Anophthalmus Cave Beetle vs Common Alderfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Anophthalmus Cave Beetle | Common Alderfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Anophthalmus hitleri | Sialis lutaria |
| Order | Coleoptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Carabidae | Sialidae |
| Size | 5-6 mm | 12-16 mm |
| Habitat | Caves | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Slovenia (a few caves near Celje) | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
Anophthalmus Cave Beetle
A small, blind, depigmented cave beetle found in only a handful of caves in Slovenia. It has elongated legs and antennae for navigating in total darkness and was described in 1937.
Did You Know?
Its unfortunate scientific name, given in 1937, has made it a target for collectors who prize specimens for the name alone, contributing to its rarity.
Common Alderfly
A dark smoky-winged insect commonly found near still or slow-moving waters across Europe. Its aquatic larvae are predators in lake and pond sediments.
Did You Know?
Alderfly females lay hundreds of eggs in neat rows on vegetation overhanging water, and the larvae drop into the water upon hatching.