North American Spongillafly vs Australian Owlfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute North American Spongillafly Australian Owlfly
Scientific Name Climacia areolaris Suhpalacsa flavipes
Order Neuroptera Neuroptera
Family Sisyridae Ascalaphidae
Size 6-10 mm wingspan 40-55 mm wingspan
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Predators
Regions Eastern North America Australia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

North American Spongillafly

A small spongillafly found across eastern North America near fresh water. Its larvae feed on freshwater sponges attached to submerged rocks and logs.

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Did You Know?

Larvae pupate on land inside double-walled cocoons after crawling out of the water.

Australian Owlfly

A large Australian owlfly with smoky wings and yellow legs. Active at dusk in open eucalyptus woodland and dry grassland.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the most commonly encountered owlflies at light traps across inland Australia.