Ephemeroptera- Mayflies

General Characteristics

1. Adults have triangular wings (front wing much larger than hind wing).
2. Adults and larvae will have three cerci on the posterior end (back).
3. Larvae have lateral abdominal gills.
4. Larvae can be found in both fast and slow moving water (streams, lakes)
5. Larvae will vary in color and shape (flat, long and tubular etc.)
5. Adults are very fragile and must be preserved in alcohol.

 

Adult

The above mayfly is missing some cerci.

Larvae

Notice the abdominal gills.