noun
- large winged insects with long mandibles, whose larvae (called hellgrammites) live in streams and are used as fishing bait
Usage: entomology
Examples
- Dobsonflies are attracted to lights near rivers and streams.
- The male dobsonfly has impressive mandibles that look threatening but are harmless.
- Anglers often collect dobsonfly larvae from under rocks in fast-flowing water.
- Adult dobsonflies emerge from the water in late spring and early summer.
- The dobsonfly’s wingspan can reach up to five inches.
- Dobsonflies belong to the family Corydalidae.