Pale Evening Dun vs Desert Threadtail Damselfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pale Evening Dun Desert Threadtail Damselfly
Scientific Name Heptagenia adaequata Protoneuridae sp.
Order Ephemeroptera Odonata
Family Heptageniidae Coenagrionidae
Size 8-12 mm 25-35 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Deserts & Drylands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe North America
Conservation Least Concern Vulnerable

Pale Evening Dun

A flat-bodied mayfly whose nymphs press tightly against rocks in swift currents. Adults emerge at dusk during summer months.

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Did You Know?

Its extremely flattened body allows it to resist currents that would sweep away most other insects.

Desert Threadtail Damselfly

A tiny, thread-thin damselfly found near desert springs and oases. It has one of the most restricted habitats of any dragonfly, depending on permanent desert water.

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Did You Know?

Some desert threadtails exist in populations of fewer than 100 individuals at a single spring.