Dark Spongillafly vs Brown Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dark Spongillafly Brown Cockroach
Scientific Name Sisyra nigra Periplaneta brunnea
Order Neuroptera Blattodea
Family Sisyridae Blattidae
Size 6-9 mm wingspan 25-35 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Underground
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Pantropical, southeastern United States
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Dark Spongillafly

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

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Did You Know?

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

Brown Cockroach

A glossy reddish-brown cockroach often confused with the American cockroach. It is slightly smaller with a more uniform color.

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Did You Know?

It glues its egg cases to surfaces rather than dropping them, unlike the American cockroach.