Smoky Alderfly vs Hyacinth Glider
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Smoky Alderfly | Hyacinth Glider |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sialis fuliginosa | Miathyria marcella |
| Order | Megaloptera | Odonata |
| Family | Sialidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 12-16 mm | 35-42 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | North America, South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Hyacinth Glider
A delicate dragonfly with a violet-tinted thorax and a slender banded abdomen. It is common in the Americas from the southern US to Argentina.
Did You Know?
Its larvae often develop among water hyacinth roots, giving the species its common name.