mayfly

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mayfly Soft-bodied insect found worldwide. The adult does not eat and lives only a few days, but the aquatic larvae (nymph) may live several years. Adults have triangular front wings, characteristic thread-like tails, and vestigial mouthparts; they often emerge from streams and rivers in swarms. Length: 10–25mm (0.4–lin). Order Ephemeroptera.

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