Caenis Mayfly vs Striped Deer Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Caenis Mayfly Striped Deer Fly
Scientific Name Caenis horaria Chrysops vittatus
Order Ephemeroptera Diptera
Family Caenidae Tabanidae
Size 3-6 mm 8-11 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Detritivores Blood Feeders
Regions Europe Eastern North America from Canada to the southern United States
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.

Striped Deer Fly

A small deer fly with distinctive dark bands across its wings and bright green and gold patterned eyes. Females are persistent biters that circle the head and shoulders of hosts.

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Did You Know?

Its compound eyes display iridescent green and gold zigzag patterns that fade to dull gray shortly after the fly dies.