Mayflies Have the Shortest Adult Lifespan

Mayflies spend most of their lives (1-2 years) as aquatic nymphs. When they emerge as winged adults, their primary goal is reproduction. They don't have functional mouthparts and cannot feed. Their energy is solely dedicated to mating and laying eggs. Some species emerge, mate, lay eggs, and die all within a single day, making them one of the shortest-lived adult insects. Their mass emergences are a vital food source for many fish and birds.