Spongillaflies are so named because the larvae are parasites of freshwater sponges (Family Spongillidae). These insects are likely to be found anywhere freshwater sponges are present, but are often overlooked because of their small size. Three species are present in the southeastern USA and Florida. Spongillaflies produced 2-5 generations per year, and adults occur from the early-Spring to late-Fall.
Species:
Climacia areolaris, 3rd instar [from Brown (1952)]
Climacia areolaris (Hagen) is the most widespread and common spongillafly species within eastern North America. Likewise in Florida it is found commonly throughout the state.
Climacia areolaris, adult female [from Brown (1952)]
Sisyra apicalis Banks is known from Cuba, Panama, and from the Southeastern Coastal Plain of the USA. The Florida distribution is statewide, including the Florida Keys.
Sisyra vicaria (Walker) is widely distributed across parts of eastern North America, and the Pacific Northwest. In Florida this species occurs across North Florida into parts of South Florida.
page content updated 24 October 2003