Stonefly

Name: Stonefly

Scientific name: Plecoptera

Category: Minibeasts

Nature Stars: 30

What are nature stars?

About: There are 34 species of stonefly in Britain, which grow up to 2cm long. They are common around fast flowing streams and rivers, where the larvae spend their lives hiding amongst the gravels underwater feeding on algae and plants. The adults hatch out, usually in the summer, and never travel very far from the streamside, often found on riverside rocks and trees.

How to identify: Stoneflies are fairly robust animals with narrow dark wings, long antennae and two stout tail bristles. Stonefly larvae can be recognised by having two 'tails' and by their habit of clinging to the undersides of rocks in the fast flowing water.

Where: Various species found throughout the country

Natural Superpowers

• Predator: 30
• Agility: 60
• Rarity: 30
• Cute factor: 10
• Traveller: 20

Fantastic fact: Stonefly larvae are an important food for trout and salmon.

Photograph credit: J. C. Lucier