Small-headed Stonefly vs Skimmer Stonefly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Small-headed Stonefly | Skimmer Stonefly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Perlodes microcephala | Acroneuria abnormis |
| Order | Plecoptera | Plecoptera |
| Family | Perlodidae | Perlidae |
| Size | 15-22 mm body | 20-30 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Small-headed Stonefly
A large spring-emerging stonefly found in clean upland rivers. Nymphs are predatory, feeding on mayfly and midge larvae. An important bioindicator species.
Did You Know?
Nymphs require the cleanest, most oxygen-rich water of any stonefly, making them sensitive pollution indicators.
Skimmer Stonefly
A large predatory stonefly widespread in eastern North American rivers. Adults skim across the water surface during egg-laying flights.
Did You Know?
Female skimmer stoneflies bounce across the water surface while releasing eggs, appearing to skip like a stone.