Long-Toed Water Beetle vs Old Lady Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Long-Toed Water Beetle | Old Lady Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Stenelmis crenata | Mormo maura |
| Order | Coleoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Elmidae | Noctuidae |
| Size | 2-3.5 mm | 60-75 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | Europe, western Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Long-Toed Water Beetle
A small riffle beetle with elongated tarsal claws for gripping rocks in fast currents. Both adults and larvae are entirely aquatic.
Did You Know?
Adults can live for several years underwater, far longer than most beetles.
Old Lady Moth
A large, sombre dark-brown moth whose wing pattern was thought to resemble a shawl worn by elderly women. It hides in dark places by day, including outbuildings and cellars.
Did You Know?
It is frequently found roosting in garden sheds and churches during the daytime in summer.