Caddisfly
Guides
Adicrophleps
Adicrophleps is a monotypic genus of caddisflies in the family Brachycentridae, established by Flint in 1965. The genus contains a single described species, A. hitchcocki. Members are classified as "humpless casemaker" caddisflies, distinguishing them from the "humped" Brachycentrinae subfamily.
Agapetus
Agapetus caddisflies
Agapetus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Glossosomatidae, commonly known as saddle-case makers. Larvae construct portable, dome-shaped cases from sand grains and are found in lotic freshwater habitats. The genus has a global distribution with species documented across Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Life cycles vary among species, ranging from univoltine to trivoltine patterns depending on geographic location and environmental conditions.
Agapetus rossi
little black caddisfly
Agapetus rossi is a species of little black caddisfly in the family Glossosomatidae, first described by Denning in 1941. It is found in North America. Like other members of its family, it is a small, dark-colored caddisfly. The Glossosomatidae family, commonly known as saddle-case makers, are characterized by their distinctive larval cases.
Agrypnia
Agrypnia is a genus of caddisflies in the family Phryganeidae, established by Curtis in 1835. Larvae construct portable protective cases and have been observed modifying their behavior based on case quality and availability. The genus is distributed across northern Europe and parts of North America. Most available literature on 'Agrypnia' refers to a human sleep disorder (agrypnia excitata), not this insect genus.
Agrypnia glacialis
giant caddisfly
Agrypnia glacialis is a species of giant caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae, described by Hagen in 1873. It is found in North America. As a member of the Phryganeidae, it belongs to one of the largest families of caddisflies, commonly known as giant caddisflies due to their relatively large size compared to other Trichoptera.
Agrypnia macdunnoughi
giant caddisfly
Agrypnia macdunnoughi is a species of giant caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It is found in North America. The species was described by Milne in 1931. Like other members of the genus Agrypnia, it belongs to a group of relatively large caddisflies. Very few observations of this species have been documented.
Amiocentrus
humpless casemaker caddisflies
Amiocentrus is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The genus was established by Ross in 1938 and contains at least two described species: Amiocentrus aspilus and Amiocentrus tessellatum. Members of this genus are aquatic insects whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Amiocentrus aspilus
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Amiocentrus aspilus is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as the humpless casemaker caddisflies. It is known from North America and belongs to a genus whose larvae construct distinctive portable cases using plant material. The species was described by Ross in 1938. Like other brachycentrids, it is associated with freshwater habitats.
Anabolia
Anabolia is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, containing approximately 18 described species. Species within this genus inhabit both temporary and permanent aquatic environments, with some species adapted to fluctuating water levels. Larvae exhibit rapid growth rates and extended hatching periods. Adults of some species use sex pheromones for mate attraction.
Anagapetus
little black caddisflies
Anagapetus is a genus of small caddisflies in the family Glossosomatidae, commonly called little black caddisflies. The genus contains approximately seven described species. Members of this genus are part of the case-making caddisfly family Glossosomatidae, whose larvae construct portable cases from mineral grains.
Anagapetus bernea
little black caddisfly
Anagapetus bernea is a species of caddisfly in the family Glossosomatidae, described by Ross in 1947. It belongs to the 'little black caddisfly' group, a common name applied to members of this family. The species is recorded from North America.
Anisocentropus
Anisocentropus is a cosmopolitan genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) comprising over 60 described species distributed across Oriental, Australasian, Afrotropical, Neotropical, Nearctic, and East Palearctic regions. Larvae are case-building detritivores that construct portable shelters from leaf pieces or wood fragments, inhabiting both lotic and lentic freshwater environments depending on species. The genus exhibits notable variation in habitat preference, with some species strictly adapted to standing water while others occupy running water or both environments.
Apatania
Apatania is a genus of caddisflies in the family Apataniidae comprising at least 90 described species. The genus has a Holarctic distribution, with species recorded across Europe, Asia, and North America. Several species have been studied in detail for their larval morphology, life cycles, and behavior. Some species, including A. muliebris, are known to reproduce parthenogenetically.
Apatania incerta
early smoky wing sedge
Apatania incerta is a species of caddisfly in the family Apataniidae, commonly referred to as the early smoky wing sedge. The species was originally described by Nathan Banks in 1897 under the basionym Enoicyla incerta. It is distributed across North America. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it possesses aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Apataniidae
Early Smoky Wing Sedges
Apataniidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as early smoky wing sedges. The family contains approximately 18 genera and at least 180 described species. Members are primarily Holarctic in distribution, with notable diversity in Europe, Asia, and North America. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from mineral particles.
Arctopsyche grandis
netspinning caddisfly
Arctopsyche grandis is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, found in North America. Larvae construct silk nets to capture food in flowing water and complete their development in approximately one year. The species has been studied in Central Idaho streams where it reaches high population densities on rocky substrates.
Asynarchus
Asynarchus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, first described by McLachlan in 1880. Species are found in small, cold, oligotrophic lakes and ponds across Eurasia and Northern America. The genus includes at least two species: A. contumax and A. lapponicus. Larvae and pupae of both species have been described from central Norway.
Austrotinodes
Austrotinodes is a genus of caddisflies in the family Ecnomidae, established by Schmid in 1955. The genus contains 55 species with a primarily Neotropical distribution and a few species occurring in the Australian Region. In Brazil, 23 species are now known following the description of 13 new species in 2017. Species are distinguished by morphological characters of the male genitalia.
Banksiola
Traveller Sedges, Giant Casemakers
Banksiola is a genus of caddisflies in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as giant casemakers or traveller sedges. The genus comprises approximately five described species distributed in North America. Larvae construct portable cases from plant material and are associated with freshwater habitats.
