Large Alderfly vs Lobster Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Large Alderfly Lobster Moth
Scientific Name Sialis nigripes Stauropus fagi
Order Megaloptera Lepidoptera
Family Sialidae Notodontidae
Size 15-20 mm 45-70 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions North America Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Large Alderfly

A relatively large alderfly with dark wings and black legs found near rivers in eastern North America. Adults rest on streamside vegetation during the day.

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Did You Know?

Alderfly larvae breathe through feathery gills along their abdomen and a single long tail filament that acts as an additional gill.

Lobster Moth

A moth whose young caterpillar mimics an ant and mature caterpillar resembles a lobster.

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Did You Know?

The caterpillar raises its swollen tail and thoracic legs in a bizarre threat display.