Plecoptera (Stoneflies)

Most of the Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT) organisms are sensitive to changes in water quality. Their presence (or lack of) are good indicators of the health of our streams. They can be found in

• debris (Large Woody Debris, LWD),
• masses of leaves (detritus),
• algae and other aquatic vegetation and,
• under stones

They are often found in every kind of unpolluted lotic habitat where there is lots of oxygen.

Stoneflies have 2 tails and hairy gills under the neck and chest regions.

	Stonefly Photo: RN
Click on the picture for another view of a Stonefly.

Stoneflies are omnivores, but some species may be predators and others shredders.

Nymphs resemble adults, except they have wing pads instead of wings.

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