Banksiola concatenata
giant casemaker
Banksiola concatenata is a species of giant casemaker caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It is found in North America. The species was originally described as Neuronia concatenata by Walker in 1852. As a member of the Phryganeidae, it belongs to a family of relatively large caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Banksiola crotchi
traveler sedge giant casemaker
Banksiola crotchi is a caddisfly species in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as the traveler sedge giant casemaker. An ecological study in Marion Lake, British Columbia, documented its life history in a lacustrine environment. Eggs are laid on submerged vegetation in fall, with larval growth occurring rapidly in fall and spring. Adults are present from July to September. The species is distributed across North America.
Brachycentridae
Humpless Casemaker Caddisflies
Brachycentridae is a family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) commonly known as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The family contains approximately 100 species across 8 genera and is distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. Larvae construct portable cases using plant material, rock fragments, or silk, with some species exhibiting specialized filter-feeding behaviors. The family was first described by Georg Ulmer in 1903 as a subfamily of Sericostomatidae before being elevated to family rank.
Brachycentrus
Grannom Caddisflies, Humpless Casemaker Caddisflies
Brachycentrus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Brachycentridae, commonly known as grannoms or humpless casemaker caddisflies. The genus contains at least 30 described species distributed across North America and Eurasia. Larvae are aquatic filter-feeders that construct portable cases from silk and environmental materials such as sand, small stones, or plant fragments. The genus is ecologically significant as an important prey item for trout and other freshwater fish.
Brachycentrus americanus
American Grammon
Brachycentrus americanus is a species of humpless casemaker caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae. Larvae construct portable cases and are sensitive to synthetic pyrethroid insecticides, exhibiting case-abandonment behavior upon exposure. The species displays diel periodicity in activity patterns, with predominantly nocturnal filtering behavior. It is most active in July and August in western and midwestern North America.
Brachycentrus incanus
Brachycentrus incanus is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae. The species was described by Hagen in 1861 and is known from the Nearctic region. Like other members of its family, it is associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct portable cases.
Brachycentrus lateralis
humbles casemaker caddisfly
Brachycentrus lateralis is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly known as the humpless casemaker caddisfly. It was first described by Thomas Say in 1823. The species is found in North America and belongs to a family whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Brachycentrus numerosus
humbless casemaker caddisfly
Brachycentrus numerosus is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as a humpless casemaker caddisfly. The species was first described by Thomas Say in 1823. It belongs to an order of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from environmental materials. The species is documented from North America.
Brachycentrus occidentalis
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Brachycentrus occidentalis is a species of humpless casemaker caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae. It is a filter-feeding aquatic insect whose larvae construct fixed retreats with silk nets to capture food particles from flowing water. The species has been studied for its behavioral ecology during pupation, including cannibalism and predation pressures, and for its sensitivity to suspended sediments in stream environments.
Calamoceratidae
Calamoceratidae is a family of caddisflies comprising approximately 9 genera and at least 120 described species. The family is distributed across tropical and temperate regions worldwide, with notable diversity in the Neotropics. Larvae are aquatic and construct distinctive cases from plant material. The genus Phylloicus is particularly species-rich in the New World, with 66 described species.
Ceraclea
long-horned caddisfly
Ceraclea is a genus of long-horned caddisflies (family Leptoceridae) containing over 140 described species. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases using silk and various materials. Multiple species have been documented as freshwater sponge specialists, though feeding habits vary including detritivory. Life cycles range from univoltine to more complex multi-cohort patterns with variable overwintering strategies.
Ceraclea cancellata
Ceraclea cancellata is a species of caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Betten in 1934. As a member of the long-horned caddisfly family, this species is characterized by antennae that are notably longer than the body. The genus Ceraclea is widely distributed across North America.
Ceraclea enodis
Ceraclea enodis is a species of caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. Members of this genus are characterized by elongated, slender bodies and long antennae. The species is part of a diverse group of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from environmental materials.
Ceraclea maculata
long-horned caddisfly
Ceraclea maculata is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Banks in 1899. It belongs to an order of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from silk and environmental materials. The species is recorded from North America.
Ceraclea slossonae
long-horned caddisfly
Ceraclea slossonae is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Banks in 1938. It belongs to a genus characterized by adults with exceptionally long antennae, often exceeding body length. The species is documented from North America, with limited observational records.
Ceraclea tarsipunctata
Ceraclea tarsipunctata is a species of caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, described by Vorhies in 1909. It belongs to a genus known for having antennae longer than the body, a distinctive trait within Trichoptera. The species is recorded from North America with limited observational data available.
Ceraclea transversa
long-horned caddisfly
Ceraclea transversa is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Hagen in 1861. It is found in North America, with observations recorded across the continent. The species belongs to a genus of caddisflies characterized by elongated antennae relative to body size.
Cheumatopsyche minuscula
Cheumatopsyche minuscula is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. The species was originally described as Hydropsyche minuscula by Banks in 1907. It is recorded from North America within the Nearctic realm. As a member of Hydropsychidae, it is presumed to construct fixed capture nets in flowing water habitats to filter food particles.
Chilostigmodes areolatus
Chilostigmodes areolatus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Walker in 1852. It belongs to the tribe Chilostigmini, a group of limnephilid caddisflies primarily associated with lentic (still-water) habitats. The genus Chilostigmodes is small and poorly studied, with limited published information on the biology of its constituent species.
Chimarra
Little Black Caddisflies
Chimarra is a large genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Philopotamidae) containing more than 630 described species. Adults are commonly known as "little black caddisflies" due to their characteristic dark coloration. The genus has undergone extensive radiation, with species distributed across multiple continents including North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Molecular studies have investigated the evolutionary history and biogeographic patterns of diversification within this genus.
