March Brown Mayfly vs Hairy Whirligig Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | March Brown Mayfly | Hairy Whirligig Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Rhithrogena germanica | Orectochilus villosus |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Heptageniidae | Gyrinidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
March Brown Mayfly
A spring-emerging mayfly with a brownish body and two tails, historically important to European fly fishing. Its flat nymphs cling to rocks in fast water.
Did You Know?
This species has declined significantly in many European rivers due to pollution and is now considered an indicator of water quality.
Hairy Whirligig Beetle
A nocturnal whirligig beetle covered in fine golden hairs that trap air underwater. Unlike other whirligigs it hides under stones by day.
Did You Know?
It is the only European whirligig beetle that is primarily nocturnal rather than diurnal.