Caenis Mayfly vs Purple Dun
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Caenis Mayfly | Purple Dun |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Caenis horaria | Paraleptophlebia adoptiva |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Ephemeroptera |
| Family | Caenidae | Leptophlebiidae |
| Size | 3-6 mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Detritivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | North America |
| 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.
Did You Know?
Caenis mayflies are called the angler's curse because their tiny size makes matching them with artificial flies nearly impossible.
Purple Dun
A small dark mayfly with purplish-gray wings found in eastern streams. Nymphs crawl among submerged leaf packs in moderate current.
Did You Know?
Females drop their egg masses onto the water surface from a height of several feet while in flight.