Cascades Stonefly vs Needle Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Cascades Stonefly Needle Stonefly
Scientific Name Doroneuria theodora Leuctra fusca
Order Plecoptera Plecoptera
Family Perlidae Leuctridae
Size 22-30 mm 6-10 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Predators Herbivores
Regions North America Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Cascades Stonefly

A large predatory stonefly endemic to Cascade Range streams. Nymphs inhabit cold boulder-strewn torrents at moderate elevations.

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Did You Know?

Adults drum their abdomens on streamside surfaces to communicate with potential mates.

Needle Stonefly

A small slender stonefly that rolls its wings tightly around its body at rest, giving it a needle-like appearance. Common in small streams across Europe.

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Did You Know?

Needle stoneflies are among the most pollution-sensitive aquatic insects and disappear quickly from streams affected by acid rain.