Dragonflies & Mosquitoes: Their role in the ecosystem Why do insects matter? Large Biomass! Feed salmon! Important for evaluating stream/river health! Idaho State University Whats in a Stream? Feeding Groups Grazers Algae Shredders Leaves, Plants, Wood Collectors Particles Predators Other insects Grazers Ephemeroptera (Mayflies) Shredders Plectoptera (Stoneflies) Trichoptera (Caddisflies) Collectors BlackfliesCaddisflies MidgesMosquitoes Predators Diving Beetles Backswimmers Dragonflies & Damselflies Food For Everyone! Idaho State University Insects & Salmon Spawning salmon fertilize streams Terrestrial & aquatic insects feed juvenile salmon Riparian Zone Provide food for fish! Provide food for insects Provide Shelter for fish! Help regulate discharge Regulate temperatures University of Nevada, Reno Using Insects For Water Quality Diversity Density Pollution Tolerance - EPT = Ephemeroptera + Plectopera + Trichoptera Mayflies Stoneflies Caddisflies Show long term effects OARS Questions? Dragonflies vs Damselflies Photos Sources https://fishandgame.idaho.gov/species/taxa/aeshnidae