“Seasons of Love,” a poignant song from the rock musical "Rent," poses the question: “Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes. How do you measure, measure a year?”
In the fleeting life of an adult mayfly, time is measured not in minutes but in moments.
In Michigan's freshwater ecosystems, mayflies spend the majority of their lives submerged as nymphs, or naiads. Depending on the species and environmental conditions, this aquatic stage can last from several months to up to two years. During this time, they feed on algae and organic materials, contributing to the aquatic food web.
And because immature mayflies are highly sensitive to pollution, their presence signifies a healthy aquatic environment. Conversely, their absence is an early warning of ecological distress.
When water temperatures reach approximately 68°F, typically in early summer, mayfly nymphs undergo metamorphosis. They rise to the surface, emerging in a sexually immature stage. After a brief period, often less than 24 hours, they molt into fully mature adults
Adult mayflies are ephemeral, living only a few hours to a couple of days. They do not feed. In fact, thy lack functional mouthparts; their sole purpose is reproduction.
Males often form swarms, engaging in aerial dances to attract females. Mating occurs mid-flight, after which females lay thousands of eggs on the water's surface. Then they die too.
Despite their brief time as adults, mayflies play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Their mass emergences provide a significant food source for fish, birds, and other wildlife. Moreover, their sensitivity to environmental changes makes them valuable bioindicators for scientists monitoring water quality.
So, how do you measure the life of a mayfly? Not in minutes or hours, and certainly not in love, but in the vital contributions they make to their ecosystems.
