Small Brown Stonefly vs Skimmer Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Small Brown Stonefly Skimmer Stonefly
Scientific Name Nemoura cinerea Acroneuria abnormis
Order Plecoptera Plecoptera
Family Nemouridae Perlidae
Size 6-10 mm 20-30 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Rivers & Streams
Diet Herbivores Predators
Regions Europe, Asia Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Small Brown Stonefly

A very common small brown stonefly found in a wide range of freshwater habitats across Europe. It is one of the most tolerant stoneflies to mild pollution.

💡

Did You Know?

Unlike most stonefly species that require pristine water, this species can tolerate mildly enriched conditions, making it one of the last stoneflies found in degraded streams.

Skimmer Stonefly

A large predatory stonefly widespread in eastern North American rivers. Adults skim across the water surface during egg-laying flights.

💡

Did You Know?

Female skimmer stoneflies bounce across the water surface while releasing eggs, appearing to skip like a stone.