Dakota Stonefly
Valley City State University
A stonefly and member of the family Perlidae, the most common and species rich family of stoneflies which cling to rocks and other hard substrates in well oxygenated areas or rivers/streams such as riffles. The larval stage is relatively large but only have two tails (cerci). They are typically speckled throughout the body, with chewing mouthparts to suit their predatory diet. Larval stage present throughout the open water season with adults emerging in mid-July.
Status in North Dakota
Year-round resident of North Dakota waterbodies. Depending on environmental conditions, life cycle can take 1 to 3 years to complete.
Range Map
Perlesta dakota range in North Dakota. Photo of larval (top) and adult (bottom) life stages.
Reason for SWAP Designation
A regional species of concern with limited data in North Dakota.
Based on limited information in the northern great plains, Perlesta dakota is at-risk or declining and endemic to North and South Dakota (SGCN b).
It’s considered to be very rare throughout its range.
The Dakota stonefly has a limited distribution in the state, with the only documented records occurring in the Cannonball, Heart, Green, and Sheyenne Rivers, along with Clausen Springs.
However, the potential exists for this species to be present throughout the Missouri River and Red River drainages. Perlesta dakota is also considered a species of conservation need in South Dakota.
Threats
Limited habitat availability, land development, climate change, sedimentation, energy development, agricultural practices and habitat modification and inundation due to damming of river systems.
Research and Monitoring
Limited research has been conducted.
The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (NDDEQ) conducts biological monitoring surveys on State waters as part of their Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) development.
Additionally, a monitoring protocol for aquatic invertebrates is being developed by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department (NDGF) under the State Wildlife Grant Program with implementation as a future goal.
Additionally, a survey of aquatic invertebrates in cooperation with Valley City State University is currently underway to gain additional baseline information on SGCN’s.
Management Recommendations
- Protect and conserve large, intact tracks of native/unbroken forested areas.
- Develop/maintain buffers along riparian areas.
- Partner with local, state, and federal entities to limit chemical use in/near aquatic habitats.
- Partner with local, state, and federal entities to remove dams where logically feasible.
- Encourage efficient use of pesticides.
Primary Geological Regions
Habitat Associations
Habitat Use
Primarily located in low gradient, medium sized rivers in central North Dakota such as the Cannonball, Heart and Sheyenne Rivers.