Chimarra obscura
fingernet caddisfly
Chimarra obscura is a species of fingernet caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae, found in North America. The genus Chimarra is characterized by blackish body and wings. This species has been documented from Missouri, specifically from Sam A. Baker State Park in the Ozark Highlands, where it was recorded alongside C. feria and an unidentified Chimarra species. The species was originally described by Walker in 1852.
Chimarra texana
Texas fingernet caddisfly
Chimarra texana is a species of fingernet caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1920. As a member of the genus Chimarra, it possesses the characteristic blackish body and wings typical of this group. The species is distributed in North America and belongs to an ancient lineage of aquatic insects closely related to moths and butterflies. Adults are recognized by their distinct maxillary and labial palps, lack of a coiled proboscis, and hairy (rather than scaled) wings.
Clistoronia magnifica
northern caddisfly
Clistoronia magnifica is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, commonly referred to as a northern caddisfly. It is known from North America and has been the subject of laboratory toxicity studies examining the effects of heavy metals on its aquatic life cycle. The species completes a full life cycle from egg through larval, pupal, and adult stages in freshwater environments.
Clostoeca
Clostoeca is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, established by Banks in 1943. The genus is monotypic, containing only one described species: Clostoeca disjuncta. As a member of the Limnephilidae family, it belongs to a group of caddisflies commonly known as northern caddisflies, which are predominantly found in cool, temperate regions.
Cyrnellus
Cyrnellus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Polycentropodidae. Larvae of at least one species, C. fraternus, are specialized inhabitants of submerged wood (snags) in river systems, where they construct retreats. The genus was established by Nathan Banks in 1913. Species within this genus appear to exhibit specific microhabitat preferences related to flow conditions and substrate stability.
Desmona bethula
amphibious caddisfly
Desmona bethula, commonly known as the amphibious caddisfly, is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It is notable for its unusual terrestrial feeding migration behavior, in which fifth-instar larvae leave streams at night to feed on semiaquatic plants before returning to the water. This species is univoltine with autumn emergence and has been proposed as a potential evolutionary link between aquatic and secondarily terrestrial caddisfly lineages.
Dicosmoecinae
northern caddisflies
Dicosmoecinae is a subfamily of caddisflies within the family Limnephilidae, comprising approximately 19 genera and at least 80 described species. The group is commonly referred to as "northern caddisflies," reflecting its predominantly Holarctic distribution. The subfamily was established by Schmid in 1955, with Dicosmoecus as its type genus. Members are case-making caddisflies, with larvae constructing portable shelters from plant materials.
Dicosmoecus
October Caddisflies
Dicosmoecus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as October Caddisflies. The genus contains approximately six described species distributed across western North America, from California and Oregon through British Columbia to the Rocky Mountains. Species such as D. gilvipes and D. atripes are among the most intensively studied North American caddisflies due to their large larval size, synchronous autumn emergence, and importance in freshwater ecosystem research and fly-fishing culture.
Dicosmoecus atripes
northern caddisfly
Dicosmoecus atripes is a limnephilid caddisfly native to North America. The species has been documented in Rocky Mountain streams of Alberta, Canada, where it exhibits a two-year life cycle with distinct seasonal emergence and larval diapause. Larval microhabitat and dietary preferences shift between early and late instars.
Dicosmoecus pallicornis
Dicosmoecus pallicornis is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1943. It belongs to a genus of case-making caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species is documented from North America within the Nearctic region. As with other Limnephilidae, it likely has a holometabolous life cycle with aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Diplectrona
diplectronan caddisflies
Diplectrona is a genus of net-spinning caddisflies in the family Hydropsychidae, containing over 100 described species distributed across multiple continents. The genus exhibits considerable morphological diversity in both larvae and adults, with larvae inhabiting various lotic freshwater habitats. Recent studies have revealed cryptic diversity within currently recognized species, particularly in North America, suggesting the genus requires taxonomic revision. Species occur in Asia, Europe, North America, and other regions, with new country records continuing to be documented.
Diplectrona modesta
Diplectrona modesta is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, first described by Banks in 1908. It is native to North America, with documented occurrences in the Nearctic region including Vermont. The species has been studied for its life history and production dynamics in freshwater stream habitats, particularly in Walker Branch, Tennessee.
Dolophilodes dorca
Dolophilodes dorca is a species of caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae. Members of this genus are small, slender caddisflies associated with lotic (flowing water) habitats. The larvae construct silken retreats and capture nets for feeding on fine particulate organic matter. Like other philopotamids, adults are typically nocturnal and are attracted to light.
Ecnomidae
Tubecase Netspinning Caddisflies
Ecnomidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) comprising approximately 375–400 described species across 9 genera. The family exhibits a characteristic Gondwanan distribution pattern, with all genera restricted to the Southern Hemisphere except Ecnomus, which is also widespread in the Palearctic and Oriental regions. Larvae are aquatic and construct fixed silk retreats on submerged surfaces. The family's taxonomy has been historically unstable, having been classified as a subfamily of both Hydropsychidae and Psychomiidae before recognition as a monophyletic family closely related to Polycentropodidae.
Farula
Farula is a genus of caddisflies in the family Uenoidae, established by Milne in 1936. The genus belongs to the subfamily Uenoinae and is part of the Limnephiloidea superfamily. As a uenoid genus, Farula likely comprises small to medium-sized caddisflies associated with freshwater habitats. The genus has not been extensively documented in public observation databases.
Frenesia
Dot Wing Winter Sedges
Frenesia is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as Dot Wing Winter Sedges. The genus contains at least two described species: Frenesia difficilis and Frenesia missa. Members of this genus are associated with cool-season activity patterns, as suggested by their common name. Frenesia missa is considered a rare species with documented vulnerability to anthropogenic stressors.
