Common Medium Stonefly
Species Information
Statistics
Scientific name: Diura bicaudate
Length:Â up to 3cmÂ
average lifespan:
Conservation status
Common
When to see
January to December
About
The common medium stonefly is one of 34 species of stonefly which can fly from April until June. Stonefly habitat is around fast-flowing, upland streams and rivers, but they can be found in some still waters. They spend most of their lives as larvae and spend this time hiding among the gravels.They feed on algae, plants and invertebrates. The adults usually emerge in the summer and travel a short distance up stream. They mate on the ground and the female lays her eggs by dipping the tip of her abdomen in the water.
How to identify
Stonefly are often found on riverside rocks and trees. They have narrow, dark wings, long antennae and two stout tail bristles. When not in flight they fold their wings flat over their bodies. Stonefly are dark brown with orange patches at the back of the head and in front of the wings. Stonefly larvae have two ‘tails’ and have a habit of clinging to the undersides of rocks in fast-flowing water.
Did you know ?
The Northern February Red (Brachyptera putata) stonefly is only found in the UK.
How you can help?Â
Did you know you can help wildlife in your local river ? You can do this in many ways from reporting pollution to SEPA, by not flushing wet wipes down the toilet and even at one of our many conservation volunteer days. Check out our Get Involved page for more information on how you can get involved with your local river.