Freshwater
Guides
Abedus immaculatus
Abedus immaculatus is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae. It is the only Abedus species found in the eastern United States, with a range extending throughout Florida north into Georgia and west along the Gulf Coast to Mississippi. Adults measure 13–14 mm in length, making them the smallest species in the genus Abedus and the smallest belostomatid in the United States. The species is the sole member of the subgenus Microabedus. It is locally common in parts of the Everglades, where it occurs in shorter hydroperiod sites.
giant-water-bugaquatic-insectfreshwaterwetlandEvergladesendemiceastern-United-Statessmallest-belostomatid-USAmale-parental-careBelostomatidaeHemipteraMicroabedushydroperiodFloridaGeorgiaMississippiGulf-CoastThomas-Say1832Abedus-cantrallisynonymywater-bugtrue-bugNepomorphaHeteropteraInsectaArthropodaAnimaliaAblabesmyia
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.
Ablabesmyia annulata
Ablabesmyia annulata is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described by Thomas Say in 1823 as Tanypus annulata. The species occurs in the Nearctic region, with documented populations in Canadian freshwater lakes including Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Marion Lake, British Columbia. Like other members of the genus, it has an aquatic larval stage with instar separation approximately following Dyar's rule. The immatures and males have been formally redescribed and illustrated in taxonomic literature.
Ablabesmyia cinctipes
Ablabesmyia cinctipes is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, order Diptera. The species was described by Johannsen in 1946. Chironomidae is a large family of aquatic insects whose larvae inhabit diverse freshwater environments. Adults are generally short-lived and do not feed.
Ablabesmyia mallochi
Ablabesmyia mallochi is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae. The immature stages and males were redescribed and illustrated in a 2011 revision of Canadian Ablabesmyia. It belongs to the subgenus Ablabesmyia (Ablabesmyia).
Acanthocyclops
Acanthocyclops is a genus of freshwater copepod crustaceans in the family Cyclopidae, originally described by Friedrich Kiefer in 1927 as a subgenus of Cyclops. Species within this genus inhabit diverse aquatic environments ranging from temporary ponds to large permanent lakes. The genus has been validated through ecological studies demonstrating distinct habitat preferences and life history strategies among closely related species.
Acentria
watermilfoil moth, water veneer
Acentria is a monotypic moth genus in the family Crambidae containing a single species, Acentria ephemerella. The genus is notable for extreme sexual dimorphism in wing development and for having the only known fully aquatic adult female moths. Most females are flightless with rudimentary wings and spend their entire lives underwater, while males are fully winged and terrestrial. The species is native to Europe and has been introduced to North America.
Acentropini
China-mark moths
Acentropini is a tribe of aquatic moths within the family Crambidae, commonly known as china-mark moths. Adults are small to medium-sized moths with wingspans typically ranging from 15–35 mm. The tribe is distinguished by larvae that are fully aquatic, breathing through gills and feeding on submerged aquatic plants. These moths are found across temperate and tropical regions worldwide, with highest diversity in the Old World tropics.
Acilius abbreviatus
Abbreviated Predaceous Diving Beetle
Acilius abbreviatus is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It is found in North America, with records from Alberta and British Columbia in Canada. As a member of the genus Acilius, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments.
Acroneuriinae
Acroneuriinae is a subfamily of stoneflies within the family Perlidae, comprising approximately 32 genera and 520 described species. Members are aquatic insects whose larvae inhabit freshwater environments. The subfamily has been the subject of recent mitogenomic research, including the first documented gene rearrangements in the order Plecoptera.
Aegidae
aegid isopods
Aegidae is a family of marine and freshwater isopod crustaceans characterized by temporary parasitic relationships with fish hosts. Adults attach to hosts to feed on blood or tissue, then detach to digest meals. The family is distinguished from related Cirolanidae by having only three pairs of hook-like pereiopods rather than seven. Members occur in diverse aquatic habitats from shallow coastal waters to deep ocean environments, with some species documented at depths exceeding 2000 meters.
Aeshna
Hawkers, Mosaic Darners
Aeshna is a genus of large dragonflies in the family Aeshnidae, commonly known as hawkers in the Old World and mosaic darners in North America. The genus name was coined by Danish entomologist Johan Christian Fabricius in 1775, possibly from a printer's error in spelling the Greek 'Aechma' (spear). Species in this genus are characterized by their relatively large size, brown thoraces and abdomens with distinctive blue, yellow, or green markings. The genus has undergone significant taxonomic revision, with many Neotropical and other species reclassified into separate genera such as Rhionaeschna, Afroaeschna, and others based on phylogenetic studies.
Aeshna constricta
Lance-tipped Darner
Aeshna constricta, commonly known as the Lance-tipped Darner, is a large dragonfly species in the family Aeshnidae. It is distributed across North America and holds a conservation status of Least Concern with a stable population. The species is one of approximately 30 species in the diverse genus Aeshna, which are among the largest and most powerful fliers in the dragonfly order.
Aeshna palmata
Paddle-tailed Darner
Aeshna palmata, commonly known as the Paddle-tailed Darner, is a species of dragonfly in the family Aeshnidae. It is widely distributed across western Canada and the western United States. The species is named for its distinctive paddle-shaped cerci (appendages at the tip of the abdomen). It inhabits lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams, typically with dense vegetation along the shorelines. The species was first scientifically described by Hermann Hagen in 1856.
Agabetes
Agabetes is a small genus of diving beetles (family Dytiscidae) in the subfamily Laccophilinae. The genus contains two described species: Agabetes acuductus, described from North America in 1828, and Agabetes svetlanae, described from the Palearctic region in 1989. The genus is the type genus of the tribe Agabetini. Members are aquatic beetles inhabiting freshwater environments.
Agabinus
Agabinus is a genus of predaceous diving beetles (family Dytiscidae) established by Crotch in 1873. The genus contains two described species: Agabinus glabrellus and Agabinus sculpturellus. Members are found in North America and are classified within the subfamily Agabinae.
Agabus antennatus
Agabus antennatus is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Leech in 1939. It is found in North America, with records from Alberta and British Columbia in Canada. As a member of the genus Agabus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments.
Agabus canadensis
Agabus canadensis is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by Fall in 1922. It is found in North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, British Columbia) and the United States. As a member of the genus Agabus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments.
Agabus crassipes
Agabus crassipes is a diving beetle species in the family Dytiscidae, described by Fall in 1922. It is native to North America, with records from western Canada including Alberta and British Columbia. As a member of the genus Agabus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments. The specific epithet 'crassipes' refers to its stout or thick legs.
Agabus punctulatus
Agabus punctulatus is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It inhabits freshwater environments and is distributed across North America, with records from western Canada including Alberta and British Columbia. As a member of the genus Agabus, it is part of a diverse group of aquatic beetles adapted to life in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waters.
Agabus strigulosus
Agabus strigulosus is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It was first described by Crotch in 1873 under the basionym Gaurodytes strigulosus. The species is found in North America, with records from Alberta and British Columbia in Canada.
Agabus taeniolatus
Agabus taeniolatus is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It belongs to the large genus Agabus, which contains numerous aquatic beetle species found primarily in the Holarctic region. This species is documented from North America and shares the general ecological characteristics of the genus as an aquatic predator in freshwater habitats.
Agabus verisimilis
Agabus verisimilis is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It belongs to the large genus Agabus, which contains numerous similar-looking species primarily associated with freshwater habitats. The specific epithet "verisimilis" (meaning "very similar") likely refers to its close resemblance to other Agabus species. Information on this species is limited in published literature.
Agapetus
Agapetus caddisflies
Agapetus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Glossosomatidae, commonly known as saddle-case makers. Larvae construct portable, dome-shaped cases from sand grains and are found in lotic freshwater habitats. The genus has a global distribution with species documented across Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Life cycles vary among species, ranging from univoltine to trivoltine patterns depending on geographic location and environmental conditions.
Agnetina flavescens
Midwestern Stone
Agnetina flavescens, commonly known as the midwestern stone, is a stonefly species in the family Perlidae. It is native to North America and has been documented in several midwestern and southeastern US states. As a member of the common stoneflies, it inhabits freshwater systems where its aquatic nymphs develop. The species was originally described as Perla flavescens by Walsh in 1862 before being transferred to the genus Agnetina.
Allocapnia vivipara
Shortwing Snowfly, short-wing snowfly
Allocapnia vivipara, commonly known as the shortwing snowfly, is a species of small winter stonefly in the family Capniidae. It is native to North America and has been recorded from multiple states in the central United States. The species was originally described as Capnella vivipara by Claassen in 1924 before being transferred to Allocapnia. As a winter stonefly, it belongs to a group adapted to cold-season activity.
Ambrysus occidentalis
Ambrysus occidentalis is a species of creeping water bug in the family Naucoridae, described by La Rivers in 1951. It is distributed across Central America and North America. As a member of Naucoridae, it is an aquatic true bug adapted to life in freshwater environments. A study on its mating behavior has been published in the American Midland Naturalist, indicating research interest in its reproductive biology.
Ameletus
Upland Summer Mayfly (A. inopinatus)
Ameletus is a genus of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) and the type genus of the family Ameletidae, circumscribed by Rev. A. E. Eaton in 1885. The genus is speciose, with approximately 30 bisexual species recognized in North America and additional species in Europe and Asia. Ameletus species occur in cold-water streams from small headwater brooks to larger rivers, with greatest diversity in mountainous regions of western North America. The genus includes A. inopinatus, the only predominantly montane mayfly species in the UK and a noted climate change indicator species.
Ameletus browni
purple marram
Ameletus browni is a mayfly species in the family Ameletidae, commonly known as the "purple marram." It was described by McDunnough in 1933 based on nymphal specimens collected in southern British Columbia. The species belongs to the Nearctic fauna and is found in northeastern North America, including Canada and the northeastern United States. Like other members of the genus Ameletus, it is associated with cool, clean freshwater habitats.
Ameletus ludens
Ameletus ludens is a species of combmouthed minnow mayfly in the family Ameletidae, described by Needham in 1905. It belongs to the order Ephemeroptera, a group of aquatic insects known for their brief adult lifespans. The species is found in North America, though specific details about its ecology and life history remain limited in available sources.
Ameletus similior
Ameletus similior is a mayfly species (Ephemeroptera: Ameletidae) described by McDunnough in 1928. It occurs in western North America from southern British Columbia to Alberta, with identification keys also applicable to Saskatchewan, Montana, and northern Idaho and Washington. The species was previously known as A. monta, which has been synonymized with A. similior. Adult males have practically clear hyaline wings and differ from the similar A. alticolus in genitalic characters.
Ameletus subnotatus
combmouthed minnow mayfly
Ameletus subnotatus is a species of combmouthed minnow mayfly in the family Ameletidae. It is one of 13 bisexual Ameletus species documented in Alberta, Canada, where it occurs across virtually all hydrographic basins from small headwater streams to large rivers. The species is found throughout Canada and extends into the northern and southwestern United States.
Ameletus validus
combmouthed minnow mayfly
Ameletus validus is a species of mayfly in the family Ameletidae, first described by McDunnough in 1923. It is one of approximately 30 bisexual species recognized in the genus Ameletus across North America. The species occurs in running waters from small headwater streams to large rivers, with documented populations in western North America including Alberta, British Columbia, and the western United States. Taxonomic work has clarified that adult wings are lightly and evenly suffused with brownish-amber, not speckled as previously miskeyed.
Ameletus velox
Ameletus velox is a North American mayfly species described by Dodds in 1923. It belongs to the family Ameletidae, a group of predatory mayflies known for their distinctive larval morphology and behavior. The species is part of the Nearctic fauna with documented presence in North America. As with other Ameletus species, it likely inhabits cool freshwater streams, though specific ecological details for this species remain limited in available literature.
Amiocentrus
humpless casemaker caddisflies
Amiocentrus is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The genus was established by Ross in 1938 and contains at least two described species: Amiocentrus aspilus and Amiocentrus tessellatum. Members of this genus are aquatic insects whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Amiocentrus aspilus
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Amiocentrus aspilus is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as the humpless casemaker caddisflies. It is known from North America and belongs to a genus whose larvae construct distinctive portable cases using plant material. The species was described by Ross in 1938. Like other brachycentrids, it is associated with freshwater habitats.
Anacaenini
Anacaenini is a tribe of small aquatic beetles in the family Hydrophilidae, containing 256 species across 6 genera. Members inhabit freshwater environments and are characterized by their compact body form and aquatic adaptations. The tribe was established by Hansen in 1991 and is classified within the subfamily Hydrophilinae.
Anisocentropus
Anisocentropus is a cosmopolitan genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) comprising over 60 described species distributed across Oriental, Australasian, Afrotropical, Neotropical, Nearctic, and East Palearctic regions. Larvae are case-building detritivores that construct portable shelters from leaf pieces or wood fragments, inhabiting both lotic and lentic freshwater environments depending on species. The genus exhibits notable variation in habitat preference, with some species strictly adapted to standing water while others occupy running water or both environments.
Anisogammaridae
Anisogammaridae is a family of small benthic amphipod crustaceans endemic to the northern Pacific Rim. The family includes freshwater, estuarine, and marine species distributed across the Japanese Archipelago, Korean Peninsula, Chinese mainland, and Pacific coast of North America. Members exhibit diverse life history strategies including annual winter-breeding cycles in temperate freshwater habitats and bivoltine patterns in estuarine environments. The family is notable for containing the most diverse group of Japanese freshwater amphipods (genus Jesogammarus) and species of conservation concern due to restricted ranges and habitat vulnerability.
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.
Anomopoda
water fleas
Anomopoda is a group of small aquatic crustaceans commonly known as water fleas, classified within Branchiopoda and Diplostraca. The group includes several families of ecological and scientific importance, with some species widely used as model organisms in evolutionary biology, ecology, and toxicology. Anomopods exhibit remarkable reproductive flexibility, alternating between parthenogenetic and sexual reproduction. They occupy diverse freshwater habitats across the globe and serve as critical components of aquatic food webs.
Anthopotamus myops
hacklegilled burrower mayfly
Anthopotamus myops is a species of hacklegilled burrower mayfly in the family Potamanthidae. It inhabits freshwater environments in southeastern Canada and the eastern United States. As a member of the order Ephemeroptera, it has a short adult lifespan and aquatic nymphal stages.
Anticheta melanosoma
Anticheta melanosoma is a species of marsh fly in the family Sciomyzidae, described by Melander in 1920. The genus Anticheta belongs to the tribe Tetanocerini, a group known for larvae that are predators or parasitoids of freshwater snails. The specific epithet "melanosoma" refers to the dark body coloration characteristic of this species. Records indicate this species occurs in the northeastern United States, particularly Vermont.
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.
Apsectrotanypus johnsoni
Apsectrotanypus johnsoni is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. It was described by Coquillett in 1901. As a member of the tribe Macropelopini, it belongs to a group of predatory midges whose larvae inhabit aquatic environments. The species is documented in the Catalogue of Life and GBIF as an accepted taxon, with 25 observations recorded on iNaturalist.
Aquarius remigis
common water strider
Aquarius remigis is a predatory aquatic bug known as the common water strider. Formerly classified as Gerris remigis, the species was reclassified in 1990 when Aquarius was elevated to generic rank. It inhabits freshwater surfaces across North America, with highest prevalence in the midwestern United States. Populations exhibit geographic variation in life history, with northern populations typically univoltine and southern populations showing greater plasticity in voltinism.
Archilestes grandis
Great Spreadwing
Archilestes grandis, commonly known as the Great Spreadwing, is a large damselfly in the family Lestidae. It is one of the largest damselfly species in North America, often mistaken for a dragonfly due to its substantial size. The species is widespread across much of the United States and extends into Mexico and Central America. When startled, individuals frequently return to the same perch or one nearby.
Arctocorisa sutilis
Arctocorisa sutilis is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Uhler in 1876. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The species is recorded from North America, particularly in the Nearctic region excluding Beringia. Like other corixids, it is an aquatic insect adapted to life in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waters. Very limited published information exists on its specific biology.
Arcynopterygini
springflies
Arcynopterygini is a tribe of springflies (Plecoptera) within the family Perlodidae. The tribe contains approximately 11 genera and more than 30 described species. Members are distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, with genera found in North America, Europe, and Asia. The tribe was established by Ricker & Scudder in 1975.
Argia bipunctulata
seepage dancer
Argia bipunctulata, commonly known as the seepage dancer, is a species of narrow-winged damselfly in the family Coenagrionidae. It is native to North America and holds a conservation status of Least Concern (LC) according to the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival. As a member of the genus Argia—the largest genus in the subfamily Argiinae—this species exhibits the characteristic "dancing" flight pattern typical of its congeners.
Argia translata
Dusky Dancer
Argia translata, commonly known as the Dusky Dancer, is a damselfly species in the family Coenagrionidae. It is native to eastern and southern North America and has also been documented in parts of Central and South America. The species is relatively well-observed, with over 11,000 records on iNaturalist, suggesting it is not uncommon in suitable habitats. As with other members of the genus Argia, it is associated with freshwater environments where it completes its aquatic larval development before emerging as a flying adult.
Argyractini
Argyractini is a tribe of aquatic moths within the subfamily Acentropinae (Crambidae). The tribe includes several genera of small to medium-sized moths whose larvae are adapted to life in freshwater habitats. Adults are generally nocturnal and are attracted to light. The group is primarily distributed in the New World, with most species occurring in the Neotropical region.
Argyractis drumalis
Argyractis drumalis is a small aquatic moth in the family Crambidae, subfamily Acentropinae. It is endemic to Florida and associated with freshwater aquatic habitats. The species is named for Fort Drum, its type locality. Adults are active year-round with peak presence from February through November.
Arrenuridae
Arrenuridae is a family of water mites (Hydrachnidia) in the order Trombidiformes, containing at least three genera and approximately 110 described species. Members are primarily freshwater predators as adults and deutonymphs, with larvae that parasitize aquatic insects. The family exhibits complex mating behaviors mediated by chemical communication, including female-emitted sex pheromones that trigger male responses.
Arrenurus
water mites
Arrenurus is the largest genus of water mites, comprising approximately 950 species with cosmopolitan distribution in lentic freshwater habitats. Adults are heavily sclerotized, predatory, and exhibit marked sexual dimorphism—males possess diagnostic caudal modifications used in mating, while female taxonomy remains problematic. The life cycle includes seven stages: egg, inactive prelarva, parasitic larva, protonymph, deutonymph, tritonymph, and adult. Larvae are ectoparasites of aquatic insects, particularly Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies), but also Diptera and Coleoptera, utilizing hosts for both nutrition and phoretic dispersal.
Arrenurus problecornis
Arrenurus problecornis is a species of water mite (family Arrenuridae) described by Cook in 1976. Like other members of the genus Arrenurus, it is part of the subgenus Arrenurus, which is characterized by parasitic larvae that attach to odonate hosts (dragonflies and damselflies). The species belongs to the diverse radiation of water mites (Hydrachnidia), a group comprising over 6,000 species of predatory freshwater arachnids with complex life histories involving parasitic larval stages and free-living predatory adults.
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.
Aselloidea
Waterslaters and allies
Aselloidea is a superfamily of freshwater and subterranean isopods within the suborder Asellota. Members are primarily aquatic, with many lineages adapted to life in groundwater, caves, and karst systems. The superfamily includes families such as Asellidae (common freshwater isopods), Stenasellidae, and Atlantasellidae. Some representatives exhibit remarkable morphological specializations for subterranean existence, including reduced eyes and elongated appendages.
Asellota
Asellotes
Asellota is a suborder of isopod crustaceans comprising approximately one-quarter of all marine isopods. The group exhibits remarkable ecological diversity, occurring in marine, freshwater, and subterranean habitats from shallow coastal waters to abyssal depths, including hydrothermal vents. Members possess distinctive morphological specializations including a complex copulatory apparatus that distinguishes them from other isopods. The suborder has undergone multiple independent colonizations of deep-sea environments, with some lineages showing extensive radiation in these habitats.
Astacidae
Astacid Crayfishes, Freshwater Crayfish
Astacidae is a family of freshwater crayfish comprising four extant genera: Astacus, Austropotamobius, Pontastacus, and Pacifastacus. Members are native to Europe, western Asia, and western North America. The family is distinguished by a gonopore positioned on the coxa of the third pair of walking legs in males (fifth pair in females), a trait shared with all Astacoidea. Several species, particularly Pacifastacus leniusculus (signal crayfish), have become invasive outside their native ranges, carrying crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci) that threatens native European populations.
Astacoidea
Northern Hemisphere Crayfishes
Astacoidea is a superfamily of freshwater crayfish restricted to the Northern Hemisphere. It comprises three families: Astacidae (Europe and western North America), Cambaridae (eastern North America), and Cambaroididae (eastern Asia). Members are distinguished from the Southern Hemisphere superfamily Parastacoidea by geographic distribution. Crayfish in this group possess ten walking legs, feather-like gills for respiration, and a segmented body with a hard exoskeleton. Many species construct burrows for shelter, with complexity varying from simple tunnels to elaborate multi-chambered systems.
Asynarchus
Asynarchus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, first described by McLachlan in 1880. Species are found in small, cold, oligotrophic lakes and ponds across Eurasia and Northern America. The genus includes at least two species: A. contumax and A. lapponicus. Larvae and pupae of both species have been described from central Norway.
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.
Aturus
Aturus is a genus of water mites in the family Aturidae, first described by Kramer in 1875. These mites are part of the diverse Trombidiformes order, which includes many aquatic and terrestrial predatory mites. The genus has a notably broad geographic distribution spanning multiple continents.
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.
Baetis notos
Baetis notos is a species of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. It is found in Central America and North America, with its North American range extending across southern Mexico, the southern United States, and the northwestern United States. The species was described by Allen and Murvosh in 1987.
Banksiola
Traveller Sedges, Giant Casemakers
Banksiola is a genus of caddisflies in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as giant casemakers or traveller sedges. The genus comprises approximately five described species distributed in North America. Larvae construct portable cases from plant material and are associated with freshwater habitats.
Bdelloidea
Bdelloid rotifers, bdelloids
Bdelloidea is a class of microscopic rotifers found in freshwater habitats worldwide, comprising over 450 described species. These organisms are distinguished by obligate parthenogenetic reproduction—no males have ever been observed—and their remarkable ability to survive extreme desiccation through anhydrobiosis. They range from 150–700 μm in length and can remain dormant for years, with documented cases of revival after 24,000 years frozen in Siberian permafrost. Bdelloids have been called 'ancient asexuals' due to their estimated 25+ million year history of asexual reproduction supported by fossil evidence.
Bellura
Bellura is a genus of moths in the family Noctuidae, established by Walker in 1865. The genus contains approximately eight described species distributed in North America. Caterpillars of at least some species are aquatic or semi-aquatic, feeding on aquatic plants such as water lilies. The genus is notable among Noctuidae for this aquatic larval ecology, which is relatively uncommon in the family.
Bellura gortynoides
White-tailed Diver Moth, white-tailed diver
Bellura gortynoides, commonly known as the white-tailed diver moth, is a North American noctuid moth whose aquatic caterpillars live submerged in freshwater habitats. The larvae feed on aquatic plants, including water lilies, and breathe by periodically surfacing to capture air through specialized spiracles. Adults are strictly nocturnal. The species belongs to the poorly studied group of aquatic moths, which have received limited scientific attention despite their unusual ecology.
Bellura vulnifica
Black-tailed Diver Moth, Black-tailed Diver
Bellura vulnifica, commonly known as the black-tailed diver moth, is a North American species in the family Noctuidae. The species is part of the aquatic moth genus Bellura, whose larvae are known to inhabit freshwater environments and feed on aquatic vegetation. Adults are nocturnal. The species is assigned Hodges number 9523.1.
Belostoma
giant water bugs, electric-light bugs, toe-biters
Belostoma is a genus of giant water bugs in the family Belostomatidae, comprising approximately 70 species organized into 16 subgroups. These aquatic predators are native to freshwater habitats throughout the Americas, with highest diversity in tropical South America. The genus is distinguished by male paternal care, where males carry eggs cemented to their backs until hatching. Species range in body length from 15 to 41.5 mm.
Belostoma confusum
Belostoma confusum is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, described by Lauck in 1959. As a member of this family, it is an aquatic predator found in freshwater habitats. The species occurs in North America and Middle America based on distribution records. Like other Belostoma species, it possesses raptorial forelegs adapted for capturing prey and likely exhibits the reversed sexual size dimorphism characteristic of the genus, where females are larger than males and males carry eggs on their backs.
Belostoma fusciventre
Belostoma fusciventre is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, first described by Dufour in 1863. Like other members of the genus Belostoma, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments. The species is known from Middle America and North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in available literature.
Belostoma minor
giant water bug
Belostoma minor is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae. It occurs in the northern Caribbean bioregion, with documented records from Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and southern Florida. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic predator. The species was described by Palisot de Beauvois in 1820.
Belostoma testaceum
giant water bug
Belostoma testaceum is a species of giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae. It is found in the eastern United States, ranging from New York south to southern Florida and west to Texas and Michigan. Like other members of its family, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments.
Belostomatidae
giant water bugs, toe-biters, Indian toe-biters, electric-light bugs, alligator ticks, alligator fleas
Belostomatidae is a family of large freshwater hemipteran insects comprising approximately 170 species worldwide. Members are the largest insects in the order Hemiptera, with some species exceeding 12 cm in length. They are aggressive predators found in ponds, marshes, and slow-flowing streams, feeding on aquatic invertebrates, fish, amphibians, and even small vertebrates. The family exhibits remarkable paternal care, with males of many species carrying eggs on their backs until hatching. Several species are consumed as food in Southeast Asia.
Benthalia
Benthalia is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, established by Lipina in 1939. The genus is currently treated as a synonym of Einfeldia in the Catalogue of Life, reflecting ongoing taxonomic revision in the Chironomini tribe. Species historically placed in Benthalia are primarily benthic, inhabiting the bottom sediments of aquatic environments.
Berosus peregrinus
Berosus peregrinus is a water scavenger beetle (Hydrophilidae) native to North America and the Caribbean. It inhabits freshwater environments including marshes, ponds, and sluggish streams. Like other members of its genus, it is adapted to aquatic life and contributes to decomposition of organic material in aquatic ecosystems.
Bidessini
Bidessini is a tribe of predaceous diving beetles within the family Dytiscidae, comprising at least 40 genera and over 630 described species. Members are small to minute aquatic beetles found across diverse freshwater habitats worldwide, with notable radiations in Australia, South America, and Madagascar. The tribe includes both surface-dwelling (epigean) and subterranean (stygobitic) species, with several genera exhibiting convergent adaptations to groundwater environments.
Bidessonotus
Bidessonotus is a genus of predaceous diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Régimbart in 1895. The genus comprises approximately 30 described species distributed primarily in the Americas, with records from North America through Central America to northern South America. These small diving beetles inhabit freshwater environments and are members of the tribe Bidessini within the subfamily Hydroporinae. The genus was revised taxonomically by Young in 1990, who described numerous new species.
Bolotoperla rossi
Smoky Willowfly
Bolotoperla rossi is a species of stonefly in the family Taeniopterygidae, commonly known as the Smoky Willowfly. Originally described as Brachyptera rossi by Frison in 1942, it was later transferred to the genus Bolotoperla. This species belongs to the winter stonefly group, which are active during cold months when most other insects are dormant.
Bosmina
water flea
Bosmina is a genus of small cladoceran crustaceans commonly known as water fleas. Members are distinguished from the related genus Bosminopsis by having antennae that are separated at their bases rather than fused. Bosmina species are filter feeders that consume algae and protozoans approximately 1–3 μm in size, using a dual feeding mechanism involving mesh-like setules on the second and third legs for filtering while the first leg grasps particles. The genus exhibits notable morphological plasticity, particularly in posterior mucrones and anterior antennules, which vary in response to predation pressure. Some Bosmina species have become invasive outside their native ranges, posing threats to aquatic ecosystems.