Frenesia missa
Failed Northern Caddisfly
Frenesia missa is a rare species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Milne in 1935. The species was originally placed in the genus Chilostigma as Chilostigma missum before being transferred to Frenesia. It is considered vulnerable to anthropogenic stressors and has a restricted distribution in North America.
Glossosoma
little black caddisflies
Glossosoma is a genus of small caddisflies comprising over 110 described species, commonly known as little black caddisflies. Larvae construct portable dome-shaped cases from mineral particles and occupy the upper surfaces of stones in flowing waters. The genus exhibits multivoltine life histories with varying generation times among species.
Glossosoma nigrior
little black caddisfly
Glossosoma nigrior is a caddisfly species in the family Glossosomatidae, commonly known as the little black caddisfly. It is native to North America and has been extensively studied in Michigan trout streams and Alabama streams. The species exhibits respiratory adaptations to flowing water conditions and serves as a dominant benthic grazer in stream ecosystems.
Glossosomatidae
tortoise-case makers, saddle-case makers, little black caddisflies
Glossosomatidae is a family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) containing 23 genera across three subfamilies. Larvae construct distinctive domed cases from pebbles bound with silk, giving rise to the common names "tortoise-case makers" or "saddle-case makers." The family has a worldwide distribution with particular diversity in the Americas. Larvae are primarily found in cool, fast-flowing streams where they serve as important bioindicators of water quality due to their sensitivity to pollution and long aquatic life stages.
Glossosomatinae
Glossosomatinae is a subfamily of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Glossosomatidae. Larvae construct distinctive dome-shaped or tortoise-like portable cases from sand grains and small stones, earning them the common name 'tortoise case makers.' The subfamily is distinguished from the other glossosomatid subfamily, Protoptilinae, primarily by adult genitalic characters and larval case morphology. Members are found in running waters across multiple continents, with larvae serving as important indicators of stream health due to their sensitivity to pollution and habitat disturbance.
Glyphopsyche
Glyphopsyche is a genus of northern caddisflies (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) established by Banks in 1904. The genus contains at least three described species: G. irrorata, G. missouri, and G. sequatchie. Glyphopsyche irrorata has been documented with an unusual life history strategy among caddisflies: overwintering as an adult rather than in the larval stage.
Glyphopsyche irrorata
Irrorate Northern Caddisfly
Glyphopsyche irrorata is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae with an unusual life history strategy. Unlike most caddisflies, it overwinters as an adult rather than in an aquatic larval or pupal stage. This adaptation allows it to inhabit ponds with fluctuating water levels and those experiencing winter drought. The species is known from the Nearctic region, particularly in the northeastern United States.
Goera
Goera is a genus of caddisflies in the family Goeridae comprising at least 120 described species. Larvae construct portable cases, with documented species building cases from sand or inhabiting madicolous habitats on wet cliff faces. The genus serves as host for specialized parasitoid wasps.
Goera fuscula
Goera fuscula is a species of caddisfly in the family Goeridae, first described by Banks in 1905. It is known from North America. The species belongs to a family of case-making caddisflies, though specific biological details for this particular species remain poorly documented in available literature.
Goeridae
Armour-ballast Caddisflies
Goeridae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) comprising approximately 12 genera and at least 160 described species. Larvae are primarily lotic, inhabiting streams and rivers, with some species occupying madicolous habitats such as wet cliff faces. The family is distinguished by larval case construction incorporating ballast stones for weight and stability. Adults exhibit highly modified male genitalia and maxillary palps in some species. Goeridae has a Holarctic distribution with records from North America, Europe, and Asia.
Grammotaulius
Grammotaulius is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, established by Kolenati in 1848. The genus contains species distributed across Europe and North America, including at least two recognized species: G. alascensis and G. bettenii. As limnephilid caddisflies, members of this genus are aquatic in their larval stages and terrestrial as adults.
Halesochila
Halesochila is a monotypic genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, containing the single described species H. taylori. The genus was established by Banks in 1907. As a member of Limnephilidae, it belongs to a diverse family of case-making caddisflies commonly found in freshwater habitats.
Halesochila taylori
Halesochila taylori is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It is a small to medium-sized caddisfly with a Nearctic distribution, documented primarily from North America. The species was originally described as Halesus taylori by Banks in 1904 and later transferred to the genus Halesochila. As a member of the Limnephilidae, it is presumed to have an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage, though specific life history details remain poorly documented in published literature.
Helicopsyche
Speckled Peter, Spiral Caddisflies
Helicopsyche is a genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Helicopsychidae) containing more than 230 species with highest diversity in tropical and sub-tropical regions. The genus is represented on all major faunal regions worldwide. Larvae construct distinctive helical, snail-shell-like cases from sand grains and silk. Adults are known to fly fishers as the 'Speckled Peter'. The genus was first described by Siebold in 1856.
Helicopsyche borealis
Spectacled Snail-case Caddisfly
Helicopsyche borealis is a caddisfly species in the family Helicopsychidae, notable as one of only two Helicopsyche species to colonize temperate North America from a predominantly tropical genus. Larvae construct distinctive spiral, snail-like cases from sand grains cemented with silk. The species inhabits running waters across North America and plays a role as a collector-gatherer and scraper in stream ecosystems. Adults emerge in spring, and the life cycle is univoltine with egg diapause through summer.
Helicopsychidae
Snail-case Caddisflies
Helicopsychidae, commonly known as snail-case caddisflies, is a family of Trichoptera characterized by larvae that construct distinctive spiral, helix-shaped cases resembling snail shells. The family contains over 230 species distributed across all major faunal regions, divided into two genera: the monophyletic Rakiura and Helicopsyche. The subgenus Cochliopsyche is endemic to the Neotropical region between central Uruguay and southern Mexico. Species inhabit diverse freshwater environments including springs, streams, and rivers.
