Well it isnt so much the adult stage that has any importance, as much as the larval stage. The larvae are fully aquatic, They are filter feeders, scavengers, some are predatory and they all in turn provide lots of food for other insects, small fish and other aquatic organisms. Their role is similar to that of many other Diptera (flies) in that they serve primarily as food for other organisms and greatly increase the size and energy flux in the food web of those aquatic systems.
So in a quick answer, they are of trophic importance to the ecosystem either as food, or by feeding.
The adults are typically short lived, living usually only a couple of days, their main objective is to find a mate and deposit eggs. Ecologically, they serve a smaller purpose as adults, sure they are food for many organisms, but aside from that they dont do much, beside bother us...
Their biological role at this stage however is much greater, they are there to ensure the continuation of the species, and to ensure a constant food suppy for the aquatic system.
I hope this answers your question
2006-08-17 02:03:04
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answer #1
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answered by Anonymous
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Well, Beetle gave the complete and scientifically correct answer, now for a different perspective. From a fly fisherman's point of view, in both the larval and adult phase, they are good for tempting finicky trout !
2006-08-17 09:13:42
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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The same thing you are. They are human beings with the same needs and wants you have. What a dumb question.
2006-08-17 07:44:54
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answer #4
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answered by bill a 5
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