Bosmina freyi
Bosmina freyi is a small cladoceran crustacean in the family Bosminidae, described by De Melo and Hebert in 1994. It inhabits freshwater environments, with documented populations in tropical eutrophic reservoirs. Research has examined morphological plasticity in this species, particularly variation in body size, mucron length, and antennule morphology in response to environmental conditions.
Brachycentridae
Humpless Casemaker Caddisflies
Brachycentridae is a family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) commonly known as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The family contains approximately 100 species across 8 genera and is distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. Larvae construct portable cases using plant material, rock fragments, or silk, with some species exhibiting specialized filter-feeding behaviors. The family was first described by Georg Ulmer in 1903 as a subfamily of Sericostomatidae before being elevated to family rank.
Brachycentrus
Grannom Caddisflies, Humpless Casemaker Caddisflies
Brachycentrus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Brachycentridae, commonly known as grannoms or humpless casemaker caddisflies. The genus contains at least 30 described species distributed across North America and Eurasia. Larvae are aquatic filter-feeders that construct portable cases from silk and environmental materials such as sand, small stones, or plant fragments. The genus is ecologically significant as an important prey item for trout and other freshwater fish.
Brachycentrus americanus
American Grammon
Brachycentrus americanus is a species of humpless casemaker caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae. Larvae construct portable cases and are sensitive to synthetic pyrethroid insecticides, exhibiting case-abandonment behavior upon exposure. The species displays diel periodicity in activity patterns, with predominantly nocturnal filtering behavior. It is most active in July and August in western and midwestern North America.
Brachycentrus incanus
Brachycentrus incanus is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae. The species was described by Hagen in 1861 and is known from the Nearctic region. Like other members of its family, it is associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct portable cases.
Brachycercus
squaregilled mayflies
Brachycercus is a genus of small mayflies in the family Caenidae, commonly known as squaregilled mayflies. The genus is characterized by its distinctive square-shaped gills and is distributed primarily in the Palaearctic and Nearctic realms. At least six species have been described, including B. harrisella, which is the type species described by Curtis in 1835.
Branchinecta
fairy shrimp
Branchinecta is a genus of fairy shrimp (Anostraca) comprising approximately 50 species distributed across all continents except Australia. The genus includes the largest anostracan, Branchinecta gigas, reaching up to 10 cm in length, and the highest-altitude crustacean, B. brushi, recorded at 5,930 m elevation. Species occupy diverse temporary freshwater habitats from Arctic and Antarctic regions to high-elevation Andean pools. Two species, B. gaini and B. granulosa, have been synonymized based on molecular evidence showing insufficient genetic differentiation.
Branchiopoda
Branchiopods
Branchiopoda is a class of small, primarily freshwater crustaceans unified by the presence of gills on their appendages—giving the group its name from Greek 'bránkhia' (gill) and 'poús' (foot). The class comprises fairy shrimp (Anostraca), tadpole shrimp (Notostraca), clam shrimp (Spinicaudata, Laevicaudata, Cyclestherida), and water fleas (Cladocera/Diplostraca), plus the extinct Devonian Lepidocaris. Most are filter-feeders on plankton and detritus, though notostracans are opportunistic omnivores. Many species inhabit temporary pools and produce desiccation-resistant resting eggs, allowing survival through dry periods.
Brevitentoria
caddisflies
Brevitentoria is an infraorder of Trichoptera (caddisflies) within the suborder Integripalpia, established by Weaver in 1984. It comprises families of case-making caddisflies characterized by shortened, reduced tentoria in the adult head skeleton. A comprehensive inventory in Espírito Santo State, Brazil documented 40 species from 3,420 adult specimens, including three newly described species in the genera Phylloicus, Helicopsyche (Feropsyche), and Marilia. The estimated total species richness for this infraorder in the state is approximately 72 species.
Brillia
Brillia is a genus of non-biting midges in the subfamily Orthocladiinae of the family Chironomidae. The genus exhibits remarkable cryptic diversity, with DNA barcoding studies revealing 30 Barcode Index Numbers and 158 unique haplotypes across 13 described species. East Asian and North American populations show complete genetic distinctness, suggesting long-term isolation. The larvae inhabit freshwater depositional zones and serve as sensitive bioindicators for ecosystem monitoring.
Brychius
crawling water beetles
Brychius is a genus of small aquatic beetles in the family Haliplidae, commonly known as crawling water beetles. The genus comprises five recognized species distributed across parts of Europe and North America. One species, Brychius hungerfordi, is federally endangered in the United States. Members of this genus inhabit freshwater environments and are associated with aquatic vegetation.
Bryelmis idahoensis
riffle beetle
Bryelmis idahoensis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Barr in 2011. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects that inhabit fast-flowing streams and rivers. The species is known from North America, with its specific epithet suggesting a connection to Idaho. As with other members of Elmidae, it likely has an aquatic larval stage and a partially aquatic adult stage, though specific biological details for this species remain undocumented in available sources.
Buenoa arida
Buenoa arida is a species of backswimmer in the family Notonectidae, first described by Truxal in 1953. The genus Buenoa comprises aquatic predatory insects that swim upside down. This species is part of a diverse group of true bugs adapted to freshwater environments.
Buenoa confusa
Buenoa confusa is a species of backswimmer (family Notonectidae) described by Truxal in 1953. It is distributed across the Caribbean, Central America, and North America. As a member of the genus Buenoa, it is an aquatic true bug that inhabits freshwater environments.
Buenoa platycnemis
Buenoa platycnemis is a species of backswimmer in the family Notonectidae. It is a predatory aquatic insect found in freshwater habitats across the Americas. The genus Buenoa is distinguished by males producing audible stridulatory sounds, a rare trait among aquatic Heteroptera. This species has been recorded from North, Central, and South America, including multiple states in Brazil.
Buenoa scimitra
backswimmer
Buenoa scimitra is a backswimmer (Hemiptera: Notonectidae) first described by Bare in 1925. It inhabits freshwater environments across North America, the Caribbean, and Middle America. The species is a documented predator of mosquito larvae and serves as a known host for the parasitic water mite Hydrachna virella, which attaches to multiple instars and adults.
Bythotrephes longimanus
Spiny Water Flea, Spiny Waterflea
Bythotrephes longimanus is a predatory planktonic cladoceran crustacean native to northern Europe and Asia that has become a significant invasive species in North America since its introduction to the Great Lakes in the 1980s. Adults reach up to 15 mm in length, with females growing substantially larger than males. The species exhibits cyclic parthenogenesis and produces distinctive morphological forms depending on reproductive mode and season. Its invasion has caused substantial ecological disruption through direct predation on native zooplankton and non-lethal effects that alter prey behavior and population dynamics.
Caecidotea racovitzai australis
Caecidotea racovitzai australis is a subspecies of freshwater isopod in the family Asellidae. It was originally described as Asellus racovitzai australis by Williams in 1970. The subspecies belongs to a genus of aquatic isopods commonly found in groundwater and cave habitats.
Calamoceratidae
Calamoceratidae is a family of caddisflies comprising approximately 9 genera and at least 120 described species. The family is distributed across tropical and temperate regions worldwide, with notable diversity in the Neotropics. Larvae are aquatic and construct distinctive cases from plant material. The genus Phylloicus is particularly species-rich in the New World, with 66 described species.
Callicorixa
Callicorixa is a genus of water boatmen (family Corixidae) comprising nine described species. Members are aquatic insects inhabiting freshwater environments. Research on *Callicorixa vulnerata* has demonstrated sexual size dimorphism and tarsal asymmetry in mid-leg morphology. *Callicorixa praeusta* exhibits complex acoustic communication, with males producing synchronized stridulatory calls for congregation and reproduction.
Cambaridae
Cambarid Crayfishes
Cambaridae is the largest family of freshwater crayfish, comprising over 400 species. The family is predominantly native to eastern North America and Mexico, with a small number of species in eastern Asia (genus Cambaroides) and the Caribbean (Cuba). Several species have become invasive outside their native ranges, while many others have restricted distributions and are threatened with extinction.
Cambarus asperimanus
mitten crayfish
Cambarus asperimanus, commonly known as the mitten crayfish, is a species of freshwater crayfish in the family Cambaridae. It was first described by Faxon in 1914 and is native to North America. The species holds a Least Concern conservation status according to the IUCN, last reviewed in 2010.
Cambarus bartonii
common crayfish, Appalachian brook crayfish, Eastern Crayfish
Cambarus bartonii is a freshwater crayfish native to eastern North America, first described from North America in 1798. It inhabits fast-flowing, cool, rocky streams and shallow lakes across a broad range from Ontario and New Brunswick south to Alabama. The species exhibits notable physiological tolerance to acidic conditions and demonstrates behavioral flexibility, including documented use of terrestrial microhabitats for overwintering. Several subspecies have been proposed but their validity remains under investigation.
Cambarus bartonii bartonii
Common Crayfish
Cambarus bartonii bartonii is a subspecies of freshwater crayfish native to eastern North America. It is a secondary burrowing species found in streams and other aquatic habitats, with documented physiological tolerance to acidic conditions. The subspecies exhibits agonistic behavioral contests between males, particularly during reproductive periods when males adopt Form I morphology with enlarged claws. It has been observed using terrestrial microhabitats for overwintering.
Cambarus robustus
Big Water Crayfish, robust crayfish
Cambarus robustus, commonly known as the Big Water Crayfish or robust crayfish, is a freshwater crayfish species in the family Cambaridae. It is native to eastern North America, ranging from several U.S. states to Ontario, Canada. The species has been studied extensively as a surrogate for federally endangered crayfish species due to its close phylogenetic relationships and similar ecological requirements. Research indicates it demonstrates significant acid tolerance compared to sympatric Orconectes species, exhibits complex agonistic behaviors with distinct initiation acts predicting contest outcomes, and occupies a partitioned trophic position in multi-species crayfish communities.
Cambarus speciosus
Beautiful Crayfish
Cambarus speciosus, commonly known as the beautiful crayfish, is a species of freshwater crayfish in the family Cambaridae. It is endemic to Georgia, United States. The species is currently listed as Near Threatened (NT) by the IUCN, with a stable population as of the last review in 2010. The specific epithet 'speciosus' refers to its attractive appearance.
Cannaphila insularis
gray-waisted skimmer
Cannaphila insularis, commonly known as the gray-waisted skimmer, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. The species includes two recognized subspecies: C. i. insularis (nominate) and C. i. funerea. It is distributed across the Caribbean, Central America, and North America, with the nominate subspecies occurring on Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Isla de Pinos (Cuba), while C. i. funerea ranges from southern Texas through Colombia and is widely distributed in Cuba. The species inhabits lentic freshwater environments including lagoons, ponds, and slow-moving streams with abundant herbaceous vegetation. The last instar larva of C. i. funerea has been formally described, providing diagnostic morphological characters for identification.
Cardiocladius
Cardiocladius is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. These aquatic insects are part of the diverse group of chironomid flies commonly known as bloodworms, though adults do not feed on blood. The genus was established by Jean-Jacques Kieffer in 1912. Larval stages are aquatic and contribute to freshwater food webs.
Caridea
caridean shrimp, true shrimp
Caridea is a species-rich infraorder of decapod crustaceans comprising over 3,000 described species of true shrimp. Members are distinguished from other shrimp groups by their brooding reproductive strategy, lamellar gill structure, and characteristic abdominal segmentation where the second segment overlaps both the first and third. They occupy diverse aquatic habitats from freshwater streams to abyssal depths exceeding 5,000 meters, with roughly one-quarter of species inhabiting freshwater environments. The group includes commercially significant species such as Pandalus borealis and ecologically important cleaner shrimp that maintain reef fish health.
Celina
Celina is a genus of small predaceous diving beetles (family Dytiscidae) first described by Aubé in 1837. These aquatic beetles belong to the subfamily Hydroporinae and tribe Methlini. The genus occurs primarily in the Neotropical region, with records from northern South America including Colombia. Members of this genus are aquatic predators inhabiting freshwater environments.
Celithemis elisa
Calico Pennant
Celithemis elisa, commonly known as the calico pennant, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae native to eastern North America. Adults are small to medium-sized (24–34 mm body length) with distinctive brown spots at the wing bases and tips. The species inhabits calm freshwater bodies with emergent vegetation and exhibits spatial partitioning of perching microhabitats when co-occurring with congeners.
Celithemis fasciata
Banded Pennant
Celithemis fasciata, commonly known as the banded pennant, is a dragonfly species in the skimmer family Libellulidae native to the eastern and central United States. Adults are approximately 33 mm in length and are distinguished by extensive, sharply defined black markings on the wings, though wing pattern intensity varies geographically with northern individuals showing less coloration. The species inhabits lentic waters including ponds, lakes, and ditches. Research has demonstrated that individuals exhibit prey preference for small dipteran prey over larger alternatives and engage in prey switching behavior based on relative prey densities.
Cenocorixa wileyi
Cenocorixa wileyi is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae. It was described by Hungerford in 1930. The genus Cenocorixa is endemic to western North America and contains several species adapted to lentic freshwater habitats. This species is part of a genus characterized by distinctive male genitalic structures and specific habitat preferences.
Centrocorisa nigripennis
Centrocorisa nigripennis is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Fabricius in 1803. It belongs to the suborder Heteroptera (true bugs) within the order Hemiptera. The genus Centrocorisa is part of the tribe Corixini, a group of aquatic insects commonly known as water boatmen. As a member of the Nepomorpha, it is adapted to an aquatic lifestyle. The species has been recorded across the Caribbean, Middle America, and North America.
Centropagidae
Centropagidae is a family of calanoid copepods comprising 14 genera and over 130 species. Members occupy diverse aquatic habitats including marine coastal waters, freshwater lakes, and saline lakes across the Southern Hemisphere, with notable concentrations in Australia, southern South America, subantarctic islands, and Antarctica. The family exhibits significant habitat diversity: marine genera include Centropages, Dussartopages, and Gladioferens; freshwater genera include Boeckella, Calamoecia, and Hemiboeckella. The genus Boeckella poppei represents the only terrestrial/freshwater invertebrate reported from all three main Antarctic biogeographic regions (subantarctic islands, maritime Antarctic, and continental Antarctic).
Cercopagididae
Cercopagididae is a family of predatory branchiopod crustaceans in the order Onychopoda. Members are planktonic water fleas characterized by specialized predatory adaptations including modified thoracopods and distinctive labral morphology. The family includes notable invasive species such as Bythotrephes longimanus (spiny water flea) and Cercopagis pengoi (fishhook water flea), which have been introduced to North America and pose significant threats to aquatic ecosystems. Native to the Palearctic, several species have expanded their ranges through human-mediated dispersal.
Chauliodes pectinicornis
Summer Fishfly
Chauliodes pectinicornis, commonly known as the Summer Fishfly, is a species of fishfly in the family Corydalidae native to eastern North America. First described by Carl Linnaeus in 1763, this species has a notably wide distribution across eastern Canada and the United States. A distinctive ecological feature is its commensal relationship with Plecopteracoluthus downesi larvae, which complete their entire life cycle including pupation on the fishfly's mesothorax.
Cheumatopsyche
Little Sister Sedges
Cheumatopsyche is a large genus of net-spinning caddisflies comprising at least 240 described species. Larvae construct silk capture nets to filter food from flowing water and are important components of freshwater benthic communities. Species exhibit variable life histories including univoltine and multivoltine cycles, with some populations capable of producing additional generations when thermal conditions permit. The genus is widely distributed across multiple continents and serves as a significant bioindicator for water quality assessment.
Cheumatopsyche analis
Cheumatopsyche analis is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. It belongs to a genus known for constructing fixed capture nets in flowing water to filter food particles. The species has been documented in the Nearctic region, including Hawaii. As a member of the Hydropsychidae, it participates in freshwater food webs as both a filter-feeder larva and a flying adult.
Chilostigmodes
Chilostigmodes is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, tribe Chilostigmini. It was established by Martynov in 1914. The genus is poorly documented, with only three observations recorded on iNaturalist as of 2024. It belongs to the diverse Limnephiloidea superfamily, whose members are primarily associated with freshwater habitats.
Chilostigmodes areolatus
Chilostigmodes areolatus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Walker in 1852. It belongs to the tribe Chilostigmini, a group of limnephilid caddisflies primarily associated with lentic (still-water) habitats. The genus Chilostigmodes is small and poorly studied, with limited published information on the biology of its constituent species.
Chimarra
Little Black Caddisflies
Chimarra is a large genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Philopotamidae) containing more than 630 described species. Adults are commonly known as "little black caddisflies" due to their characteristic dark coloration. The genus has undergone extensive radiation, with species distributed across multiple continents including North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Molecular studies have investigated the evolutionary history and biogeographic patterns of diversification within this genus.
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.
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.
Chironomus staegeri
Chironomus staegeri is a non-biting midge (Diptera: Chironomidae) characterized by extensive chromosomal inversion polymorphism. Populations exhibit significant genetic differentiation between deep and shallow water habitats in North America, with inversion patterns suggesting possible incipient speciation. The species has been used as a standard test organism in aquatic ecotoxicology studies, particularly for heavy metal toxicity research.
Chloroperlinae
Chloroperlinae is a subfamily of stoneflies within the family Chloroperlidae, established by Okamoto in 1912. Members are commonly known as green stoneflies due to their characteristic coloration. The subfamily occurs across multiple continents in cold freshwater habitats. Adults emerge from aquatic environments to inhabit riparian zones.
Chydorus
Chydorus is a genus of small benthic-littoral cladocerans in the family Chydoridae, established by William Elford Leach in 1816. Species in this genus are characterized by rounded, often reticulated carapaces and are among the most common anomopods in freshwater systems worldwide. The genus exhibits cosmopolitan distribution with multiple centers of diversification in Europe and Asia, and includes ecologically significant species such as Chydorus sphaericus, which dominates eutrophic waters and plays important roles in food web dynamics involving cyanobacteria.
Cirolanidae
Cirolanidae is a family of aquatic isopod crustaceans established by Dana in 1852. The family encompasses approximately 70 genera and over 500 species, ranging from small interstitial forms to the supergiant deep-sea isopods of the genus Bathynomus that can exceed 30 cm in length. Members occupy diverse aquatic habitats including marine coastal waters, deep-sea environments, freshwater systems, and subterranean groundwater. The family is characterized by dorsoventrally flattened bodies and includes both free-living and troglobitic species.
Cirolanides
Cirolanides is a genus of eyeless isopods in the family Cirolanidae, first described by Benedict in 1896. The genus contains two species: C. texensis and C. wassenichae. Members are characterized by reduced visual structures and specialized appendages adapted for subterranean life. These crustaceans represent a lineage adapted to dark, aquatic habitats.
Claassenia sabulosa
Shortwing Stonefly, short-wing stone
Claassenia sabulosa, commonly known as the shortwing stonefly, is a species of common stonefly in the family Perlidae. It is found in North America, with documented populations in the western United States including Colorado, as well as Canada. The species has been studied for its life cycle dynamics in Colorado streams and its adult mate-finding behaviors.
Cladotanytarsus
Cladotanytarsus is a genus of non-biting midges (Chironomidae) containing over 80 described species with worldwide distribution, particularly diverse in the Holarctic region. The genus comprises two subgenera: Cladotanytarsus s. str. and Lenziella. Species are primarily lacustrine, with adults often associated with lake surroundings and larvae inhabiting freshwater sediments. Several species have been described from experimentally acidified lakes in North America, demonstrating tolerance to varying pH conditions. One species, C. lewisi, is a significant human allergen source in Sudan.
Clarkhydrus
Clarkhydrus is a genus of diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, established in 2018 by Fery & Ribera. The genus was erected to accommodate species previously placed in related genera within the subtribe Deronectina. As a member of the subfamily Hydroporinae, these beetles are small to medium-sized aquatic predators. The genus is relatively recently described, and research on its species-level diversity and ecology is ongoing.
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.
Clinocerinae
aquatic dance flies
Clinocerinae is a subfamily of dance flies (Empididae) comprising 16 recognized genera including Clinocera, Wiedemannia, Dolichocephala, Trichoclinocera, and Kowarzia. Members are commonly known as aquatic dance flies due to their strong association with freshwater habitats. The subfamily has a global distribution with particularly diverse faunas in the Palaearctic and Oriental regions. Multiple generic revisions and species-level revisions have been published for Nearctic, Palaearctic, and Oriental faunas.
Clostoeca
Clostoeca is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, established by Banks in 1943. The genus is monotypic, containing only one described species: Clostoeca disjuncta. As a member of the Limnephilidae family, it belongs to a group of caddisflies commonly known as northern caddisflies, which are predominantly found in cool, temperate regions.
Coelotanypus atus
Coelotanypus atus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, described by Roback in 1971. It belongs to the subfamily Tanypodinae, a group of predatory midges commonly found in aquatic habitats. The genus Coelotanypus contains relatively few described species and is distinguished by specific morphological features of the adult and larval stages.
Coenagrion
Eurasian Bluets, Northern Bluets
Coenagrion is a genus of damselflies in the family Coenagrionidae, commonly called Eurasian Bluets or Northern Bluets. Species are generally medium-sized with bright coloration. While predominantly Eurasian in distribution, three species occur in North America: C. angulatum, C. interrogatum, and C. resolutum. The genus exhibits phenotypic plasticity in thermal adaptation, with high-latitude populations showing significant thermal adaptation capacity.
Colobaea
snail-killing flies
Colobaea is a genus of 15 valid species of snail-killing flies in the family Sciomyzidae. Larvae of all reared species kill and consume freshwater nonoperculate pulmonate snails, with varying degrees of specialization. The genus occurs in both Palearctic and Nearctic regions.
Colymbetes longulus
Colymbetes longulus is a species of diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by LeConte in 1862. It belongs to the subfamily Colymbetinae, a group of predatory aquatic beetles. The genus Colymbetes is among the more diverse genera of diving beetles, with species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. Like other members of its family, this species is adapted to life in freshwater habitats.
Copelatinae
copelatine diving beetles
Copelatinae is a subfamily of predaceous diving beetles (Dytiscidae) comprising seven genera: Agaporomorphus, Aglymbus, Copelatus, Exocelina, Lacconectus, Liopterus, and Madaglymbus. The genus Copelatus is the largest with approximately 470 described species worldwide, showing greatest diversity in tropical South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Members are predominantly aquatic, though some species have colonized highly ephemeral habitats including forest floor depressions. The subfamily exhibits remarkable morphological diversity and includes phylogenetically isolated lineages such as the South African genus Capelatus.
Copelatus distinctus
Copelatus distinctus is a species of diving beetle described by Aubé in 1838. It belongs to the genus Copelatus within the subfamily Copelatinae of the family Dytiscidae. The species is recorded from Middle America based on available distribution data. Like other members of Copelatus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments.
Copelatus glyphicus
Copelatus glyphicus is a small diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by Thomas Say in 1823. Adults measure 4.2–4.6 mm in length and 2.1–2.5 mm in width. The species is widely distributed across eastern North America.
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.
Corisella edulis
water boatman
Corisella edulis is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae. It is found in Central America and North America. The species has been documented as a host for the peritrich ciliate epibiont Orbopercularia lichtensteini in Hidalgo, Mexico.
Corixidae
Water Boatmen, Lesser Water Boatmen
Corixidae is a family of aquatic true bugs in the order Hemiptera, commonly known as water boatmen or lesser water boatmen. The family comprises approximately 500 species across 33-55 genera distributed worldwide in freshwater habitats, with a few species inhabiting saline waters. Members are distinguished from similar aquatic bugs by their right-side-up swimming posture, flattened body shape, and modified front legs adapted for feeding. The family exhibits diverse feeding strategies including herbivory, carnivory, detritivory, and omnivory.
Corixinae
water boatman
Corixinae is a subfamily of aquatic true bugs comprising at least 130 described species. Members are commonly known as water boatmen and are found in freshwater habitats worldwide. The subfamily includes the genera Corixa and Sigara, among others. Larvae develop through five instars, with distinct morphometric and chaetotaxy characteristics separating developmental stages.
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.
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.
Corynoneura lobata
Corynoneura lobata is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. First described by Edwards in 1924, this species belongs to a genus of small chironomids characterized by reduced wing venation and distinctive genitalic structures. The genus Corynoneura is taxonomically complex, with numerous species described from multiple biogeographic regions. C. lobata has documented distribution records in northern Europe.
Crangonyctidae
Crangonyctidae is a family of freshwater amphipod crustaceans containing both surface-dwelling and subterranean species. The family includes notable genera such as Crangonyx, Stygobromus, Bactrurus, and Synurella. Many species are obligate groundwater inhabitants adapted to cave and aquifer environments, while others occupy springs, streams, and lakes. The family has a broad geographic distribution across the Northern Hemisphere, with significant diversity in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Crangonyx
cave amphipods, spring amphipods
Crangonyx is a genus of freshwater amphipod crustaceans in the family Crangonyctidae. Species inhabit diverse aquatic environments including surface waters (marshes, swamps, lakes, rivers) and subterranean habitats (caves, springs, groundwater systems). The genus includes both native and highly invasive species, with some taxa exhibiting troglobitic adaptations such as reduced eyes and elongated appendages. Several species have been introduced outside their native ranges, notably Crangonyx pseudogracilis and C. floridanus in Europe and Asia, where they interact competitively and predatorily with native amphipods.
Crangonyx gracilis
Northern Lake Crangonyctid
Crangonyx gracilis is a small freshwater amphipod in the family Crangonyctidae, commonly known as the northern lake crangonyctid. It inhabits diverse aquatic environments across North America, including flowing water, standing water, and temporary habitats. The species was described by S.I. Smith in 1871.
Crangonyx richmondensis
Ellis Bog Crangonyctid
A small freshwater amphipod crustacean endemic to North America. The species exhibits an annual life cycle with distinct seasonal breeding patterns. Populations are restricted to specific freshwater habitats with particular substrate and vegetation characteristics. Two subspecies have been described: C. r. richmondensis and C. r. laurentianus, with the latter studied in detail in Algonquin Park, Ontario.
Crenitis
Crenitis is a genus of water scavenger beetles in the family Hydrophilidae, containing approximately 19 described species. The genus was established by Bedel in 1881. These beetles belong to the subfamily Chaetarthriinae and tribe Anacaenini. They are aquatic or semi-aquatic insects found in freshwater environments.
Cricotopus
non-biting midges
Cricotopus is a large and diverse genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae. Species occupy a wide range of freshwater and estuarine habitats globally, from pristine glacial streams to degraded urban waterways. Some species are specialized stem miners of aquatic plants, including C. lebetis which targets invasive hydrilla. The genus includes species with documented mutualistic relationships with cyanobacteria (Nostoc), as well as species used in biomonitoring and ecotoxicological research.
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.
Ctenopoda
Ctenopoda is an order of small crustaceans within the superorder Diplostraca, comprising three families: Holopediidae, Pseudopenilidae, and Sididae. Members are commonly known as water fleas and are predominantly freshwater inhabitants, though the genus Penilia is marine. The order is characterized by specialized swimming antennae and a body plan that reflects functional separation between locomotion and feeding appendages. Ctenopoda species have been documented across diverse aquatic habitats including lakes, reservoirs, wetlands, and coastal marine systems, with some species introduced to areas outside their native ranges by human activity.
Curicta
water scorpion
Curicta is a genus of aquatic insects in the family Nepidae, commonly known as water scorpions. Members of this genus are predatory true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The genus was established by Stål in 1861 and is placed in the tribe Curictini within the subfamily Nepinae. Curicta scorpio is one documented species, with records extending from Central to South America.
