Elderberry Borer vs Pale Evening Dun

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Elderberry Borer Pale Evening Dun
Scientific Name Desmocerus palliatus Heptagenia adaequata
Order Coleoptera Ephemeroptera
Family Cerambycidae Heptageniidae
Size 18-26 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Root Feeders Omnivores
Regions Eastern North America from Quebec to Florida Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Elderberry Borer

A striking longhorn beetle with cobalt blue wing covers and a bright yellow-orange base. Its larvae develop inside the stems and roots of living elderberry shrubs.

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Did You Know?

Its vivid blue and yellow coloring is thought to mimic toxic net-winged beetles for protection from predators.

Pale Evening Dun

A flat-bodied mayfly whose nymphs press tightly against rocks in swift currents. Adults emerge at dusk during summer months.

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Did You Know?

Its extremely flattened body allows it to resist currents that would sweep away most other insects.