Metrichia
Ross, 1938
Metrichia is a of microcaddisflies in the Hydroptilidae, established by Ross in 1938. The genus belongs to the tribe Ochrotrichiini and is distributed across northern South America, with confirmed records from Colombia. As with other hydroptilids, are minute with reduced wing venation and larvae construct portable, silken cases.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Metrichia: /mɛˈtrɪkiə/
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Identification
Metrichia are distinguished from other Ochrotrichiini by genitalic characters, particularly the structure of the male claspers and phallus. have the reduced wing venation typical of Hydroptilidae, with forewings lacking crossveins beyond the . Species-level identification requires examination of cleared genitalia under compound microscopy.
Habitat
Recorded from forested stream in Andean regions, including small streams (quebradas) and rivers in montane areas. Specific collection sites include riparian zones in coffee-growing regions and forest plantations at elevations typical of the Colombian Andes.
Distribution
Colombia: departments of Antioquia, Boyacá, Cundinamarca, Huila, Tolima, and Magdalena. Specific localities include Arcabuco (río Pómeca), Mongua, Monguí, Tutazá, and the Meta department (Puerto López area).
Ecological Role
Larvae function as scrapers or gatherers in stream , processing periphyton and fine particulate organic matter. As microcaddisflies, they contribute to nutrient cycling in headwater streams.
Similar Taxa
- OchrotrichiaAlso in tribe Ochrotrichiini; distinguished by male genitalic , particularly phallus and inferior appendage structure
- HydroptilaSame but different tribe (Hydroptilini); distinguished by wing venation patterns and genitalic characters