Western Fishfly vs Orthoclad Stream Midge

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Western Fishfly Orthoclad Stream Midge
Scientific Name Neohermes filicornis Orthocladius oblidens
Order Megaloptera Diptera
Family Corydalidae Chironomidae
Size 40-55 mm wingspan 3-5 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Predators Detritivores
Regions Western North America Europe, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Western Fishfly

A western North American fishfly with feathery antennae and brownish wings. Adults are attracted to lights near streams where their larvae develop.

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Did You Know?

Fishflies are distinguished from dobsonflies by their feathery antennae and lack of massive mandibles in males.

Orthoclad Stream Midge

A small non-biting midge typical of cold running water habitats. Larvae build silk tubes on stone surfaces in stream riffles.

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Did You Know?

Orthocladiinae midges are often the most species-rich insect group in pristine mountain streams.