Common Alderfly vs Western Dobsonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Alderfly | Western Dobsonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sialis lutaria | Neohermes californicus |
| Order | Megaloptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Sialidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 12-16 mm | 50-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Mountains |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | Western North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Alderfly
A dark smoky-winged insect commonly found near still or slow-moving waters across Europe. Its aquatic larvae are predators in lake and pond sediments.
Did You Know?
Alderfly females lay hundreds of eggs in neat rows on vegetation overhanging water, and the larvae drop into the water upon hatching.
Western Dobsonfly
A large dobsonfly of western North American streams, smaller than its eastern relative. Larvae are top predators under rocks in cool mountain streams.
Did You Know?
Unlike eastern dobsonflies, males of this species lack the enlarged mandibles.