North American Spongillafly vs Legionary Ant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute North American Spongillafly Legionary Ant
Scientific Name Climacia areolaris Neivamyrmex nigrescens
Order Neuroptera Hymenoptera
Family Sisyridae Formicidae
Size 6-10 mm wingspan 2-5 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Deserts & Drylands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Eastern North America Southwestern United States, Mexico
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.

Legionary Ant

The most common army ant species in the United States, conducting nocturnal column raids on other ant nests. Workers are small and reddish-brown with reduced eyes.

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Did You Know?

They are rarely seen because they raid almost exclusively at night and spend most of their time underground.