Lake Stonefly vs Giant Stonefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lake Stonefly | Giant Stonefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megaleuctra complicata | Pteronarcys californica |
| Order | Plecoptera | Plecoptera |
| Family | Leuctridae | Pteronarcyidae |
| Size | 8-14 mm | 30-50 mm body |
| Habitat | Mountains | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Detritivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America | North America |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
Lake Stonefly
A rare stonefly found in cold mountain lake outlets and spring-fed streams.
Did You Know?
Its restricted cold-water habitat makes it vulnerable to climate warming.
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.