ExploreInsects

Caddisflies

Trichoptera

Caddisflies are small, fuzzy insects that love to live near water. They make cozy little homes out of twigs and pebbles, which they carry around as they swim.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Caddisflies has two pairs of tent-like wings often covered in tiny hairs, giving them a fuzzy, drab appearance. They are typically brown, grey, or black, resembling small moths. Their long, slender antennae extend forward, often longer than their bodies.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderTrichopteraFamilyLimnephilidae
Caddisflies
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Caddisflies

Category

Insects

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Caddisfly larvae can weave amazing underwater homes from pebbles, twigs, and even tiny shells!

Many adult caddisflies have wings covered in tiny hairs, making them look fuzzy, like moths!

Some species build silk nets underwater to catch their food, just like a spider's web!

Unlike most insects, some caddisfly larvae use gills to breathe underwater, like tiny fish!

Special abilities

Ability

Underwater Architects

Caddisflies can build unique protective cases from pebbles, sand, or twigs using silk to glue them together.

Ability

Silk Spinners

Caddisflies can produce silk underwater, used for building cases, nets for catching food, or attaching to surfaces.

Ability

Water Quality Detectives

Caddisflies are sensitive to pollution, helping scientists assess the health of rivers and streams.

Measurements & details

Wingspan
10-50 mm
Size
5-30 mm
Lifespan
30-365 days
Leg Count
6

Diet & Feeding

Caddisfly larvae mostly munch on tiny plants and decaying bits, helping clean aquatic environments.

Age differences: Adults typically do not feed, focusing solely on reproduction.

Primary Foods

  • algae
  • decaying plant matter
  • detritus
  • small aquatic invertebrates

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Brown Trout

Salmo trutta

A favorite food for many freshwater fish.

eaten by

Dipper

Cinclus cinclus

River birds hunt larvae and adults.

eats

Green Algae

Cladophora glomerata

Larvae graze on riverbed algae.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always wash your hands after playing near water to stay clean and safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Caddisflies's wingspan?

10-50 mm

How big is Caddisflies?

5-30 mm

How long does Caddisflies live?

30-365 days

What does Caddisflies eat?

Caddisfly larvae mostly munch on tiny plants and decaying bits, helping clean aquatic environments.

Where is Caddisflies usually found?

Wetlands

How does Caddisflies hunt?

Foraging

How many legs does Caddisflies have?

6

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