Giant Dobsonfly vs South African Dobsonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Dobsonfly | South African Dobsonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Acanthacorydalis fruhstorferi | Taeniochauliodes ochraceus |
| Order | Megaloptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Corydalidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 60-90 mm body, 210 mm wingspan | 25-40 mm body |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Asia | Africa |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
Giant Dobsonfly
The largest aquatic insect in the world by wingspan, found in streams in Vietnam and China. Males have enormous mandibles resembling reindeer antlers.
Did You Know?
With a wingspan of 21 cm, this is the worlds largest aquatic insect — its bizarre mandibles resemble reindeer antlers and are used exclusively for grappling rival males.
South African Dobsonfly
A large dobsonfly from southern African rivers with broad amber-tinged wings.
Did You Know?
Its hellgrammite larvae are important predators in South African freshwater ecosystems.