Hesperophylax
Hesperophylax is a genus of northern caddisflies (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) comprising seven described species distributed across western North America. The genus is characterized by morphological plasticity and broad habitat tolerance compared to other Trichoptera. Larvae construct portable protective cases and exhibit chemically-mediated antipredator behaviors. All species appear to be univoltine with extended adult flight periods.
Hesperophylax designatus
silver-striped sedge, giant golden caddis, silver-striped northern caddisfly
Hesperophylax designatus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as the silver-striped sedge or giant golden caddis. It is one of seven recognized species in the Nearctic genus Hesperophylax. The species has been observed in Colorado at bioblitz events and is documented across North America with 133 iNaturalist observations.
Hesperophylax magnus
northern caddisfly
Hesperophylax magnus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1918. It is native to North America and is one of seven recognized species in the genus Hesperophylax. Larvae are more predaceous than other Hesperophylax species and exhibit opportunistic omnivory. The species is univoltine with an extended flight period.
Heteroplectron
Heteroplectron is a genus of caddisflies in the family Calamoceratidae, established by McLachlan in 1871. The genus contains at least three described species: Heteroplectron americanum (eastern North America), Heteroplectron californicum (western North America), and Heteroplectron yamaguchii (East Asia). As members of the Calamoceratidae, species in this genus construct distinctive larval cases.
Heteroplectron californicum
Heteroplectron californicum is a species of caddisfly in the family Calamoceratidae. It is found in North America. The species was described by McLachlan in 1871. As a member of the Calamoceratidae, it belongs to a family of caddisflies whose larvae are known to construct cases from plant materials.
Himalopsyche
Himalopsyche is a genus of free-living caddisflies in the family Rhyacophilidae, containing more than 40 described species. The genus is primarily distributed in alpine to montane environments across Central and East Asia and North America, with its greatest diversity concentrated in the Himalayas and surrounding mountain ranges. Species within the genus have been divided into five morphological groups: kuldschensis, lepcha, navasi, phryganea, and tibetana. The genus has served as a model system for studying mountain biodiversity, gene flow, and the mountain-geobiodiversity hypothesis due to its endemic distribution in geologically dynamic regions.
caddisflyRhyacophilidaemountain-biodiversityTibeto-Himalayanaquatic-insectphylogeographygenome-assemblyindicator-speciesgene-flowHengduan-MountainsHimalayasalpinemontanerunning-waterfree-living-caddisflycocoon-makerpredatory-larvaewater-quality-monitoringadaptive-evolutionmountain-geobiodiversity-hypothesisHimalopsyche phryganea
Himalopsyche phryganea is a free-living caddisfly species in the family Rhyacophilidae, first described by Ross in 1941. Molecular phylogenetic studies have established it as the sole member of the phryganea species group within the genus. The species is known from North America, though the genus Himalopsyche is predominantly distributed in alpine to montane regions of Central and East Asia.
Holocentropus interruptus
tube maker caddisfly
Holocentropus interruptus is a species of tube maker caddisfly described by Nathan Banks in 1914. As a member of the family Polycentropodidae, it constructs silk retreats and capture nets for feeding. The species is documented from North America, with specific records from Vermont.
Homophylax
Homophylax is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1900. It belongs to the tribe Chilostigmini within the subfamily Limnephilinae. As a limnephilid genus, its members are associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct protective cases. The genus is poorly documented in public sources, with minimal observational records available.
Hydatophylax
northern caddisfly
Hydatophylax is a genus of northern caddisflies (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) comprising approximately 14 described species. Members are found in cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Scandinavia, Japan, and North America. The genus exhibits univoltine life cycles with larval development in freshwater streams.
Hydatophylax argus
Argus Northern Caddisfly
Hydatophylax argus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It was described by Harris in 1869 and is found in North America. The species is notable as the first member of its genus demonstrated to use sex pheromones for mate attraction.
Hydatophylax hesperus
Hydatophylax hesperus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Banks in 1914. The species belongs to the order Trichoptera, an insect group characterized by aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults. As a member of the Limnephilidae family, it is part of one of the most diverse families of caddisflies, commonly known as case-making caddisflies. Very little specific biological information is available for this particular species.
Hydropsyche alhedra
Hydropsyche alhedra is a species of caddisfly described by Ross in 1939. The species is currently recognized as a synonym of Ceratopsyche alhedra, reflecting taxonomic revisions that have moved this taxon to the genus Ceratopsyche. It belongs to the family Hydropsychidae, a group of net-spinning caddisflies known for constructing capture nets in flowing water.
Hydropsyche betteni
Common Netspinner
Hydropsyche betteni is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Ross in 1938. It is one of the most widespread and commonly encountered members of its genus in North America. Like other hydropsychids, the larvae construct fixed capture nets to filter food from flowing water. The species is well-documented in freshwater biomonitoring studies due to its abundance and sensitivity to water quality.
Hydropsyche bifida
Hydropsyche bifida is a caddisfly species described by Banks in 1905, currently treated as a synonym of Ceratopsyche morosa. It belongs to the family Hydropsychidae, a group of net-spinning caddisflies whose larvae construct capture nets in flowing water to filter food particles. The species has been recorded from North America, specifically from Vermont in the United States.
Hydropsyche californica
Hydropsyche californica is a species of net-spinning caddisfly (Trichoptera: Hydropsychidae) described by Banks in 1899. It inhabits freshwater benthic environments and has been extensively studied as a bioindicator for metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in relation to mine drainage. Research has demonstrated its utility for monitoring cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc exposure in rivers.
