Golden Stonefly vs Giant Stonefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Golden Stonefly | Giant Stonefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Calineuria californica | Pteronarcys californica |
| Order | Plecoptera | Plecoptera |
| Family | Perlidae | Pteronarcyidae |
| Size | 25-35 mm | 30-50 mm body |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Golden Stonefly
A large predatory stonefly with a golden-brown body found in western North American rivers. Its nymphs are active hunters on the streambed.
Did You Know?
Golden stonefly nymphs are apex predators of the streambed, hunting mayfly and caddisfly larvae among the cobbles.
Giant Stonefly
Large aquatic insects whose nymphs require pristine, cold, oxygen-rich streams. Adults are poor fliers and stay near water. Important food source for trout.
Did You Know?
Stonefly nymphs are so sensitive to water pollution that their presence is used by scientists as a living indicator of water quality — no stoneflies means polluted water.