Graceful Winter Stonefly vs Giant Stonefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Graceful Winter Stonefly | Giant Stonefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Capnia gracilaria | Pteronarcys californica |
| Order | Plecoptera | Plecoptera |
| Family | Capniidae | Pteronarcyidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 30-50 mm body |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Detritivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Graceful Winter Stonefly
A minute stonefly of cold North American headwater streams emerging in winter. Females are often short-winged or wingless.
Did You Know?
Females sacrifice flight ability for greater egg production by reducing or eliminating their wings.
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.