniel William Coquillett.

  Ceratopogonidaebiting-midgespredatory-midgesNeotropicalBrazilaquatic-insects

• Sweltsa

  green stoneflies

  Sweltsa is a genus of green stoneflies in the family Chloroperlidae, established by Ricker in 1943. The genus comprises more than 50 described species worldwide, with documented diversity in North America and Asia. Species are small to medium-sized stoneflies recognized by their characteristic green or yellow-green wing coloration. Adults are typically collected in mid-summer months in mountainous stream habitats.

  stonefliesgreen-stonefliesaquatic-insectsstream-insectsbioindicators

• Tallaperla

  roach-like stoneflies, roachflies

  Tallaperla is a genus of stoneflies in the family Peltoperlidae, commonly known as roach-like stoneflies or roachflies. The genus contains seven described species distributed in eastern North America. Members of this genus are aquatic insects whose nymphs inhabit forested headwater streams and function as shredders in stream food webs. Adults emerge in late spring to early summer.

  PlecopteraPeltoperlidaestonefliesaquatic-insectsshreddersheadwater-streamsleaf-litter-processingeastern-North-America

• Tanytarsini

  Tanytarsini is a diverse tribe of non-biting midges (Chironomidae: Chironominae) comprising over 20 genera and approximately 1,000 described species. The tribe is divided into two subtribes: Tanytarsina and Zavreliina. Members occupy a wide range of aquatic habitats including freshwater lotic and lentic systems, hygropetric seepages, and marine intertidal zones. The genus Pontomyia represents truly marine chironomids within this tribe, with specialized life history adaptations including flightless, larviform females and short-lived non-feeding adults.

  Chironomidaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwatermarine-insectshygropetricmadicolousbioindicators

• Thaumaleidae

  solitary midges, trickle midges, madicolous midges

  Thaumaleidae is a family of small nematoceran flies in the order Diptera, closely related to Ceratopogonidae, Chironomidae, and Simuliidae. Adults are non-feeding, stocky, yellow to brown flies measuring 3–4 mm, with short antennae no longer than the head. The family comprises approximately 202 extant species in seven genera (Afrothaumalea, Androprosopa, Austrothaumalea, Neothaumalea, Niphta, Thaumalea, Trichothaumalea) plus one fossil genus. Larvae inhabit thin water films on rock surfaces alongside waterfalls and torrents, where they graze on diatoms.

  DipteraNematoceraCulicomorphamadicoloushygropetricaquatic-insectsprimary-consumerscold-water-specialists

• Thienemanniella

  Thienemanniella is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, first described by Kieffer in 1911. These small dipterans belong to the subfamily Orthocladiinae and are part of the diverse group of chironomid midges commonly known as bloodworms. The genus is known from limited observational records across parts of Europe and South America.

  ChironomidaeOrthocladiinaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsDipteragenusKieffer-1911

• Tortopus

  Tortopus is a genus of burrowing mayflies in the family Polymitarcyidae, restricted to six species based on cladistic revision: T. igaranus, T. circumfluus, T. harrisi, T. zottai, T. bellus, and T. arenales. The genus is characterized by distinctive morphological synapomorphies including female parastyli receptors with long anterior furrows, entirely flattened penes, and nymphs bearing two subapical tubercles on mandibular tusks. Nymphs construct U-shaped tunnels in clay banks, a behavior that renders them difficult to sample with standard aquatic survey methods.

