As their name implies, Stonefly nymphs are often found under rocks in streams. Notice the fringes on the forelegs, they help the nymph swim when necessary.
live beneath stones until they metamorphose into adults. Mayfly nymphs can also be found under rocks. The way I teach my students to remember the difference between the two is to think of 3 fingers being held downward, looking like an "M" --- Mayfly nymphs have 3 tails. Stonefly nymphs have 2 tails, think of S-T, Stonefly-two.
Order: Ephemeroptera We see Mayflies in June during Science Camp, the kids enjoy catching them. This one must be a female, judging by the size of the abdomen. After mating, the females lay their eggs in lakes and streams, they live only one day as an adult. The mayfly nymphs live in the water for up to a year. The following summer they emerge, mate, lay eggs and then die.
