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Sialidae

Pronunciation:  [Sigh⋅AL·i·dae]

Common Name:  Alderflies, Fishflies

Description:  Similar to dobsonflies, but smaller in size and lacking dorsal ocelli.  They are often black or smoky gray in color.  The fourth tarsal segment is dilated and bilobed.  The antennae are long and filiform.   Adults live near aquatic areas but may be attracted to lights at night.   Both adults and larvae are commonly used as bait by fishermen.

Spot ID Key Characters:

  1. Medium body size,  dark coloration (black or gray)
  2. Fourth tarsal segment dilated and bilobed
  3. Filiform antennae

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Order:  Megaloptera