Pleuroptera is a taxonomic order of insects commonly known as stoneflies. This order belongs to the class Insecta and phylum Arthropoda. Stoneflies are primarily aquatic insects found in freshwater habitats such as streams, rivers, and lakes.
The term "Pleuroptera" is derived from the Greek words "pleura" meaning side and "pteron" meaning wing, referring to the characteristic feature of this order, namely the presence of two pairs of membranous wings held vertically over the body at rest. These wings are covered with tiny scales and have prominent veins.
Stoneflies have a rather primitive morphology compared to other insect groups, with a relatively soft and elongated body. They typically range in size from a few millimeters to few centimeters in length, depending on the species. They display a variety of colors, including shades of brown, black, or green, which help them blend into their natural habitat.
Pleuroptera undergo an incomplete metamorphosis, meaning they pass through three distinct stages in their life cycle: egg, nymph, and adult. The nymphal stage is the longest, and stoneflies spend the majority of their lives in this aquatic form. Nymphs are adapted for an aquatic lifestyle, possessing gills and adaptations for crawling and clinging to rocks or submerged vegetation.
Stoneflies are considered important bioindicators of water quality due to their sensitivity to pollution and habitat alteration. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem as both predators and prey, feeding on algae, detritus, and other small organisms. Additionally, adult Pleuroptera are an important food source for various birds, bats, and fish. So in summary, Pleuroptera are insects of the order characterised by
