eastern dobsonfly
Quick Summary
The eastern dobsonfly (Corydalus cornutus) is a large insect belonging to the subfamily Corydalinae. These insects are characterized by four net-veined wings of similar size and shape, and they are found in North and South America, Asia, Australia, and Africa.1
Males often have large mandibles, which are used for fighting and defense. The aquatic larvae, known as hellgrammites, are important food for fish and are used as bait by anglers. These larvae are sensitive to water pollution and serve as environmental indicators.1
The eastern dobsonfly can reach a body length of about 5 cm (2 inches) with a wingspread of approximately 13 cm (5 inches). Females lay up to 3,000 eggs near streams, and the larvae mature in two to three years. The larvae are fierce predators of other aquatic invertebrates.1
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