Stonefly (Zelandoperla)

Taxonomic group

Gripopterygidae: Zelandoperla

Diagnostic features

Zelandoperla stonefly nymphs have a rosette of anal gills between the cerci (“tails”). The antennae and cerci are long in relation to the body, and the legs have a fringe of long hairs along the hind margin.

[Zelandoperla]. Image: Stephen Moore Image — Zelandoperla. Image: Stephen Moore

Hairy legs of [Zelandoperla]. Image: Stephen Moore Image — Hairy legs of Zelandoperla. Image: Stephen Moore

Typical habitats

Zelandoperla nymphs are most commonly found in cold water, stony mountain streams or bush covered streams.

Feeding

They are thought to be “collector-gatherers”, feeding on a range of organic matter accumulating on stream beds.

Indicator value

Hard bottom: 10
Soft bottom: 8.8

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

Zelandoperla nymphs are an indication of good habitat and water quality conditions, especially if other mayfly or stonefly groups are abundant. They have tolerance values of 10 (hard bottom sites) and 8.8 (soft bottom sites).