"Mayfly Anatomy" Original
7x10 inch on Mixed Media
Ink Illustration
 
This drawing is currently submitted for a gallery presentation, if interested please contact me!
 
An homage to the fascinating anomaly scientists call the Ephemeroptera or better known as the Mayfly. This insect annually overtakes bodies of water in Ontario's Northeastern regions during the summer months. A crucial indicator to the health of our lakes, these amazing insects spend 99% of their lifespan underwater. When it is time to emerge, the nymph swims to the surface, molting, entering the subimago stage, meaning they grow wings! 
 
Why are they an anomaly? They are the only insects known to molt again after developing functioning wings. This is called the Imago stage. Entering their third and final transformation, these humble bugs only live for 24 hours once in their final form. Without the ability to eat, their purpose is to reproduce. Beyond this, scientists track their population to signify the health of our ecosystem.
 
Hollow Amber grew up seeing these miraculous bugs cover buildings, sometimes even creating black outs over windows because the lakes were thriving. As years have gone by, there have been a scarce decline in their presence. This homage is not just for the quaint upbringing Hollow Amber experienced. It is to raise awareness of the small yet powerful creatures that play crucial roles in our climates.