Brushleg Mayfly vs Smoky Alderfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Brushleg Mayfly | Smoky Alderfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Isonychia bicolor | Sialis fuliginosa |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Isonychiidae | Sialidae |
| Size | 12-18 mm | 12-16 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Brushleg Mayfly
A large, fast-swimming mayfly with forelegs fringed with bristles for filter feeding. Nymphs inhabit swift riffles of large streams and rivers.
Did You Know?
Unlike most mayflies, nymphs crawl out of water onto rocks to emerge as adults rather than hatching at the surface.
Smoky Alderfly
A European alderfly distinguished from S. lutaria by its preference for flowing water rather than still ponds. It has dark smoky wings and a blackish body.
Did You Know?
This alderfly is a reliable indicator of clean running water and is one of the first species to disappear when streams become polluted.