Species of the mayfly genus Deleatidium are widespread in New Zealand rivers and streams. Found on the undersides of river stones, they are easy to identify by their three long tail filaments. They drift downstream in the current, and fish feed on them. The typical length including the tail is 15 millimetres. Behind the legs, along the sides of the body, are feathered gills for breathing underwater. The bodies are often flattened to form a low profile to the current, which helps prevent them being swept away. There are about 40 species of mayfly in New Zealand and all of them are endemic – found nowhere else.
Using this item
by Paddy Ryan
This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.
Comments
24 March 2014