Mayfly-parasite
Guides
Symbiocladius
Symbiocladius is a genus of non-biting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae) in the subfamily Orthocladiinae. Species in this genus are obligate ectoparasites of mayfly nymphs (Ephemeroptera), attaching to first instar hosts to feed on haemolymph and associated tissues. The genus is known from the Palaearctic region, with records across Central and Eastern Europe. Symbiocladius rhithrogenae is the most studied species, documented to prevent host moulting and potentially cause sterility or death.