Preimaginal feeding habits of <i>Dictyogenus fontium</i> (Plecoptera, Perlodidae) in an alpine brook in NW Italy

Authors

• Stefano Fenoglio
• Tiziano Bo
• Giorgio Malacarne

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33338/ef.84373

Abstract

The feeding habits of Dictyogenus fontium nymphs were investigated in the Rio Olen, an alpine brook in NW Italy. In an analysis of the gut contents of 84 nymphs, we detected evident trophic preferences: Chironomidae (Diptera) were the major component of the prey ingested, independently of their availability in the substratum. Plant detritus and algae were also an important part of the diet of this carnivorous stonefly. The findings are discussed on the basis of ecological considerations.