Millions of mayflies invading Lake Erie towns
Mayflies are aquatic insects that belong to the order Ephemeroptera which translates to “short lived” and “wings.” They are a strong indicator of good water quality, as mayflies require clean, oxygen rich environments to thrive. On Lake Erie, mayflies spend the first few years of their lives as aquatic nymphs burrowed in the lakebed, using gills to breathe and feeding on organic matter. Adult mayflies, the winged stage, emerge from the lake to reproduce and only live for hours or days.
Mayflies indicate good water quality
The Division of Wildlife says mayflies are a strong indicator of good water quality, as they require clean, oxygen rich environments to thrive.
“Historically, mayfly populations in western Lake Erie plummeted in the mid 1900s due to poor water quality,” the Division of Wildlife writes in a Facebook comment. “However, thanks to environmental regulations like the Clean Water act and ongoing conservation efforts, populations rebounded in the 1990s and remain strong today.”
How long does mayfly season last?
Depending on the year, mayfly season can begin in late May and last through early July, according to Erie MetroParks.