National Insect Week returns in 2022

Mayflies

ORDER: EPHEMEROPTERA

(Ancient Greek - short-lived = sheath ; pteron = wing)

Mainly aquatic, found near rivers and ponds, large wings, three "tails", large compound eyes

Insects in this order

Green Drake Mayfly
© Stuart Crofts Ephemera danica female Mayflies are the most primitive winged insects. Nymphs live in freshwater and species show adaptations to their particular niche, in open water they are cylindrical shaped with long thin legs, under stones they are flat and stout with outstretched legs,...

What is National Insect Week?

National Insect Week encourages people of all ages to learn more about insects.

Every two years, the Royal Entomological Society organises the week, supported by a large number of partner organisations with interests in the science, natural history and conservation of insects.