Small Square-Gilled Mayfly vs Flat-headed Mayfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Small Square-Gilled Mayfly | Flat-headed Mayfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Caenis luctuosa | Epeorus assimilis |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Ephemeroptera |
| Family | Caenidae | Heptageniidae |
| Size | 3-6 mm | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Small Square-Gilled Mayfly
A minute mayfly with distinctive square-shaped gills on its nymphs. Adults swarm in enormous numbers near water at twilight.
Did You Know?
The enlarged second gill plate acts as a protective cover over the remaining delicate gills.
Flat-headed Mayfly
A stream-dwelling mayfly nymph with a flattened body for clinging to rocks in rapids.
Did You Know?
Its flattened nymph shape allows it to live in the boundary layer of fast currents.