The Hydroptilidae Homepage
A site dedicated to the biology of microcaddisflies (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae)
Microcaddisflies represent a unique family of Trichoptera. This is the second largest family of caddisflies in North America with over 300 described species; new species are being described on a regular basis (e.g., Keiper and Harris 2002). The World Trichoptera Checklist maintained by Dr. John C. Morse of Clemson University illustrates the species richness of the family. Presently, it contains more described species than any other family in the world. Herein, I give an overview of their biology and immature stages.
Adults are frequently taken at lights and resemble micro-Lepidoptera. Little is known of their mating behavior, dispersal capabilities, and other facets of their biology. Therefore,
this homepage focuses solely on larval biology.
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| Ochrotrichia xena (Ross) fifth instar. A species that exhibits “typical” morphology of most hydroptilid species. This species is found in a small woodland stream in northeastern Ohio. Illustration modified from Keiper (1999). |
Links:
Below are the options available to garner knowledge on what is arguably one of the most fascinating families of aquatic insects:
Larval morphologyLife cycle and life historyLarval feeding habitsHow to rear microcaddisfliesHydroptilid bibliographyLinks to other Trichoptera pages