Short-Tailed Stonefly vs Large Alderfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Short-Tailed Stonefly | Large Alderfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Brachyptera risi | Sialis nigripes |
| Order | Plecoptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Taeniopterygidae | Sialidae |
| Size | 8-14 mm | 15-20 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Detritivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Short-Tailed Stonefly
A medium-sized early-emerging stonefly with notably short cerci. It hatches in late winter and early spring across European rivers.
Did You Know?
It is one of the first insects to emerge each year, often appearing while rivers still have ice margins.
Large Alderfly
A relatively large alderfly with dark wings and black legs found near rivers in eastern North America. Adults rest on streamside vegetation during the day.
Did You Know?
Alderfly larvae breathe through feathery gills along their abdomen and a single long tail filament that acts as an additional gill.