Smoky Alderfly vs Giant Dobsonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Smoky Alderfly | Giant Dobsonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sialis fuliginosa | Acanthacorydalis fruhstorferi |
| Order | Megaloptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Sialidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 12-16 mm | 60-90 mm body, 210 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Data Deficient |
Smoky Alderfly
A European alderfly distinguished from S. lutaria by its preference for flowing water rather than still ponds. It has dark smoky wings and a blackish body.
Did You Know?
This alderfly is a reliable indicator of clean running water and is one of the first species to disappear when streams become polluted.
Giant Dobsonfly
The largest aquatic insect in the world by wingspan, found in streams in Vietnam and China. Males have enormous mandibles resembling reindeer antlers.
Did You Know?
With a wingspan of 21 cm, this is the worlds largest aquatic insect — its bizarre mandibles resemble reindeer antlers and are used exclusively for grappling rival males.