Hydropsyche incommoda
Hydropsyche incommoda is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. Described by Hermann Hagen in 1861, this species is part of a large genus of aquatic insects whose larvae construct fixed capture nets in flowing water. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. The species is documented from North America.
Hydropsyche morosa
A net-spinning caddisfly species found in summer-warm rivers of southern Ontario. Has been observed to be bivoltine in lower river reaches where summer water temperatures exceed 24°C for extended periods. Larger-bodied than the sympatric Hydropsyche bronta, with which it shares habitat in the Credit and Humber river systems.
Hydropsyche occidentalis
Hydropsyche occidentalis is a filter-feeding caddisfly species in the family Hydropsychidae, found in lotic (flowing water) streams of North America. It constructs fixed capture nets to filter organic particles from the water column, playing a significant role in stream ecosystem function. The species has been studied for its bioenergetics and contribution to controlling organic transport in streams, where it can comprise a substantial portion of invertebrate biomass in suitable habitats.
Hydropsyche oslari
Hydropsyche oslari is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) in the family Hydropsychidae, first described by Banks in 1905. The species has been reclassified under the genus Ceratopsyche by some authorities, though it is still widely referenced as Hydropsyche oslari. It belongs to a group of net-spinning caddisflies that construct fixed retreats and capture nets in flowing water environments. Like other hydropsychids, the larvae are aquatic filter-feeders that play important roles in stream ecosystems.
Hydropsyche rossi
netspinning caddisfly
Hydropsyche rossi is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Flint, Voshell & Parker in 1979. It is found in North America within the Nearctic region. As a member of the genus Hydropsyche, it belongs to a group of caddisflies known for constructing fixed retreats and capture nets to filter food from flowing water.
Hydropsyche scalaris
Hydropsyche scalaris is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, first described by Hagen in 1861. It belongs to one of the largest genera of caddisflies, with larvae that construct fixed retreats and capture nets in flowing water to filter food particles. The species is documented from North America within the Nearctic region.
Hydropsyche simulans
Hydropsyche simulans is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae, described by Ross in 1938. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic insect whose larvae construct silk nets to capture food in flowing water. The species occurs in North America and is part of the diverse fauna of caddisflies that are ecologically important in freshwater ecosystems and relevant to fly fishing.
Hydropsyche slossonae
Hydropsyche slossonae is a caddisfly species in the family Hydropsychidae, known from freshwater lotic habitats in eastern and midwestern North America. The species is univoltine, with adults emerging synchronously from late May through early July. Larvae construct silk capture nets to filter suspended organic matter from flowing water and overwinter as fifth-instar larvae.
Hydropsyche walkeri
Hydropsyche walkeri is a species of net-spinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. Originally described by Betten and Mosely in 1940, it is currently treated as a synonym of Ceratopsyche walkeri. The species belongs to a diverse genus of aquatic insects whose larvae construct elaborate silk nets to capture food in flowing water. Like other hydropsychids, it is associated with freshwater lotic habitats.
Hydropsychinae
net-spinning caddisflies
Hydropsychinae is a subfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) within the family Hydropsychidae, commonly known as net-spinning caddisflies. Larvae construct fixed capture nets in flowing water to filter food particles. The subfamily is taxonomically diverse, with generic revisions documented in multiple regions including New Zealand and the Americas.
Hydropsychoidea
net-spinning caddisflies
Hydropsychoidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) first described by Curtis in 1835. The constituent families, particularly Hydropsychidae, are commonly known as net-spinning caddisflies due to the distinctive capture nets constructed by their larvae. These insects are predominantly aquatic in their immature stages and are among the most frequently observed caddisflies in stream environments worldwide.
Hydroptila armata
Hydroptila armata is a species of microcaddisfly in the family Hydroptilidae, described by Ross in 1938. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it is one of many small caddisfly species commonly referred to as microcaddisflies due to their diminutive size relative to other caddisfly families. The species is known from North America, with its type locality in the United States.
Hydroptila callia
microcaddisfly
Hydroptila callia is a species of microcaddisfly described by Denning in 1948. It belongs to the family Hydroptilidae, the smallest caddisflies, characterized by reduced wing venation and distinctive larval cases. The species is known from North America, with its type locality in the United States. Like other hydroptilids, adults are minute insects typically associated with freshwater habitats.
Hydroptiloidea
microcaddisflies, purse-case caddisflies
Hydroptiloidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) containing the family Hydroptilidae. Members are distinguished by their minute size, rarely exceeding 5 mm, and the distinctive purse-shaped larval cases constructed only in the final instar. The group has a worldwide distribution and represents one of the most species-rich lineages within Trichoptera.
Integripalpia
Integripalpia is a suborder of caddisflies (Trichoptera) distinguished by adults having unringed terminal segments on their maxillary palps. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable protective cases from debris beginning in the first instar, enlarging them through subsequent developmental stages. Case construction is often highly specific, with distinctive architectural patterns characteristic of particular families and genera. The suborder includes diverse lineages distributed across aquatic habitats worldwide.
Ironoquia lyrata
eastern boxed-wing sedge
Ironoquia lyrata is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as the eastern boxed-wing sedge. It was described by Ross in 1938 and is found in North America. The species belongs to the subfamily Dicosmoecinae, a group of northern caddisflies.
Ironoquia parvula
northern caddisfly
Ironoquia parvula is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1900. It is classified within the subfamily Dicosmoecinae and is one of the species in the genus Ironoquia. The species is known to occur in North America.
Ironoquia punctatissima
northern caddisfly
Ironoquia punctatissima is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. Its life cycle has been documented from populations in temporary streams of southern Ontario, including a description of its previously undescribed pupal stage. The species occurs in North America within the Nearctic region.
