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Pteronarcys sp
These insects have an incomplete development, meaning there is no pupa stage. They grow from eggs dropped in creeks and rivers by the female, and then hatch to aquatic nymph stage and emerge and shed to an adult stage. As a nymph they are mostly carnivorous and as adults they feed on soft vegetation like leave buds. Their life span varies on species. The Stone fly has two sets of wings that fold flat on their backs. Compound eyes and ocelli (little eyes). Six legs and a pair of cerci on the rear of the abdomen.
Found from a creek during the summer was barely moving. After so much rain this winter the water is moving faster to create better oxygenated water.
These are favored by trout next to Mayfly species. I learned a new species thanks to Heather.
First time ever seeing one. While flying I wasn't sure what it was. I was looking for Dragonflies and Damselfies that I normally see here. I only saw one damselfly species at this location.
I think Heather is absolutely right with Pteronarcys sp. as the scientific name which should be used as per our FAQs. Piecoptera is an Order as opposed to the general acceptance of Genus + species being the Scientific name.
I would probably narrow it down to P. californica, P. dorsata, P' proteus or P. princeps. Only P. dorsata is known as a Stonefly, the other 3 are more commonly called Salmonflies.
There is a picture near the bottom of this page http://www.north40realty.com/Web/AR28993... showing the two antennae-like protrusions at the rear of the body.
I know my eyes are not good but I only see 6 legs and two short antennae...
Spotted on May 27, 2016
Submitted on May 27, 2016
