Quick Caddisfly facts
1. Caddisfly larvae produce silk from glands near the mouthCaddisfly larvae produce silk from glands near the mouth.
2. Many species glue sand grainsMany species glue sand grains, tiny stones, leaves or twigs into portable protective cases.
3. Case design differs by species and can help identify larvaeCase design differs by species and can help identify larvae.
4. Other caddisflies stretch silk nets between stones to filter food from flowing waterOther caddisflies stretch silk nets between stones to filter food from flowing water.
5. Free-living predatory species use silk mainly for shelter or safety linesFree-living predatory species use silk mainly for shelter or safety lines.
6. After pupation underwaterAfter pupation underwater, the adult swims or crawls to the surface and flies away.
7. Adults resemble small moths but have hairy rather than scaly wingsAdults resemble small moths but have hairy rather than scaly wings.
8. Like mayflies and stonefliesLike mayflies and stoneflies, many caddisfly species are valuable indicators of clean freshwater.
9. Caddisfly is an insect and therefore has six jointed legs as an adultCaddisfly is an insect and therefore has six jointed legs as an adult.
10. Its body follows the insect plan of headIts body follows the insect plan of head, thorax and abdomen.
11. Caddisfly has a hard external skeleton made largely from chitin…Caddisfly has a hard external skeleton made largely from chitin rather than an internal bony skeleton.
12. A pair of antennae provides important chemical and mechanical information…A pair of antennae provides important chemical and mechanical information about the surroundings.
13. Like other insects, Caddisfly grows by molting because the rigid…Like other insects, Caddisfly grows by molting because the rigid exoskeleton cannot expand continuously.
14. Oxygen reaches tissues through a branching tracheal system rather than…Oxygen reaches tissues through a branching tracheal system rather than being carried mainly by blood from lungs.
15. Compound eyes divide the visual field into many small units…Compound eyes divide the visual field into many small units and are especially effective at detecting movement.
16. As an ectotherm, Caddisfly's activity level is strongly influenced by…As an ectotherm, Caddisfly's activity level is strongly influenced by environmental temperature.
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Why caddisfly are fascinating
Caddisfly larvae are freshwater insects that build portable cases and capture nets from silk produced underwater. Looking at these traits together reveals how the animal solves the everyday challenges of feeding, movement, communication, reproduction and survival.
Frequently asked questions
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