Large Stonefly vs Large Alpine Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Large Stonefly Large Alpine Stonefly
Scientific Name Perla bipunctata Perla grandis
Order Plecoptera Plecoptera
Family Perlidae Perlidae
Size 20-30 mm 20-33 mm body length
Habitat Rivers & Streams Mountains
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions Europe Europe, Alps, Pyrenees
Conservation Near Threatened Least Concern

Large Stonefly

One of the largest European stoneflies with a distinctive pair of pale spots on its head. Its predatory nymphs live among stones in fast-flowing rivers.

💡

Did You Know?

Large stonefly nymphs require three years to complete development, making them particularly vulnerable to long-term changes in water quality.

Large Alpine Stonefly

One of the largest European stoneflies, found in clean mountain rivers. Its nymphs take several years to develop in cold water.

💡

Did You Know?

Nymphs may take up to four years to complete development in cold alpine waters.