Black Mayfly vs Small Spurwing Mayfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Black Mayfly Small Spurwing Mayfly
Scientific Name Ephemera danica var. nigra Centroptilum luteolum
Order Ephemeroptera Ephemeroptera
Family Ephemeridae Baetidae
Size 15-25 mm body 5-8 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Detritivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Black Mayfly

A dark color variant of the common Green Drake mayfly found in some European populations. The dark form is more prevalent in upland, acidic waters. Important for trout feeding.

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Did You Know?

The dark form predominates in acidic upland streams while the typical yellow form prefers alkaline lowland rivers.

Small Spurwing Mayfly

A tiny, elegant mayfly with a distinctive spur on its hindwing. It is widespread in European streams and rivers with good water quality.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most mayflies that swarm over water, small spurwings often emerge individually and drift with the current.