Spring Stonefly vs Snowborn Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Spring Stonefly Snowborn Stonefly
Scientific Name Amphinemura sulcicollis Capnia atra
Order Plecoptera Plecoptera
Family Nemouridae Capniidae
Size 6-9 mm 4-7 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Detritivores Detritivores
Regions Europe North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Spring Stonefly

A small dark stonefly that emerges in early spring in European streams. Nymphs are shredders of decomposing leaf litter in headwaters.

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Did You Know?

Adults are among the first insects to appear each spring, sometimes emerging while snow still covers the banks.

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.