South African Alderfly vs Spring Fishfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute South African Alderfly Spring Fishfly
Scientific Name Leptosialis africana Chauliodes rastricornis
Order Megaloptera Megaloptera
Family Sialidae Corydalidae
Size 10-14 mm 25-35 mm
Habitat Mountains Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Africa North America
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.

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Did You Know?

Southern Hemisphere alderflies are so rare and poorly studied that basic aspects of their biology remain unknown to science.

Spring Fishfly

A medium-sized fishfly with pectinate antennae found in eastern North America. Adults are attracted to lights near rivers and streams during spring.

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Did You Know?

Spring fishflies can be distinguished from dobsonflies by their feathery, comb-like antennae and smaller body size.