White Miller Mayfly vs Small Minnow Mayfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute White Miller Mayfly Small Minnow Mayfly
Scientific Name Ephoron virgo Callibaetis ferrugineus
Order Ephemeroptera Ephemeroptera
Family Polymitarcyidae Baetidae
Size 12-18 mm 7-11 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Ponds & Lakes
Diet Omnivores Detritivores
Regions Europe, Western Asia North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

White Miller Mayfly

A white-bodied European mayfly that emerges in enormous synchronized swarms at dusk. Females are unique among mayflies in that they moult directly into the spinner stage.

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Did You Know?

Swarms at bridges and streetlights can be so thick they cause traffic hazards.

Small Minnow Mayfly

A mottled brown mayfly common in still waters across North America. Nymphs are excellent swimmers that mimic small minnows.

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Did You Know?

It can produce up to three generations per year in warm climates.