Dobsonfly | Hellgrammites | Harmless predators

Dobsonflies are another group of beneficial insects. The immature stages are called Hellgrammites and are found in freshwater. They are voracious predators of blackflies and mosquitoe larvae and keep their population in check. They are also food to several fishes hence are essential part of the food chain. The larvae can breath both inside and outside water, crawl outside the water for pupation. The adult dobsonflies are harmless to humans. Their sharp pincers may peirce the skin if handled roughly, but on the good side the painful bite will not last much longer. 

Dobsonflies are usually rare, while they may be attracted to lights near the streams at night. The reason I was able to spot this one is because our house is alongside with the rivers, and we left the lights open at night by mistake. Conclusively, these harmless insects are crucial part of food chain and ecosystem, so if you spot any keep them safe.

Adult dobsonfly attracted to light