Taxonomy
Leuctra nigra
Distribution
Species Biology
Identification
Nymph identification: 0.5 to 8 mm in size. Easily separated form other Leuctridae owning to the dense dark hairs covering the thorax (especially the prothorax) and the abdomen, which often contrasts the pale colour (generally orange-yellow) of the exoskeleton.
Habitat
Lakes and in fast and slow flowing reaches within headwater streams.
Life cycle
Its life cyle is considered highly variable across Europe, being both uni- and semi-voltine. Nymphs are present throughout the year and adults are in flight from April to August.
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Irish distribution
Not common and likely restricted in distribution occurring in the north-west areas of counties Galway, Mayo and Donegal and northern counties Tyrone and Down. Records in the midlands and east are confined to smaller headwater streams with dense riparian cover, while records in the south are limited. Has bee recorded from 61 10km squares in Ireland.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
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References
Publications
H.B. Feeley, J-R. Baars & M. Kelly-Quinn (2016) The Stonefly (Plecoptera) of Ireland –
Distribution, Life Histories & Ecology. National Biodiversity Data Centre, Waterford. Ireland.