Trachymyrmex Fungus-growing Ant vs Winter Stonefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Trachymyrmex Fungus-growing Ant Winter Stonefly
Scientific Name Trachymyrmex septentrionalis Taeniopteryx burksi
Order Hymenoptera Plecoptera
Family Formicidae Taeniopterygidae
Size 3-5 mm 8-14 mm
Habitat Gardens Rivers & Streams
Diet Detritivores Detritivores
Regions Eastern United States North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Trachymyrmex Fungus-growing Ant

A small fungus-growing ant of eastern North America related to leafcutters. It collects dead plant material, caterpillar frass, and insect parts to feed its fungus garden.

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Did You Know?

It is the northernmost fungus-growing ant species, found as far north as Long Island, New York.

Winter Stonefly

A dark-colored stonefly that emerges during winter months when few other aquatic insects are active. Adults can be found walking on snow near streams.

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Did You Know?

Winter stoneflies are among the very few insects that emerge as adults during the coldest months of the year.