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Story: Insects – overview

‘Toe biter’

‘Toe biter’

Dobsonflies or alderflies (Archichauliodes diversus) are the largest of New Zealand’s stream insects. They spend most of their life as larvae, which are known as ‘toe biters’ because of the nasty nip they can deliver with their powerful jaws.

About this item

Private collection
Photograph by George Gibbs

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How to cite this page:

George Gibbs. 'Insects – overview', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 1-Mar-09
URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/insects-overview/4/3