Speckled Peter Stonefly vs Giant Stonefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Speckled Peter Stonefly | Giant Stonefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Paragnetina media | Pteronarcys californica |
| Order | Plecoptera | Plecoptera |
| Family | Perlidae | Pteronarcyidae |
| Size | 15-22 mm | 30-50 mm body |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Speckled Peter Stonefly
A medium-sized patterned stonefly of eastern streams with distinctive speckled wing markings. Nymphs are voracious predators among cobbles.
Did You Know?
Nymphs have been observed actively stalking prey rather than simply ambushing passing invertebrates.
Giant Stonefly
Large aquatic insects whose nymphs require pristine, cold, oxygen-rich streams. Adults are poor fliers and stay near water. Important food source for trout.
Did You Know?
Stonefly nymphs are so sensitive to water pollution that their presence is used by scientists as a living indicator of water quality — no stoneflies means polluted water.