MEGALOPTERA: ALDERFLIES
Definition
- Adults of robust build, with black body and network of black veins on two pairs of rather similar wings. Antennae are thread-like.
- Larvae aquatic, with external gills on most abdominal segments.
- Life cycle complete: egg, larva, pupa and adult.
What they do and where they live
- Adults are fairly lethargic and docile. They sit on waterside plants, including bush and tree foliage.
- Larvae are predatory under water. Pupation is in the soil on land.
Number of species
- There are 3 species in Britain.
- The world fauna is small.
