Alderflies (Megaloptera)

There are only three representatives of this small order in Britain, all in the same family (Sialidae) and genus Sialis. Only one species (Sialis lutarea) is common in Norfolk but a second (Sialis fuliginosa) has recently been confirmed here too (there is also an unconfirmed record of the third species, Sialis nigripes, but with no details or observer name this record is not accepted).

Although in their own separate order, alderflies are often lumped together with lacewings (order Neuroptera) for recording purposes, and as such come under my responsibility as county recorder for lacewings and allied insects. Please do send me any records of identified alderflies in Norfolk.

Sialis lutaria

Sialis fuliginosa