Hex Mayflies
Hexagenia limbata
The famous nocturnal Hex hatch of the Midwest (and a few other lucky locations) stirs to the surface mythically large brown trout that only touch streamers for the rest of the year.
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With a bit of help from the microscope, this specimen keys clearly and unsurprisingly to Hydropsyche.
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Caddisfly Genus Ironoquia (Eastern Box Wing Sedges)
Where & when
These species enter diapause during the summer to synchronize their fall emergence.In 61 records from GBIF, adults of this genus have mostly been collected during September (34%), August (28%), October (23%), and July (8%).
In 21 records from GBIF, this genus has been collected at elevations ranging from 16 to 4117 ft, with an average (median) of 2592 ft.
Genus Range
Egg-Laying behavior
Time of day: Evening; earlier when cooler
Larva & pupa biology
Diet: Leaves, algae
Specimens of the Caddisfly Genus Ironoquia
1 Adult
The setae on the wings make it a big tricky to identify this caddisfly from the "splayed wings" view because they obscure the venation, but several of the side views provide a good look at the important forewing veins. It keys pretty confidently to Ironoquia. Based on species ranges and a photo on BugGuide seemingly of this species and some alternatives, it seems Ironoquia lyrata is by far the most likely option.
Start a Discussion of Ironoquia
References
- LaFontaine, Gary. 1981. Caddisflies. The Lyons Press.
Caddisfly Genus Ironoquia (Eastern Box Wing Sedges)
Taxonomy
Species in Ironoquia: Ironoquia lyrata, Ironoquia parvula
2 species (Ironoquia kaskaskia and Ironoquia punctatissima) aren't included.