Snowborn Stonefly vs Green Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Snowborn Stonefly Green Stonefly
Scientific Name Capnia atra Alloperla caudata
Order Plecoptera Plecoptera
Family Capniidae Chloroperlidae
Size 4-7 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Mountains
Diet Detritivores Detritivores
Regions North America North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Snowborn Stonefly

A tiny black stonefly that emerges during the coldest months in northern North America. Adults are frequently observed walking on snow.

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Did You Know?

It is active at temperatures near freezing, when virtually all other insects are dormant.

Green Stonefly

A small bright green stonefly found along clean mountain streams in North America. Despite its small size, it is an important indicator of excellent water quality.

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Did You Know?

The presence of green stoneflies in a stream is considered strong evidence of pristine water quality by aquatic biologists.