Autumn Dun vs Purple Dun

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Autumn Dun Purple Dun
Scientific Name Leptophlebia marginata Paraleptophlebia adoptiva
Order Ephemeroptera Ephemeroptera
Family Leptophlebiidae Leptophlebiidae
Size 10-14 mm 7-10 mm
Habitat Woodlands Rivers & Streams
Diet Detritivores Herbivores
Regions Europe North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Autumn Dun

A dark-winged mayfly that emerges in spring despite its common name. Nymphs inhabit slow-flowing sections of woodland streams among leaf litter.

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Did You Know?

Its common name refers to the brownish autumnal color of the adult, not its emergence season.

Purple Dun

A small dark mayfly with purplish-gray wings found in eastern streams. Nymphs crawl among submerged leaf packs in moderate current.

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Did You Know?

Females drop their egg masses onto the water surface from a height of several feet while in flight.