Dark Spongillafly vs Australian Owlfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dark Spongillafly Australian Owlfly
Scientific Name Sisyra nigra Suhpalacsa flavipes
Order Neuroptera Neuroptera
Family Sisyridae Ascalaphidae
Size 6-9 mm wingspan 40-55 mm wingspan
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Predators
Regions Europe Australia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Dark Spongillafly

A small blackish lacewing found near European freshwater habitats. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to lights near waterways.

💡

Did You Know?

Larvae must find freshwater sponges within hours of hatching or they will not survive.

Australian Owlfly

A large Australian owlfly with smoky wings and yellow legs. Active at dusk in open eucalyptus woodland and dry grassland.

💡

Did You Know?

It is one of the most commonly encountered owlflies at light traps across inland Australia.