Springfly vs Skimmer Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Springfly Skimmer Stonefly
Scientific Name Isoperla signata Acroneuria abnormis
Order Plecoptera Plecoptera
Family Perlodidae Perlidae
Size 9-13 mm 20-30 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Europe Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Springfly

A spring-emerging stonefly of fast-flowing European streams. Nymphs are active hunters that pursue prey among streambed gravels.

💡

Did You Know?

Males locate females by producing species-specific vibrations that travel through the substrate.

Skimmer Stonefly

A large predatory stonefly widespread in eastern North American rivers. Adults skim across the water surface during egg-laying flights.

💡

Did You Know?

Female skimmer stoneflies bounce across the water surface while releasing eggs, appearing to skip like a stone.