Cyclopoida
Cyclopoid Copepods
Cyclopoida is an order of small crustaceans within the class Copepoda, comprising approximately 30 families. Members are primarily planktonic, inhabiting both marine and freshwater environments, and are distinguished by morphological features including antennae shorter than the head and thorax combined. The order exhibits metamorphic larval development with embryos carried in paired or single sacs attached to the first abdominal somite. Molecular phylogenetic studies have reclassified the former order Poecilostomatoida as a lineage nested within Cyclopoida.
Cylloepus
riffle beetles
Cylloepus is a genus of riffle beetles in the family Elmidae, first described by Erichson in 1847. The genus contains approximately six described species distributed across the Americas. Members are aquatic beetles associated with flowing water habitats. Species have been documented from North America, the Caribbean, and South America.
Cymatia americana
water boatman
Cymatia americana is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Hussey in 1920. It belongs to the subfamily Cymatiinae and is one of several species in the genus Cymatia found in North America. Water boatmen in this family are aquatic true bugs that inhabit freshwater environments.
Cymatiainae
Cymatiainae is a subfamily of water boatmen within the family Corixidae. Members are aquatic insects adapted to freshwater habitats. The subfamily is distinguished by morphological features of the genitalia and wing venation. Cymatiainae represents one of several lineages within the diverse Corixidae family.
Daphnia
water fleas, water-fleas
Daphnia is a genus of small planktonic crustaceans (0.2–6.0 mm) in the order Anomopoda, commonly called water fleas due to their saltatory swimming style. The genus comprises over 200 species distributed across diverse freshwater habitats worldwide. Daphnia exhibits cyclical parthenogenesis, alternating between asexual and sexual reproduction, and serves as a keystone organism in freshwater food webs. Several species, particularly D. magna and D. pulex, are extensively used as model organisms in ecology, toxicology, and evolutionary biology research.
Daphniidae
water fleas
Daphniidae is a family of small freshwater crustaceans in the order Anomopoda, commonly known as water fleas. The family contains approximately 121 species across five genera: Ceriodaphnia, Daphnia, Megafenestra, Scapholeberis, and Simocephalus. Daphniidae species are important model organisms in ecology, toxicology, and evolutionary biology, particularly the genus Daphnia. Many species have been accidentally introduced to regions outside their native ranges through human activity.
Decapoda
decapods, ten-footed crustaceans
Decapoda is the most species-rich order of Crustacea, with over 14,500 described extant species worldwide. Members include crayfish, crabs, lobsters, prawns, and shrimp—collectively known as decapods or "ten-footed" crustaceans. The order exhibits extraordinary morphological diversity, ranging from tiny symbiotic shrimps under one centimetre to large crabs and lobsters. Decapods occupy virtually every aquatic habitat on Earth, from deep-sea trenches exceeding 5,000 metres depth to terrestrial environments, with nearly half of all species being crabs. The order includes several infraorders with distinct body plans: Brachyura (true crabs), Caridea (shrimps), Anomura (hermit crabs and allies), and others.
Derallus altus
Derallus altus is a water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae, distributed across the Americas from the United States through Central and South America to the Caribbean. As a member of the tribe Berosini, it inhabits aquatic or semi-aquatic environments where it contributes to nutrient cycling through scavenging behavior. The species was described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1855 and has been recorded in at least 12 U.S. states and multiple countries across the Neotropics.
Desmopachria
Desmopachria is a genus of predaceous diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, tribe Hyphydrini. The genus contains over 80 described species distributed primarily in the Americas, from the United States through Central America to South America, with particular diversity in the Amazon basin and Caribbean islands. Species are associated with aquatic habitats including river floodplains and high-altitude forest streams. Multiple new species have been described in recent decades, indicating ongoing taxonomic work and likely remaining undescribed diversity.
Diacyclops
Diacyclops is a genus of cyclopoid copepods in the family Cyclopidae containing over 120 described species. Species occupy diverse aquatic habitats including freshwater lakes, wetlands, rivers, and groundwater systems. Some species are planktonic while others are benthic or stygobiontic. The genus shows broad salinity tolerance, with at least one species thriving in brackish conditions up to 5 ppt. Diacyclops species serve as prey for fish and are sensitive indicators of environmental contaminants.
Diacyclops thomasi
Diacyclops thomasi is a cyclopoid copepod species in the family Cyclopidae, first described by Forbes in 1882. The species exhibits a distinctive life cycle involving summer diapause with whole-body encystment at the copepodid IV stage. During encystment, the organism undergoes profound metabolic depression and ultrastructural reorganization of its digestive tract, including transformation of midgut epithelial cells and accumulation of lipid-rich lacunae.
Diaptomidae
Diaptomidae is a family of freshwater pelagic copepods comprising approximately 50 genera. Members are the most widespread copepods in lentic inland waters of the Palearctic region. The family contains two subfamilies: Diaptominae and Paradiaptominae, with the latter consisting almost exclusively of African taxa. Diaptomids exhibit high species richness in tropical and Mediterranean regions, with numerous endemic species.
Dibusa
microcaddisfly
Dibusa is a genus of microcaddisflies in the family Hydroptilidae, established by Ross in 1939. The genus is monotypic, containing a single described species, Dibusa angata. This species exhibits a highly specialized ecological relationship, being obligately associated with the freshwater red alga Lemanea australis throughout its larval development. The genus represents a narrow example of host-specific adaptation within the diverse microcaddisfly fauna.
Dicosmoecus
October Caddisflies
Dicosmoecus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as October Caddisflies. The genus contains approximately six described species distributed across western North America, from California and Oregon through British Columbia to the Rocky Mountains. Species such as D. gilvipes and D. atripes are among the most intensively studied North American caddisflies due to their large larval size, synchronous autumn emergence, and importance in freshwater ecosystem research and fly-fishing culture.
Dicranopselaphus
water-penny beetles
Dicranopselaphus is a genus of water-penny beetles in the family Psephenidae, comprising over 40 described species. The genus exhibits a disjunct distribution spanning Asia and North America. Members are aquatic beetles with distinctive flattened, oval larval forms adapted to clinging to submerged surfaces in flowing water.
Didactyliini
Didactyliini is a small tribe of water scavenger beetles within the family Hydrophilidae, currently containing the single genus Didactylus. Members of this tribe are aquatic beetles distinguished by reduced tarsal segmentation, with only two visible tarsomeres on the fore and mid legs. The tribe was established to accommodate this unusual morphological condition, which separates it from other Hydrophilinae. The genus occurs in the Neotropical region, where species inhabit freshwater environments.
Didymops
Didymops is a genus of dragonflies belonging to the family Macromiidae. The genus is small, containing only two described species. Members are classified within the suborder Anisoptera, representing a distinct lineage within the cruiser dragonfly family.
Dineutus
whirligig beetles
Dineutus is a genus of whirligig beetles (family Gyrinidae) characterized by relatively large body size compared to other whirligig beetles. Adults are 9–15 mm long with smooth, shallowly lined, or grooved elytra. The genus occurs across North America and other regions, with species inhabiting the surface waters of streams and rivers. Members are distinguished from the smaller genus Gyrinus by their larger size and hidden scutellum.
Dineutus angustus
whirligig beetle
Dineutus angustus is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae, first described by LeConte in 1878. The species is found in North America. As a member of the genus Dineutus, it is among the larger whirligig beetles, characterized by a hidden scutellum and rounded elytral apices. Like other gyrinids, it inhabits the surface of freshwater bodies where it forms aggregations called rafts.
Diplectrona modesta
Diplectrona modesta is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, first described by Banks in 1908. It is native to North America, with documented occurrences in the Nearctic region including Vermont. The species has been studied for its life history and production dynamics in freshwater stream habitats, particularly in Walker Branch, Tennessee.
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.
Diplostraca
water fleas, clam shrimps
Diplostraca is a superorder of small branchiopod crustaceans encompassing over 1,000 described species, commonly known as water fleas and clam shrimps. Members range from 0.2 to 6.0 mm in length (with Leptodora reaching 18 mm), and are characterized by a folded bivalved carapace covering an unsegmented-appearing body. The group exhibits cyclical parthenogenesis, alternating between asexual and sexual reproduction to produce dormant eggs. While predominantly freshwater, eight species have colonized marine environments—the only branchiopods to do so.
Disholcaspis prehensa
clasping twig gall wasp
Disholcaspis prehensa is a gall-inducing cynipid wasp native to California that induces distinctive galls on scrub oak and leather oak. The species exhibits heterogony, alternating between sexual and asexual generations that produce two morphologically different gall types. The asexual generation forms conspicuous mushroom-shaped twig galls with clasping bases, while the sexual generation produces small, hidden bud galls.
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californica
Dixella californica is a species of meniscus midge in the family Dixidae (Order: Diptera). These small, delicate flies are associated with aquatic habitats where their larvae develop. The species was described by Johannsen in 1923 and is known from California. Dixidae larvae are recognized by their distinctive habit of hanging upside down from the water surface film, feeding on microorganisms and organic matter.
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.
Donacia caerulea
Donacia caerulea is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Donaciinae. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Canadian provinces including Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Ontario. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with freshwater aquatic habitats where its larvae develop on submerged vegetation.
Donacia magnifica
magnificent aquatic leaf beetle, Magnificent pondweed beetle
Donacia magnifica is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by LeConte in 1851. It is native to North America, with records from Canada and the northern United States. The species is closely associated with pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.), on whose leaves adults feed. Like other members of the genus Donacia, it is adapted to an aquatic lifestyle.
Donacia tuberculata
Tuberculate reed beetle
Donacia tuberculata is a species of aquatic leaf beetle in the subfamily Donaciinae. It occurs in North America and is associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. Like other members of its genus, it is linked to wetland vegetation and has aquatic larvae that develop on submerged plant roots.
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.
Dryopidae
long-toed water beetles
Dryopidae is a family of aquatic beetles in the superfamily Byrrhoidea, commonly known as long-toed water beetles. Adults possess dense hydrofuge hairs that enable underwater respiration and extended claws that give the family its common name. Despite being aquatic, adults cannot swim and instead cling to floating detritus. The family is distinguished from similar riffle beetles (Elmidae) by antennae that are not clubbed. Most species have terrestrial larvae, though the genus Stygoparnus has fully aquatic larvae and adults.
Dryops
long-toed water beetles
Dryops is a genus of long-toed water beetles in the family Dryopidae, with at least 20 described species and a worldwide distribution. The genus is particularly diverse in the Palaearctic region, where 34 species have been recorded. Members of this genus are aquatic beetles associated with freshwater habitats. Species such as Dryops rufipes and Dryops renateae have been documented from Turkey and Tajikistan respectively.
Dubiraphia brevipennis
Dubiraphia brevipennis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Hilsenhoff in 1973. Like other elmid beetles, it is adapted to life in flowing water environments. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Dubiraphia browni
Dubiraphia browni is a species of riffle beetle (family Elmidae) described by Hilsenhoff in 1973. As a member of the Elmidae, it belongs to a family of aquatic beetles adapted to living in fast-flowing freshwater habitats. The species is known from North America.
Dysmicohermes
Dysmicohermes is a genus of fishflies in the family Corydalidae, established by Munroe in 1953. The genus contains two described species: Dysmicohermes disjunctus and Dysmicohermes ingens. As members of Megaloptera, these insects represent a relatively small and ancient order of holometabolous insects. The genus is part of the diverse Corydalidae family, which includes some of the largest aquatic insects in North America.
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.
Dytiscus fasciventris
Understriped Diving Beetle
Dytiscus fasciventris, the Understriped Diving Beetle, is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. The species is found in North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, British Columbia) and the United States. Like other members of the genus Dytiscus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments.
Dytiscus harrisii
Harris's diving beetle
Dytiscus harrisii, commonly known as Harris's diving beetle, is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It is one of the larger diving beetle species in North America. As a member of the genus Dytiscus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater systems.
Dytiscus marginicollis
giant green water beetle
Dytiscus marginicollis, commonly known as the giant green water beetle, is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It is among the larger species in the genus Dytiscus and is distributed across North America. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater systems.
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.
Ecnomidae
Tubecase Netspinning Caddisflies
Ecnomidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) comprising approximately 375–400 described species across 9 genera. The family exhibits a characteristic Gondwanan distribution pattern, with all genera restricted to the Southern Hemisphere except Ecnomus, which is also widespread in the Palearctic and Oriental regions. Larvae are aquatic and construct fixed silk retreats on submerged surfaces. The family's taxonomy has been historically unstable, having been classified as a subfamily of both Hydropsychidae and Psychomiidae before recognition as a monophyletic family closely related to Polycentropodidae.
Einfeldia
non-biting midges
Einfeldia is a genus of non-biting midges in the subfamily Chironominae, tribe Chironomini, within the bloodworm family Chironomidae. The genus was established by Kieffer in 1924 and contains approximately 11 described species distributed across Europe, North America, and other regions. At least one species, E. synchrona, has been studied in detail and exhibits univoltine life history with synchronized adult emergence.
Elmidae
Riffle beetles
Elmidae, commonly known as riffle beetles, is a family of aquatic beetles in the superfamily Byrrhoidea containing over 150 genera and 1,500 described species. Both adults and larvae are primarily aquatic, inhabiting fast-flowing shallow areas of streams and rivers such as riffles. Adults breathe underwater using a plastron—a microfilm of air held by microscopic hairs on their body surface that enables oxygen diffusion from the water. The family has significant value in freshwater biomonitoring due to their sensitivity to water pollution.
Elminae
riffle beetles
Elminae is a subfamily of riffle beetles (family Elmidae) comprising at least 120 genera and over 1,300 described species. Members are primarily aquatic, inhabiting running water habitats across all major biogeographic regions. The subfamily exhibits considerable morphological diversity, with some genera showing pronounced secondary sexual dimorphism and miniaturization traits.
Elophila gyralis
Waterlily Borer Moth
Elophila gyralis, commonly known as the waterlily borer moth, is a species of aquatic moth in the family Crambidae. It was first described by George Duryea Hulst in 1886. The species is distributed across eastern North America, ranging from Canada through the eastern and central United States. Its common name suggests an association with waterlily plants, though specific larval host details require further documentation.
Elophila icciusalis
pondside pyralid moth, Pondside Crambid Moth
Elophila icciusalis, commonly known as the pondside pyralid moth, is a small crambid moth native to most of North America. The species has a wingspan of 16–26 mm and is active from June through September. Its larvae are fully aquatic, feeding on submerged aquatic vegetation in freshwater habitats. Three subspecies are recognized: E. i. albiplaga, E. i. avalona, and the nominate E. i. icciusalis.
Elophila occidentalis
Elophila occidentalis is a small crambid moth described by William Harry Lange in 1956. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in wing size, with females notably larger than males. Adults are active during summer months with multiple generations per year. Larvae are aquatic and feed on submerged aquatic plants.
Enallagma concisum
Cherry Bluet
Enallagma concisum, commonly known as the cherry bluet, is a narrow-winged damselfly species in the family Coenagrionidae. It is endemic to the Eastern United States, where it inhabits freshwater habitats. The species is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival. As a member of the genus Enallagma, it belongs to one of the most species-rich damselfly genera in North America.
Enallagma recurvatum
Pine Barrens Bluet, Pale Barrens Bluet
Enallagma recurvatum is a small damselfly endemic to the United States. It inhabits freshwater lakes, particularly in pine barrens and similar sandy, acidic lake systems. The species is considered threatened due to habitat loss from development, water quality degradation, and shoreline alteration. Its restricted range and specialized habitat requirements make it vulnerable to environmental changes.
Enallagma semicirculare
Claw-tipped Bluet
Enallagma semicirculare, commonly known as the claw-tipped bluet, is a damselfly species in the family Coenagrionidae. It occurs primarily in Mexico and the southwestern United States, with documented records from Arizona, New Mexico, and southern Texas. The species was described by Edmond de Sélys Longchamps in 1876. Like other members of the genus Enallagma, it is a small, slender damselfly associated with freshwater habitats.
Enallagma signatum
Orange Bluet
The orange bluet (Enallagma signatum) is a species of damselfly in the family Coenagrionidae. It is a small, slender odonate found across eastern North America. The species was first described by Hagen in 1861 and has been subject to taxonomic revision, including work by Rosser Garrison who published a revision of the genus Enallagma in 1984. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with freshwater habitats where it completes its aquatic larval development.
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.
Enochrus cinctus
Water Scavenger Beetle
Enochrus cinctus is a species of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae. It is native to North America, with documented records across much of the United States and southern Canada. As a member of the Hydrophilidae, it is an aquatic beetle associated with freshwater habitats. The species was originally described by Thomas Say in 1824 under the basionym Hydrobius cinctus.
Enochrus pygmaeus pectoralis
Enochrus pygmaeus pectoralis is a subspecies of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae. It belongs to a genus of small aquatic beetles commonly found in lentic and slow-flowing lotic habitats. The subspecies designation indicates geographic variation within the widespread E. pygmaeus species complex. Like other members of the genus, it likely occupies shallow freshwater environments and exhibits the characteristic clubbed antennae and ventral swimming hairs typical of hydrophilid beetles.
Enochrus sayi
Enochrus sayi is a species of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae. It occurs across much of eastern and central North America, with introduced populations in the Hawaiian Islands. The species inhabits freshwater aquatic environments.
Eoparargyractis
Eoparargyractis is a genus of aquatic moths in the family Crambidae, subfamily Acentropinae. Described by Lange in 1956, it contains three recognized species distributed in North America. The genus belongs to a group of moths whose larvae are adapted to freshwater habitats. Species include E. floridalis, E. irroratalis, and E. plevie.
Ephemerella aurivillii
spiny crawler mayfly
Ephemerella aurivillii is a spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae with a strict one-year life cycle. The species occurs across northern regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, northern Asia, and North America. Research in Norway demonstrated that its distribution and growth rates are strongly temperature-dependent, with populations expanding following hydropower-induced warming of previously cold streams.
Ephemerella invaria
Sulphur Dun
Ephemerella invaria, commonly known as the sulphur dun, is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae. It occurs in headwater streams across eastern North America, from southeastern and northern Canada through the eastern United States. The species has been studied for population genetic impacts associated with deforestation of its stream habitats. As a member of the Ephemerellidae, it belongs to a group of mayflies characterized by distinctive spiny or tuberculate body features.
Ephemerellidae
Spiny Crawler Mayflies
Ephemerellidae, commonly known as spiny crawler mayflies, is a family of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) comprising approximately 90 species across 8-14 genera. The family is distributed throughout North America and the UK, with additional records from Europe and Asia. Nymphs inhabit lotic-erosional environments including flowing streams of all sizes, lake shores, and beaches with wave action. They are primarily collector-gatherers and serve as important indicators of water quality due to their sensitivity to pollution.
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.
Epischura
Epischura is a genus of freshwater calanoid copepods in the family Temoridae. The genus contains approximately 11 recognized species, including the well-studied Epischura lacustris of North American lakes and the endemic Epischura baikalensis of Lake Baikal. Species within this genus exhibit diverse feeding strategies ranging from omnivory to predation, with documented consumption of both phytoplankton and zooplankton prey. The genus has been proposed as paraphyletic with respect to Heterocope, with suggestions to transfer the Siberian species E. baikalensis and E. chankensis to the resurrected genus Epischurella.
Epischura lacustris
Epischura lacustris is a predatory calanoid copepod in the family Temoridae. It inhabits freshwater lakes across northeastern North America, including all five Great Lakes. The species exhibits size-selective predation on small zooplankton, particularly Bosmina longirostris, and has been observed to consume both phytoplankton and animal prey. It can be distinguished from other Great Lakes calanoids by three stout caudal setae on each caudal ramus and a noticeably bent urosome in mature specimens.
Erythemis mithroides
Claret Pondhawk
Erythemis mithroides, commonly known as the claret pondhawk, is a neotropical dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is a medium-sized, brightly colored species with distinctive red coloration in males. The species occupies a wide geographic range across the Americas, from the southern United States through Central America and South America, and is frequently encountered in both natural and artificial lentic water bodies. It is an active predator with territorial males that exhibit aggressive behaviors during mate-finding and foraging activities.
Erythrodiplax fervida
Red-mantled Dragonlet
Erythrodiplax fervida, commonly known as the Red-mantled Dragonlet, is a small dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. The species occurs in the Caribbean and South America, with records from Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico. It is one of five Antillean Erythrodiplax species found in Cuba. The last instar larva was formally described in 2007, filling a gap in the taxonomic knowledge of Cuban dragonflies. The IUCN lists the species as Least Concern with a stable population.
Estelloxus
Estelloxus is a genus of mites in the family Lebertiidae, order Trombidiformes. The genus was established by Habeeb in 1963 and belongs to the superfamily Lebertioidea. Members of this genus are predatory or parasitic mites associated with freshwater or semi-aquatic habitats. The genus is poorly known, with limited published information on species diversity and biology.
Eubranchipus serratus
Ethologist Fairy Shrimp
Eubranchipus serratus is a fairy shrimp species in the family Chirocephalidae, first described by Forbes in 1876. It is one of approximately 300 species of Anostraca, commonly known as fairy shrimp, which are specialized for temporary aquatic habitats. The species has been documented across North America, though specific ecological details remain limited in published sources.
Eubrianax edwardsii
water penny beetle
Eubrianax edwardsii is a species of water penny beetle in the family Psephenidae, found in North America. Water penny beetles are aquatic insects with flattened, disc-shaped larvae that cling to rocks in streams and rivers. The family Psephenidae is a small group of beetles specialized for life in flowing freshwater habitats.
Eurycercus
Eurycercus is a genus of large-bodied cladoceran crustaceans (water fleas) and the sole genus of the monotypic family Eurycercidae. Species reach up to 6 mm in length, making them among the largest anomopods. The genus contains 16 described species distributed across four subgenera, with a primarily Holarctic distribution and some extensions into the Neotropics and Southern Hemisphere. Species occupy littoral zones of freshwater lakes and ponds, often associated with submerged vegetation.
Eurycercus longirostris
Eurycercus longirostris is a Holarctic cladoceran crustacean first described by Hann in 1982. A 2011 taxonomic revision synonymized E. vernalis with E. longirostris due to lack of morphological and genetic justification for their separation. The species has a broader distributional range than previously recognized and belongs to the subgenus Eurycercus (Eurycercus). As a member of the Eurycercidae family, it shares characteristics with other chydorid-like cladocerans including a rounded carapace and specialized feeding appendages.
Eurypterida
sea scorpions, eurypterids
Eurypterida is an extinct order of aquatic chelicerate arthropods commonly known as sea scorpions. They ranged from the Cambrian through the Permian periods, with their main diversification occurring during the Paleozoic. The group includes both marine and freshwater species, with body sizes ranging from a few centimeters to over two meters in some species. Eurypterids are characterized by a segmented body with a prosoma and opisthosoma, paired swimming paddles, and a terminal telson spine. They represent one of the largest arthropod groups in the fossil record and are significant for understanding early chelicerate evolution.
Euthycera
Euthycera is a genus of marsh flies in the family Sciomyzidae, commonly known as snail-killing flies. The genus contains approximately 30 described species distributed primarily across the Palearctic region. Members of this genus are predators or parasitoids of freshwater snails and slugs, making them significant biological control agents. The genus was established by Latreille in 1829 and is classified within the tribe Tetanocerini.
Farula
Farula is a genus of caddisflies in the family Uenoidae, established by Milne in 1936. The genus belongs to the subfamily Uenoinae and is part of the Limnephiloidea superfamily. As a uenoid genus, Farula likely comprises small to medium-sized caddisflies associated with freshwater habitats. The genus has not been extensively documented in public observation databases.
Faxonius immunis
papershell crayfish
Orconectes immunis, commonly known as the papershell crayfish, is a freshwater crayfish native to central North America that has become invasive in parts of Canada. The species has been documented in southwestern Ontario and Lake of the Woods, where it shows preferences for shallow waters with fine substrates and aquatic vegetation. Reproductive studies indicate significant egg mortality during incubation, with females exhibiting size-dependent fecundity. The species has been subject to cellular-level studies of oogenesis, demonstrating intracellular yolk synthesis in oocytes.
Faxonius luteus
Golden Crayfish
Faxonius luteus, commonly known as the Golden Crayfish, is a freshwater crustacean in the family Cambaridae. It is native to North America, with documented presence in the United States. The species was first described by Creaser in 1933. Like other members of the genus Faxonius, it inhabits freshwater environments. The specific epithet "luteus" refers to its golden or yellowish coloration.
Faxonius palmeri
Gray-speckled Crayfish
Faxonius palmeri is a freshwater crayfish in the family Cambaridae, commonly known as the Gray-speckled Crayfish. It was originally described as Cambarus palmeri by Faxon in 1884 and later transferred to the genus Faxonius. The species is native to North America, with documented occurrences in the United States.
Faxonius virilis
Northern Crayfish, Virile Crayfish
Orconectes virilis is a medium-sized freshwater crayfish native to North America, widely distributed across Canada and the northern United States. The species is notable for its well-documented behavioral ecology, including complex social hierarchies, territorial home range behavior, and sophisticated predator avoidance mechanisms. It has been extensively studied as a model organism for agonistic behavior, chemical communication, and escape response mechanics. The species is currently expanding its range westward into Alberta and shows adaptability to varying environmental conditions, though acidification poses reproductive challenges.
Gammaridae
gammarids, scuds
Gammaridae is a family of amphipod crustaceans with a distribution centered on Eurasia. The family exhibits euryhaline tolerance as a lineage, inhabiting environments from freshwater to marine waters. Historically, Gammaridae served as a wastebin taxon for numerous gammaridean amphipods, many of which have since been reassigned to separate families including Anisogammaridae, Melitidae, and Niphargidae. In North America, members are commonly referred to as scuds.
Gammaridea
Gammaridea was historically recognized as a suborder of Amphipoda encompassing approximately 7,275 species (92% of described amphipods) across ~1,000 genera and ~125 families. The group included nearly all freshwater amphipods alongside numerous marine species. Taxonomic revisions by Lowry and Myers (2003–2017) demonstrated that Gammaridea was paraphyletic, leading to its deconstruction into new suborders: Corophiidea (2003), Senticaudata (2013), and Amphilochoidea (2017). The name Gammaridea is no longer recognized as a valid taxon in current amphipod classification.
Gammarus
scuds, freshwater shrimp, sideswimmers
Gammarus is a genus of amphipod crustaceans in the family Gammaridae, containing over 200 described species and representing one of the most species-rich crustacean genera. Species occupy diverse aquatic habitats ranging from purely freshwater to estuarine and marine environments, with salinity tolerance varying markedly among species. The genus is widely distributed throughout the Holarctic region, with additional species extending into tropical Southeast Asia. Gammarus species serve important ecological functions as shredders and predators in aquatic food webs.
Gammarus fasciatus
Gammarus fasciatus is a freshwater amphipod native to North America. Laboratory studies demonstrate that food type significantly influences growth rates, with algae and animal matter supporting greater growth than detritus-based diets. The species serves as a host for the acephaline gregarine parasite Ganymedes oaklandi. In the Great Lakes region, populations have declined due to competition with the invasive Ponto-Caspian amphipod Echinogammarus ischnus.
Gammarus pseudolimnaeus
Northern Spring Amphipod
Gammarus pseudolimnaeus is a freshwater amphipod crustacean inhabiting lotic (flowing water) environments in North America. The species exhibits complex behavioral ecology, including size-selective predation vulnerability to fish predators such as brook trout and sculpins, and chemically-mediated responses to predation risk that influence reproductive behavior. Population dynamics are characterized by univoltine (single annual) generation cycles with high mortality during early life stages and winter periods. The species serves as an important prey item in stream food webs and has been extensively studied as a model organism for freshwater invertebrate ecology, toxicology, and predator-prey interactions.
freshwaterloticamphipodpredator-preybehavioral-ecologytoxicologyunivoltineNorth-Americamodel-organismstream-ecologysize-selective-predationchemical-ecologyparasitismacanthocephalacopper-toxicitymate-guardingcalceolimicrohabitat-selectionthigmotaxisdiel-activityseasonal-dynamicsproduction-ecologydriftbrook-troutsculpinOntarioVirginiaGammaridaecrustaceaninvertebratesenticaudataBousfield-1958Northern-Spring-AmphipodGammarus seideli
Seidel's Scud
Gammarus seideli is a species of freshwater amphipod in the family Gammaridae, described in 2018. It is one of numerous Gammarus species found in North American freshwater systems. The species is recognized by iNaturalist with the common name "Seidel's Scud" and has been documented in a small number of observations. As a relatively recently described species, detailed ecological and biological information remains limited.
