Why aquatic insect activity peaks at dawn and dusk

“..why does aquatic insect activity peak at dawn and dusk? 

“It appears that low light conditions actually allow the bugs to detect water better – so the egg laying females can put the payload where it belongs.”

The Journal of Experimental Biology outlines the issues in a paper, citing temperature, less wind, less predators, but water detection is the primary factor.

   

If you have an interest in aquatic insects or just like being around streams, there are some interesting opportunities for you.  Loudoun Watershed Watch provides information on volunteer monitoring.  You can be part of a volunteer team that collects aquatic insects, then counts and identifies them to help determine the health of local streams.  According to LWW citizen monitoring has played an important role in helping to document stream health conditions in Loudoun watersheds.  You can see a map of the current Loudoun stream monitoring locations <here>.  For more information and how to sign up go to this link.