Common Spreadwing vs Perlodes Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Spreadwing Perlodes Stonefly
Scientific Name Lestes sponsa Perlodes microcephalus
Order Odonata Plecoptera
Family Lestidae Perlodidae
Size 35-40 mm wingspan 15-25 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Rivers & Streams
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Europe, Asia Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Spreadwing

A slender metallic green damselfly that characteristically holds its wings half-open at rest. It is widespread across Europe and northern Asia.

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Did You Know?

Spreadwing damselflies lay their eggs into the stems of plants above the waterline, and the eggs overwinter before hatching when water levels rise in spring.

Perlodes Stonefly

A striking patterned stonefly with yellow and brown markings found across Europe. Nymphs are active predators that emerge in spring.

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Did You Know?

Males communicate with potential mates by vibrating their bodies against the substrate to produce drumming signals.