Immature stoneflies (nymphs) are very common freshwater insects. They tend to prefer colder streams, and their presence and abundance is often used as a measure of stream health. Adult stoneflies seldom feed, though they are fed upon by a wide variety of aquatic animals and birds. Cold running water is in short supply at Coal Oil Point, and this lone adult stonefly was a somewhat surprising find. Its nymphs may live in the mainly freshwater backdune pond to the west of our trapping site.

Stonefly Photos (click to enlarge)

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