March Brown Mayfly vs Small Square-Gilled Mayfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | March Brown Mayfly | Small Square-Gilled Mayfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Rhithrogena germanica | Caenis luctuosa |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Ephemeroptera |
| Family | Heptageniidae | Caenidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 3-6 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Ponds & Lakes |
| 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.
Small Square-Gilled Mayfly
A minute mayfly with distinctive square-shaped gills on its nymphs. Adults swarm in enormous numbers near water at twilight.
Did You Know?
The enlarged second gill plate acts as a protective cover over the remaining delicate gills.