Yellow Sally vs Dobsonfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Yellow Sally Dobsonfly
Scientific Name Isoperla fulva Corydalus cornutus
Order Plecoptera Neuroptera
Family Perlodidae Corydalidae
Size 8-12 mm 40-55 mm body, 125 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Yellow Sally

A bright yellow stonefly common in European upland streams. Nymphs are omnivorous, feeding on both algae and small invertebrates.

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Did You Know?

The vivid yellow color serves no known warning function and fades quickly in preserved specimens.

Dobsonfly

Large insects with intimidating mandibles in males that are actually too large to bite effectively. Aquatic hellgrammite larvae are prized as fishing bait and indicate clean water.

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Did You Know?

Male dobsonflies have terrifying mandibles up to 40 mm long, but they are so large the males cannot actually generate enough force to pinch — the females bite harder.