Polycentropodidae

Definition

A family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) distinguished by larval architecture: larvae construct fixed, silken trumpet-nets or tubes on submerged rocks and vegetation to capture drifting prey, rather than building portable cases. The family comprises more than 30 genera and approximately 720 described species, with Polycentropus J. Curtis, 1835 as the type genus. Larvae are predatory, and adults are typically small, nondescript, and nocturnal.

Etymology

Example

Larvae of Polycentropus flavomaculatus spin trumpet-shaped nets on the undersides of stones in cool, flowing streams, using fine silk threads to strain microinvertebrates from the current.

Related Terms

• Trichoptera
• caddisfly
• Polycentropus
• trumpet-net caddisfly
• Philopotamidae
• Hydropsychidae
• larval case
• silk architecture

Usage Notes

Distinguished from case-making caddisfly families (e.g., Limnephilidae, Leptoceridae) by the fixed, non-portable nature of larval retreats. Sometimes called 'trumpet-net caddisflies' in ecological literature. Adult identification to genus requires examination of wing venation and male genitalia; larvae are more readily recognized by net structure and habitat.