Spring Fishfly vs Japanese Dobsonfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Spring Fishfly Japanese Dobsonfly
Scientific Name Chauliodes rastricornis Protohermes grandis
Order Megaloptera Megaloptera
Family Corydalidae Corydalidae
Size 25-35 mm 40-60 mm body length
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Predators
Regions North America East Asia, Japan
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Japanese Dobsonfly

A large aquatic insect known as 'hebi-tonbo' (snake dragonfly) in Japanese. The adult males have elongated, curved mandibles. Larvae called 'magotaro-mushi' are used as fishing bait.

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Did You Know?

Dobsonfly larvae are prized as live fishing bait in Japan and are collected from stream rocks by anglers targeting ayu (sweetfish).