Alpine Stonefly vs Common Spreadwing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Alpine Stonefly | Common Spreadwing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dictyogenus alpinum | Lestes sponsa |
| Order | Plecoptera | Odonata |
| Family | Perlodidae | Lestidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm body length | 35-40 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Mountains | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Alps, Central European mountains | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Alpine Stonefly
A large, dark stonefly of cold alpine streams and rivers. Its nymphs are voracious predators of other aquatic invertebrates.
Did You Know?
Adults have reduced mouthparts and do not feed during their short lifespan.
Common Spreadwing
A slender metallic green damselfly that characteristically holds its wings half-open at rest. It is widespread across Europe and northern Asia.
Did You Know?
Spreadwing damselflies lay their eggs into the stems of plants above the waterline, and the eggs overwinter before hatching when water levels rise in spring.