Mayflies (also known as shadflies or fishflies in Canada and the upper Midwestern United States, as Canadian soldiers in the American Great Lakes region, [2] and as up-winged flies in the United Kingdom) are aquatic insects belonging to the order Ephemeroptera.

Mayflies are aquatic insects known as shadflies (or fishflies in Canada), that are distributed all over the world in clean freshwater habitats, except Antarctica. There are more than 3,000 species of mayfly, that belong to over 400 genera in 42 families. They seem to be the first choice of food for every insect-eating animal.

Feb 26, 2025 · mayfly, (order Ephemeroptera), any member of a group of insects known for their extremely short adult life spans and emergence in large numbers in the summer months. Worldwide, more than 2,500 species of mayflies have been described, about 700 of them in the United States and Canada.

Learn facts about the mayflies' habitat, diet, life history, and more.

Jan 1, 2025 · Mayflies (shadflies or lake flies) are fascinating insects known for their short lifespan, often living for only a day or two. These insects, belonging to the order Ephemeroptera, are a common sight near water bodies and are recognized by their delicate, transparent wings and long, threadlike tails.

Apr 20, 2022 · A mayfly is an aquatic insect that plays an important role in the ecosystem. They are a vital source of food for fish, frogs, toads, birds, and some reptiles. About 224 species depend on...

Mar 17, 2025 · What Does a Mayfly Insect Look Like? Ali Majdfar/Getty Images Adult mayflies live only for a day and cannot eat. If you’ve ever seen a reedy-looking bug with two long, antenna-looking protrusions from its abdomen, you might have seen a mayfly. Mayflies have thin bodies and clear, veined wings that resemble those of a dragonfly. They have four ...

Feb 25, 2025 · Mayflies are aquatic insects that get their name from the fact that the adult appears in May. Mayflies hatch out in large numbers in the spring but continue hatching until fall. Since the adult mayfly’s purpose is to reproduce, it has a short lifespan. Mayflies are beloved and celebrated creatures.

Apr 17, 2024 · Mayflies are fascinating insects that draw quite the attention from nature lovers and scientists alike. With their slender bodies and delicate wings held upright, they are an attractive sight. Large compound eyes, short antennae, and two long, threadlike cerci on their rear add to their unique appearance.

Sep 3, 2023 · Mayflies are fascinating insects known for their unique life cycle. These delicate creatures play a vital role in ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as food for various predators. The life cycle of a mayfly comprises several stages, including the egg, larval (nymph), subimago, and adult (imago) stage 1.