New Zealand Mayfly vs Japanese Lunar Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Mayfly | Japanese Lunar Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Deleatidium lillii | Actias aliena |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Leptophlebiidae | Saturniidae |
| Size | 7-11 mm | 80-120 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Detritivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | New Zealand | East Asia, Japan |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Japanese Lunar Moth
A beautiful pale green moon moth found in Japan, known as 'o-mizuao.' Features long, elegant tail streamers on the hindwings. Closely related to the Luna moth of North America.
Did You Know?
The long tail streamers on the hindwings create acoustic interference that confuses bat echolocation, helping the moth evade predation.