Existing comment:
Pupa Stage -- Mature larvae attach themselves to underwater rocks or tufa and change into an encased pupa stage. They remain for 1-3 weeks until they emerge as adult flies.
Adult Alkali Flies -- Upon emerging, the adults float to the surface to fly along Mono Lake's shoreline. They often crawl to the lake bottom, wearing their bubble of air, to feed or to lay eggs.
Eggs -- Breathing air trapped around their hairy bodies, the "scuba tank" laden adult female flies crawl under water and deposit their eggs on rocks or tufa. While maturing, the eggs must be constantly bathed with oxygen-rich water.
Larval Stages -- Larvae crawl over rocks, floating mats, mud, and tufa seeking food.
The cooling temperature of fall cause all forms of the alkali fly to slow development. They will again await the warmth of spring to become active and renew the cycle of life. |