Eastern Salmonfly vs Small-headed Stonefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Eastern Salmonfly | Small-headed Stonefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pteronarcys biloba | Perlodes microcephala |
| Order | Plecoptera | Plecoptera |
| Family | Pteronarcyidae | Perlodidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm | 15-22 mm body |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Detritivores | Predators |
| Regions | North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Eastern Salmonfly
A large dark stonefly of Appalachian streams that emerges in late spring. Nymphs process leaf litter and are important detritivores.
Did You Know?
Nymphs retain functional gills throughout development, unlike many stoneflies that lose them with age.
Small-headed Stonefly
A large spring-emerging stonefly found in clean upland rivers. Nymphs are predatory, feeding on mayfly and midge larvae. An important bioindicator species.
Did You Know?
Nymphs require the cleanest, most oxygen-rich water of any stonefly, making them sensitive pollution indicators.