  EphemeropteraPolymitarcyidaeburrowing-mayfliesNeotropicalclay-bank-habitatU-shaped-tunnelsmandibular-tusksTortopsisCampsurinaePanamerican-distributioncladistic-revisionsynapomorphyparastyli-receptorsflattened-penesfurcasternal-protuberancessubapical-tubercleslimnological-sampling-biasnymph-morphologyadult-morphologytype-species-T.-igaranusnew-species-T.-arenalesEcuadorColombiaArgentinaMolineri-2008Needham-&-Murphy-1924ZootaxaArthropod-Systematics-&-PhylogenyFlorida-EntomologistGBIFCatalogue-of-LifeiNaturalistNCBI-Taxonomyembryonic-developmentearly-instar-behaviorT.-harrisiT.-bellusT.-circumfluusT.-zottaiT.-igaranusT.-incertusT.-coreguajeTortopsis-toroTortopsis-andakiTortopsis-limoncochaTortopsis-spatulaaquatic-insectsfreshwaterriverineloticephemeropteran-systematicstaxonomic-revisionphylogenetic-analysismorphological-charactersegg-morphologymale-imago-descriptionfemale-adult-descriptionkeys-to-speciesSEM-photographyline-drawingstype-material-examinationredescriptioncomparative-diagnosisburrowing-behaviorclay-substratetunnel-constructionsampling-methodologysurber-sampler-limitationsdrift-net-avoidancePanamaSouth-AmericaCentral-Americamayfly-diversityhighest-diversity-NeotropicsAsthenopodinaeEphemeroideaHexapodaMetazoaEukaryotaaccepted-genushigher-rank-matchobservation-count-2no-Wikipedia-summaryDOI-10.11646/zootaxa.2481.1.1DOI-10.11646/zootaxa.2436.1.4DOI-10.3897/asp.79.e62735DOI-10.2307/3493493Scott-et-al.-1959NavásUlmerTraverLugo-Ortiz-&-McCaffertyDomínguezBanksMcDunnoughPictetNeedham-&-Murphyfreshwater-ecologyaquatic-entomologyinsect-developmentnymphal-stagesimago-descriptionalate-adultswing-venationR-sectorgonopore-structureparastyli-lengthpedestal-morphologylateral-view-curvaturemandibular-morphologytusk-tuberclesmesosternal-structureabdominal-sternum-notchfurcasternumprotuberance-configurationreceptor-socket-orientationIR-veinR2-veinclaw-like-structuregonopore-associationpenis-base-separationfemale-fore-wingadditional-veinscomparative-morphologytype-specimenholotypeallotypeparatypeneotropical-speciesnew-species-descriptionspecies-keyidentification-keymale-adult-keyfemale-adult-keynymph-keygeneric-keyPolymitarcyidae-generasystematicsphylogenycladisticsmonophylysister-groupcharacter-statetransformation-seriesparsimony-analysismorphological-data-setexternal-morphologyegg-chorionmicropyleegg-bursterhatchingemergencebehavioral-studyearly-instarembryologyovipositionsubstrate-preferencehabitat-specificityendemicregional-diversityconservationbiomonitoringwater-quality-indicatormacroinvertebratebenthicinfaunalinterstitialhyporheicriver-bankstream-bankerosionsedimentparticle-sizeclay-contentbank-stabilityroot-matvegetation-associationflow-regimecurrent-velocitydepthwidthstream-ordercatchmentbasinecoregionbiogeographydispersalcolonizationvicariancespeciationadaptive-radiationmorphological-divergenceconvergent-evolutionhomoplasycharacter-conflictbootstrap-supportBremer-supportconsensus-treestrict-consensusmajority-ruletaxonomic-stabilitynomenclatural-actoriginal-descriptionsubsequent-designationtype-localitytype-depositorymuseum-collectionspecimen-preservationalcohol-preservationslide-mountingSEM-preparationimaging-techniquesscientific-illustrationphotographymeasurementmorphometricsratiosproportionsallometrysexual-dimorphismgeographic-variationintraspecific-variationinterspecific-variationdiagnostic-charactersidentification-confidencetaxonomic-expertiseliterature-reviewbibliographic-searchdatabase-queryonline-repositoryopen-accesspaywallabstract-onlyfull-text-unavailablecitation-analysisreference-listsource-qualityevidence-strengthknowledge-gapresearch-needfuture-studycollaborationfield-workcollection-tripsampling-effortspecimen-availabilitytype-examinationrevision-scopetaxonomic-conceptcircumscriptioninclusionexclusionspecies-groupspecies-complexcryptic-speciesmorphospeciesphylogenetic-speciesevolutionary-significant-unitoperational-taxonomic-unitDNA-barcodingmolecular-systematicsintegrative-taxonomytraditional-taxonomyalpha-taxonomybeta-taxonomygamma-taxonomyclassification-hierarchyLinnaean-systemrank-based-nomenclaturephylogenetic-nomenclatureclade-namecrown-groupstem-grouptotal-evidencecongruenceincongruencedata-partitioncharacter-weightingimplied-weightingequal-weightingordered-charactersunordered-charactersmultistate-charactersbinary-characterscontinuous-charactersmeristic-charactersqualitative-charactersquantitative-charactersmorphological-matrixdata-matrixcharacter-matrixtaxon-samplingcharacter-samplingmissing-datainapplicable-datapolymorphismintraspecific-polymorphismfixed-differencediagnostic-differenceunique-derived-characterautapomorphyshared-derived-charactersymplesiomorphyconvergent-characterparallel-evolutionreversalcharacter-optimizationACCTRANDELTRANunambiguous-optimizationambiguous-optimizationmost-parsimonious-treetree-lengthconsistency-indexretention-indexrescaled-consistency-indexhomoplasy-indexcharacter-fitcharacter-congruencecharacter-supportbranch-supportnode-supportclade-stabilitytaxonomic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• Traverella

