South African Alderfly vs Common Alderfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | South African Alderfly | Common Alderfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Leptosialis africana | Sialis lutaria |
| Order | Megaloptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Sialidae | Sialidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 12-16 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Africa | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
South African Alderfly
One of the few alderfly species found in the Southern Hemisphere, occurring in clean mountain streams of South Africa. Adults are small with dark wings.
Did You Know?
Southern Hemisphere alderflies are so rare and poorly studied that basic aspects of their biology remain unknown to science.
Common Alderfly
A dark smoky-winged insect commonly found near still or slow-moving waters across Europe. Its aquatic larvae are predators in lake and pond sediments.
Did You Know?
Alderfly females lay hundreds of eggs in neat rows on vegetation overhanging water, and the larvae drop into the water upon hatching.