Orthoclad Stream Midge vs Mahogany Dun

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Orthoclad Stream Midge Mahogany Dun
Scientific Name Orthocladius oblidens Isonychia harperi
Order Diptera Ephemeroptera
Family Chironomidae Isonychiidae
Size 3-5 mm 13-17 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Detritivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Orthoclad Stream Midge

A small non-biting midge typical of cold running water habitats. Larvae build silk tubes on stone surfaces in stream riffles.

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Did You Know?

Orthocladiinae midges are often the most species-rich insect group in pristine mountain streams.

Mahogany Dun

A large reddish-brown mayfly with impressive filter-feeding forelegs. Nymphs prefer moderate to fast riffles with clean gravel substrates.

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Did You Know?

Adults hold their forelegs forward in flight, making them easy to identify on the wing.