Iron Blue Dun vs American Sand Mayfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Iron Blue Dun American Sand Mayfly
Scientific Name Baetis muticus Dolania americana
Order Ephemeroptera Ephemeroptera
Family Baetidae Behningiidae
Size 5-7 mm 10-15 mm body
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Iron Blue Dun

A small dark mayfly that hatches prolifically on cool overcast days. Nymphs are found clinging to stones in moderate to fast current.

💡

Did You Know?

Hatches are most prolific during rain and cold snaps, making it a favorite species for wet-weather anglers.

American Sand Mayfly

Holds the record for the shortest adult lifespan of any insect — females live less than five minutes as adults, just long enough to mate and lay eggs before dying.

💡

Did You Know?

Female Dolania americana mayflies live less than five minutes as adults — they emerge, mate, lay eggs, and die faster than most people take a coffee break.