Gelastocoris oculatus
Big-eyed Toad Bug
Gelastocoris oculatus, commonly known as the big-eyed toad bug, is a riparian predator in the family Gelastocoridae. It inhabits freshwater margins across North and Central America, where its cryptic coloration and hopping locomotion resemble small toads. The species captures smaller insects by leaping onto them and subduing them with piercing-sucking mouthparts. Both adults and nymphs are predatory, with females depositing eggs under rocks or in sand or mud.
Gerris
water striders
Gerris is a genus of water striders (family Gerridae) comprising 43 species in three subgenera (Gerris, Gerriselloides, and Macrogerris). Species in this genus inhabit freshwater surfaces across temperate regions, where they use surface tension to walk on water. The genus has become a model system for studying sexual conflict, with well-documented antagonistic coevolution between males and females over mating control.
Gerris buenoi
water strider
Gerris buenoi is a small water strider species native to North America, first described in 1911. Adults measure 8-10 mm in length and possess elongated mid-legs adapted for locomotion on water surfaces. The species exhibits wing polymorphism, with multiple wing forms corresponding to different seasons and environmental conditions. It has been extensively studied as a model organism for sexual conflict research and was the first water strider to have its genome sequenced.
Gerroidea
Water Striders and Ripple Bugs
Gerroidea is a superfamily of semiaquatic true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) comprising at least three families—Gerridae (water striders), Veliidae (smaller water striders or riffle bugs), and Hermatobatidae—with over 2,000 described species. Members are specialized for life on the water surface, utilizing water-repellent legs and surface tension to remain afloat. The group occupies diverse aquatic habitats ranging from freshwater ponds and streams to marine coastal environments including mangroves and open ocean. Recent research has documented significant undescribed diversity in tropical regions and novel bacterial symbiont associations.
Gomphurus
clubtails
Gomphurus is a genus of dragonflies in the family Gomphidae, commonly known as clubtails. The genus was elevated from subgenus rank within Gomphus in recent taxonomic revisions, reflecting distinct morphological and genetic characteristics. It contains approximately 13 described species, primarily distributed in North America. Species within this genus are associated with lotic freshwater habitats and exhibit restricted geographic ranges.
Grammotaulius
Grammotaulius is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, established by Kolenati in 1848. The genus contains species distributed across Europe and North America, including at least two recognized species: G. alascensis and G. bettenii. As limnephilid caddisflies, members of this genus are aquatic in their larval stages and terrestrial as adults.
Graphoderus
Graphoderus is a genus of predaceous diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, comprising 12 extant species and 2 extinct species known from fossils. The genus is native to the Holarctic region, with species distributed across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. Several species are of conservation concern, particularly G. bilineatus, which is listed in Annexes II and IV of the European Habitats Directive and has experienced significant population declines across its range.
Graphoderus perplexus
predacious diving beetle
Graphoderus perplexus is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by Sharp in 1882. It is distributed across the Holarctic region, occurring in both North America and the Palearctic. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments. The species is part of the tribe Aciliini, which includes other medium to large diving beetles.
Graptocorixa californica
Graptocorixa californica is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Hungerford in 1925. It belongs to the tribe Graptocorixini within the subfamily Corixinae. The species is known to occur in North America, with its specific epithet suggesting a California distribution. Water boatmen in this family are aquatic insects found in freshwater habitats.
Graptocorixa serrulata
Graptocorixa serrulata is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) in the order Hemiptera. It is a small aquatic true bug distributed across parts of North America and Middle America. As a member of the Graptocorixini tribe, it inhabits freshwater environments where it likely occupies the benthic zone typical of corixid beetles. The species was described by Philip Reese Uhler in 1897.
Gyretes torosus
Gyretes torosus is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae. The species was described from North America in 2004. As a member of Gyretes, it belongs to a genus that is common in the Ozark region and eastern North America. Like other whirligig beetles, it is presumed to inhabit the surface of freshwater bodies. The specific epithet 'torosus' refers to a muscular or bulging appearance, likely describing some aspect of the species' morphology.
Gyrinus maculiventris
whirligig beetle
Gyrinus maculiventris is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae. It inhabits freshwater surface habitats in North America. Like other members of its genus, it exhibits the characteristic rapid, erratic circling behavior on water surfaces that gives whirligig beetles their common name.
Gyrinus pectoralis
whirligig beetle
Gyrinus pectoralis is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae, first described by LeConte in 1868. It is found across North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Labrador) and presumably throughout much of the United States. Like other whirligig beetles, it inhabits the surface waters of freshwater systems.
Gyrinus plicifer
whirligig beetle
Gyrinus plicifer is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae. It occurs in North America, with records from British Columbia, Canada. Like other members of the genus, it inhabits the surface of freshwater bodies where it forms aggregations. The species was described by LeConte in 1852.
Gyrinus pugionis
whirligig beetle
Gyrinus pugionis is a species of whirligig beetle in the family Gyrinidae, found in North America. Like other members of the genus, it inhabits the surface of freshwater bodies where it exhibits characteristic erratic, circular swimming patterns. The species was described by Fall in 1922. Specific details regarding its biology and ecology remain limited in published literature.
Hadziidae
Hadziidae is a family of amphipod crustaceans established by S. Karaman in 1943. Members are taxonomically difficult to distinguish from the closely related family Melitidae. The family includes both marine and freshwater-dwelling species, with some lineages having colonized subterranean habitats.
Halesochila
Halesochila is a monotypic genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, containing the single described species H. taylori. The genus was established by Banks in 1907. As a member of Limnephilidae, it belongs to a diverse family of case-making caddisflies commonly found in freshwater habitats.
Haliplidae
Crawling Water Beetles, haliplids
Haliplidae is a family of small aquatic beetles comprising approximately 200 species in five genera, representing the sole extant member of the superfamily Haliploidea. These beetles are characterized by their distinctive swimming behavior using alternating leg movements, which renders them relatively clumsy swimmers compared to other aquatic beetles. Consequently, they predominantly move by crawling along substrates rather than swimming. The family exhibits a cosmopolitan distribution in freshwater habitats worldwide.
Haliplus borealis
Haliplus borealis is a small aquatic beetle in the family Haliplidae, commonly known as crawling water beetles. The species occurs in North America with confirmed records from Alberta and Manitoba in Canada. Like other members of its genus, it inhabits freshwater environments. The species was described by LeConte in 1850. Available information on this species is limited, with only five observations documented on iNaturalist.
Haliplus cylindricus
Haliplus cylindricus is a species of crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae, described by Roberts in 1913. The species belongs to a genus of small aquatic beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. Very few observations of this species have been documented, with only two records in iNaturalist as of the available data. Like other haliplids, it is presumed to inhabit shallow, vegetated waters where it feeds on algae and small aquatic organisms.
Haliplus fulvus
Haliplus fulvus is a species of crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae, widely distributed across Europe and North America. Adults are small beetles measuring 3.8–4.2 mm in length. The species is associated with aquatic habitats and has a holarctic distribution pattern.
Haliplus gracilis
crawling water beetle
Haliplus gracilis is a species of crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae, described by Roberts in 1913. The species belongs to a genus of small aquatic beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. Like other haliplids, it is adapted to life in and around water, with morphology suited for crawling rather than swimming.
Haliplus leopardus
Haliplus leopardus is a crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae, first described by Roberts in 1913. The species is recorded from eastern North America, with confirmed observations in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada. As a member of Haliplidae, it inhabits freshwater environments. Very few observations of this species have been documented, with only three records in iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff.
Haliplus parvulus
Haliplus parvulus is a species of crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae. Members of this genus are small, semi-aquatic beetles associated with freshwater habitats. Very few observations of this species exist in public databases.
Haliplus stagninus
Haliplus stagninus is a species of crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae, described by Leech in 1948. It is known from North America, with records from the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. As a member of Haliplidae, it belongs to a family of small aquatic beetles commonly associated with standing or slow-moving freshwater habitats. The species is poorly documented in public sources, with minimal observational data available.
Harpacticoida
Harpacticoid Copepods
Harpacticoida is an order of benthic copepods comprising approximately 463 genera and 3,000 species. Members are predominantly marine but include freshwater families (Ameiridae, Parastenocarididae, Canthocamptidae). They represent the second-largest meiofaunal group in marine sediments after nematodes and are also common in Arctic and Antarctic sea ice. A few species are planktonic or live in association with other organisms.
Helicopsyche
Speckled Peter, Spiral Caddisflies
Helicopsyche is a genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Helicopsychidae) containing more than 230 species with highest diversity in tropical and sub-tropical regions. The genus is represented on all major faunal regions worldwide. Larvae construct distinctive helical, snail-shell-like cases from sand grains and silk. Adults are known to fly fishers as the 'Speckled Peter'. The genus was first described by Siebold in 1856.
Helicopsyche borealis
Spectacled Snail-case Caddisfly
Helicopsyche borealis is a caddisfly species in the family Helicopsychidae, notable as one of only two Helicopsyche species to colonize temperate North America from a predominantly tropical genus. Larvae construct distinctive spiral, snail-like cases from sand grains cemented with silk. The species inhabits running waters across North America and plays a role as a collector-gatherer and scraper in stream ecosystems. Adults emerge in spring, and the life cycle is univoltine with egg diapause through summer.
Helicopsychidae
Snail-case Caddisflies
Helicopsychidae, commonly known as snail-case caddisflies, is a family of Trichoptera characterized by larvae that construct distinctive spiral, helix-shaped cases resembling snail shells. The family contains over 230 species distributed across all major faunal regions, divided into two genera: the monophyletic Rakiura and Helicopsyche. The subgenus Cochliopsyche is endemic to the Neotropical region between central Uruguay and southern Mexico. Species inhabit diverse freshwater environments including springs, streams, and rivers.
Helophoridae
water scavenger beetles, crawling water beetles
Helophoridae is a family of small aquatic beetles within the superfamily Hydrophiloidea, containing the single genus Helophorus. The family comprises approximately 191 species distributed primarily across the Holarctic region, with 150 species in the Palearctic and 41 in North America. A limited number of species occur in the Afrotropical region (six species), Central America, and the Indomalayan region (one species in northern India). Species inhabit diverse freshwater habitats including springs, ponds, temporary pools, and running waters, with many showing strong associations with specific hydrological regimes.
Heptagenia pulla
dusky flat-headed mayfly
Heptagenia pulla is a species of flat-headed mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, commonly known as the dusky flat-headed mayfly. The species was described by Clemens in 1913 and is native to the Nearctic region. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with flowing freshwater habitats. The specific epithet "pulla" refers to the dusky or dark coloration characteristic of this species.
Hesperocorixa atopodonta
water boatman
Hesperocorixa atopodonta is a species of water boatman described by Hungerford in 1927. It belongs to the family Corixidae, a group of aquatic true bugs known for their oar-like hind legs adapted for swimming. The species is native to North America and is part of the genus Hesperocorixa, which includes several similar aquatic insect species.
Hesperocorixa interrupta
Hesperocorixa interrupta is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1825. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs distributed across North America. Water boatmen in this family are characterized by their oar-like hind legs adapted for swimming and their aquatic lifestyle in freshwater habitats.
Hesperocorixa kennicottii
Hesperocorixa kennicottii is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae. It is a small aquatic true bug found in North American freshwater habitats. The species was described by Philip R. Uhler in 1897. Like other members of the genus Hesperocorixa, it is adapted to life in lentic and slow-moving waters.
Hesperocorixa laevigata
water boatman
Hesperocorixa laevigata is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) described by Uhler in 1893. It is distributed across Central America and North America. As a member of the Nepomorpha, it is an aquatic true bug adapted to life in freshwater environments. The species is one of approximately 47 observed records on iNaturalist, indicating it is documented but not extensively studied.
Hesperocorixa lucida
Hesperocorixa lucida is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Abbott in 1916. The species is recorded from North America and belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs commonly found in freshwater habitats. Like other corixids, it is adapted to life in water with oar-like hind legs modified for swimming.
Hesperocorixa michiganensis
Hesperocorixa michiganensis is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) described by Hungerford in 1926. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The species is recorded from North America, specifically within the Nearctic region. Like other Corixidae, it is adapted to underwater life with modified hind legs for swimming.
Hesperocorixa semilucida
Hesperocorixa semilucida is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Walley in 1930. It belongs to a genus of aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The species is documented from North America. Like other Corixidae, it is an aquatic insect adapted to life in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waters.
Hesperoperla hoguei
Banded Stone
Hesperoperla hoguei is a species of stonefly in the family Perlidae, commonly known as the banded stone. It is a member of the subfamily Acroneuriinae, a group of predatory stoneflies often associated with flowing freshwater habitats. The species was described by Baumann and Stark in 1980 and is known from western North America, particularly California. As with other perlid stoneflies, it likely inhabits cool, well-oxygenated streams.
Hesperophylax
Hesperophylax is a genus of northern caddisflies (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) comprising seven described species distributed across western North America. The genus is characterized by morphological plasticity and broad habitat tolerance compared to other Trichoptera. Larvae construct portable protective cases and exhibit chemically-mediated antipredator behaviors. All species appear to be univoltine with extended adult flight periods.
Heterelmis obscura
Heterelmis obscura is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by Sharp in 1882. It inhabits freshwater environments in Central and South America. Like other elmid beetles, it is fully aquatic throughout its life cycle, with adults possessing a plastron—a layer of air trapped by body hairs that enables underwater respiration.
Heterocheilidae
half-bridge flies
Heterocheilidae is a family of parasitic nematodes (phylum Nematoda) within the order Rhabditida and infraorder Ascaridomorpha. Members are intestinal parasites primarily infecting fish hosts, including elasmobranchs and teleosts. The family includes genera such as Brevimulticaecum, Ortleppascaris, and Dujardinascaris. Notably, the name 'Heterocheilidae' has also been applied to a family of dipteran insects (true flies), but this usage is taxonomically distinct and not accepted in current nematode classification.
Heterocloeon curiosum
curious small minnow mayfly
Heterocloeon curiosum is a small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae, native to North America. It has been studied in Virginia river systems, where it demonstrates bivoltine life history with two summer generations. Reservoir construction with surface release can significantly alter its emergence timing, larval density, and fecundity through thermal regime changes.
Holopedium
water flea
Holopedium is the sole genus in the family Holopediidae, comprising approximately seven described species of planktonic cladocerans commonly known as water fleas. These crustaceans are distinguished by a gelatinous capsule surrounding the body, which serves as an inducible defense against predation. Species within this genus exhibit notable phenotypic plasticity in body size, capsule dimensions, and reproductive investment in response to predation pressure and food availability. The genus has been studied extensively for its population dynamics, predator-prey interactions, and responses to environmental stressors in freshwater lake systems.
Holopedium gibberum
Holopedium gibberum is a planktonic cladoceran distinguished by a large gelatinous mantle that encloses the body. The species exhibits pronounced phenotypic plasticity in mantle size as an inducible defense against invertebrate predators, particularly Chaoborus larvae. Populations show strong sensitivity to fish predation pressure, with distribution patterns reflecting avoidance of high-predation environments. The species demonstrates seasonal population dynamics tied to food availability and predation regimes, with reproductive investment varying in response to environmental stressors.
Holopedium glacialis
A small freshwater cladoceran crustacean in the family Holopediidae. The species was described in 2007 from Nearctic material and is distinguished from congeners by genetic and morphological characteristics. Like other members of the genus, it possesses a distinctive gelatinous mantle that encloses the body.
Homophylax
Homophylax is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1900. It belongs to the tribe Chilostigmini within the subfamily Limnephilinae. As a limnephilid genus, its members are associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct protective cases. The genus is poorly documented in public sources, with minimal observational records available.
Huleechius
Huleechius is a genus of riffle beetles in the family Elmidae, established by Brown in 1981. The genus contains at least two described species: Huleechius marroni and Huleechius spinipes. Like other elmids, these beetles are associated with freshwater habitats, particularly flowing water environments.
Huleechius marroni
Huleechius marroni is a species of riffle beetle (family Elmidae) described by Brown in 1981. It belongs to the genus Huleechius, a group of aquatic beetles adapted to flowing water habitats. The species is known from Middle America and North America. Like other elmids, it is presumed to inhabit freshwater streams and rivers, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Husseyella turmalis
Husseyella turmalis is a small water strider in the family Veliidae, originally described as Microvelia turmalis by Drake & Harris in 1933. It belongs to the subfamily Microveliinae, a group of minute semiaquatic bugs that inhabit the surface film of freshwater habitats. The genus Husseyella is a small group within the Veliidae, and this species appears to have a limited number of documented observations.
Hyalella
Hyalella is a genus of freshwater amphipods found in the Americas, with species distributed across North, Central, and South America. The genus contains numerous endemic species, particularly in South America, and includes the widely studied H. azteca, which serves as a standard test organism in aquatic toxicology. Members occupy benthic habitats in lakes, streams, and springs, where they function as important components of freshwater food webs.
Hyalella azteca
scud, freshwater scud
Hyalella azteca is a widespread and abundant amphipod crustacean in North America, reaching 3–8 mm in length. It inhabits fresh and brackish waters across a broad geographic range from Central America to the Arctic tree line. The species is a significant food source for waterfowl and serves as a standard test organism in aquatic ecotoxicology and sediment toxicity assessments.
Hyalella wellborni
Hyalella wellborni is a freshwater amphipod species in the family Hyalellidae, described in 2015 from the southeastern United States. The genus Hyalella comprises small benthic crustaceans commonly known as scuds or sideswimmers, widespread in lakes, ponds, and streams. H. wellborni represents part of a taxonomically complex group where species delineation has historically relied on morphological and molecular analyses. The species is known from a limited number of observations, reflecting both its relatively recent description and the ongoing challenges in amphipod taxonomy.
Hydaticini
Hydaticini is a tribe of diving beetles (family Dytiscidae, subfamily Dytiscinae) established by Sharp in 1880. Members of this tribe are aquatic predators found in freshwater habitats. The tribe includes the genus Hydaticus, with species documented from the Neotropics including the Amazon basin and Brazilian highlands.
Hydaticus
Hydaticus is a genus of predatory diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, comprising approximately 150 described species and 12 subspecies arranged in two subgenera: Hydaticus and Prodaticus. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution spanning the Palearctic, Afrotropical, Nearctic, and Oriental regions. Members are aquatic predators found in freshwater habitats including streams, pools, and lentic environments.
Hydaticus cinctipennis
Hydaticus cinctipennis is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. The species has been documented in North America and the Caribbean. As a member of the genus Hydaticus, it belongs to a group of aquatic beetles adapted to freshwater environments.
Hydaticus rimosus
Hydaticus rimosus is a diving beetle species in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Aubé in 1838. The species belongs to the genus Hydaticus, a group of predatory aquatic beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. It occurs in the Caribbean and Middle America based on documented distribution records.
Hydatophylax
northern caddisfly
Hydatophylax is a genus of northern caddisflies (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) comprising approximately 14 described species. Members are found in cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Scandinavia, Japan, and North America. The genus exhibits univoltine life cycles with larval development in freshwater streams.
Hydrachna
Hydrachna is a genus of water mites comprising over 80 described species and representing the sole genus in the family Hydrachnidae. These mites are obligate aquatic arachnids found in freshwater habitats. The larvae are ectoparasites of aquatic insects, particularly water beetles and water boatmen, attaching to the thorax and abdomen of hosts. Some host species have developed apparent immunity to parasitism after prolonged exposure.
Hydrachnoidea
water mites
Hydrachnoidea is a superfamily of aquatic mites commonly known as water mites. Members are exclusively freshwater dwellers, representing one of the most diverse radiations of arachnids into aquatic environments. The group includes several families with distinct morphological adaptations for underwater life.
Hydraena americana
Hydraena americana is a species of minute moss beetle in the family Hydraenidae, described by Manfred Jäch in 1993. It belongs to the subgenus Holcohydraena. The species is known from eastern North America, with records from Canada and the northeastern United States. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic beetle inhabiting small freshwater habitats.
Hydraena pacifica
Hydraena pacifica is a species of minute aquatic beetle in the family Hydraenidae, first described by Perkins in 1980. The species belongs to the genus Hydraena, commonly known as long-palped water beetles, characterized by their enlarged maxillary palps. It is distributed across western North America from Canada through the western United States. The species epithet 'pacifica' refers to its occurrence in the Pacific region of North America.
Hydraena pensylvanica
Hydraena pensylvanica is a species of minute aquatic beetle in the family Hydraenidae, first described by Kiesenwetter in 1849. Despite its specific epithet suggesting a Pennsylvania origin, this species occurs across eastern North America. Like other members of the genus Hydraena, it inhabits shallow freshwater habitats. The species is poorly documented in recent literature, with only a handful of observations recorded on community science platforms.
Hydrobiomorpha
Hydrobiomorpha is a genus of water scavenger beetles in the family Hydrophilidae, established by Blackburn in 1888. The genus contains 56 extant described species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions, with additional fossil species known from the Cenozoic. Members are aquatic beetles associated with freshwater habitats.
Hydrobiomorpha casta
Hydrobiomorpha casta is a water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae. The species is distributed across the Caribbean, Central America, and southeastern North America. It is one of approximately 125 species in the genus Hydrobiomorpha, a group of aquatic beetles adapted to freshwater habitats.
Hydrochus callosus
Hydrochus callosus is a species of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrochidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1855. The species is found in the southeastern United States, with records from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas. Hydrochidae are small aquatic beetles typically associated with freshwater habitats.
Hydrocolus
Hydrocolus is a genus of small predaceous diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, subfamily Hydroporinae. The genus was erected in 2000 to accommodate several species previously placed in related genera, particularly Hydroporus. It contains approximately twelve described species distributed primarily in North America, with some species known from northern Europe. Species are associated with lentic and lotic freshwater habitats.
Hydrocolus stagnalis
Hydroporus Diving Beetle
Hydrocolus stagnalis is a small predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, native to North America. Formerly classified under Hydroporus, it was reassigned to the genus Hydrocolus. The species is documented from western Canada, including Alberta and British Columbia. As a member of the Hydroporinae subfamily, it inhabits freshwater environments.
Hydrophilus insularis
Hydrophilus insularis is a water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae. It is distributed across a broad geographic range from northern South America through the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico into the southern United States. The species is aquatic and belongs to a genus known for scavenging behavior in freshwater habitats.
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.
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.
Hydropsyche alhedra
Hydropsyche alhedra is a species of caddisfly described by Ross in 1939. The species is currently recognized as a synonym of Ceratopsyche alhedra, reflecting taxonomic revisions that have moved this taxon to the genus Ceratopsyche. It belongs to the family Hydropsychidae, a group of net-spinning caddisflies known for constructing capture nets in flowing water.
Hydropsyche betteni
Common Netspinner
Hydropsyche betteni is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Ross in 1938. It is one of the most widespread and commonly encountered members of its genus in North America. Like other hydropsychids, the larvae construct fixed capture nets to filter food from flowing water. The species is well-documented in freshwater biomonitoring studies due to its abundance and sensitivity to water quality.
Hydropsyche californica
Hydropsyche californica is a species of net-spinning caddisfly (Trichoptera: Hydropsychidae) described by Banks in 1899. It inhabits freshwater benthic environments and has been extensively studied as a bioindicator for metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in relation to mine drainage. Research has demonstrated its utility for monitoring cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc exposure in rivers.
Hydropsyche simulans
Hydropsyche simulans is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Ross in 1938. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic insect whose larvae construct silk nets to capture food in flowing water. The species occurs in North America and is part of the diverse fauna of caddisflies that are ecologically important in freshwater ecosystems and relevant to fly fishing.
Hydropsyche walkeri
Hydropsyche walkeri is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. Originally described by Betten and Mosely in 1940, it is currently treated as a synonym of Ceratopsyche walkeri. The species belongs to a diverse genus of aquatic insects whose larvae construct elaborate silk nets to capture food in flowing water. Like other hydropsychids, it is associated with freshwater lotic habitats.
Hydroptila
microcaddisflies
Hydroptila is a large genus of microcaddisflies (family Hydroptilidae) with worldwide distribution. Adults are small, typically collected using ultraviolet light traps near freshwater habitats. Larvae are known as "purse-case makers" that construct portable cases from silk and environmental materials such as filamentous algae. The genus exhibits substantial species diversity, with numerous regional endemics documented across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Hydroptila callia
microcaddisfly
Hydroptila callia is a species of microcaddisfly described by Denning in 1948. It belongs to the family Hydroptilidae, the smallest caddisflies, characterized by reduced wing venation and distinctive larval cases. The species is known from North America, with its type locality in the United States. Like other hydroptilids, adults are minute insects typically associated with freshwater habitats.
Hydroptila grandiosa
microcaddisfly
Hydroptila grandiosa is a species of microcaddisfly in the family Hydroptilidae, described by Ross in 1938. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects closely related to moths and butterflies. The species is recorded from North America. Microcaddisflies in this genus are generally small-bodied and associated with freshwater habitats.
Hydroptila icona
Hydroptila icona is a species of microcaddisfly described by Mosely in 1937. It belongs to the family Hydroptilidae, commonly known as microcaddisflies due to their small size. The species is known from Central America and surrounding regions. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with freshwater habitats. Specific biological details remain poorly documented.
Hydroptila rono
microcaddisfly
Hydroptila rono is a species of microcaddisfly (family Hydroptilidae) described by Ross in 1941. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it is an aquatic insect with larvae that develop in freshwater habitats. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its ecology and biology remain limited in available literature.
Hydroptiloidea
microcaddisflies, purse-case caddisflies
Hydroptiloidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) containing the family Hydroptilidae. Members are distinguished by their minute size, rarely exceeding 5 mm, and the distinctive purse-shaped larval cases constructed only in the final instar. The group has a worldwide distribution and represents one of the most species-rich lineages within Trichoptera.
Hydrovatus
Hydrovatus is a genus of diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, subfamily Hydroporinae, and tribe Hydrovatini. The genus comprises approximately 214 species globally, with documented presence across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Members are aquatic beetles inhabiting lentic and slow-moving lotic freshwater environments. The genus was established by Motschulsky in 1853.
Hydrozetes
Beetle Mites
Hydrozetes is a genus of aquatic oribatid mites (family Hydrozetidae) distinguished by being obligately associated with freshwater habitats. All species in this genus are aquatic, occurring on water surfaces and in benthic zones of lakes, ponds, and other water bodies. The genus has been documented from the Paleocene fossil record through to extant populations across multiple continents. Some species achieve extremely high population densities, dominating benthic invertebrate communities in temporary and permanent water bodies.
Hydrozetidae
Hydrozetidae is a family of aquatic oribatid mites (water mites) within the order Oribatida, established by Grandjean in 1954. The family contains at least one genus, Hydrozetes, with at least 20 described species. These mites are distinguished by adaptations to freshwater habitats, including a reduced bothridium lacking a sensillus, monodactylous legs, and the absence of pteromorphae. Fossil evidence from the Late Paleocene of Canada demonstrates the family's ancient aquatic association with submerged vegetation.
Hydryphantoidea
Hydryphantoidea is a superfamily of prostigmatan mites within Trombidiformes, comprising approximately 250 described species across six families. Members are predominantly aquatic or semiaquatic, inhabiting freshwater habitats worldwide. The group includes the families Hydryphantidae, Hydrodromidae, Rhynchohydracaridae, Thermacaridae, Ctenothyadidae, and Teratothyadidae.
