Megaloptera
Quick Summary
Megaloptera is a small order of insects, typically large, with four similarly sized, net-veined wings. They are often grouped with Neuroptera but are distinct. Megalopterans develop from aquatic, predatory larvae, commonly known as hellgrammites or toe-biters, which are important indicators of water quality.12
The order includes alderflies and dobsonflies. Dobsonfly larvae are notable for their intolerance to water pollution. Adults of some dobsonfly species exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males possessing larger mandibles used for fighting and defense.32
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insectAnnotated classificationOrder Megaloptera (alderflies, dobsonflies) Head prognathous (mouthparts located anteriorly on a horizontal head); biting mouthparts; filiform antennae; 2 pairs of large similar wings, at rest held rooflike or nearly flat over abdomen; larvae elongated, with biting mandibles.
Read MoreOrder Megaloptera (alderflies, dobsonflies) Head prognathous (mouthparts located anteriorly on a horizontal head); biting mouthparts; filiform antennae; 2 pairs of large similar wings, at rest held rooflike or nearly flat over abdomen; larvae elongated, with biting mandibles.
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neuropteranAnnotated classificationMegalopteraAdults medium to large; head prognathous; biting mouthparts; antennae threadlike (or filiform); 2 pairs of large, similar wings, held rooflike or nearly flat over abdomen in repose. Larvae elongated; biting mandibles; lateral abdominal gill filaments present; aquatic.Family Sialidae (alderflies)Wing expanse 20–40 mm;…
Read MoreMegalopteraAdults medium to large; head prognathous; biting mouthparts; antennae threadlike (or filiform); 2 pairs of large, similar wings, held rooflike or nearly flat over abdomen in repose. Larvae elongated; biting mandibles; lateral abdominal gill filaments present; aquatic.Family Sialidae (alderflies)Wing expanse 20–40 mm;…
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