Shore Flies

Family Ephydridae

Ochthera sp.. Photo:Stephanie Boucher

The aquatic larvae can tolerate extreme conditions and some live in very saline or alkaline water. They feed on decaying vegetation or mine in stems or leaves of aquatic plants. The adults are common around ponds and lakes or other muddy areas. Some adults feed on microscopic algae and other small organisms. Ephydridae are small to very small flies that are usually dark coloured. They vary greatly in shape and general appearance, but most species are compact and have a bulging face.