Common Spongillafly vs Water Springtail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Spongillafly | Water Springtail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sisyra fuscata | Podura aquatica |
| Order | Neuroptera | Collembola |
| Family | Sisyridae | Poduridae |
| Size | 6-10 mm wingspan | 1-1.5 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Western Asia | Europe, North America, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Spongillafly
A small dark lacewing whose larvae are aquatic parasitoids of freshwater sponges. One of the few neuropterans with aquatic larval stages.
Did You Know?
Its larvae breathe underwater using specialized pointed mouthparts that also pierce sponge cells for feeding.
Water Springtail
A distinctive dark-colored springtail found on the surface of still freshwater. It is the only species in its family and forms dense aggregations.
Did You Know?
It can walk on water using surface tension and its water-repellent cuticle.