Hygrobatidae
water mites
Hygrobatidae is a family of prostigmatan mites in the order Trombidiformes, commonly known as water mites. The family comprises approximately 78 genera and over 100 described species, though estimates vary. Members are primarily aquatic, inhabiting springs, streams, and running waters across multiple continents. The genus Hygrobates includes a well-studied species complex (fluviatilis-complex) with ten or more morphologically similar species. Some species exhibit parasitic associations with amphibians.
Hygrotini
Hygrotini is a tribe of small diving beetles in the subfamily Hydroporinae. The tribe contains approximately 137 species, most of which inhabit freshwater environments. Multiple lineages have independently evolved tolerance to saline and hypersaline conditions, with some species surviving in concentrations more than double that of seawater.
Hygrotus falli
Hygrotus falli is a diving beetle species in the family Dytiscidae, originally described by Wallis in 1924 under the basionym Coelambus falli. The species belongs to a genus of small to medium-sized predatory diving beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. As with other members of Dytiscidae, it is likely adapted to aquatic life with modified hind legs for swimming, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented in available sources.
Hygrotus impressopunctatus
Hygrotus impressopunctatus is a small diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Schaller in 1783. It belongs to the subfamily Hydroporinae and is native to Europe. The species has been recorded in freshwater habitats. GBIF data indicate potential presence in North America and Southern Asia, though European distribution is best documented.
Hygrotus picatus
Hygrotus picatus is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It is native to North America and belongs to a genus of small to medium-sized diving beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. The species was first described by William Kirby in 1837. Like other members of Dytiscidae, it is adapted to aquatic life with streamlined bodies and modified hind legs for swimming.
Hygrotus sellatus
Hygrotus sellatus is a small diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by LeConte in 1866. The species is known from North America, with limited observational records. As a member of the subfamily Hydroporinae, it inhabits freshwater aquatic environments.
Hylogomphus
clubtails
Hylogomphus is a genus of clubtail dragonflies (family Gomphidae) comprising six described species native to eastern North America. The genus was elevated from subgenus status within Gomphus in 2000, reflecting distinct morphological and phylogenetic characteristics. Species within this genus are associated with lotic freshwater habitats and exhibit conservative body plans typical of gomphid dragonflies.
Hylogomphus parvidens
Piedmont Clubtail
Hylogomphus parvidens, the Piedmont Clubtail, is a species of clubtail dragonfly endemic to the southeastern United States. It was transferred from the genus Gomphus to Hylogomphus in 2017 when Hylogomphus was elevated from subgenus to full genus rank. The species inhabits river systems and holds a stable population with no immediate conservation concerns.
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.
Idoteidae
Common Valvetails
Idoteidae is a family of aquatic isopod crustaceans in the suborder Valvifera, distributed globally in marine and freshwater habitats. The family includes approximately 20 genera and numerous species, with highest diversity in temperate coastal waters. Members range from free-living forms in macroalgae and seagrass beds to commensal species associated with other marine organisms. The family has been extensively studied in Australia, New Zealand, the northeastern Pacific, and the North Atlantic.
Illiesiella
Illiesiella is a genus of stoneflies in the family Leuctridae, commonly known as needleflies or rolled-winged stoneflies. These small, slender insects inhabit cool, clean freshwater environments. The genus was established to accommodate species previously placed in other leuctrid genera based on distinctive morphological characteristics. Members are found in the Holarctic region, with species distributed across Europe and parts of Asia.
Ilybius hypomelas
Ilybius hypomelas is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Mannerheim in 1843. This species is part of a genus of small to medium-sized diving beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. It is known from North America, with specific records from western Canadian provinces including Alberta and British Columbia. As a member of Dytiscidae, it is adapted for aquatic predation.
Ilybius opacus
Ilybius opacus is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, distributed across North America and the Palearctic region. It is one of numerous species in the genus Ilybius, a group of medium-sized diving beetles typically associated with freshwater habitats. The species was described by Aubé in 1837 and remains a valid, accepted taxon in current classifications.
Ilybius quadrimaculatus
Ilybius quadrimaculatus is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Aubé in 1838. The species occurs in North America, with records from Alberta and British Columbia in Canada. As a member of the subfamily Agabinae, it inhabits freshwater aquatic environments where it functions as an active predator.
Ilyocryptus
water fleas
Ilyocryptus is a genus of freshwater cladocerans (water fleas) in the family Ilyocryptidae. Species in this genus are characterized by a benthic lifestyle, inhabiting lake sediments and muddy substrates. The genus has a global distribution with notable diversity in the Neotropics and Far East. Several species groups have been identified, including the widespread I. spinifer group and the sarsi-group, with some taxa showing complex biogeographic patterns across transitional zones between boreal and tropical regions.
Insecta
Insects
Insects constitute the largest and most diverse class of arthropods, comprising more than one million described species with estimates of total species ranging from 2 to 30 million. They are characterized by a three-part body plan (head, thorax, abdomen), three pairs of jointed legs, compound eyes, and one pair of antennae. Insects occupy virtually every terrestrial and freshwater habitat, and many have colonized marine environments. Their ecological dominance stems from extraordinary diversity in form, function, and life history strategies.
Integripalpia
Integripalpia is a suborder of caddisflies (Trichoptera) distinguished by adults having unringed terminal segments on their maxillary palps. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable protective cases from debris beginning in the first instar, enlarging them through subsequent developmental stages. Case construction is often highly specific, with distinctive architectural patterns characteristic of particular families and genera. The suborder includes diverse lineages distributed across aquatic habitats worldwide.
Ischnura demorsa
Mexican Forktail
Ischnura demorsa, commonly known as the Mexican Forktail, is a narrow-winged damselfly in the family Coenagrionidae. It is a small, slender species found in freshwater habitats across Central America and the southwestern United States. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival. It is frequently observed in association with springs and rivers with emergent vegetation.
Ischnura posita
fragile forktail
Ischnura posita, commonly known as the fragile forktail, is a small damselfly species in the family Coenagrionidae. It measures 21–29 mm in body length and is native to most of eastern North America. The species is one of the more common damselflies along the east coast of the United States and is readily identified by distinctive exclamation mark-shaped shoulder stripes present in both sexes.
Ischnura verticalis
Eastern Forktail
Ischnura verticalis, the Eastern Forktail, is a small damselfly in the family Coenagrionidae. Larvae exhibit behavioral thermoregulation through depth selection in water columns, moving deeper at higher temperatures and shallower when cooler. Development is temperature- and prey-dependent, with faster development at higher temperatures and food availability. Males typically develop faster than females, with sexual differences in larval behavior and instar progression. Adults emerge over extended periods, with univoltine life cycles in temperate populations.
Isonychia intermedia
Isonychia intermedia is a species of mayfly in the family Isonychiidae. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic insect with a life cycle consisting of an extended nymphal stage in freshwater habitats followed by a brief adult stage. The species is found in North America and is part of the EPT (Ephemeroptera-Plecoptera-Trichoptera) assemblage used in water quality biomonitoring. Adults are known to anglers as 'slate drakes' due to their dark wing coloration.
Isonychia rufa
Isonychia rufa is a brushlegged mayfly species in the family Isonychiidae, first described by McDunnough in 1931. It belongs to the bicolor group within its genus. The species is found in larger rivers and streams of the Mississippi drainage system in central North America.
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.
Isoperla dicala
Sable Stripetail
Isoperla dicala, commonly known as the sable stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. It was described by Frison in 1942. The species is found in eastern North America, with documented occurrences in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, and Georgia. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is associated with freshwater environments.
Isoperla montana
Montane Stripetail
Isoperla montana is a stonefly species in the family Perlodidae, commonly known as the montane stripetail. It belongs to the green-winged stonefly subfamily Isoperlinae. The species was first described by Banks in 1898 and is found in North America.
Isoperla pinta
Checkered Stripetail
Isoperla pinta, commonly known as the checkered stripetail, is a species of green-winged stonefly in the family Perlodidae. It was described by Frison in 1937. The species is found in North America, with distribution records from Alberta, British Columbia, California, Colorado, and Idaho. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is an aquatic insect with nymphal stages occurring in freshwater environments.
Ithytrichia
Ithytrichia is a genus of microcaddisflies (family Hydroptilidae) established by Eaton in 1873. The genus contains at least two described species, I. aquila and I. bosniaca. Members of this genus are found in Europe and the Americas, with distribution records from Colombia, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Like other Hydroptilidae, these are small caddisflies with reduced wing venation.
Kiefferulus
Kiefferulus is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Chironominae. Species occur in freshwater habitats across Europe, Asia, and Australia. The genus includes taxa formerly treated as a subgenus of Chironomus. Larval development has been documented to take 8–12 days under laboratory conditions in at least one species.
Kribiodorum
Kribiodorum is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, containing six described species distributed across Africa, North America, the Neotropics, and Asia. The genus was established by Kieffer in 1921. Species have been described from diverse freshwater habitats including streams and rivers in Borneo, Namibia, Thailand, and the Amazon basin.
Labiobaetis
Labiobaetis is a genus of small mayflies in the family Baetidae, comprising over 150 described species distributed across tropical and temperate regions worldwide. The genus exhibits exceptional diversity in Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Indonesia, with significant representation also in Africa, India, and western North America. Species identification relies primarily on larval morphology, particularly characters of the mouthparts, antennae, and gills. Adults are generally difficult to distinguish at the generic level.
Laccobius
water scavenger beetles
Laccobius is a diverse genus of water scavenger beetles in the family Hydrophilidae, with more than 80 described species worldwide. Species are classified into several subgenera including Microlaccobius, Hydroxenus, Glyptolaccobius, and Dimorpholaccobius. They are found across multiple continents including Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, inhabiting a variety of freshwater marginal habitats.
Laccophilus
Laccophilus is a genus of small diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, distributed across temperate and tropical regions worldwide. These beetles inhabit freshwater environments and are characterized by their compact, oval bodies and relatively short antennae. The genus contains numerous species, though many remain poorly documented. Members are active swimmers and predators in aquatic ecosystems.
Laccophilus biguttatus
Laccophilus biguttatus is a small predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by William Kirby in 1837. The species has a notably wide distribution spanning both the Nearctic and Palearctic regions, making it one of the more geographically extensive members of its genus. Like other Laccophilus species, it inhabits freshwater aquatic environments where it functions as an active predator.
Laccophilus fasciatus terminalis
Laccophilus fasciatus terminalis is a subspecies of diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by Sharp in 1882. As a member of the genus Laccophilus, it belongs to a group of small predatory aquatic beetles commonly known as crawling water beetles. The subspecies designation indicates geographic or morphological variation within the widespread species Laccophilus fasciatus. Like other laccophilines, it inhabits freshwater environments where it preys on small invertebrates.
Laccophilus gentilis
Laccophilus gentilis is a small predatory diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by LeConte in 1863. It belongs to the subfamily Laccophilinae, a group of small, often brightly marked diving beetles commonly found in vegetated freshwater habitats. The species occurs in North America and Middle America. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic predator that likely inhabits ponds, marshes, and slow-moving waters with abundant vegetation.
Laccophilus maculosus
dingy diver
Laccophilus maculosus, commonly known as the dingy diver, is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. The species is distributed across Central America and North America. It belongs to a genus of small to medium-sized diving beetles that inhabit freshwater environments.
Laccophilus maculosus decipiens
Laccophilus maculosus decipiens is a subspecies of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It belongs to the genus Laccophilus, a diverse group of small to medium-sized diving beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. The subspecies was described by LeConte in 1852 and occurs in North America and Middle America. Like other members of its genus, it is adapted to aquatic life with modified hind legs for swimming.
Laccophilus maculosus maculosus
A subspecies of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. Like other members of the genus Laccophilus, it is an aquatic beetle adapted to freshwater habitats. The specific epithet 'maculosus' refers to spotted or maculate patterning typical of this taxon.
Laccophilus maculosus shermani
Laccophilus maculosus shermani is a subspecies of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It belongs to the genus Laccophilus, a group of small diving beetles commonly found in aquatic habitats. The subspecies was described by Leech in 1944. As a member of the subfamily Laccophilinae, it shares characteristics with other Laccophilus species, including adaptations for underwater predation. Specific distinguishing features of this subspecies compared to the nominate form remain poorly documented in available sources.
Ladona deplanata
Blue Corporal, Little Corporal
Ladona deplanata, commonly known as the Blue Corporal or Little Corporal, is a dragonfly in the skimmer family Libellulidae. First described by Jules Pierre Rambur in 1842, it is common across much of the eastern United States. The species is relatively small among corporal dragonflies and is active during spring.
Lebertioidea
Lebertioidea is a superfamily of water mites (Hydrachnidia) within the order Trombidiformes. Members are aquatic arachnids found primarily in freshwater habitats across the Holarctic region. The superfamily comprises approximately 13 genera distributed among several families including Sperchontidae, Anisitsiellidae, Oxidae, and Torrenticolidae. Larval stages are parasitic on various aquatic insects, while post-larval instars are free-living predators.
Leconectes striatellus
Leconectes striatellus is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. The species was originally described as Hydroporus striatellus by LeConte in 1852 and later transferred to the genus Leconectes. It occurs in freshwater aquatic habitats across North and Middle America. As a member of the subfamily Hydroporinae, it represents a lineage of small to medium-sized diving beetles.
Lemnaphila scotlandae
Lemnaphila scotlandae is a species of shore fly in the family Ephydridae, described by Cresson in 1933. The species is notable for its specialized larval ecology: larvae are leaf-miners of duckweed (Lemna spp.). It has been recorded in Canada and the United States.
Lepidurus packardi
Vernal Pool Tadpole Shrimp
Lepidurus packardi is a federally endangered, California endemic freshwater microcrustacean in the order Notostraca. It is an ephemeral wetland specialist restricted to vernal pools and other temporary water bodies. The species is a key food source for larval California Tiger Salamander and acts as an ecosystem engineer through bioturbation. It reaches approximately 5 cm in length with a shield-like carapace up to 3.5 cm long.
Leptobasis melinogaster
Cream-tipped Swampdamsel
Leptobasis melinogaster, known as the cream-tipped swampdamsel, is a damselfly species in the family Coenagrionidae. It was described by González-Soriano in 2002. The species occurs in Mexico and the United States, where it inhabits intermittent rivers and freshwater marshes.
Leptobasis vacillans
Red-tipped Swampdamsel
Leptobasis vacillans is a damselfly species in the family Coenagrionidae, commonly known as the Red-tipped Swampdamsel. It occurs across the Caribbean, Middle America, and South America, with records from Oaxaca and other regions. As a member of the genus Leptobasis, it is associated with swampy habitats. The species was described by Hagen in 1877.
Leptoceridae
long-horned caddisflies, silverhorns
Leptoceridae is the second largest family of caddisflies (Trichoptera), comprising over 1,850 species in approximately 68 genera. Members are distinguished by exceptionally long antennae—typically 1.5–2 times the forewing length—giving rise to their common name "long-horned caddisflies." The family exhibits remarkable diversity in larval feeding strategies, habitat preferences, and adult mating behaviors. Larvae are effective swimmers and construct portable cases, inhabiting ponds, marshes, lakes, and slower stream reaches across all faunal regions except Antarctica.
Leptocerus
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.
Leptodora
Invisible Water Flea
Leptodora is a genus of large, nearly transparent predatory cladocerans containing two species: L. kindtii, widespread in temperate lakes across the Northern Hemisphere, and L. richardii, known only from eastern Russia. Adults are among the largest planktonic cladocerans, reaching up to 21 mm in length, with approximately 98% transparency as a defense against fish predation. The genus is taxonomically isolated as the sole member of its family Leptodoridae and suborder Haplopoda.
Leptoglossus
leaf-footed bugs
Leptoglossus is a genus of true bugs in the leaf-footed bug family Coreidae, tribe Anisoscelini. Species are characterized by leaflike dilations of the hind tibia, a diagnostic trait of the genus. The genus is distributed throughout the Americas, with some introduced populations in Europe and Asia. Several species are economically significant agricultural pests, notably L. occidentalis, which has become invasive in multiple continents.
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nchanmoss-bugarchaeorrhynchanfulgoromorphancicadomorphanmembracoidtreehopperleafhopperplanthopperpsyllidjumping-plant-lousewhiteflyaleyrodidscale-insectcoccoidmealybugaphidadelgidphylloxeransternorrhynchanthysanopteranthripspsocopteranbarklousebooklousephthirapteranlousesucking-lousechewing-lousemallophagananoplurandermapteranearwigblattodeancockroachtermiteisopteranmantodeanmantidphasmidstick-insectleaf-insectorthopterangrasshopperlocustkatydidcricketmole-cricketpygmy-mole-cricketcamel-cricketcave-cricketwetaensiferancaeliferangryllotalpidmyrmecophilidtettigoniidgryllidacrididpamphagidpneumoridlentulidtristirideumastacidproscopiidtridactylidtetrigidgrouse-locustpygmy-grasshopperplecopteranstoneflyembiopteranwebspinnerzorapteranangel-insectdictyopteranLernaea
anchor worms
Lernaea is a genus of parasitic copepod crustaceans commonly called anchor worms, exclusively parasitic on freshwater fishes. Females burrow into fish flesh and transform into unsegmented, wormlike forms with egg sacs visible externally, while males are free-swimming and short-lived. The genus is widely distributed globally and causes significant disease in aquaculture and wild fish populations. Multiple species exist, with Lernaea cyprinacea being the most studied and economically important.
Lernaeopodidae
Lernaeopodidae is a family of parasitic copepods in the order Siphonostomatoida. Females are typically large and fleshy, attaching permanently to fish hosts using a chitinous plug called the bulla. Males are smaller and cling to females using their antennae. Members parasitize both marine and freshwater fishes, with some species causing significant problems in aquaculture.
Lestes
Pond Spreadwings, Spreadwings
Lestes is a genus of damselflies in the family Lestidae, commonly known as pond spreadwings. Members of this genus are distinguished from most other damselflies by their characteristic resting posture: they hold their wings spread at approximately 45 degrees to the body rather than folded together above the abdomen. The genus name derives from the Greek word λῃστής (lēistēs), meaning thief. Lestes species are found across diverse habitats and are among the most widely observed damselflies in temperate regions.
Lestes disjunctus
Northern Spreadwing
Lestes disjunctus, commonly known as the Northern Spreadwing, is a damselfly species in the family Lestidae. It is widely distributed across North America and inhabits a variety of freshwater habitats including riverine wetlands, ponds, and marshes. The species exhibits a univoltine life cycle with egg diapause, requiring overwintering before hatching. Adults emerge in late June through July and remain active until late August. Larvae are predatory, feeding primarily on zooplankton and small aquatic invertebrates. The species holds its wings at approximately 45 degrees to the body when at rest, a characteristic posture of spreadwing damselflies.
Lestes rectangularis
slender spreadwing
Lestes rectangularis, commonly known as the slender spreadwing, is a damselfly species in the family Lestidae. It is native to eastern North America, ranging from eastern Canada through the eastern United States. The species is characterized by its elongated, slender body form and distinctive wing posture at rest, with wings held partially spread rather than folded together above the abdomen. It inhabits springs and temporary pond habitats, where it completes its aquatic larval development before emerging as a flying adult.
Lethocerus
giant water bugs, toe biters, electric light bugs
Lethocerus is a genus of large predatory aquatic true bugs in the family Belostomatidae. Members are among the largest true bugs, with some species exceeding 12 cm in length. The genus is distinguished from related genera by specific morphological features of the fore femur and parasternites. Unlike other giant water bugs, females do not deposit eggs on males' backs; instead, eggs are laid on emergent vegetation above the waterline and guarded by males. The genus shows greatest diversity in the Americas, with limited representation in Europe, Africa, Australia, and Asia.
Leucrocuta aphrodite
Leucrocuta aphrodite is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. It inhabits freshwater streams and rivers in eastern North America. The species was described by McDunnough in 1926.
Leuctridae
rolled-winged stoneflies, needleflies
Leuctridae is a family of stoneflies (Plecoptera) containing at least 390 species. Adults are small, typically 5–13 mm in length, with slender cylindrical wings that wrap around the body at rest, giving the family its common name. The family has a primarily Holarctic distribution with significant diversity in China, Europe, and North America. Larvae develop in freshwater habitats, with some species exhibiting unusual life cycles involving brackish water or coastal areas.
Libellula luctuosa
Widow Skimmer
Libellula luctuosa, commonly known as the Widow Skimmer, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. Males establish and defend territories at freshwater habitats, engaging in aerial contests with intruding males. The species exhibits a resource-defense polygyny mating system where male reproductive success depends on territory quality. Females visit water primarily to mate and oviposit, typically during midday hours. Larvae are aquatic predators that undergo multiple molts before emerging as winged adults.
Limnephilidae
Northern Caddisflies, Northern Caddis Flies
Limnephilidae is a large family of case-constructing caddisflies comprising approximately 100 genera and nearly 900 described species. Adults are typically brown with narrow, often patterned forewings and broader transparent hindwings. Larvae construct portable cases from diverse plant and mineral materials, with case composition varying by habitat temperature and water flow. The family exhibits exceptional ecological diversity, with larvae occupying nearly all freshwater habitats including a remarkable terrestrial genus, Enoicyla, whose larvae live in woodland leaf litter.
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.
Limnephilus
caddisfly
Limnephilus is the most diverse genus in the family Limnephilidae, containing over 180 described species with broad ecological tolerances and a primarily Holarctic distribution. Species inhabit diverse freshwater habitats including lakes, ponds, slow-moving streams, and high-altitude streams, with some extending to salt marshes and desert environments. Several species are of conservation concern in North America. The genus has been extensively studied as a bioindicator for aquatic pollution and as a model for understanding predator-prey interactions and case-building behavior.
Limnephilus fagus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus fagus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to the diverse genus Limnephilus, which comprises numerous species of northern caddisflies. The species is recorded from North America.
Limnephilus occidentalis
Limnephilus occidentalis is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It was described by Banks in 1908 and is found in North America. Caddisflies in the genus Limnephilus are generally associated with freshwater habitats.
Limnephilus ornatus
Ornate Northern Caddisfly
Limnephilus ornatus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1897. It is found in North America across the Nearctic region, with some records indicating possible presence in the Palaearctic. Like other members of the genus Limnephilus, this species is associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct protective cases from plant material.
Limnephilus spinatus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus spinatus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1914. It is known from the Nearctic region, specifically North America. Like other members of the genus Limnephilus, it likely inhabits freshwater aquatic environments during its larval stage.
Limnesiidae
Limnesiidae is a family of water mites (Prostigmata) within the order Trombidiformes. The family comprises at least 3 genera—*Limnesia*, *Centrolimnesia*, and *Tyrrellia*—with approximately 20 described species. Members of this family are aquatic arachnids associated with freshwater habitats.
Limnochares americana
Red Freshwater Mite
Limnochares americana is a species of freshwater mite in the family Limnocharidae, first described by Lundblad in 1941. It belongs to the order Trombidiformes, a group that includes many aquatic and terrestrial mites. As a member of the infraorder Hydrachnidia (water mites), this species is adapted to life in freshwater habitats. The common name "Red Freshwater Mite" reflects its aquatic ecology and likely coloration.
Limnocharidae
Limnocharidae is a small family of mites in the order Trombidiformes, comprising at least 4 genera and approximately 12 described species. The family includes the extant genera *Limnochares*, *Austrolimnochares*, and *Rhyncholimnochares*, plus the extinct genus *†Neolimnochares*. These mites belong to the superfamily Eylaoidea within the suborder Prostigmata.
Limnohydrobius
Limnohydrobius is a genus of water scavenger beetles in the family Hydrophilidae, tribe Hydrobiusini. The genus was established by Reitter in 1909 and contains species associated with freshwater habitats. Members of this genus are small to medium-sized hydrophilid beetles with the characteristic clubbed antennae of the family. The genus is distinguished from related hydrobiusine genera by specific features of the maxillary palps and genitalia.
Limnohydrobius melaenus
Limnohydrobius melaenus is a species of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae. It is found in eastern North America, ranging from the Canadian Maritime provinces west to the upper Midwest and south to the southeastern United States. The species is associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. Like other members of the genus, it is presumed to have aquatic larvae and terrestrial adults.
Limnohydrobius tumidus
Limnohydrobius tumidus is a species of water scavenger beetle in the family Hydrophilidae, described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1855. It is a small aquatic beetle distributed across the eastern and central United States. The species belongs to the tribe Hydrobiusini, which includes aquatic beetles associated with freshwater habitats. Records indicate it has been collected from Maine to Florida and west to Illinois and Indiana.
Limnoporus
pondskaters
Limnoporus is a Holarctic genus of water striders (family Gerridae) comprising six extant species and one extinct species known from fossils. Species occur across northern North America and Eurasia, with notable hybridization between sympatric species in western Canada. The genus exhibits variation in body size, wing polymorphism, and habitat preferences that have been studied in phylogenetic and evolutionary contexts.
Limnoporus notabilis
Limnoporus notabilis is a species of water strider in the family Gerridae, occurring across North America. As a member of the genus Limnoporus, it inhabits freshwater surface habitats where it moves via surface tension. The species has been documented in 863 iNaturalist observations, indicating it is relatively well-observed among North American water striders.
Liodessus
Liodessus is a genus of small diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, tribe Bidessini. Species occur across the Americas from North America through the Andes to southern South America, with notable diversity in high-altitude wetlands and páramo ecosystems. Many species inhabit shallow, exposed pools and temporary water bodies, showing phenotypic plasticity in body form correlated with habitat permanence. The genus contains numerous species, with several new species described from the high Andes of Peru and Colombia in recent years. Taxonomic resolution relies heavily on male genital morphology.
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Liodessus affinis is a small predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Say in 1823. The species belongs to a taxonomically challenging species complex that was revised in 1998, during which several former synonyms were elevated to species status. It is found in aquatic habitats across North America, with records from Canada and the United States. Like other members of the genus, it is a predator in freshwater ecosystems.
Liodessus flavicollis
Liodessus flavicollis is a species of predaceous diving beetle (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae) described by LeConte in 1855. The species belongs to the tribe Bidessini within the subfamily Hydroporinae, a group of small diving beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. The specific epithet flavicollis refers to the yellowish coloration of the pronotum. The genus Liodessus contains numerous small-bodied species that are often challenging to distinguish without detailed examination.
Lirceolus
Texas Caveslaters
Lirceolus is a genus of freshwater isopods in the family Asellidae, endemic to subterranean habitats in Texas, USA. These troglobitic crustaceans are adapted to life in caves and aquifers, showing reduced pigmentation and eye structures compared to surface-dwelling relatives. The genus was established by Bowman and Longley in 1976 to accommodate species previously assigned to other asellid genera. Known as "Texas Caveslaters," they represent an important component of the unique groundwater fauna of the Edwards Aquifer and related systems.
Lispe tentaculata
A muscid fly with Holarctic distribution, widespread across the Palearctic from the Iberian Peninsula to Kamchatka. Males exhibit distinctive modified fore tarsi with brush-like setulae and a finger-like yellow process on tarsomere 1. The species inhabits riparian environments including river banks, pond margins, and forest streams. Taxonomic identification relies on male genitalic structures and specific leg chaetotaxy patterns.
Lutrochus arizonicus
Lutrochus arizonicus is a species of travertine beetle in the family Lutrochidae, described by Brown & Murvosh in 1970. The species is known from North America and belongs to a small family of beetles associated with travertine (calcium carbonate) deposits in aquatic environments. As a member of the genus Lutrochus, it likely inhabits freshwater habitats with mineral-rich substrates, though specific ecological details remain limited in available sources.
Lutrochus laticeps
travertine beetle
Lutrochus laticeps is a species of travertine beetle in the family Lutrochidae, first described by Casey in 1893. It was rediscovered in Kansas, USA, representing a significant range extension. The species is associated with freshwater stream habitats in eastern North America.
