noun
- a large winged insect with long mandibles, whose aquatic larva (called a hellgrammite) is often used as fishing bait
Usage: entomology
Examples
- The dobsonfly emerged from the stream after spending years as a larva underwater.
- Anglers prize the dobsonfly’s larval stage as excellent bait for bass fishing.
- The male dobsonfly’s impressive mandibles are used primarily for grasping females during mating.
- We found a dobsonfly resting on the porch light after it was attracted by the bright bulb.
- The dobsonfly’s wingspan can reach up to five inches, making it one of the largest aquatic insects.
- Children were fascinated by the dobsonfly’s unusual appearance at the nature center.