Martinlf on Jun 28, 2012June 28th, 2012, 5:44 am EDT
Now this is some serious bug identification. I was just wondering about the color of the darn things. But it's impressive to see what can go into determining the specifics. Procloeon it is. Now if Shawn or I can just get some shots of those evening hatching "olives."
"He spread them a yard and a half. 'And every one that got away is this big.'"
Entoman on Jun 28, 2012June 28th, 2012, 8:39 am EDT
Now this is some serious bug identification. I was just wondering about the color of the darn things.
Yes, sorry for getting away from your original intent. Lest there be any confusion, the latter part of this thread was focused on Jason's specimen from more than 6 years ago. I don't think there is any debate over my initial responses to your question. Based on what you described, I seriously doubt there is any connection between these two other than possibly sharing the same genus. If I were to hazard a guess, I would still say that your tiny sulfur or tan ones are probably a species of Centroptilum based on commonness. Having said that, there is certainly nothing wrong with referring to them as Procloeon if you wish - it is easier to pronounce.:) To say the concept of speciation in this branch of the Baetidae family is a bit murky is probably an understatement. Discussing the differences between species and placing them in genera using current nomenclature may prove to have been an exercise in grasping at mist some day. Especially when using the old standards of size, color, and hind wing conformation. Heck, we're already there in the latter regard.
Though the tiny olives could be from any number of baetid genera, your suggestion about the possibility of Plauditus is far from dubius.:)
"It's not that I find fishing so important, it's just that I find all other endeavors of Man equally unimportant... And not nearly as much fun!" Robert Traver, Anatomy of a Fisherman