Lutrochus luteus
travertine beetle
Lutrochus luteus is a species of travertine beetle in the family Lutrochidae, first described by LeConte in 1852. It is found in North America. The species belongs to a small family of aquatic beetles commonly known as travertine beetles, which are associated with freshwater habitats.
Lype diversa
net tube caddisfly
Lype diversa is a species of net tube caddisfly in the family Psychomyiidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1914. It is a small, inconspicuous caddisfly found in freshwater habitats across North America. Like other members of its family, larvae construct silken capture nets to filter food particles from flowing water. The species is among the least documented in its genus, with sparse occurrence records and limited ecological study.
Maccaffertium meririvulanum
fresh flat-headed mayfly
Maccaffertium meririvulanum is a species of flatheaded mayfly in the family Heptageniidae, characterized by its distinctive flattened head morphology typical of this group. The species is known from North America, where it inhabits freshwater lotic environments. As with other members of the genus, it undergoes the unique mayfly developmental pattern involving a winged subadult (subimago) stage that molts once more to reach sexual maturity.
Macromia illinoiensis
swift river cruiser, Illinois river cruiser
Macromia illinoiensis, commonly known as the swift river cruiser or Illinois river cruiser, is a dragonfly species in the family Macromiidae. The aquatic larval stage has been extensively studied due to its interactions with the invasive zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha), which frequently colonizes larval bodies. Research demonstrates that zebra mussel attachment impairs larval foraging behavior, reducing prey capture efficiency and altering burying behavior. Mussel colonization creates a positive feedback loop where colonized larvae bury more shallowly, increasing further colonization risk. These effects are density-dependent and reversible when mussels are lost, typically at molting. The species' life cycle spans aquatic and terrestrial habitats, making population impacts from mussel colonization potentially significant for ecosystem dynamics.
Macromia illinoiensis illinoiensis
Illinois River Cruiser
A subspecies of river cruiser dragonfly whose larvae are frequently colonized by invasive zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha). Larvae exhibit burying behavior in substrates and employ both sit-and-wait ambush and active sprawling foraging strategies. Research indicates zebra mussel attachment negatively affects prey capture rates and alters burying depth, with behavioral changes reversing upon natural mussel loss at molting.
Macronematinae
net-spinning caddisflies
Macronematinae is a subfamily of net-spinning caddisflies (Trichoptera: Hydropsychidae) established by Ulmer in 1905. Larvae construct silk webs to capture prey drifting in flowing water. The subfamily includes genera such as Macronema, Macrostemum, Leptonema, Leptopsyche, and the Neotropical endemic Centromacronema. Members occupy diverse freshwater habitats across multiple continents.
Macronychus glabratus
riffle beetle
Macronychus glabratus is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Say in 1825. It inhabits lotic freshwater environments, specifically stream riffles in North America. Research has documented its life cycle, growth, survival, and production in streams of northwest Arkansas and southeast Texas.
Macrothricidae
Macrothricidae is a family of small freshwater crustaceans in the order Diplostraca (formerly Anomopoda), commonly known as water fleas. The family comprises approximately 17 genera and at least 80 described species. Macrothricids exhibit diverse ecological specializations and feeding mechanisms, with many species inhabiting littoral zones of lakes and ponds. The family remains among the least studied groups of Cladocera, with ongoing taxonomic revisions revealing previously unrecognized species diversity and biogeographic patterns.
Malenka
Malenka is a genus of small stoneflies in the family Nemouridae, first described by Ricker in 1952. These insects belong to the suborder Arctoperlaria and are part of the diverse stonefly fauna of North America. Members of this genus are associated with freshwater habitats and are characterized by features typical of the Nemouridae family.
Marilia
Marilia is a genus of caddisflies in the family Odontoceridae, order Trichoptera. Caddisflies in this family are aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from sand grains and small particles. The genus was established by Mueller in 1880 and is distributed primarily in the Neotropical region, with records from Colombia and other parts of South America.
Matriella teresa
Matriella teresa is a species of spiny crawler mayfly in the family Ephemerellidae, described by Traver in 1934. It belongs to a genus of mayflies found in North America. As with other members of Ephemerellidae, it likely inhabits freshwater streams and rivers during its aquatic nymphal stage.
Megamelus trifidus
Megamelus trifidus is a species of planthopper in the family Delphacidae, first described by Beamer in 1955. This species belongs to a genus that includes several economically important planthoppers associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic vegetation. Members of Megamelus are known to feed on monocotyledonous plants, particularly in wetland habitats. The specific biology and host associations of M. trifidus remain poorly documented compared to congeners such as M. scutellaris and M. paludicola, which have been studied as potential biological control agents for invasive aquatic weeds.
Metaxydytes
Metaxydytes is a genus of predaceous diving beetles in the subfamily Cybistrinae, endemic to the Neotropics. The genus comprises nine species that were reclassified from the genus Megadytes based on phylogenetic and morphological evidence. These are large aquatic beetles adapted to freshwater habitats. The genus was established to accommodate species previously considered part of a broader Megadytes concept.
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.
Metretopus
Metretopus is a genus of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) in the family Metretopodidae, containing at least two species: M. alter and M. borealis. These insects are found across northern regions of Europe, Russia, and North America. The genus has historically posed identification challenges, with M. alter frequently misidentified as M. borealis until morphological distinguishing characters were established.
Metrichia
Metrichia is a genus of microcaddisflies in the family Hydroptilidae, established by Ross in 1938. The genus belongs to the tribe Ochrotrichiini and is distributed across northern South America, with confirmed records from Colombia. As with other hydroptilids, adults are minute with reduced wing venation and larvae construct portable, silken cases.
Micrasema rusticum
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Micrasema rusticum is a species of humpless casemaker caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, first described by Hagen in 1868. The species is known from North America, with confirmed records from the United States including Vermont. As a member of the Brachycentridae family, it belongs to a group of caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
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.
Microtendipes
non-biting midges
Microtendipes is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae comprising over 60 species with nearly worldwide distribution. Adult males are distinguished by one or two rows of stout proximally directed setae on the fore femur. The genus is divided into two species groups based on larval characteristics. Species delimitation has been historically challenging due to color pattern variations, but DNA barcoding has proven effective for identification.
Microvelia
small water striders, riffle bugs
Microvelia is a large genus of small semiaquatic bugs comprising at least 230 described species distributed worldwide. These insects inhabit nearshore areas of stagnant or slow-flowing freshwater, where they move on the water surface using surface tension. The genus exhibits wing dimorphism, with populations containing both fully winged (macropterous) and short-winged (brachypterous) individuals. Several subgenera have been recognized including Austromicrovelia, Barbivelia, Pacificovelia, and Picaultia, based on phylogenetic and morphological analyses.
Microvelia buenoi
smaller water strider
Microvelia buenoi is a small semiaquatic bug in the family Veliidae, commonly known as smaller water striders. The species was described by Drake in 1920 and occurs across a broad transcontinental range spanning Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. Like other members of the genus Microvelia, it inhabits the surface film of freshwater habitats where it moves with characteristic rapid, darting movements. The specific epithet honors entomologist Erika Bueno's family name, though this appears coincidental rather than commemorative.
Microvelia californiensis
Microvelia californiensis is a species of small water strider in the family Veliidae, described by McKinstry in 1937. The species is known from California and adjacent regions of western North America. Like other members of the genus, it inhabits the surface film of freshwater habitats. Very few observations of this species have been documented in public databases.
Microvelia cubana
Microvelia cubana is a small semiaquatic true bug described from Cuba in 1951. As a member of the family Veliidae, it belongs to a group of insects commonly known as small water striders or riffle bugs. The species inhabits freshwater environments in the Caribbean region. Limited published information exists regarding its biology and ecology.
Microvelia signata
Microvelia signata is a small water strider in the family Veliidae, found in aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats across North and Middle America. Like other members of the genus Microvelia, it is adapted for life on the water surface, using surface tension to skate across ponds, streams, and other freshwater bodies. The species was described by Philip Uhler in 1894 and is recognized as a valid taxon in current classifications.
Mochlonyx
Mochlonyx is a genus of phantom midges in the family Chaoboridae. The genus was established by Loew in 1844 and contains at least two described species: Mochlonyx cinctipes and Mochlonyx fuliginosus. These flies are found in temperate regions of Europe and North America. The genus is part of the diverse assemblage of non-biting midges that inhabit freshwater systems.
Molanna
hood casemakers
Molanna is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) commonly known as hood casemakers, comprising over 20 described species. Larvae construct portable cases from sand grains and inhabit shallow freshwater environments including lake margins and spring-fed streams. Adults exhibit sex-specific antennal morphology and chemical communication, with females producing sex pheromones that attract males to mating sites near water.
Molanna blenda
hood casemaker
Molanna blenda is a species of caddisfly in the family Molannidae, commonly referred to as hood casemakers. The species was described by Sibley in 1926. It is known from North America, where it inhabits freshwater environments. Like other members of Molannidae, larvae construct distinctive portable cases using silk and sand particles.
Molannidae
Hood Casemaker Caddisflies
Molannidae is a small family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) containing approximately 40 described species across three genera: Molanna, Molannodes, and Indomolannodes. The family occurs in the Holarctic and Oriental biogeographic regions. Adults are commonly known as "hood casemakers" and have a distinctive appearance in repose, resembling short branch segments. Larvae construct portable cases and inhabit lentic and slow lotic environments, primarily on sandy substrates.
Mystacides
long-horned caddisflies
Mystacides is a genus of caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, commonly known as long-horned caddisflies. The genus contains at least 20 described species distributed across North America and Eurasia. Adults are characterized by exceptionally long antennae, often exceeding body length. Larvae construct portable cases from sand grains and plant fragments.
Mystacides sepulchralis
black dancer, Black Dancer Caddisfly
Mystacides sepulchralis, commonly known as the black dancer, is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is one of three Mystacides species found in North America, alongside M. alafimbriata and M. longicornis. The species has been the subject of taxonomic study due to difficulties in identification, particularly of larval and pupal stages.
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.
Neargyractis
Neargyractis is a genus of aquatic moths in the family Crambidae, subfamily Acentropinae. The genus was established by W.H. Lange in 1956 during a revision of North American aquatic moths. It contains at least eight described species distributed primarily in the Americas.
Nebrioporus rotundatus
Nebrioporus rotundatus is a species of diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, occurring in North America. It belongs to a genus of small predaceous diving beetles commonly found in freshwater habitats. The species was described by LeConte in 1863 and is currently accepted as valid.
Nectoporus
Nectoporus is a genus of diving beetles (family Dytiscidae) established by Guignot in 1950. It belongs to the subfamily Hydroporinae, a diverse group of small to medium-sized predatory aquatic beetles. Members of this genus are found in freshwater habitats, primarily in the Southern Hemisphere based on available distribution records. As with other dytiscids, they are aquatic predators with adaptations for underwater life including modified hind legs for swimming.
Nectoporus crassulus
Nectoporus crassulus is a species of predaceous diving beetle (family Dytiscidae) described by Fall in 1923. It belongs to the subfamily Hydroporinae, a diverse group of small to medium-sized diving beetles. The genus Nectoporus is part of the subtribe Deronectina, which contains species primarily associated with freshwater habitats.
Nectopsyche
White Miller Caddisflies, White Millers
Nectopsyche is a genus of caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, commonly known as white millers. The genus contains at least 70 described species distributed across the Americas, with records from North America through the tropical Andes. Species occupy diverse freshwater habitats ranging from lentic (still-water) environments to lotic (flowing) highland streams. Several species have been studied as bioindicators of aquatic pollution due to their sensitivity to pesticides and heavy metals.
Nectopsyche candida
Radiant Long-horned Caddisfly
Nectopsyche candida is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is found in North America. The species belongs to a genus characterized by elongated antennae, a trait reflected in the common name for this group. Like other caddisflies, it has an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage.
Nectopsyche exquisita
exquisite long-horned caddisfly
Nectopsyche exquisita is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, characterized by its distinctive wing patterning and banded antennae. Adults are medium-sized caddisflies with striking yellow and white hair patterns on the wings. The species is found in eastern North America near slow-moving aquatic habitats. Adults are attracted to light and have been documented in urban settings.
Nemotaulius hostilis
Inimical Northern Caddisfly
Nemotaulius hostilis is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, found in North America. It inhabits permanent freshwater pools and exhibits a univoltine life cycle with adults emerging in late May. The species is notable for its use of sex pheromones in mate attraction and a distinctive reproductive phenomenon involving egg mass liquefaction. Larvae build cases using plant material and grow at rates comparable to other detritivorous shredders in permanent waters.
Nemouroidea
Rolled-winged Stoneflies, Forest Stoneflies, Winter Stoneflies
Nemouroidea is a superfamily of stoneflies (Plecoptera) within the suborder Arctoperlaria, comprising five families: Capniidae (winter stoneflies), Taeniopterygidae, Nemouridae, Notonemouridae, and Leuctridae. These stoneflies are predominantly found in freshwater habitats across the Northern Hemisphere. The group includes notable cold-adapted species such as snow flies that emerge during winter months.
Neocylloepus
Neocylloepus is a genus of riffle beetles in the family Elmidae, established by Brown in 1970. The genus contains eight described species, all distributed in Colombia. These beetles are associated with freshwater habitats, specifically riffle environments in streams and rivers.
Neoelmis caesa
riffle beetle
Neoelmis caesa is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae. It is found in North America. As a member of the Elmidae, it inhabits aquatic environments, specifically riffle habitats in streams and rivers. The species was first described by LeConte in 1874.
Neogerris
Neogerris is a genus of water striders in the family Gerridae, established by Matsumura in 1913. The genus comprises approximately 13 described species distributed primarily in the Americas. These insects are adapted to life on the water surface, using their elongated middle and hind legs to skate across ponds, streams, and other freshwater habitats.
Neogerris hesione
Neogerris hesione is a water strider species in the family Gerridae. It inhabits freshwater surfaces across tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. The species is well-documented with over 1,300 observations on iNaturalist.
Neohermes
Gray Fishflies
Neohermes is a genus of fishflies in the family Corydalidae containing approximately five described species. Species in this genus are aquatic insects associated with freshwater habitats, particularly intermittent streams. The genus is known for including long-lived aquatic species with specialized burrowing behaviors.
Neoleptophlebia memorialis
Neoleptophlebia memorialis is a species of mayfly in the family Leptophlebiidae, originally described by Eaton in 1884. As a member of this family, it belongs to a group of mayflies commonly known as prong-gilled mayflies, characterized by their distinctive gill structures. The species is part of the genus Neoleptophlebia, which contains several North American species. Very few observations of this species have been recorded, suggesting it may be rare, geographically restricted, or underreported.
Neoperla clymene
Coastal Stone
Neoperla clymene, commonly known as the coastal stone, is a stonefly species in the family Perlidae. It occurs in eastern North America, with documented records from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and Indiana. Like other perlid stoneflies, it inhabits freshwater environments where its larvae develop.
Neophylax
autumn mottled sedges
Neophylax is a genus of caddisflies commonly known as autumn mottled sedges, containing more than 30 described species. Larvae are aquatic case-builders that construct protective cases using silk and materials gathered from streambeds, including sand, stones, shells, and plant material. The genus exhibits notable life history diversity, with species showing temporal and spatial segregation in stream systems. Adults typically emerge in autumn, giving rise to the common name.
Neoplea
pygmy backswimmers
Neoplea is a genus of minute aquatic predatory true bugs in the family Pleidae, commonly known as pygmy backswimmers. The genus contains at least 25 described species distributed across North and South America, with numerous undescribed species. Members are small-bodied (approximately 1.5 mm), active predators in lentic freshwater habitats. The best-studied species, Neoplea striola, has been investigated for its potential role in trophic cascades in fishless subtropical ponds.
Neoporus dilatatus
Neoporus dilatatus is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, subfamily Hydroporinae. It is a small aquatic beetle native to North America. The species was originally described as Hydroporus dilatatus by Fall in 1917 and later transferred to the genus Neoporus. Like other members of Dytiscidae, it is adapted to life in freshwater habitats.
Neoporus hebes
Neoporus hebes is a small diving beetle (family Dytiscidae) described by Fall in 1923. As a member of the subfamily Hydroporinae, it inhabits freshwater aquatic environments. The genus Neoporus comprises numerous small dytiscid species found primarily in North America. This species is among the lesser-documented members of the genus, with limited observational records available.
Neoporus lobatus
Neoporus lobatus is a species of diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Sharp in 1882. It belongs to the subfamily Hydroporinae, a diverse group of small predatory aquatic beetles. The genus Neoporus comprises small dytiscids found primarily in North America. Like other members of its family, this species is aquatic and occupies freshwater habitats.
Neoporus mellitus
Neoporus mellitus is a small predaceous diving beetle (family Dytiscidae) in the subfamily Hydroporinae. Originally described by LeConte in 1855 as Hydroporus mellitus, the species was later transferred to the genus Neoporus. It is recorded from eastern North America, with confirmed observations in New Brunswick and Ontario, Canada. Like other members of the genus, it inhabits freshwater aquatic environments.
Neoporus vitiosus
Neoporus vitiosus is a small predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, subfamily Hydroporinae. The species was described by LeConte in 1855 and is documented from North America, with specific records from Ontario and Québec in Canada. As a member of the Hydroporinae, it likely inhabits freshwater environments, though detailed ecological studies are limited.
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.
Nepidae
waterscorpions, water scorpions, water stick insects, needle bugs
Nepidae is a family of exclusively aquatic predatory true bugs containing approximately 250 species in 14 genera. Members are commonly called waterscorpions due to their superficial resemblance to scorpions, possessing raptorial forelegs and a long caudal respiratory siphon. The family is divided into two subfamilies: Nepinae (broad, flat-bodied 'water scorpions') and Ranatrinae (slender 'water stick insects'). They occur on all continents except Antarctica, inhabiting stagnant or slow-moving freshwater habitats.
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.
Neureclipsis
tube maker caddisflies
Neureclipsis is a genus of net-spinning caddisflies in the family Polycentropodidae, containing at least eight described species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere and Australia. Larvae construct elaborate silken catchnets to capture drifting invertebrate prey in lotic freshwater habitats. The genus includes the well-studied species N. bimaculata, whose life history and feeding ecology have been investigated in North American and European populations.
Nigronia fasciata
Banded Dark Fishfly
Nigronia fasciata is a species of dark fishfly in the family Corydalidae, order Megaloptera. Adults measure 22–28 mm in body length. The species occurs in the eastern United States and is not present in Canada. Like other fishflies, it has aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Notomicrus
Notomicrus is a genus of small water beetles in the family Noteridae, first described by Sharp in 1882. Species occur in freshwater habitats across the New World, from North America through Central America to South America and the Caribbean. The genus includes at least 13 described species, with several recent descriptions from Guadeloupe and Suriname. Some species exhibit unusual reproductive traits, including suspected obligate parthenogenesis.
Notonecta
backswimmers, common backswimmer, Milky Backswimmers
Notonecta is a genus of aquatic predatory insects commonly known as backswimmers, comprising approximately 70 species. They are distinguished by their habit of swimming upside down, using long hind legs modified as oars. The genus exhibits distinct morphological and behavioral traits that separate it from superficially similar water boatmen (family Corixidae), including triangular cross-section body shape, bold color patterns, and diurnal activity patterns. Notonecta species occupy diverse freshwater habitats and function as active predators of small aquatic organisms.
Notonecta insulata
backswimmer
Notonecta insulata is a species of backswimmer, an aquatic true bug in the family Notonectidae. It is found in North America, where it inhabits freshwater environments. Like other backswimmers, it swims upside down and is an active predator of small aquatic invertebrates. The species was described by Kirby in 1837.
Notonecta montezuma
Notonecta montezuma is a species of backswimmer in the family Notonectidae. It is an aquatic true bug found in North and Middle America. Like other backswimmers, it swims upside down using its long, oar-like hind legs. The species is part of the genus Notonecta, which contains backswimmers that are generally larger than water boatmen and more commonly encountered in open water habitats.
Notonecta unifasciata andersoni
Notonecta unifasciata andersoni is a subspecies of backswimmer (family Notonectidae) described by Hungerford in 1933. It belongs to the genus Notonecta, a group of aquatic true bugs known for their upside-down swimming posture. The subspecies is part of the widespread N. unifasciata species complex, which occurs across the Americas. As with other notonectids, it is presumed to be an aquatic predator, though specific biological details for this subspecies remain poorly documented in available literature.
Nyctiophylax
Nyctiophylax is a genus of caddisflies in the family Polycentropodidae, established by Brauer in 1865. Species in this genus are small, predatory caddisflies whose larvae construct silken retreats in freshwater habitats. The genus has been documented from Colombia, though its actual distribution likely extends more broadly across the Neotropics. Adults are generally small with reduced wing venation characteristic of the family.
Nymphulini
Nymphulini is a tribe of small moths in the subfamily Acentropinae (Crambidae), characterized by aquatic or semi-aquatic larval habits. The group includes numerous species whose larvae feed on submerged or emergent aquatic plants, making them among the few truly aquatic Lepidoptera. Adults are generally small with narrow wings and reduced mouthparts. The tribe is most diverse in tropical and subtropical regions, with some species extending into temperate zones.
Ochrotrichia
microcaddisfly
Ochrotrichia is a large genus of microcaddisflies (family Hydroptilidae) comprising approximately 226 extant species, making it the most species-rich microcaddisfly genus in the Neotropics. The genus is predominantly distributed in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions, with one exceptional African record from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Species are primarily found in freshwater stream habitats.
Ochrotrichiinae
microcaddisflies
Ochrotrichiinae is a subfamily of microcaddisflies within the family Hydroptilidae, comprising approximately 430 species across nine genera. The subfamily is most diverse in the Neotropics, with additional representation in the Nearctic and Australasian regions, including an endemic genus in New Caledonia. Phylogenetic analyses support its monophyly with the exclusion of Dibusa. The subfamily originated in the New World during the early Cretaceous, approximately 116 million years ago, with subsequent dispersal to Australasia via trans-Antarctic routes.
Ochteridae
Velvety Shore Bugs
Ochteridae is a small family of true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha) comprising approximately 80–90 described species in eight genera. Commonly known as velvety shore bugs, they are semi-aquatic insects inhabiting the margins of freshwater bodies worldwide, with highest diversity in tropical regions. The family is characterized by a velvety body texture, small size (4.5–9 mm), and distinctive antennal and leg sensilla adapted to riparian habitats. Recent taxonomic revisions have significantly expanded the known species diversity, particularly in Australia, Mesoamerica, and the Andes.
Ochterus banksi
velvety shore bug
Ochterus banksi is a species of velvety shore bug in the family Ochteridae, a group of small predatory true bugs associated with moist shoreline habitats. The species was described by Barber in 1913 and is found in North America. A taxonomic revision of the genus Ochterus synonymized O. flaviclavus under O. banksi, recognizing the former as an intraspecific color morph.
Odontoceridae
Mortarjoint Casemaker Caddisflies
Odontoceridae is a family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) commonly known as mortarjoint casemakers. The family contains approximately 12 genera and at least 100 described species. Larvae are aquatic case-builders that typically construct cases from mineral particles such as sand and small stones. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution with representatives in North America, Europe, South America, and other regions. Adults are generally active during spring and summer months.
Oecetis
long-horned caddisflies
Oecetis is a genus of long-horned caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, containing over 500 described species worldwide. Adults are distinguished by exceptionally long maxillary palps and an unbranched forewing M vein. Larvae inhabit freshwater environments including lakes, streams, and rivers with sandy substrates. The genus is among the largest and most widely distributed caddisfly genera, occurring in all faunal regions.
Oecetis inconspicua
Inconspicuous Long-horned Caddisfly
Oecetis inconspicua is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is found in North America, with additional records from Brazil. The species belongs to a family characterized by larvae that construct portable cases and adults with notably elongated antennae.
Oligoneuriidae
Brushlegged Mayflies, Brushleg Mayflies
Oligoneuriidae is a family of mayflies characterized by specialized filtering structures on their nymphs' forelegs, earning them the common name "brushlegged mayflies." The family exhibits a pantropical distribution with at least 68 described species across over a dozen genera, including both extant and extinct lineages from the Cretaceous period. Nymphs possess two rows of setae on the forelegs used for filter feeding and tufts of gills at the base of their maxillae. The family has been documented from freshwater habitats across Africa, South America, the Mediterranean region, and the Middle East, with some species showing extended multiyear life cycles.
Oligophlebodes
Oligophlebodes is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Uenoidae. It was established by German entomologist Georg Ulmer in 1905. The genus belongs to the subfamily Thremmatinae, a group of case-making caddisflies primarily associated with freshwater habitats. Species in this genus are found in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in Asia and North America.
Oligostomis
giant casemakers
Oligostomis is a genus of giant casemaker caddisflies in the family Phryganeidae, established by Kolenati in 1848. The genus contains at least four described species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. One species, O. ocelligera, has been documented inhabiting acidic mine drainage environments in Pennsylvania, demonstrating tolerance to extreme pH conditions. Members construct portable cases from plant material, characteristic of the family.
Oligostomis pardalis
Giant casemaker
Oligostomis pardalis is a species of giant casemaker caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It is found in North America, where it inhabits freshwater environments. The species was first described by Walker in 1852. Two subspecies are recognized: O. p. pardalis and O. p. redmani.
Optioservus immunis
Optioservus immunis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by Fall in 1925. It is one of thirteen Nearctic species in the genus, distinguished from congeners primarily by male genitalia and elytral pattern. The species was previously known under the synonym Optioservus cryophilus.
Optioservus ovalis
Optioservus ovalis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by LeConte in 1863. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects whose larvae and adults inhabit running water environments. The species is found in North America, with records from Canada and the United States. Like other elmid beetles, it is likely associated with clean, well-oxygenated streams and rivers.
Optioservus phaeus
Scott optioservus riffle beetle
Optioservus phaeus is a species of riffle beetle (family Elmidae) described by White in 1978. It belongs to a genus of small aquatic beetles inhabiting running waters. The species was described as part of a taxonomic revision based on male genitalia, elytral patterns, and geographic distribution. It is known from a highly restricted range in Kansas.
Orconectes erichsonianus
Erichson's Crayfish
Orconectes erichsonianus is a freshwater crayfish species described by Faxon in 1898, currently classified under the genus Faxonius. The species has been treated as a synonym in modern taxonomic revisions, with its current accepted name being Faxonius erichsonianus. It belongs to the family Cambaridae, a diverse group of North American crayfishes. The species is part of the complex taxonomic history of the genus Orconectes, which has undergone substantial revision based on molecular phylogenetics.
Orconectes limosus
spiny-cheek crayfish
Orconectes limosus, commonly known as the spiny-cheek crayfish, is a freshwater crayfish native to North America that has become a widespread invasive species in Europe. First recorded in Belarus in 1997, it has demonstrated rapid upstream dispersal, spreading 177 km along the Neman River over 14 years. The species is now established in at least 8 river systems across the Neman, Narew and Western Bug basins. Surveys indicate potential competitive displacement of native crayfish species, as no native crayfish have been found co-occurring with O. limosus in invaded areas. The species exhibits notable social behaviors including mother-offspring recognition and kin-preferential interactions.
Orconectes obscurus
Orconectes obscurus is a freshwater crayfish species originally described by Hagen in 1870. It is currently classified as a synonym of Faxonius obscurus following taxonomic revision that transferred species from Orconectes to Faxonius. The species occurs in North America, with distribution records from Canada. Limited specific ecological information is available in the provided sources.
Orconectes propinquus
Northern Clearwater Crayfish
Orconectes propinquus, commonly known as the Northern Clearwater Crayfish, is a freshwater crayfish species in the family Cambaridae. It is native to northern North American clearwater habitats and has been the subject of ecological and physiological research comparing it to other crayfish species. The species shows specific habitat preferences for water depth, velocity, substrate type, and cover availability. It is sensitive to low pH conditions compared to some co-occurring crayfish species.
