Pale Morning Dun vs Iron Blue Dun

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pale Morning Dun Iron Blue Dun
Scientific Name Ephemerella excrucians Baetis muticus
Order Ephemeroptera Ephemeroptera
Family Ephemerellidae Baetidae
Size 7-10 mm 5-7 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Detritivores Omnivores
Regions North America Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Pale Morning Dun

A small pale yellowish mayfly that hatches in large numbers on western North American streams during late spring. It is a crucial food source for trout.

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Did You Know?

Pale morning duns often hatch in such dense swarms that trout become highly selective, ignoring all but perfect imitations.

Iron Blue Dun

A small dark mayfly that hatches prolifically on cool overcast days. Nymphs are found clinging to stones in moderate to fast current.

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Did You Know?

Hatches are most prolific during rain and cold snaps, making it a favorite species for wet-weather anglers.