Giant Dobsonfly vs Spring Fishfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Giant Dobsonfly Spring Fishfly
Scientific Name Acanthacorydalis fruhstorferi Chauliodes rastricornis
Order Megaloptera Megaloptera
Family Corydalidae Corydalidae
Size 60-90 mm body, 210 mm wingspan 25-35 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions Asia North America
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.

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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.

Spring Fishfly

A medium-sized fishfly with pectinate antennae found in eastern North America. Adults are attracted to lights near rivers and streams during spring.

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Did You Know?

Spring fishflies can be distinguished from dobsonflies by their feathery, comb-like antennae and smaller body size.