Orconectes validus
Orconectes validus is a species of freshwater crayfish in the family Cambaridae. The name is currently treated as a synonym of Faxonius validus. Original description dates to 1914 by Faxon. As a synonym, biological information specific to this nominal taxon is limited and may be conflated with the accepted name.
Oreodytes humboldtensis
Oreodytes humboldtensis is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by Zimmerman in 1985. As a member of the genus Oreodytes, it belongs to a group of small diving beetles primarily associated with running water habitats. The species epithet suggests a connection to the Humboldt region, likely referring to Humboldt County or the broader Humboldt Bay area of coastal northern California. Like other Oreodytes species, it is presumed to be an aquatic predator in freshwater systems.
Oroperla
Oroperla is a genus of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae, established by Needham in 1933. Members of this genus are classified within the tribe Arcynopterygini and are part of the diverse Systellognatha infraorder. The genus is documented from western North America, specifically California and Nevada. As a perlodid stonefly, it likely inhabits cool, flowing freshwater systems typical of the family.
Osobenus
Osobenus is a genus of stoneflies in the family Perlodidae, first described by Ricker in 1952. The genus belongs to the tribe Diploperlini within the subfamily Perlodinae. Species in this genus are found in western North America, with records from British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California.
Osobenus yakimae
Yakima Springfly
Osobenus yakimae is a species of stonefly in the family Perlodidae, commonly known as the Yakima Springfly. It is distributed across the Pacific Northwest of North America, with records from British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California. As a member of the order Plecoptera, it is an aquatic insect with nymphal stages developing in freshwater habitats. The species was first described by Hoppe in 1938.
Oulimnius nitidulus
riffle beetle
Oulimnius nitidulus is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by LeConte in 1866. It is distributed across North America. Riffle beetles in this genus are aquatic insects adapted to flowing water environments. The species was originally described under the basionym Elmis nitidula.
Oxyethira
Oxyethira is a genus of microcaddisflies (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae) comprising over 200 described species worldwide. The genus exhibits high species diversity with new species continuing to be described, particularly from under-sampled regions. Larvae are aquatic and construct distinctive silk cases in their final instar.
Oxyethira pallida
Oxyethira pallida is a species of microcaddisfly in the family Hydroptilidae, first described by Banks in 1904. It inhabits lentic and slow lotic freshwater systems across North America. As a microcaddisfly, it belongs to a group characterized by reduced larval cases and small adult size compared to other caddisflies.
Pachydiplax longipennis
Blue Dasher
The Blue Dasher (Pachydiplax longipennis) is a common and widely distributed dragonfly in the skimmer family Libellulidae. It is the sole species in its genus. Adults are characterized by a blue pruinose abdomen, particularly in males, and are known as "perchers" that hunt from stationary positions. Males exhibit pronounced territorial behavior at breeding and feeding sites, with social dominance hierarchies influencing dispersal patterns. The species occurs throughout North America and into the Caribbean.
Pacifastacus
Pacific Crayfish
Pacifastacus is a genus of freshwater crayfish endemic to western North America, comprising six species including the widespread signal crayfish (P. leniusculus) and two extinct species. The genus has gained significant conservation attention due to the invasive spread of P. leniusculus in Europe and Japan, where it transmits crayfish plague and displaces native species. Within its native range, several Pacifastacus species face population declines from habitat degradation and competition from invasive crayfishes.
Pacifastacus gambelli
Pacifastacus gambelli is a species of crayfish in the family Astacidae. The genus Pacifastacus is native to western North America, with species distributed across freshwater habitats in the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions. P. gambelli is closely related to other Pacifastacus species including the widely studied signal crayfish (P. leniusculus), which has become a notorious invasive species in Europe. The species epithet 'gambelli' honors William Gambel, an American naturalist and explorer of the western United States in the 19th century.
Pacifastacus leniusculus
Signal Crayfish
The signal crayfish is a large North American freshwater crayfish introduced to Europe in the 1960s to replace declining native fisheries. It has become one of the most ecologically impactful invasive decapods in Europe, outcompeting native crayfish and serving as a carrier of crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci). The species establishes self-sustaining populations rapidly, with six age cohorts documented within a few years of introduction. It shows sex- and size-specific coloration patterns, with males displaying more saturated and brighter ventral claw surfaces than females, suggesting a role in intraspecific communication.
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Glass Shrimps
Palaemon is a genus of caridean shrimp in the family Palaemonidae, commonly known as glass shrimps. The genus is widely distributed across marine, brackish, and freshwater habitats in temperate and tropical regions. Molecular studies suggest the conventional circumscription of Palaemon is likely paraphyletic, with related genera Palaemonetes, Exopalaemon, and Couteriella nested within it. Phylogenetic relationships in this group correspond more closely with geographic origin than with traditional genus-level taxonomy.
Pannota
Pannota is an infraorder of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) distinguished from its sister group Schistonota by the degree of wing pad fusion in final-stage nymphs: in Pannota, fusion along the mesothorax is less than half the fore-wing length, whereas in Schistonota it exceeds half. Nymphs are slow-moving crawlers with modified gill morphology, contrasting with the active swimmers, burrowers, and sprawlers of Schistonota. The group includes two superfamilies, Caenoidea and Ephemerelloidea, encompassing seven families. Members are important bioindicators of freshwater ecosystem health due to their sensitivity to pollution.
Paracymus nanus
Paracymus nanus is a species of water scavenger beetle (family Hydrophilidae) described by Fall in 1910. The species occurs in freshwater habitats across parts of the southeastern United States and the Caribbean region. As a member of the genus Paracymus, it belongs to a group of small aquatic beetles commonly known as water scavenger beetles that inhabit various freshwater environments.
Paraleuctra vershina
summit needlefly
Paraleuctra vershina, commonly known as the summit needlefly, is a species of rolled-winged stonefly in the family Leuctridae. It was described by Gaufin & Ricker in 1974. The species is distributed across western North America, with records from Alaska through western Canada to California and Colorado. As a member of the Leuctridae, it is characterized by wings that roll tightly around the body when at rest.
Parapoynx allionealis
Watermilfoil Leafcutter Moth
Parapoynx allionealis, commonly known as the watermilfoil leafcutter moth, is a crambid moth native to North America. The species is notable for its aquatic larval stage and its specialized feeding on submerged and floating aquatic plants. It has been documented across a broad geographic range spanning eastern and central North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast. The common name reflects its association with Myriophyllum (watermilfoil) species, though larvae feed on multiple aquatic plant genera.
Parapoynx badiusalis
Chestnut-marked Pondweed Moth
Parapoynx badiusalis, the chestnut-marked pondweed moth, is a small crambid moth found in freshwater wetland habitats across north-central and northeastern North America. The species was described by Francis Walker in 1859. Adults are active from late spring through early autumn. Larvae are aquatic and feed on pondweed species.
Parapoynx maculalis
polymorphic pondweed moth
Parapoynx maculalis, commonly known as the polymorphic pondweed moth, is a small aquatic moth in the family Crambidae. It inhabits freshwater environments across eastern North America, from Florida and Texas north to Canada. The species is distinguished by its small size, white forewings with fuscous markings, and fully aquatic larval stage that feeds on submerged plants.
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.
Paratendipes albimanus
Paratendipes albimanus is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae, found in freshwater habitats across Europe and North America. The species has been studied for its life history and growth patterns in Michigan headwater streams. As a member of the Chironomidae, it completes its larval development in aquatic environments before emerging as an adult.
Pelocoris carolinensis
Carolina creeping water bug
Pelocoris carolinensis is a species of creeping water bug in the family Naucoridae, described by Torre-Bueno in 1907. It is found in the southeastern United States. Creeping water bugs are aquatic predators that inhabit freshwater environments.
Peltodytes duodecimpunctatus
A small crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae. Adults are recognized by the distinctive pattern of dark spots on the pale elytra. The species occurs in freshwater habitats across eastern and central North America. It is one of the more frequently encountered Peltodytes species in the region.
Peltodytes festivus
Peltodytes festivus is a species of crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae. It occurs in North America. Members of this family are semi-aquatic, inhabiting the margins of ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams where they feed on algae and detritus. The genus Peltodytes is distinguished from other haliplid genera by morphological features of the elytra and hind legs.
Peltodytes litoralis
Peltodytes litoralis is a species of crawling water beetle in the family Haliplidae, described by Matheson in 1912. It belongs to a genus of small, semiaquatic beetles associated with freshwater habitats. The species is known from North America, with records from New Brunswick, Canada. Like other haliplids, it likely inhabits shallow, vegetated freshwater margins.
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.
Perithemis
Amberwings
Perithemis is a genus of small dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as amberwings. Males are distinguished by their amber-colored wings. The genus includes approximately 12 described species distributed in the New World, with notable species including the Eastern Amberwing (P. tenera) and the Mexican Amberwing (P. intensa).
Perlodini
Perlodini is a tribe of stoneflies (order Plecoptera) within the family Perlodidae, established by Klapálek in 1909. The tribe comprises more than 80 described species distributed across the Palaearctic and Nearctic regions. Perlodini belongs to the subfamily Perlodinae and represents a well-defined lineage within the systellognathan stoneflies, though specific ecological traits of the tribe as a whole remain incompletely documented.
Petrophila bifascialis
two-banded petrophila moth
Petrophila bifascialis is a small crambid moth found across eastern and central North America. Adults are active from late spring through early autumn. The species is notable for its aquatic larval stage, which feeds on algae and diatoms in freshwater habitats. Adults have a wingspan of 11–24 mm and display two distinct dark bands across the forewings.
Petrophila heppneri
Heppner's Petrophila
Petrophila heppneri is a small moth species in the family Crambidae, described in 1983 by André Blanchard and Edward C. Knudson. The species is known from Texas, where it inhabits riparian and aquatic-associated habitats typical of the genus Petrophila. Like other members of this genus, the larvae are presumed to be aquatic and feed on algae. Adults are nocturnal and can be attracted to light. The specific epithet honors Dr. J. B. Heppner, a lepidopterist who contributed significantly to the study of North American microlepidoptera.
Petrophila hodgesi
Ozark Petrophila
Petrophila hodgesi is a moth species in the family Crambidae, first described by Eugene G. Munroe in 1972. It belongs to the subfamily Acentropinae, a group commonly known as aquatic crambid snout moths due to their association with freshwater habitats. The species is endemic to the Ozark region of the south-central United States, with confirmed records from Arkansas and Oklahoma. The specific epithet honors Ronald W. Hodges, a prominent American lepidopterist who contributed significantly to the classification of North American microlepidoptera.
Phanogomphus australis
Clearlake Clubtail
Phanogomphus australis, commonly known as the Clearlake Clubtail, is a species of dragonfly in the family Gomphidae. It is a North American endemic with a restricted distribution centered on Florida. The species inhabits lake margins and associated wetland habitats. Like other clubtails, it is characterized by the expanded, club-like tip of the male abdomen.
Philopotamoidea
Philopotamoidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) comprising two families: Philopotamidae and Stenopsychidae. The superfamily is considered paraphyletic in current phylogenetic treatments. Members are aquatic insects with larval stages inhabiting freshwater environments. The group is recognized by morphological features of adult mouthparts and larval case construction.
Phryganea sayi
Say's Giant Caddisfly, Say's Giant Casemaker
Phryganea sayi is a species of giant caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as Say's Giant Caddisfly or Say's Giant Casemaker. It is one of the larger caddisfly species in North America. Like other members of Phryganeidae, the larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species was described by Milne in 1931.
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.
Phylloicus aeneus
Phylloicus aeneus is a caddisfly species in the family Calamoceratidae, first described by Hagen in 1861. It is known from Central America and is part of a genus of caddisflies whose larvae construct distinctive leaf-case shelters. The species belongs to an order of aquatic insects with high ecological importance in freshwater ecosystems.
Picripleuroxus
Picripleuroxus is a genus of small freshwater cladocerans (water fleas) in the family Chydoridae. Members of this genus are benthic or epiphytic microcrustaceans inhabiting lakes and ponds. The genus was established by Frey in 1993 and is distinguished by specific morphological features of the carapace and postabdomen.
Picripleuroxus denticulatus
Picripleuroxus denticulatus is a species of small freshwater crustacean in the family Chydoridae, commonly known as water fleas or chydorid cladocerans. The species was described by Birge in 1879 and is distributed across multiple continents including the NeArctic, PalaeArctic, and AfroTropical regions. Records indicate presence in Brazil across multiple states. As a member of the Chydoridae, it inhabits freshwater environments where it contributes to aquatic food webs.
Pisciforma
Pisciforma is a suborder of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) encompassing at least 410 described species across 11 families. It includes diverse aquatic insects commonly known as minnow mayflies, flatheaded mayflies, and sand-dwelling mayflies. Members occupy varied freshwater habitats and exhibit morphological diversity in mouthpart structure and leg morphology.
Plathemis lydia
Common Whitetail, Long-tailed Skimmer
Plathemis lydia, commonly known as the Common Whitetail or Long-tailed Skimmer, is a widespread dragonfly species across North America. The species exhibits striking sexual dimorphism: males possess a conspicuous white abdomen and brownish-black wing bands, while females have a brown body with different wing spot patterns. Research has documented significant wing morphometric differences between sexes, with males showing adaptations for faster flight and higher acceleration capacity, likely related to territorial behavior and predator evasion. The species inhabits a variety of freshwater habitats and is among the most frequently observed dragonflies in North America with over 110,000 iNaturalist records.
Platycentropus radiatus
Chocolate-and-cream Sedge, chocolate and cream sedge
Platycentropus radiatus is a northern caddisfly species in the family Limnephilidae. Adults are recognized by their distinctive chocolate-brown and cream color pattern. The species occurs across North America and is one of the more frequently observed caddisflies in its range, with over 2,000 documented records. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from plant material.
Platyvelia brachialis
smaller water strider
Platyvelia brachialis is a species of small water strider in the family Veliidae, distinguished from larger members of the related family Gerridae by its more compact body form. It inhabits freshwater surface habitats across a broad Neotropical and Nearctic range spanning the Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America. The species is one of approximately 15 recognized species in the genus Platyvelia.
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.
Plectrocnemia
tube maker caddisflies
Plectrocnemia is a genus of tube maker caddisflies in the family Polycentropodidae comprising more than 120 described species. Larvae are aquatic predators that construct silken capture nets to intercept prey. The genus has been extensively studied for its larval silk production, vibration-mediated predatory behavior, and population genetics. Species occur across Europe and into western Asia, with detailed biological information available for several well-studied species including P. conspersa and P. brevis.
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leuckartii
Podon leuckartii is a small predatory crustacean in the family Podonidae, order Onychopoda. It belongs to the branchiopod group characterized by paired swimming appendages and a bivalved carapace. The species was originally described under the genus Pleopis. Like other onychopods, it is a holoplanktonic predator in freshwater and brackish aquatic systems.
Polycentropodidae
Tube Maker Caddisflies, Trumpet-net Caddisflies
Polycentropodidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as tube makers or trumpet-net caddisflies. The family contains at least 33 genera and over 720 described species globally. Larvae construct distinctive silken retreats—short flattened tubes in rock hollows or slender tubular structures among aquatic vegetation—often surrounded by silken threads that function as prey detection devices. The family exhibits a disjunct distribution pattern in some regions, with species found in both tropical and temperate zones.
Polypedilum
Polypedilum is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Chironominae. It is probably the most species-rich genus among all chironomid midges. Larvae are frequently abundant in lentic freshwater habitats, with documented densities reaching 1200 larvae per square meter in eutrophic ponds. The genus comprises multiple subgenera including Cerobregma, Pentapedilum, Polypedilum, Probolum, Tripodura, and Uresipedilum.
Polypedilum fallax
Polypedilum fallax is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described by Johannsen in 1905. The species is part of the large and diverse genus Polypedilum, which contains numerous species often difficult to distinguish morphologically. Records of this species exist from Norway and Sweden, though some Swedish records are marked as doubtful. The species is known from 145 observations on iNaturalist, suggesting it is moderately documented but not extensively studied.
Polypedilum illinoense
Polypedilum illinoense is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, originally described by Malloch in 1915 from Illinois. As a member of the large genus Polypedilum, it is part of a diverse group of aquatic insects whose larvae inhabit freshwater environments. The species is known from observational records across North America, though detailed biological studies remain limited. Adults are small, delicate flies that do not feed, while larvae are aquatic detritivores.
Polypedilum trigonus
Polypedilum trigonus is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, order Diptera. As a member of the genus Polypedilum, it belongs to a diverse group of aquatic insects whose larvae are commonly found in various freshwater habitats. The species epithet "trigonus" (Greek for "triangular") likely refers to a morphological feature of the adult or larva. Chironomid larvae are important components of aquatic food webs and are widely used as bioindicators of water quality.
Polyphemidae
Polyphemidae is a family of predatory water fleas (Branchiopoda) containing the single genus Polyphemus with two recognized species: P. pediculus and P. exiguus. Members are characterized by large, raptorial antennae used for capturing prey and a reduced carapace that leaves the body exposed. P. pediculus has a broad Holarctic distribution in freshwater and brackish habitats, while P. exiguus is restricted to the Caspian Sea. Cryptic species have been identified within P. pediculus due to allopatric speciation.
Potamyia flava
Yellow Net-spinning Caddisfly
Potamyia flava is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, distributed across North America. As a member of the Hydropsychidae, larvae construct fixed capture nets to filter food particles from flowing water. Adults are recognized by their yellow coloration, which distinguishes them from related species. The species has been well-documented through citizen science observations, with over 2,000 records on iNaturalist.
Procambarus
crayfish, crawfish, crawdad
Procambarus is a genus of freshwater crayfish in the family Cambaridae, native to North and Central America. The genus contains approximately 160 species in 16 subgenera, making it one of the most species-rich crayfish genera. It includes both widespread surface-dwelling species and numerous troglobitic (cave-dwelling) species. The marbled crayfish (marmorkrebs), a parthenogenetic form, is also classified within this genus. Several species, particularly P. clarkii (red swamp crayfish), have been introduced globally and are recognized as invasive species with significant ecological and economic impacts.
Procambarus acutus
White River Crayfish
Procambarus acutus, commonly known as the white river crayfish, is a freshwater crayfish species in the family Cambaridae native to eastern North America. The species exhibits a disjunct native distribution spanning from the Atlantic Slope to the Gulf of Mexico drainages. It has been introduced to multiple regions outside its native range, including parts of Europe and Africa, where it poses potential ecological and economic risks. Two subspecies are recognized: P. a. acutus and P. a. cuevachicae.
Procambarus acutus acutus
White River crayfish, eastern white river crayfish
Procambarus acutus acutus is a subspecies of freshwater crayfish native to the southeastern United States. It has been introduced to Ontario, Canada, where established populations now exist in the Severn Sound region and Oakbank Pond near Toronto. The species forms stable dominance hierarchies and exhibits status recognition between conspecifics. It is capable of causing economic damage to fisheries through scavenging behavior.
Procladius
Procladius is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. Larvae are predatory and inhabit freshwater benthic environments including lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands. The genus exhibits considerable species diversity with over 50 described species distributed across the Holarctic and other regions. Some species have adapted to fluctuating water levels in reservoir environments.
Procladius bellus
Procladius bellus is a non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae, first described by Loew in 1866. It inhabits freshwater systems, particularly reservoirs with fluctuating water levels. Research in Laurel Creek Reservoir, Ontario, documented its ability to survive winter drawdown periods and complete three generations annually under favorable conditions.
Procloeon vicinum
Procloeon vicinum is a species of small minnow mayfly in the family Baetidae. It belongs to a genus of mayflies commonly found in freshwater habitats across North America. The species was described by Hagen in 1861 and is currently accepted as valid. Like other members of Baetidae, it likely inhabits running waters and exhibits the typical mayfly life cycle of aquatic nymphal stages followed by short-lived winged adults.
Progomphus
sanddragons
Progomphus is a genus of medium-sized dragonflies in the family Gomphidae, commonly known as sanddragons. The genus is distinguished among Gomphidae by its colored wings, a relatively rare trait in this family. Species are found primarily in tropical regions of the Americas, with adults typically observed near freshwater sandy beaches and pools.
Progomphus bellei
Belle's Sanddragon
Progomphus bellei, commonly known as Belle's Sanddragon, is a species of clubtail dragonfly in the family Gomphidae. It is endemic to the United States. The species inhabits rivers and freshwater lakes.
Protosialis glabella
Protosialis glabella is a species of alderfly in the family Sialidae, order Megaloptera. The genus Protosialis represents one of several genera within Sialidae, a family of aquatic insects whose larvae are predatory and develop in freshwater habitats. Adults are typically nocturnal and short-lived, with reduced mouthparts and a primary focus on reproduction. The species was described by Ross in 1937. Megalopterans as a group are considered primitive holometabolous insects, retaining many ancestral characteristics.
Pseudiron centralis
White Sand-river Mayfly
Pseudiron centralis is a predaceous mayfly species endemic to sandy freshwater river habitats in North America. It exhibits a univoltine summer life cycle with an extended egg stage lasting 9–10 months. Larvae are active epibenthic predators specialized for feeding on psammophilous chironomid larvae, with distinct microhabitat shifts during development: early instars occupy marginal sands, while later instars inhabit shifting sand dunes in main channel areas. The species shows low population density but also low mortality, with random dispersion patterns in mature larvae.
Pseudochironomus
nonbiting midge
Pseudochironomus is a genus of nonbiting midges in the family Chironomidae, containing more than 20 described species distributed across the Americas and Europe. The genus belongs to the tribe Pseudochironomini within subfamily Chironominae. Larvae are aquatic and have been studied for their growth responses to diet quality and thermal conditions.
Pseudochironomus richardsoni
A non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae, first described by Malloch in 1915. Laboratory studies demonstrate strong phenotypic plasticity in growth and development in response to food quality and thermal conditions. The species exhibits compensatory growth capacity, maintaining development rates under thermal stress when high-quality food is available.
Psilotreta
mortarjoint casemakers
Psilotreta is a genus of caddisflies in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as mortarjoint casemakers. The genus contains more than 30 described species. These insects are aquatic in their larval stage and are found in freshwater habitats. Adults are terrestrial and short-lived.
Psychoglypha bella
Beautiful Northern Caddisfly
Psychoglypha bella is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as the Beautiful Northern Caddisfly. Originally described as Glyphotaelius bellus by Banks in 1903, this species is part of the tribe Chilostigmini within the subfamily Limnephilinae. The genus Psychoglypha comprises northern caddisflies found primarily in North American freshwater habitats.
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.
Psychomyioidea
net-tube caddisflies
Psychomyioidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the suborder Annulipalpia, commonly known as net-tube caddisflies. The superfamily comprises five families: Psychomyiidae, Xiphocentronidae, Dipseudopsidae, Polycentropodidae, and Pseudoneureclipsidae. Members are characterized by specialized antennal sensilla and larval case-building behavior using silk nets or tubes. The group is primarily distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with significant diversity in the Neotropics, Oriental region, and Brazilian Amazon.
Ptilostomis
Giant Rusty Sedges, Giant Casemakers
Ptilostomis is a genus of large caddisflies commonly known as giant casemakers or giant rusty sedges. The genus comprises at least four described species distributed in North America. Adults are recognized by their substantial size relative to other caddisflies and rusty or brownish coloration. Larvae construct portable cases using plant material, characteristic of the family Phryganeidae.
Ptilostomis postica
giant casemaker
Ptilostomis postica is a species of giant casemaker caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It is found in North America. The species was originally described as Neuronia postica by Walker in 1852. As a member of Phryganeidae, it belongs to a family of relatively large caddisflies known for constructing portable cases from plant material.
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.
Pycnopsyche gentilis
caddisfly
Pycnopsyche gentilis is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. Larvae are shredders that inhabit allochthonous organic materials in freshwater streams, where they feed on leaf litter colonized by aquatic fungi. The species is contemporaneous with congeneric P. luculenta, though larvae differ in case materials and habitat preferences. Adult males exhibit temporal partitioning of flight activity, with distinct peak arrival times at light sources when active on the same night as congeners.
Ramellogammarus
Stumptown scud (R. similimanus)
Ramellogammarus is a genus of freshwater amphipod crustaceans in the family Anisogammaridae, established by Bousfield in 1979. The genus includes species with highly restricted geographic distributions in the Pacific Northwest of North America. R. similimanus, known as the Stumptown scud, is endemic to the Portland metropolitan area of Oregon, while R. vancouverensis occurs in British Columbia.
Ramphocorixa
Ramphocorixa is a genus of water boatmen (Corixidae) established by Abbott in 1912, containing at least two described species. The genus includes a notable marine species, R. balanodis, which exhibits extreme morphological adaptations for feeding on barnacles in saltwater intertidal habitats—unusual for a family predominantly found in freshwater. Most species occur in freshwater lakes and ponds across North, Central, and northern South America.
Ranatra
water stick-insect, water scorpion, water mantis
Ranatra is a genus of slender aquatic predatory insects in the family Nepidae, commonly called water stick-insects or water scorpions. The genus contains over 140 species distributed across freshwater habitats worldwide, with highest diversity in South America and Asia. These insects are sit-and-wait predators that use raptorial forelegs to capture prey. They possess a distinctive long caudal siphon for breathing while submerged.
Ranatra brevicollis
Western Waterscorpion
Ranatra brevicollis is a species of waterscorpion in the family Nepidae, first described by Montandon in 1910. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The species belongs to a genus of aquatic predatory insects commonly known as waterscorpions due to their elongated, scorpion-like appearance. It is recognized by the common name Western Waterscorpion.
Ranatra fusca
brown water scorpion, brown waterscorpion
Ranatra fusca is a predatory aquatic bug in the family Nepidae, commonly called the brown water scorpion. Native to North America, it inhabits freshwater environments where it hunts small invertebrates using raptorial forelegs. Adults reach 3.2–4.2 cm in length and possess a long respiratory siphon for breathing at the water surface. The species is most active from spring through autumn.
Ranatra quadridentata
waterscorpion
Ranatra quadridentata is a species of waterscorpion described by Stål in 1862. As a member of the family Nepidae, it is an aquatic predatory insect that inhabits freshwater environments. The species has been documented in Central America and North America, with 188 observations recorded on iNaturalist.
Rhagovelia distincta
smaller water strider
Rhagovelia distincta is a species of smaller water strider in the family Veliidae. It inhabits freshwater surface habitats across Central America and North America. As a member of the genus Rhagovelia, it belongs to a group of semi-aquatic true bugs adapted for life on the water surface.
Rhantus
Rhantus is a genus of predaceous diving beetles (Dytiscidae) comprising approximately 100 species with worldwide distribution. Members of this genus are primarily associated with lentic freshwater habitats, particularly pools and marshy wetlands. The genus is currently recognized as paraphyletic; taxonomic revision is anticipated following 2017 research that transferred 17 species to newly established genera (Nartus, Meridiorhantus, Caperhantus, and Carabdytes). Several species have independently colonized oceanic islands and undergone endemic diversification.
Rhantus suturellus
Rhantus suturellus is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It is distributed across the Holarctic region, occurring in both North America and the Palearctic. The species is part of a genus of aquatic beetles adapted to freshwater environments.
Rhantus wallisi
Rhantus wallisi is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, described by Hatch in 1953. The species is endemic to North America, with documented occurrences in western Canada including Alberta and British Columbia. Like other members of the genus Rhantus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments.
Rheumatobates hungerfordi
Rheumatobates hungerfordi is a species of water strider in the family Gerridae, first described by Wiley in 1923. It belongs to the subfamily Rhagodotarsinae, a group characterized by specialized adaptations for life on the water surface. The genus Rheumatobates is distinguished by modified leg structures, particularly in males, used in mating displays and locomotion on water. This species occurs in freshwater habitats across parts of North and Middle America.
