Stenacron interpunctatum
This record describes Stenacron interpunctatum (species). Recorded family: Heptageniidae. Recorded order: Ephemeroptera.
Identification and Appearance
ID is very difficult. They cannot be ID'd reliably based upon tergal or sternal coloration. Removal of the left mandible and both maxillae are required for proper ID. The setae on the maxilla are commonly missing or broken so close inspection is necessary
Wikipedia reference for Stenacron interpunctatum: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stenacron_interpunctatum.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Ephemeroptera (Mayflies)
- Suborder
- Pisciforma
- Superfamily
- Heptagenioidea
- Family
- Heptageniidae (Flatheaded Mayflies)
- Genus
- Stenacron
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Larvae are tolerant of a variety of current strengths and can occur in lentic habitats. They can be associated with undersides of large logs and boulders as well as leafy debris and gravel
Geographic Range
NA except sw. US map
Seasonal Activity
In Wisconsin -- Adults are usually found June-July but there is a late record of Sept
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Stenacron interpunctatum (Say 1839)
About Mayflies: the wider group
Order-level background for Ephemeroptera, the group containing Stenacron interpunctatum. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Ephemeroptera (mayflies) includes ~3,500 described species. Adult mayflies are famous for their extraordinarily short lifespans - some species live as adults for only 5 minutes to 24 hours, the shortest adult lifespan of any insect.
Ecological role of the group
Mayfly nymphs spend 1-2 years developing in freshwater before emerging as adults. They are key bioindicators - their presence indicates clean, well-oxygenated water. They are also a primary food source for freshwater fish.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Mayfly hatches are so massive they appear on weather radar - a 2014 Mississippi River hatch near La Crosse, Wisconsin was tracked by the National Weather Service. Mass emergences can cause slippery road conditions and traffic hazards.
Recorded sources for this group: National Weather Service, EPA bioassessment protocols. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Stenacron interpunctatum (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by v belov , Marci Hess
Frequently Asked Questions About Stenacron interpunctatum
What is Stenacron interpunctatum?
Stenacron interpunctatum is a species in the family Heptageniidae, within the order Ephemeroptera.
How do you identify Stenacron interpunctatum?
ID is very difficult. They cannot be ID'd reliably based upon tergal or sternal coloration. Removal of the left mandible and both maxillae are required for proper ID. The setae on the maxilla are commonly missing or broken so close inspection is necessary
Where is Stenacron interpunctatum found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Larvae are tolerant of a variety of current strengths and can occur in lentic habitats. They can be associated with undersides of large logs and boulders as well as leafy debris and gravel |
| Range | NA except sw. US map |
When is Stenacron interpunctatum active?
Stenacron interpunctatum: seasonal activity - In Wisconsin -- Adults are usually found June-July but there is a late record of Sept.