Shadfly

The shadfly, also commonly known as a mayfly, is an insect belonging to the order Ephemeroptera. These delicate creatures are characterized by their large, triangular forewings and smaller hindwings, as well as their long, slender bodies and prominent cerci, which are tail-like appendages. Shadflies are found worldwide, typically near bodies of freshwater, as their life cycle is intimately tied to aquatic environments.

The most remarkable aspect of the shadfly is its short adult lifespan. After emerging from their nymphal stage, adult shadflies often live for only a day or two, their primary purpose being reproduction. They do not possess functional mouthparts and therefore do not feed as adults. This ephemeral existence has led to the common term "mayfly" and contributes to their scientific name, Ephemeroptera, meaning "short-lived wing."

The life cycle begins as eggs laid in water. The nymphs, also called naiads, live underwater for months or even years, molting several times as they grow. Once mature, the nymphs ascend to the surface and transform into winged subimagos, which then molt one final time to become the sexually mature adults. After mating, the females lay their eggs, and the cycle begins anew. Shadflies play a role in aquatic ecosystems as a food source for fish and other predators.