Rhyacophila acutiloba
Rhyacophila acutiloba is a species of free-living caddisfly in the family Rhyacophilidae, first described by Morse & Ross in 1971. As a member of the genus Rhyacophila, it belongs to a group commonly known as "caseless caddis" or "free-living caddisflies" whose larvae do not construct portable cases. The species is known from North America, with records from Vermont and other parts of the Nearctic region. Like other rhyacophilids, it is associated with lotic (flowing water) habitats.
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.
Saldoida
Saldoida is a genus of shore bugs in the family Saldidae, established by Osborn in 1901. The genus comprises five described species distributed across Asia and Australia. At least one species, S. armata, exhibits distinctive ant-mimicry morphology with thoracic horns. Members inhabit damp areas adjacent to freshwater sources.
Salmincola
Salmincola is a genus of freshwater parasitic copepods in the family Lernaeopodidae. These ectoparasites are common on salmonid fishes throughout the Northern Hemisphere. The genus exhibits substantial geographic variation in infection rates across water bodies, and current taxonomic definitions based on decades-old morphological descriptions may obscure cryptic diversity. Species in this genus are considered pests by fisheries management agencies due to their impact on host fish populations.
Salmoperla sylvanica
Salmoperla sylvanica is a species of stonefly in the family Perlodidae, described in 1987 from California. It belongs to the tribe Arcynopterygini within the subfamily Perlodinae. Like other perlodid stoneflies, it is associated with freshwater habitats. The species is known from very few records, with only two observations documented on iNaturalist.
Sanfilippodytes compertus
Cool Predaceous Diving Beetle
Sanfilippodytes compertus is a species of predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. It is known from western North America, with confirmed records in Alberta and British Columbia, Canada. The species was described by Brown in 1932. Like other members of the genus, it is likely associated with freshwater habitats.
Sanfilippodytes edwardsi
Sanfilippodytes edwardsi is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Wallis in 1933. The species is endemic to western North America, with records from Alberta and British Columbia in Canada. As a member of the subfamily Hydroporinae, it inhabits freshwater aquatic environments where it preys on small invertebrates.
Sciomyzini
snail-killing flies
Sciomyzini is a tribe of snail-killing flies within the family Sciomyzidae. Larvae are specialized predators and parasitoids of freshwater nonoperculate pulmonate snails. The tribe exhibits variable degrees of specialization: some species are highly specialized parasitoids with eggs laid directly on snail shells and puparia modified to fit tightly within host shells, while others are less specialized with eggs laid on vegetation and larvae acting as parasitoid-predator-saprophages. The tribe includes at least 13 genera and has been documented in both Palearctic and Nearctic regions.
Sepedon fuscipennis
marsh fly
Sepedon fuscipennis is a species of marsh fly in the family Sciomyzidae. The larvae are aquatic predators of pulmonate snails, living just beneath the water surface suspended by water-resistant hairs surrounding their posterior spiracles. Adults are slender flies with a concave face and jutting antennae; males have distinctive bowed hind tibiae and swollen, toothed hind femora for grasping females during mating. The species exhibits overlapping generations during summer with unimodal population peaks, and has been studied for its potential in biological control of snail hosts of parasitic diseases.
Sericostomatidae
Bushtailed Caddisflies
Sericostomatidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as bushtailed caddisflies. The family comprises approximately 19 genera and at least 90 described species. Larvae construct portable cases using silk and environmental materials. The family has a global distribution with notable diversity in the Palearctic region, including endemic species in the Balkans, Iberian Peninsula, and Madagascar.
Sericostomatoidea
Sericostomatoidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) containing approximately 13 families. The superfamily includes diverse case-making caddisflies, notably the Helicopsychidae (snail-case caddisflies) and the Australasian endemic family Conoesucidae. Molecular and morphological studies have confirmed the monophyly of at least some constituent families, though relationships among families remain under investigation.
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.
Sialis rotunda
Alderfly
Sialis rotunda is a species of alderfly in the family Sialidae, order Megaloptera. It is a small to medium-sized aquatic insect whose larvae develop in freshwater habitats. Adults are short-lived and primarily focus on reproduction. The species was described by Nathan Banks in 1920 and is native to western North America.
Sigara bradleyi
Sigara bradleyi is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Abbott in 1913. As a member of the genus Sigara, it belongs to a diverse group of aquatic insects commonly found in freshwater habitats. The species is known to occur in North America and the Caribbean, though detailed biological information remains limited. Like other corixids, it likely inhabits ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waters where it occupies the benthic zone.
Sigara hubbelli
Sigara hubbelli is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Hungerford in 1928. It belongs to the genus Sigara, a diverse group of aquatic true bugs found in freshwater habitats. The species is documented from North America, though detailed ecological and biological information remains limited in available sources.
Sigara hydatotrephes
Sigara hydatotrephes is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae. It belongs to the large genus Sigara, which contains numerous species of aquatic insects found in freshwater habitats. The species was described by Kirkaldy in 1908. Like other corixids, it is adapted to life in water with modified hind legs for swimming.
Sigara lineata
Sigara lineata is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae. It is found in North America. Water boatmen are aquatic insects that inhabit freshwater environments.
Sigara mississippiensis
Sigara mississippiensis is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Hungerford in 1942. As a member of the genus Sigara, it belongs to a diverse group of aquatic true bugs commonly found in freshwater habitats across North America. The species is poorly documented in public scientific literature, with minimal observational records available.
Sigara omani
Sigara omani is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, first described by Hungerford in 1930. Despite its specific epithet suggesting a connection to Oman, the species is native to North America. Water boatmen in this genus are aquatic insects that inhabit freshwater environments. Available information about this particular species is limited.
Sigara ornata
ornate water boatman
Sigara ornata is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) found in North America. Water boatmen are aquatic true bugs that inhabit freshwater environments, where they are known for their oar-like hind legs adapted for swimming. The specific epithet "ornata" suggests distinctive patterning or markings, though detailed morphological descriptions for this species are limited in available sources.
Sigara sigmoidea
Sigara sigmoidea is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, described by Abbott in 1913. The species name 'sigmoidea' refers to an S-shaped or sigma-like characteristic, likely of the male genitalia or abdominal structure, a common naming convention in this genus. Like other Corixidae, it is an aquatic insect inhabiting freshwater environments. The genus Sigara is one of the most species-rich genera of water boatmen in the Northern Hemisphere.
Sigara trilineata
Sigara trilineata is a species of water boatman in the family Corixidae, found in North America. Water boatmen are aquatic insects that inhabit freshwater environments. The species name "trilineata" refers to three lines, likely describing a distinctive marking pattern on the body. As a member of the Corixidae, it possesses the family's characteristic oar-like hind legs adapted for swimming.
Simocephalus
water flea
Simocephalus is a genus of freshwater cladoceran crustaceans commonly known as water fleas. Members exhibit the characteristic cladoceran life cycle with alternating parthenogenetic and sexual reproduction phases. The genus has been studied extensively for reproductive biology, with environmental factors such as temperature, food concentration, crowding, and illumination influencing life history traits.
Simocephalus serrulatus
Simocephalus serrulatus is a freshwater cladoceran crustacean in the family Daphniidae. It is a cosmopolitan zooplankton species found across multiple continents including Australasian, Afrotropical, Nearctic, and Neotropical regions. The species has been used in ecotoxicological studies, particularly research on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) tolerance and population-level variation in life history traits.
Siphlonurus alternatus
Northern Summer Mayfly
Siphlonurus alternatus is a primitive minnow mayfly with a Holarctic distribution spanning North America and Europe. The species is univoltine, overwintering as eggs and emerging as adults between May and August. Larvae inhabit deep pools in rivers, streams, and calcareous lakes, where they feed on fine particulate organic detritus. Adults emerge during daylight hours, with males forming swarms at dawn and dusk.
Sisyra
spongillafly, spongilla-fly
Sisyra is a genus of spongillaflies (Neuroptera: Sisyridae), a small family of aquatic insects. The genus comprises at least eight described species distributed across multiple continents, including Brazil, Panama, Australia, and Asia. Sisyra species have been documented in freshwater habitats, with larvae associated with freshwater sponges. The family holds a basal phylogenetic position within Neuroptera, and at least one species (S. nigra) exhibits an unusual achiasmatic sex chromosome segregation mechanism not observed in other neuropterans.
Soyedina
Soyedina is a genus of small stoneflies in the family Nemouridae, endemic to the Nearctic region. The genus was originally described as a subgenus of Nemoura by Ricker in 1952 and elevated to full genus status by Illies in 1966. It currently contains 11 described species, many of which are difficult to distinguish without examination of male genitalia. Species are distributed across North America from the Appalachian Highlands to western North America.
Sphaeromatidea
Seapills and allies
Sphaeromatidea is a suborder of isopod crustaceans established by Wägele in 1989, containing approximately 8587 recorded observations. The suborder comprises seven extant families across two superfamilies: Seroloidea (including Serolidae, Basserolidae, Bathynataliidae, and Plakarthriidae) and Sphaeromatoidea (including Sphaeromatidae, Ancinidae, and Tecticipitidae), plus three extinct families. Members exhibit substantial morphological diversity, with some species having colonized freshwater habitats from marine ancestors.
Stenasellidae
Stenasellidae is a family of stygobiotic (obligate subterranean aquatic) isopods in the suborder Asellota. The family comprises approximately 10 genera including Stenasellus, Metastenasellus, and Parastenasellus, with species distributed across groundwater habitats in Africa, the Middle East, southern Europe, and Southeast Asia. These crustaceans are exclusively adapted to life in continental underground waters including caves, wells, and interstitial aquifers. Their evolutionary history has been shaped by Quaternary climatic events including aridification in tropical zones and glaciations in temperate regions.
Stenelmis bicarinata
riffle beetle
Stenelmis bicarinata is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by LeConte in 1852. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects associated with running water habitats. The species occurs in Central and North America, though detailed ecological studies remain limited.
Stenelmis decorata
Stenelmis decorata is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Sanderson in 1938. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects associated with flowing water habitats. The species is known to occur in North America.
Stenelmis mera
Stenelmis mera is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, first described by Sanderson in 1938. It belongs to a genus of small, aquatic beetles commonly found in running water habitats. The species is documented from eastern North America, with records from New Brunswick and Nova Scotia in Canada. Like other elmid beetles, it is associated with freshwater stream environments where larvae develop in submerged substrates.
Stenelmis occidentalis
Neararctic Riffle Beetle
Stenelmis occidentalis is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by Schmude and Brown in 1991. Riffle beetles are aquatic insects adapted to life in fast-flowing freshwater habitats. The species is found in both Central America and North America, reflecting a transcontinental distribution across the Nearctic region.
Stenelmis sinuata
riffle beetle
Stenelmis sinuata is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae, described by LeConte in 1852. It is found in North America. Riffle beetles are aquatic beetles that inhabit flowing water environments.
Stenochironomus albipalpus
Stenochironomus albipalpus is a species of non-biting midge (Chironomidae) described by Borkent in 1984. The species belongs to the subfamily Chironominae and tribe Chironomini. It is currently recognized as a valid species in GBIF and iNaturalist databases, though Catalogue of Life lists it as a synonym. Records indicate limited observational data with only 10 observations documented on iNaturalist.
Stenogomphurus consanguis
Cherokee Clubtail
Stenogomphurus consanguis, commonly known as the Cherokee clubtail, is a species of clubtail dragonfly endemic to the southeastern United States. It inhabits small rivers and streams. The species is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though it has experienced significant shifts in conservation status over recent decades, previously being assessed as endangered in 2007. Approximately 30 known populations exist, most with fewer than 50 adults.
Stenonema
Stenonema is a genus of mayflies in the family Heptageniidae. Species within this genus are aquatic insects found in freshwater environments, with nymphs inhabiting both riffle and pool habitats. The genus has been extensively studied in ecological and toxicological research, particularly regarding morphological variation, behavioral responses to environmental cues, and sensitivity to pollutants. Multiple species, including S. modestum, S. tripunctatum, and S. vicarium, serve as bioindicators for water quality assessment.
Stenonema femoratum
Dark Cahill
Stenonema femoratum, commonly known as the Dark Cahill, is a mayfly species in the family Heptageniidae. It is native to North America and has been documented in the Nearctic region, including the northeastern United States. The species is part of the diverse mayfly fauna associated with freshwater systems.
Stictochironomus
Stictochironomus is a genus of non-biting midges (Chironomidae) with nearly worldwide distribution across all biogeographical regions except Antarctica. The genus contains more than 30 species, characterized by distinctive color patterns on wings and legs that serve as important diagnostic features for species identification. Larvae inhabit sand and sediments in freshwater habitats at densities of several hundred per square meter. DNA barcoding studies support the use of color-pattern-based species delimitation, with a genetic divergence threshold of 4.5–7.7% appropriate for distinguishing species.
Stilobezzia
Stilobezzia is a genus of predaceous biting midges in the family Ceratopogonidae, comprising more than 330 described species worldwide. Adult females are predators of other small insects. Immature stages develop in aquatic and semiaquatic habitats. The genus is absent from Antarctica and some islands.
Stygobromus
Stygobromus is a genus of subterranean freshwater amphipods in the family Crangonyctidae, comprising 134 described species. The genus is primarily distributed in North America, with a smaller number of species in the Palearctic region including Siberia. Many species are narrow endemics restricted to specific groundwater systems, and several are listed as endangered or vulnerable by the IUCN; one species, S. lucifugus, is extinct.
Stylogomphus albistylus
Eastern Least Clubtail
Stylogomphus albistylus, the eastern least clubtail, is a small clubtail dragonfly in the family Gomphidae. It is found in eastern North America, particularly in the Appalachian region and surrounding areas. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival.
Suphis
Suphis is a genus of small aquatic beetles in the family Noteridae, first described by Aubé in 1836. The genus contains approximately eleven described species distributed primarily in the Americas, with records from North, Central, and South America. Members of this genus are associated with freshwater habitats, particularly wetlands and slow-moving waters. As part of the Noteridae family, they represent one of several genera within the diverse group of predaceous diving beetles.
Suphisellus lineatus
Suphisellus lineatus is a burrowing water beetle in the subfamily Noterinae, described by George Henry Horn in 1871. The species occupies freshwater habitats across parts of Central and North America, with documented occurrences in Belize, Guatemala, Mexico, and the United States. Like other members of the genus Suphisellus, it is adapted to burrowing in muddy or sandy substrates of aquatic environments.
Susulus venustus
Susulus venustus is a stonefly species in the family Perlodidae, described by Jewett in 1965. It belongs to the genus Susulus within the tribe Perlodini. The species is known from California in western North America. As a member of the Plecoptera order, it is part of the aquatic insect community associated with freshwater habitats.
Synaptonecta issa
Synaptonecta issa is a minute water bug species in the family Micronectidae, first described by Distant in 1910. The species belongs to a genus of tiny aquatic true bugs that inhabit freshwater environments. Limited observational data exists, with only six iNaturalist records documented. The species has a disjunct distribution spanning North America and Southern Asia.
Taenionema atlanticum
Atlantic willowfly
Taenionema atlanticum, known as the Atlantic willowfly, is a species of winter stonefly in the family Taeniopterygidae. It was described by Ricker & Ross in 1975. The species is known from a limited number of observations and records in eastern North America.
Tanypodinae
Tanypods
Tanypodinae is a subfamily of non-biting midges within Chironomidae, distinguished by predominantly predatory larval ecology. Larvae possess specialized mouthparts adapted for capturing small invertebrate prey, including other chironomid larvae, setting them apart from the primarily detritivorous or filter-feeding larvae of most other chironomid subfamilies. First and second instar larvae additionally consume algae. The subfamily exhibits broad ecological tolerance, with species occurring in diverse freshwater habitats from pristine rivers to heavily polluted mine drainage systems. Tanypodinae serves as an important component of macrozoobenthos and functions as a biological indicator for aquatic ecosystem assessment.
Tanypus
non-biting midges
Tanypus is a genus of non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae, comprising at least 100 described species. Larvae are aquatic and benthic, occurring in freshwater lakes and other lentic environments. Species within the genus exhibit bioturbation activity that modifies sediment oxygen dynamics. Life cycle patterns vary by species, with some showing multivoltine generations and specific overwintering strategies.
Tanypus punctipennis
Tanypus punctipennis is a non-biting midge species in the family Chironomidae, subfamily Tanypodinae. It has been documented in European freshwater habitats, particularly Lake Balaton in Hungary, where research indicates a trivoltine life cycle with overlapping generations and extended emergence periods. The species is part of the diverse Tanypus genus, which are predatory midges found in aquatic environments.
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.
Tanytarsus
non-biting midge
Tanytarsus is a large genus of non-biting midges comprising over 480 described species. The genus belongs to the tribe Tanytarsini within the subfamily Chironominae. Larvae occur in diverse freshwater habitats, with some species inhabiting marine environments. Species-level studies reveal complex life cycles with photoperiod and temperature as key determinants of seasonal patterns.
Temoridae
Temoridae is a family of calanoid copepods established by Giesbrecht in 1893. The family includes seven genera: Epischura, Epischurella, Eurytemora, Ganchosia, Heterocope, Lahmeyeria, and Temora. Members inhabit diverse aquatic environments ranging from freshwater lakes to brackish estuaries and marine coastal waters. The genus Eurytemora has been extensively studied due to its species complex containing cryptic species with significant genetic and morphological heterogeneity.
Thermonectus intermedius
Thermonectus intermedius is a predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Crotch in 1873. The species is distributed in North America. As a member of the genus Thermonectus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater environments. The genus is known for species that are active swimmers and visual hunters in aquatic habitats.
Thermonectus nigrofasciatus
Mottled Diving Beetle
Thermonectus nigrofasciatus is a diving beetle species in the family Dytiscidae, native to the eastern United States. The species name refers to the distinctive black, postmedian transverse blotch on its elytra. It is commonly known as the Mottled Diving Beetle and has been documented in over 500 observations on iNaturalist.
Thermonectus nigrofasciatus nigrofasciatus
Thermonectus nigrofasciatus nigrofasciatus is a subspecies of predatory diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae. The nominate subspecies occurs in North and Middle America. Members of the genus Thermonectus are recognized for their distinctive color patterns and aquatic lifestyle.
Thermonectus nigrofasciatus ornaticollis
Thermonectus nigrofasciatus ornaticollis is a subspecies of diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, tribe Aciliini. As part of the genus Thermonectus, it is an aquatic predator inhabiting freshwater systems. The subspecies epithet 'ornaticollis' refers to decorative or ornate features of the pronotum or neck region. Like other members of Thermonectus, it possesses adaptations for underwater respiration and predation.
Tinodes
Tinodes is a genus of caddisflies in the family Psychomyiidae, first described by John Curtis in 1834. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution with the richest species assemblages in the Oriental region and southern Western Palearctic. Species have been documented from Europe, Africa, Madagascar, the Comoros, and Asia. Larvae of at least some species construct fixed tunnel-like retreats (galleries) on stone surfaces in freshwater streams. The genus serves as an important bioindicator of freshwater ecosystem health due to its sensitivity to environmental changes.
Torrenticola
Torrenticola is a genus of water mites in the family Torrenticolidae, comprising over 400 described species globally and 90 species in North America alone. These mites are characteristic inhabitants of rocky and sandy streams, where they represent the dominant water mite genus. Recent taxonomic work has demonstrated that color markings, long overlooked by traditional acarology, serve as valuable diagnostic characters for species identification when combined with DNA sequencing and morphological analysis.
Torrenticolidae
torrent mites
Torrenticolidae is a family of water mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia) in the order Trombidiformes. Members are tiny, heavily sclerotized, crawling arthropods found in running freshwater habitats. The family contains approximately 5 genera and more than 400 described species, with the genus Torrenticola being the most diverse and widespread. Species diversity is highest in tropical regions, though the family occurs on all continents except Antarctica.
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 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.
Trepobates becki
Trepobates becki is a species of water strider in the family Gerridae. It inhabits freshwater surface habitats in arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico. The species was described by Drake & Harris in 1932. Like other members of the genus Trepobates, it is adapted to life on the water surface.
Trepobates floridensis
Trepobates floridensis is a species of water strider in the family Gerridae, first described by Drake & Harris in 1928. It is endemic to the southeastern United States, with a range extending throughout Florida into southern Georgia and west to Mississippi. As a member of the subfamily Trepobatinae, it inhabits freshwater surface habitats where it uses surface tension to locomote and forage.
Trepobates pictus
Trepobates pictus is a species of water strider in the family Gerridae, first described by Herrich-Schaeffer in 1847. It is distributed across eastern North America from Texas to Florida, extending northward to Illinois, Maine, and Ontario, as well as the Caribbean and South America. The species inhabits freshwater surface habitats where it utilizes the water surface tension to move and forage.
Trepobatinae
small waterstriders
Trepobatinae is a subfamily of small waterstriders (Gerridae) established by Matsuda in 1960. The group has undergone extensive radiation on New Guinea and surrounding archipelagos, with particularly high diversity in Melanesia. Four tribes are currently recognized: Metrobatini, Naboandelini, Stenobatini, and Trepobatini. The subfamily includes both freshwater and marine forms, with marine species concentrated in the New Guinea region.
Triacanthagyna caribbea
Caribbean Darner
Triacanthagyna caribbea is a species of darner dragonfly in the family Aeshnidae, described by Williamson in 1923. It is endemic to the Caribbean region, with confirmed records from Colombia (departments of Antioquia, Bolívar, Magdalena, and Sucre) and broader Caribbean distribution. The species is part of the genus Triacanthagyna, which is characterized by three-spined abdominal appendages in males. As with other aeshnids, it is likely a strong flier adapted to tropical environments.
Triaenodes injusta
Triaenodes injusta is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. The genus Triaenodes is characterized by elongated antennae, often exceeding body length, and larvae that construct distinctive portable cases. This species is part of a diverse Nearctic fauna of Triaenodes, though specific biological details remain limited in published literature.
Trichoclinocera dolicheretma
Trichoclinocera dolicheretma is a Nearctic dance fly (Diptera: Empididae: Clinocerinae) belonging to the monotypic T. dolicheretma species group. The species was originally described by Melander in 1902 and later synonymized with T. brunnipennis, which was subsequently reversed with T. brunnipennis synonymized under T. dolicheretma. A lectotype was designated for this species in a 1994 revision of Nearctic Trichoclinocera. The species is part of a genus whose immature stages were described for the first time in that revision, though specific details for T. dolicheretma were not separately highlighted.
Trichocorixa kanza
water boatman
Trichocorixa kanza is a species of water boatman (family Corixidae) described by Sailer in 1948. It belongs to the genus Trichocorixa, a group of small aquatic true bugs characterized by hair-fringed hind legs adapted for swimming. The species has been documented in both North and Central America. Like other corixids, it inhabits freshwater environments where it swims upside-down near the water surface.
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.
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.
Uenoidae
Stonecase Caddisflies
Uenoidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as stonecase caddisflies. The family comprises approximately 7 genera and at least 80 described species, distributed across North America, Asia, and Europe. Larvae construct portable cases using mineral materials, hence the common name. The family was revised taxonomically in 1988 to include the subfamilies Uenoinae and Thremmatinae, incorporating genera formerly placed in separate families. Studies of Neophylax species demonstrate univoltine life cycles with temporal segregation between co-occurring species.
Unionicola
Unionicola is a genus of freshwater water mites (family Unionicolidae) described by Haldeman in 1842. The genus has cosmopolitan distribution and comprises parasitic species primarily associated with molluscan hosts, though some species associate with freshwater sponges. Most species infest unionid mussels, while U. crassipes and U. minor are associated with Spongillidae sponges. The mite-host relationship involves consumption of host mucus and tissue, with potential negative effects on host fitness.
Unionicolidae
water mites
Unionicolidae is a family of water mites in the order Trombidiformes, comprising approximately 5 genera and at least 40 described species. Members are primarily freshwater aquatic arachnids distributed worldwide. Many species, particularly in the genus Unionicola, exhibit parasitic relationships with freshwater molluscs, feeding on host mucus and tissue. The family represents a significant component of Arachnida diversity in aquatic ecosystems.
Usingeriessa
Usingeriessa is a genus of moths in the family Crambidae, subfamily Acentropinae. The genus was established by Lange in 1956 and contains approximately 11 described species distributed primarily in the Neotropical region. These moths are part of a group commonly known as aquatic or semi-aquatic crambid moths, though specific ecological details for the genus remain limited.
Utacapnia
small winter stoneflies
Utacapnia is a genus of small winter stoneflies in the family Capniidae. The genus contains approximately 11 described species, most of which were first described by entomologists Alan V. Nebeker and Arden R. Gaufin during the 1960s. Species in this genus are primarily distributed in the Rocky Mountains of North America. As winter stoneflies, members of this genus are active during cold months, a trait characteristic of the family Capniidae.
Uvarus lacustris
Uvarus lacustris is a small predaceous diving beetle in the family Dytiscidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1823. It belongs to the tribe Bidessini within the subfamily Hydroporinae. The species is documented from North America, with confirmed records from Canada (Ontario) and the United States. As a member of Dytiscidae, it is an aquatic predator, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
Vatellus
Vatellus is a genus of predaceous diving beetles in the family Dytiscidae, tribe Vatellini. The genus contains 15 described species distributed primarily in the Neotropical region, with most species described by K.B. Miller in 2005. Members are aquatic beetles adapted to freshwater habitats.
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.
Wormaldia arizonensis
Wormaldia arizonensis is a species of caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae, originally described by Ling in 1938. It belongs to the second largest genus in its family, with approximately 175 extant species worldwide. The species is known from the southwestern United States and Mexico. As with other philopotamid caddisflies, it is presumed to have aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adult stages, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented.
Xanthochlorus
Xanthochlorus is a genus of long-legged flies (Dolichopodidae) established by Loew in 1857. Species in this genus are small to medium-sized predatory flies with characteristic yellow-green coloration. The genus occurs in the Holarctic region, with records from Scandinavia and North America. Like other dolichopodids, members are likely associated with moist habitats near water bodies.
Xylotopus par
Xylotopus par is an aquatic xylophagous midge in the family Chironomidae. The larvae colonize submerged wood substrates in freshwater streams, feeding on decaying wood. Populations exhibit plastic phenology, with development rates varying based on wood substrate quality—larvae in fresh, introduced wood can complete development in a single summer, while those in indigenous logs normally require a full year. The species has been studied for its unique bacterial associations in the larval midgut, where morphotypically uniform bacteria form a well-defined band in the posterior midgut's ectoperitrophic space.
Yoraperla
roach-like stoneflies
Yoraperla is a genus of stoneflies in the family Peltoperlidae, commonly known as "roach-like stoneflies" due to their resemblance to cockroaches. The genus contains eight described species distributed across North America and Asia. Yoraperla was established by Ricker in 1952 and is classified within the subfamily Peltoperlinae.
Zaitzevia parvula
riffle beetle
Zaitzevia parvula is a species of riffle beetle in the family Elmidae. It was described by Horn in 1870. The species is found in North America, with records from Alberta and British Columbia in Canada. Two subspecies are recognized: Z. p. parvula and Z. p. thermae.
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.
Zavrelimyia fragilis
Zavrelimyia fragilis is a species of non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae. Like other members of this family, it belongs to the order Diptera and is characterized by a life cycle that includes aquatic larval stages. The genus Zavrelimyia is part of the diverse chironomid fauna, with larvae typically inhabiting freshwater environments. Adult midges are generally short-lived and do not feed.
Zoniagrion exclamationis
Exclamation Damsel
Zoniagrion exclamationis, commonly known as the Exclamation Damsel, is a species of damselfly in the family Coenagrionidae. It is the sole species in its genus and is endemic to western North America. The species was first described by Selys in 1876 and is recognized by its distinctive coloration and patterning. It is a relatively well-documented damselfly with over 300 observations recorded on citizen science platforms.