Caenis Mayfly vs Autumn Dun

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Caenis Mayfly Autumn Dun
Scientific Name Caenis horaria Leptophlebia marginata
Order Ephemeroptera Ephemeroptera
Family Caenidae Leptophlebiidae
Size 3-6 mm 10-14 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Woodlands
Diet Detritivores Detritivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Caenis Mayfly

One of the smallest mayflies, often called the 'angler's curse' because trout feed on them selectively. Larvae inhabit slow-flowing rivers and lake margins.

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Did You Know?

Caenis mayflies are called the angler's curse because their tiny size makes matching them with artificial flies nearly impossible.

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.