Western Dobsonfly vs Hellgrammite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Western Dobsonfly | Hellgrammite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Neohermes californicus | Nigronia serricornis |
| Order | Megaloptera | Megaloptera |
| Family | Corydalidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 50-70 mm wingspan | 40-60 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Mountains | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Western North America | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Western Dobsonfly
A large dobsonfly of western North American streams, smaller than its eastern relative. Larvae are top predators under rocks in cool mountain streams.
Did You Know?
Unlike eastern dobsonflies, males of this species lack the enlarged mandibles.
Hellgrammite
A dark-colored dobsonfly whose larvae, known as hellgrammites, are prized as fishing bait. Adults are smaller than Corydalus and have serrated antennae.
Did You Know?
Hellgrammite larvae are so effective as fishing bait that they are commercially collected and sold to anglers.