Northern Stonefly vs Mountain Dance Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Northern Stonefly | Mountain Dance Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nemoura arctica | Empis pennipes |
| Order | Plecoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Nemouridae | Empididae |
| Size | 6-10 mm | 5-8 mm body length |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Arctic Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, Iceland, Arctic Canada | Europe, Alps, Scandinavia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Northern Stonefly
A small, dark brown stonefly with two long cerci at the tip of the abdomen. Adults hold their wings flat over the body. Nymphs develop in cold, well-oxygenated streams and are indicators of clean water.
Did You Know?
Stonefly nymphs are so sensitive to pollution that their presence in a stream is used as an indicator of excellent water quality.
Mountain Dance Fly
A predatory fly with feathery leg fringes used in aerial mating displays. Males offer prey gifts wrapped in silk to females during courtship.
Did You Know?
Males with the most elaborate feathered legs are preferred by females during mating swarms.