New Zealand Mayfly vs Giant Dobsonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Mayfly | Giant Dobsonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Deleatidium lillii | Acanthacorydalis fruhstorferi |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Leptophlebiidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 7-11 mm | 60-90 mm body, 210 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Detritivores | Predators |
| Regions | New Zealand | Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Data Deficient |
New Zealand Mayfly
The most abundant and widespread mayfly genus in New Zealand. Nymphs dominate the invertebrate fauna of stony streams throughout both islands.
Did You Know?
It is the most commonly used bioindicator insect for water quality testing in New Zealand.
Giant Dobsonfly
The largest aquatic insect in the world by wingspan, found in streams in Vietnam and China. Males have enormous mandibles resembling reindeer antlers.
Did You Know?
With a wingspan of 21 cm, this is the worlds largest aquatic insect — its bizarre mandibles resemble reindeer antlers and are used exclusively for grappling rival males.