Mountain Stonefly vs Chilean Giant Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mountain Stonefly Chilean Giant Stonefly
Scientific Name Protonemura montana Diamphipnoa helicoides
Order Plecoptera Plecoptera
Family Nemouridae Diamphipnoidae
Size 6-10 mm body length 25-40 mm
Habitat Mountains Mountains
Diet Herbivores Detritivores
Regions Europe, Alps, British mountains South America (Chile)
Conservation Least Concern Data Deficient

Mountain Stonefly

A small brown stonefly common along mountain brooks and streams. Nymphs feed on fallen leaves in cold, well-oxygenated water.

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Did You Know?

Its presence is an indicator of excellent water quality in mountain streams.

Chilean Giant Stonefly

An ancient, large stonefly endemic to Chilean mountain streams. It belongs to a relict family with Gondwanan origins.

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Did You Know?

Its family is considered a living fossil with only two known species, both restricted to Chile.