  Traverella is a genus of pronggilled mayflies established by Edmunds in 1948. It belongs to the family Leptophlebiidae, one of the most diverse families within the order Ephemeroptera. The genus comprises 13 described species. Members of this genus, like other leptophlebiid mayflies, possess the characteristic forked gills on their abdominal segments that give the family its common name.

  mayfliespronggilled-mayfliesNeotropicalaquatic-insectsfreshwaterbenthic

• Trichoptera

  Caddisflies

  Caddisflies are an order of approximately 14,500 described species of insects with aquatic larvae and terrestrial adults. The order is divided into two principal suborders: Integripalpia, whose larvae construct portable protective cases while foraging, and Annulipalpia, whose larvae build fixed retreats and wait for food to arrive. Caddisflies are widely distributed globally and are recognized as important bioindicators of freshwater ecosystem health due to their sensitivity to water quality changes.

  freshwateraquatic-insectsbioindicatorscase-buildingnet-spinningwater-qualityholometabolous

• Tricorythodes

  little stout crawler mayflies

  Tricorythodes is a genus of small, robust mayflies in the family Leptohyphidae, commonly known as little stout crawler mayflies. The genus comprises approximately 16 described species distributed across the Americas. Nymphs are primarily found in stream habitats where they function as collector-gatherers, processing fine particulate organic matter. Species within this genus exhibit multivoltine life histories with development rates strongly influenced by temperature.

  EphemeropteraLeptohyphidaemayfliesaquatic-insectsstream-ecologycollector-gatherersmultivoltineNeotropicalNearctic

• Tvetenia

  non-biting midges

  Tvetenia is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. Species occur across northern and eastern Europe, extending into Russia and Central Asia. The genus was established by Kieffer in 1922. Taxonomic revisions have clarified species boundaries, including the synonymy of T. vitracies with T. tshernovskii.

  ChironomidaeOrthocladiinaenon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwaterEuropeAsiaKieffer-1922Tvetenia-tshernovskiiTvetenia-vitraciestaxonomic-revision

• Typopsilopa

  Typopsilopa is a genus of shore flies in the family Ephydridae, established by Cresson in 1916. The genus contains approximately 19 described species. Shore flies in this family are typically associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, often found along shorelines and in moist environments.

  shore-fliesEphydridaeaquatic-insectsDiptera

• Veliidae

  riffle bugs, small water striders, broad-shouldered water striders, ripple bugs

  Veliidae is a large family of predatory true bugs in the suborder Heteroptera, comprising approximately 1173 species across 66 genera. Members are small (1.5–6 mm), surface-dwelling insects that walk on water using surface tension and hydrophobic leg adaptations. They are distinguished from the related family Gerridae by their broader pronotum, smaller size, and internal genitalia differences. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution excluding Antarctica, with centers of origin in the Indo-Malayan region and the Caribbean.

  aquatic-insectsneustonsurface-dwellingpredatoryfreshwaterHeteropteraGerroidea

• Zavrelimyia

  Zavrelimyia is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae, and tribe Pentaneurini. The genus was established by Fittkau in 1962 and is placed within the predatory midge lineage Tanypodinae. Species in this genus are aquatic in their larval stages and are part of the diverse chironomid fauna found in freshwater habitats.

  ChironomidaeTanypodinaePentaneurininon-biting-midgesaquatic-insectsfreshwater1962Fittkau

• Zeros flavipes

  Zeros flavipes is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, described by Williston in 1896. As a member of the order Diptera, it possesses the characteristic single pair of wings and halteres typical of true flies. The specific epithet 'flavipes' refers to yellow legs, a trait that may aid in identification. Shore flies in this family are generally associated with moist or aquatic habitats, though specific ecological details for this species remain limited in available sources.

  shore-flyEphydridaeDipteraaquatic-insectsyellow-legs