Prong-Gilled Mayfly
Valley City State University
A mayfly and member of the family Leptophlebiidae, the prong-gilled mayflies. The larval stage is a relatively small with a wide labrum and oval gills. They are primarily found in the large, sand dominated (psammophilous) river systems within the Missouri River drainage of western North Dakota. Larval stage present throughout the open water season but most abundant through July-August when they typically emerge into the adult stage.
Status in North Dakota
Year-round resident of North Dakota waterbodies in the larval stage with a short-lived adult form following emergence.
Range Map
Traverella lewisi potential range in North Dakota.
Reason for SWAP Designation
A regional species of concern with limited species level data in North Dakota and an at-risk species based on expert review (SGCN c).
Traverella lewisi seems to have a limited distribution in the state, primarily found in the Little Missouri River system.
However, the potential exists for this species to be present throughout the Missouri River drainage.
It’s considered to be rare throughout its range and is known to occur in North Dakota, Montana, and Saskatchewan.
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
Occurs in large, sand dominated river systems such as the Little Missouri River.