Large Dark Olive Mayfly vs Japanese Burrowing Mayfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Large Dark Olive Mayfly Japanese Burrowing Mayfly
Scientific Name Baetis rhodani Ephemera japonica
Order Ephemeroptera Ephemeroptera
Family Baetidae Ephemeridae
Size 6-10 mm 15-25 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Japan, East Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Japanese Burrowing Mayfly

A large burrowing mayfly native to Japanese rivers and streams. It emerges in large numbers during early summer evenings.

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Did You Know?

It is culturally significant in Japan, where mayfly emergence has been celebrated in poetry for centuries.