Section 2: Lakefly Invertebrate Identification
Estimated Time For Lesson: 3 minutes
ID Notes
Green drake mayflies are large, distinctive mayflies that burrow into silt or sand.
They often swim vigorously in the sampling tray. They tend to swim with slow, graceful, undulating movements.
They have 3 pairs of visible legs
3 tails that are roughly symmetrical
Medium sized antennae
They have feathery gills folded over the back of the body (abdomen) which move in a wafting motion
They have tusk-like mouth parts that point forwards
Tails can be broken off partially or entirely, so check carefully how many there are.
They can be found in lakes burrowed into the substrate. Their bodies can be greenish or olive in colour with pale markings.
They are filter feeders.
Size: Can be up to 35mm
Photos Credit: Dr Cyril Bennett MBE