Needle Stonefly vs Large Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Needle Stonefly Large Stonefly
Scientific Name Leuctra fusca Perla bipunctata
Order Plecoptera Plecoptera
Family Leuctridae Perlidae
Size 6-10 mm 20-30 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Herbivores Predators
Regions Europe, Asia Europe
Conservation Least Concern Near Threatened

Needle Stonefly

A small slender stonefly that rolls its wings tightly around its body at rest, giving it a needle-like appearance. Common in small streams across Europe.

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Did You Know?

Needle stoneflies are among the most pollution-sensitive aquatic insects and disappear quickly from streams affected by acid rain.

Large Stonefly

One of the largest European stoneflies with a distinctive pair of pale spots on its head. Its predatory nymphs live among stones in fast-flowing rivers.

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Did You Know?

Large stonefly nymphs require three years to complete development, making them particularly vulnerable to long-term changes in water quality.