Rock Caddisfly vs Common Darter

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Rock Caddisfly Common Darter
Scientific Name Goera calcarata Sympetrum striolatum
Order Trichoptera Odonata
Family Goeridae Libellulidae
Size 8-12 mm 35-44 mm body length
Habitat Rivers & Streams Ponds & Lakes
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe, Northern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Rock Caddisfly

A caddisfly of limestone streams whose cases incorporate calcareous sand grains and pebble ballast. Larvae scrape algae from rock surfaces.

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Did You Know?

The calcareous case material provides partial camouflage against the pale limestone streambed.

Common Darter

Europe's most abundant dragonfly, with mature males turning bright orange-red. It is often the last dragonfly flying in autumn, sometimes into November.

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Did You Know?

Mating pairs lay eggs by repeatedly dipping the female's abdomen into the water while flying in tandem.