Key Mayfly Lifespan Facts:
Adult Stage (24–48 hours): Adults, or "duns," emerge to mate. Some species, like Dolania americana, live less than five minutes.
Aquatic Nymph Stage (Months to Years): The majority of a mayfly's life is spent underwater in lakes or streams as larvae, which can last from several months to up to two years.
No Feeding: Adult mayflies have vestigial mouthparts and do not eat; their digestive systems are filled with air to aid in flight.
Total Life Cycle: Despite their short adult life, the entire life cycle from nymph to adult can take over a year.
