March Brown Mayfly vs Silky Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute March Brown Mayfly Silky Lacewing
Scientific Name Rhithrogena germanica Psychopsis illidgei
Order Ephemeroptera Neuroptera
Family Heptageniidae Psychopsidae
Size 10-14 mm 30-50 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Forests
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Oceania
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.

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Did You Know?

This species has declined significantly in many European rivers due to pollution and is now considered an indicator of water quality.

Silky Lacewing

A beautiful Australian lacewing with large, rounded wings covered in intricate patterns resembling tree bark. It rests with wings flat against surfaces for camouflage.

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Did You Know?

Silky lacewings belong to an ancient family with fossils dating back to the Jurassic period, over 160 million years ago.