White Miller Mayfly vs Velvet Ameletid Mayfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute White Miller Mayfly Velvet Ameletid Mayfly
Scientific Name Ephoron virgo Ameletus velox
Order Ephemeroptera Ephemeroptera
Family Polymitarcyidae Ameletidae
Size 12-18 mm 9-13 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
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.

Velvet Ameletid Mayfly

A swift-swimming mayfly of headwater streams known for its velvety-textured nymphal cuticle. Adults emerge in early summer.

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Did You Know?

The species name velox means swift, referring to the remarkable swimming speed of the nymphs.