Stoneflies are vital ecological indicators of North Shore rivers and streams. Beyond their role as indicators, stoneflies are a cornerstone of the aquatic food web. They serve as a favorite food source for various fish species and are highly valued by fly anglers. Discover the significance of these often-overlooked insects as key players in the dynamic world of freshwater ecosystems, providing a reliable and nutrient-rich year-round food source for aquatic life.
Enjoy learning from Cook County local Kalli Hawkins who is a reporter/producer for WTIP and is also a writer, and photographer who specializes in adventure, outdoor education, and gear reviews.
Resources:
North Shore Chapter of the Minnesota Master Naturalists
Questions Asked:
- What are the predators?
- What size do they start and grow to?
- When in the water do they use a cast to change?
- Are these found in all rivers in Minnesota? Only trout streams? What about where trout are being reintroduced
- Do they tend to be still when you flip them over or flip an item over that they are on?
- Are stoneflies found in the driftless region?
- Looking at the antenna in the front and back?
- They don’t run away (or move slowly)?
- How fast do they move?
- Are they the main food source for trout?
- Are there dozens or hundreds of different species?
- Can we eat them?
- Do stoneflies have gills like some mayflies?
- What do they do in the winter?
- Do any of you tie flies?
- Are they related to damselflies or mayflies? The nymph looks so similar.