Lenarchus rho
Lenarchus rho is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Milne in 1935. It belongs to the order Trichoptera, an aquatic insect group whose larvae construct protective cases. The species is recorded from North America within the Nearctic region. As a member of Limnephilidae, it is likely associated with freshwater habitats, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Lenarchus rillus
northern caddisfly
Lenarchus rillus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It was first described by Milne in 1935. The species is known from North America, with distribution records indicating presence in the Nearctic region. Very little detailed biological information has been published for this species.
Lepidostoma
Lepidostoma is a genus of caddisflies in the family Lepidostomatidae comprising over 150 described species. The genus is notable for the distinctive case-building behavior of its larvae, which construct portable cases from plant materials, primarily leaf panels in later instars. Larvae are detritivores that process allochthonous organic matter in freshwater streams. The genus has a broad geographic distribution including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Lepidostoma cinereum
Lepidostoma cinereum is a species of caddisfly in the family Lepidostomatidae. It was described by Banks in 1899 and is known from North America. The species belongs to a family characterized by distinctive larval case construction using plant material.
Lepidostoma griseum
A small caddisfly species in the family Lepidostomatidae. Adults are known from North America. The specific epithet 'griseum' (Latin for 'gray') likely refers to body coloration. Larval biology remains poorly documented.
Lepidostoma hoodi
Hood River Bizarre Caddisfly
Lepidostoma hoodi is a species of caddisfly in the family Lepidostomatidae, described by Ross in 1948. It belongs to a group commonly referred to as 'bizarre caddisflies' due to unusual morphological features characteristic of this genus. The species is known from North America, with records indicating presence in the Nearctic region. Very few observations of this species have been documented.
Lepidostoma sommermanae
Lepidostoma sommermanae is a species of caddisfly in the family Lepidostomatidae, described by Ross in 1946. The species is known from North America and is characterized by its placement in a genus noted for unusual morphological features. Very few observations of this species have been recorded.
Lepidostoma stigma
Lepidostoma stigma is a species of caddisfly in the family Lepidostomatidae, described by Banks in 1907. It belongs to an order of aquatic insects known for their larval case-building behavior. The species is documented from North America with limited observational records.
Leptoceridae
long-horned caddisflies, silverhorns
Leptoceridae is the second largest family of caddisflies (Trichoptera), comprising over 1,850 species in approximately 68 genera. Members are distinguished by exceptionally long antennae—typically 1.5–2 times the forewing length—giving rise to their common name "long-horned caddisflies." The family exhibits remarkable diversity in larval feeding strategies, habitat preferences, and adult mating behaviors. Larvae are effective swimmers and construct portable cases, inhabiting ponds, marshes, lakes, and slower stream reaches across all faunal regions except Antarctica.
Leptocerus
long-horned caddisflies
Leptocerus is a genus of long-horned caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, comprising more than 140 described species. Larvae construct species-specific protective cases. The genus includes species of conservation concern, such as the critically endangered Leptocerus interruptus.
Leptocerus americanus
American Long-horned Caddisfly
Leptocerus americanus is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Banks in 1899. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it represents one of the most diverse groups of aquatic insects. The species is distributed across North America, with observational records spanning from Vermont westward. Like other leptocerids, adults are characterized by their elongated antennae, which are often longer than the body.
Limnephilidae
Northern Caddisflies, Northern Caddis Flies
Limnephilidae is a large family of case-constructing caddisflies comprising approximately 100 genera and nearly 900 described species. Adults are typically brown with narrow, often patterned forewings and broader transparent hindwings. Larvae construct portable cases from diverse plant and mineral materials, with case composition varying by habitat temperature and water flow. The family exhibits exceptional ecological diversity, with larvae occupying nearly all freshwater habitats including a remarkable terrestrial genus, Enoicyla, whose larvae live in woodland leaf litter.
Limnephiloidea
Limnephiloidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) established by Kolenati in 1848. It encompasses several families of case-making caddisflies, including the diverse family Limnephilidae. Members of this superfamily are predominantly found in freshwater aquatic habitats during their larval stages.
Limnephilus
caddisfly
Limnephilus is the most diverse genus in the family Limnephilidae, containing over 180 described species with broad ecological tolerances and a primarily Holarctic distribution. Species inhabit diverse freshwater habitats including lakes, ponds, slow-moving streams, and high-altitude streams, with some extending to salt marshes and desert environments. Several species are of conservation concern in North America. The genus has been extensively studied as a bioindicator for aquatic pollution and as a model for understanding predator-prey interactions and case-building behavior.
Limnephilus ademus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus ademus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to the genus Limnephilus, a large and widespread group of case-making caddisflies commonly known as northern caddisflies. The species is recorded from North America.
Limnephilus concolor
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus concolor is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Nathan Banks in 1899. It belongs to the genus Limnephilus, a large and diverse group of case-making caddisflies. The species is recorded from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented.
Limnephilus externus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus externus is a northern caddisfly species in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Hagen in 1861. The species has been documented in both North America and Europe. A detailed life history study in southern Alberta, Canada, revealed unique adaptations to temporary pool conditions, including egg-laying above water level and delayed larval entry into aquatic habitats. Adults emerge in August and exhibit a one-month reproductive delay.
Limnephilus fagus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus fagus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to the diverse genus Limnephilus, which comprises numerous species of northern caddisflies. The species is recorded from North America.
Limnephilus flavastellus
Yellowstar Northern Caddisfly
Limnephilus flavastellus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Nathan Banks in 1918. It is found in North America within the Nearctic region. The common name Yellowstar Northern Caddisfly refers to this species. As a member of Limnephilidae, it belongs to a family of caddisflies whose larvae are known for constructing portable cases from plant material and other debris.
