Chimarra aterrima
Hagen, 1861
fingernet caddisfly
Chimarra aterrima is a of fingernet caddisfly in the Philopotamidae, characterized by blackish body and wings. It is found in North America, with confirmed records from Vermont and Missouri. Like other members of its , it is closely related to but distinguished by hairy wings, prominent maxillary and labial palps, and lack of a coiled . Species identification within Chimarra requires examination of male genitalic characters.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chimarra aterrima: //kʰɪˈmɑːrə əˈtɛrɪmə//
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Identification
have blackish body and wings, a characteristic coloration for the Chimarra. Distinguished from (Lepidoptera) by hairy rather than scaled wings, prominent maxillary and labial palps, and absence of a coiled . -level identification requires examination of male genitalic characters; external alone is insufficient to distinguish C. aterrima from such as C. feria and C. obscura.
Images
Habitat
Associated with streams and creeks; have been observed resting on foliage of shrubs alongside flowing water.
Distribution
North America; confirmed records from Vermont (USA) and Missouri (USA, specifically Sam A. Baker State Park in the Ozark Highlands).
Seasonality
have been observed in April in Missouri.
Behavior
rest on vegetation near streams. When disturbed, they may remain relatively stationary, allowing close approach for observation.
Human Relevance
Serves as a subject for macrophotography and entomological study; contributes to biomonitoring efforts in freshwater as part of the caddisfly .
Similar Taxa
- Chimarra feriaOccurs sympatrically in Missouri; requires genitalic examination for differentiation
- Chimarra obscuraOccurs sympatrically in Missouri; requires genitalic examination for differentiation
- Lepidoptera (moths)Superficially similar resting posture and appearance, but distinguished by hairy wings, prominent palps, and lack of coiled