Black Mayfly vs Saharan Antlion

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Black Mayfly Saharan Antlion
Scientific Name Ephemera danica var. nigra Neuroleon nemausiensis
Order Ephemeroptera Neuroptera
Family Ephemeridae Myrmeleontidae
Size 15-25 mm body 40-55 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Deserts & Drylands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Mediterranean Basin, North Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Black Mayfly

A dark color variant of the common Green Drake mayfly found in some European populations. The dark form is more prevalent in upland, acidic waters. Important for trout feeding.

💡

Did You Know?

The dark form predominates in acidic upland streams while the typical yellow form prefers alkaline lowland rivers.

Saharan Antlion

A slender antlion found across the Mediterranean and North Africa. Adults fly at dusk and are attracted to lights in arid regions.

💡

Did You Know?

It is one of the most commonly encountered antlions at light traps around the Mediterranean.