Smoky Alderfly vs Western Dobsonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Smoky Alderfly | Western Dobsonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sialis fuliginosa | Neohermes californicus |
| Order | Megaloptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Sialidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 12-16 mm | 50-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Mountains |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Western North 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.
Western Dobsonfly
A large dobsonfly of western North American streams, smaller than its eastern relative. Larvae are top predators under rocks in cool mountain streams.
Did You Know?
Unlike eastern dobsonflies, males of this species lack the enlarged mandibles.