Large Alderfly vs Western Dobsonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Large Alderfly | Western Dobsonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sialis nigripes | Neohermes californicus |
| Order | Megaloptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Sialidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 15-20 mm | 50-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Mountains |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | North America | Western North America |
| 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.
Did You Know?
Alderfly larvae breathe through feathery gills along their abdomen and a single long tail filament that acts as an additional gill.
Western Dobsonfly
A large dobsonfly of western North American streams, smaller than its eastern relative. Larvae are top predators under rocks in cool mountain streams.
Did You Know?
Unlike eastern dobsonflies, males of this species lack the enlarged mandibles.