Yellow May Dun vs Common Mayfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Yellow May Dun | Common Mayfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Heptagenia sulphurea | Ephemera danica |
| Order | Ephemeroptera | Ephemeroptera |
| Family | Heptageniidae | Ephemeridae |
| Size | 10-15 mm | 15-25 mm body |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Detritivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Yellow May Dun
A bright sulfur-yellow mayfly common across European rivers during early summer. Its flat nymphs are adapted to fast-flowing water on stony substrates.
Did You Know?
The striking yellow color of this mayfly makes it one of the most easily recognizable species on European rivers.
Common Mayfly
Adults have no functional mouths and live only 1-3 days. Massive synchronized emergences called "hatches" are among natures great spectacles. Excellent water quality indicators.
Did You Know?
Mayflies have the shortest adult lifespan of any insect — some species live just 5 minutes as adults, long enough only to mate. They are the only insects with a winged sub-adult stage.