Small Square-Gilled Mayfly vs Purple Dun
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Small Square-Gilled Mayfly | Purple Dun |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Caenis luctuosa | Paraleptophlebia adoptiva |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Ephemeroptera |
| Family | Caenidae | Leptophlebiidae |
| Size | 3-6 mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | North America |
| 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.
Purple Dun
A small dark mayfly with purplish-gray wings found in eastern streams. Nymphs crawl among submerged leaf packs in moderate current.
Did You Know?
Females drop their egg masses onto the water surface from a height of several feet while in flight.