Hellgrammite vs Smoky Alderfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Hellgrammite | Smoky Alderfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nigronia serricornis | Sialis fuliginosa |
| Order | Megaloptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Corydalidae | Sialidae |
| Size | 40-60 mm wingspan | 12-16 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | Eastern North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Hellgrammite
A dark-colored dobsonfly whose larvae, known as hellgrammites, are prized as fishing bait. Adults are smaller than Corydalus and have serrated antennae.
Did You Know?
Hellgrammite larvae are so effective as fishing bait that they are commercially collected and sold to anglers.
Smoky Alderfly
A European alderfly distinguished from S. lutaria by its preference for flowing water rather than still ponds. It has dark smoky wings and a blackish body.
Did You Know?
This alderfly is a reliable indicator of clean running water and is one of the first species to disappear when streams become polluted.