Tube-maker Caddisflies
Polycentropodidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Trichoptera
- Suborder: Annulipalpia
- Superfamily: Psychomyioidea
- Family: Polycentropodidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Polycentropodidae: //pɒlɪˌsɛntrəˈpɒdɪdiː//
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Images
Summary
The Polycentropodidae family, known as tube-maker caddisflies, comprises a diverse group of insects that construct silken tubes in aquatic environments. They are important components of freshwater ecosystems, exhibiting unique feeding behaviors and adaptations for living in various water types.
Physical Characteristics
Wingspan 8–25 mm. Larvae construct complex silken tubes that are short and flattened, built in hollows of submerged objects.
Identification Tips
Identification can be made by examining the wing shape and size, as well as the unique tube-making behavior of the larvae.
Habitat
Wide variety of lotic (flowing water) and lentic (still water) habitats.
Distribution
Worldwide; approximately 300 species across 25 genera.
Diet
Carnivorous larvae that attack small prey encountering their silken threads.
Life Cycle
Life cycle involves aquatic larvae that construct tubes for protection and feeding, transitioning into adults that are often found near water bodies.
Reproduction
Generally involves aquatic courtship and oviposition, with females laying eggs on or near water.
Predators
Adults may be preyed upon by birds and other insectivorous animals; larvae have natural enemies including fish and larger aquatic predators.
Ecosystem Role
Serve as a food source for various predators in aquatic ecosystems, contribute to nutrient cycling.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adults in flight near water bodies
- Collecting larval tubes from submerged objects
Preservation Methods
- Drying specimens
- Using ethanol for preservation
- Pinning adults for display
Evolution
Polycentropodidae is part of the Trichoptera order, which is believed to be one of the more ancient groups of insects, adapted to various aquatic environments over time.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often misidentified as moths due to their similar appearance; however, they are distinct in their ecology and behavior as aquatic insects.
Tags
- Caddisflies
- Insects
- Aquatic
- Larvae
- Polycentropus