Larch Ladybird vs Large Dark Olive Mayfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Larch Ladybird Large Dark Olive Mayfly
Scientific Name Aphidecta obliterata Baetis rhodani
Order Coleoptera Ephemeroptera
Family Coccinellidae Baetidae
Size 3-5 mm 6-10 mm
Habitat Forests Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Larch Ladybird

A small brown ladybird that specializes on larch-feeding aphids in European conifer forests. Its cryptic coloration helps it blend in with bark.

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Did You Know?

It overwinters in large aggregations under bark flakes, sometimes numbering in the thousands.

Large Dark Olive Mayfly

The most common European mayfly, emerging year-round in many rivers. It is a small olive-brown species that serves as a staple food for stream fish.

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Did You Know?

This mayfly can produce up to three generations per year, making it available as fish food in every season.