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Scorpionfly (Nannochorista)

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Taxonomic group

Nannochoristidae: Nannochorista

Diagnostic features

Nannochorista is the only scorpionfly with aquatic larvae in New Zealand. The larvae are characterised by a very long shiny body, 6 short jointed legs, and a darkened rectangular plate (“sclerite”) on the first thoracic segment (just behind the head). There is a pair of hooks at the end of the abdomen.

[Nannochorista]. Image: Stephen Moore Image
Nannochorista. Image: Stephen Moore
[Nannochorista]. Rectangular sclerite on 1st thoracic segment. Image: Stephen Moore Image
Nannochorista. Rectangular sclerite on 1st thoracic segment. Image: Stephen Moore

Typical habitats

Nannochorista is only known from the South Island. The larvae live along the slow-flowing margins of streams, particularly in bush covered areas.

Feeding

It is assumed that like overseas, Nannochorista larvae are predators, preying on other stream invertebrates.

Indicator value

  • Hard bottom: 7
  • Soft bottom: unassigned

The tolerance values (ranging from 0 to 10) give an indication of which are the sensitive taxa (values of 8 or more) and which are the tolerant taxa (values of 3 or less). For more information see: Indicator species

Nannochorista larvae are known primarily from streams with good water quality. They have a tolerance value of 7 for hard bottom sites (no value for soft bottom sites has been assigned).