Limnephilus hyalinus
Limnephilus hyalinus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Hagen in 1861. The species belongs to the large and widespread genus Limnephilus, which contains numerous species primarily associated with lentic and slow-flowing aquatic habitats. As with other members of the family, the larvae are aquatic and construct protective cases from available materials. The specific epithet "hyalinus" refers to the hyaline or glass-like quality of some body parts, likely the wings.
Limnephilus indivisus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus indivisus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as the northern caddisfly. It was described by Walker in 1852 and is found in North America. The species belongs to a large genus of case-making caddisflies typically associated with lentic (still-water) habitats.
Limnephilus kalama
Limnephilus kalama is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Donald G. Denning in 1968. It belongs to a large genus of case-making caddisflies whose larvae are primarily associated with lentic (still water) habitats. The species is recorded from North America within the Nearctic region. Like other members of Limnephilus, it likely exhibits the family's characteristic larval behavior of constructing portable cases from plant material.
Limnephilus moestus
Limnephilus moestus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Nathan Banks in 1908. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with lentic (still water) habitats. The species is recorded from North America with distribution records in the Nearctic region. As with many Limnephilus species, adults are typically active in late summer and fall.
Limnephilus morrisoni
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus morrisoni is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It is found in North America. The species was described by Banks in 1920. As a member of the large genus Limnephilus, it is part of one of the most diverse groups of caddisflies in the Holarctic region.
Limnephilus nogus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus nogus is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Ross in 1944. It is distributed across North America, particularly in the Nearctic region. As a member of the Limnephilidae, it is associated with aquatic environments during its larval stage.
Limnephilus occidentalis
Limnephilus occidentalis is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It was described by Banks in 1908 and is found in North America. Caddisflies in the genus Limnephilus are generally associated with freshwater habitats.
Limnephilus ornatus
Ornate Northern Caddisfly
Limnephilus ornatus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1897. It is found in North America across the Nearctic region, with some records indicating possible presence in the Palaearctic. Like other members of the genus Limnephilus, this species is associated with freshwater habitats where larvae construct protective cases from plant material.
Limnephilus spinatus
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus spinatus is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Banks in 1914. It is known from the Nearctic region, specifically North America. Like other members of the genus Limnephilus, it likely inhabits freshwater aquatic environments during its larval stage.
Limnephilus submonilifer
northern caddisfly
Limnephilus submonilifer is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Francis Walker in 1852. It belongs to a large genus of northern caddisflies that are primarily associated with lentic (still water) habitats. The species is recorded from the Nearctic region with documented occurrences in the northeastern United States, including Vermont. Larvae construct portable cases using plant material and sand grains.
Lithoseopsis hysteryx
Mystery Caddisfly
Lithoseopsis hysteryx is a species of caddisfly in the family Lepidostomatidae, described by Ross in 1956. The species is known from limited collections in western North America. Adults are small to medium-sized caddisflies with reduced wing venation characteristic of the genus. The larval stage constructs portable cases using mineral particles.
Lype
net tube caddisfly
Lype is a genus of net tube caddisflies in the family Psychomyiidae, containing more than 20 described species. Adults are small to medium-sized caddisflies with reduced mouthparts. Larvae construct fixed, silken retreat nets on submerged surfaces in flowing water. The genus has been studied for female identification and reproductive biology in Denmark.
Macronematinae
net-spinning caddisflies
Macronematinae is a subfamily of net-spinning caddisflies (Trichoptera: Hydropsychidae) established by Ulmer in 1905. Larvae construct silk webs to capture prey drifting in flowing water. The subfamily includes genera such as Macronema, Macrostemum, Leptonema, Leptopsyche, and the Neotropical endemic Centromacronema. Members occupy diverse freshwater habitats across multiple continents.
Marilia
Marilia is a genus of caddisflies in the family Odontoceridae, order Trichoptera. Caddisflies in this family are aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from sand grains and small particles. The genus was established by Mueller in 1880 and is distributed primarily in the Neotropical region, with records from Colombia and other parts of South America.
Marilia flexuosa
mortarjoint casemaker
Marilia flexuosa is a species of mortarjoint casemaker caddisfly in the family Odontoceridae, described by Ulmer in 1905. It belongs to the order Trichoptera, an aquatic insect group known for larval cases constructed from environmental materials. The species has been documented in North America, with additional distribution records in Brazil. As with other Odontoceridae, larvae likely inhabit flowing water environments where they construct characteristic cases.
Micrasema
humpless casemaker caddisflies
Micrasema is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Brachycentridae, commonly referred to as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The genus contains more than 70 described species. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from plant material. At least one species, Micrasema quadriloba, has been studied as a grazing insect in stream ecosystems.
Micrasema bactro
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Micrasema bactro is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly known as the humpless casemaker caddisfly. It was described by Ross in 1938. The species is known from North America and belongs to a family whose larvae construct distinctive portable cases from plant material.
Micrasema charonis
humbless casemaker caddisfly
Micrasema charonis is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, described by Banks in 1914. It belongs to the group commonly known as humpless casemaker caddisflies, distinguishing it from other caddisfly families by its case construction behavior. The species is documented from North America.
Micrasema rusticum
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Micrasema rusticum is a species of humpless casemaker caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, first described by Hagen in 1868. The species is known from North America, with confirmed records from the United States including Vermont. As a member of the Brachycentridae family, it belongs to a group of caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Micrasema wataga
humpless casemaker caddisfly
Micrasema wataga is a species of caddisfly in the family Brachycentridae, commonly known as humpless casemaker caddisflies. The species was described by Ross in 1938 and is known from North America. Like other members of Brachycentridae, larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species is represented by minimal observational records.
Molanna
hood casemakers
Molanna is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) commonly known as hood casemakers, comprising over 20 described species. Larvae construct portable cases from sand grains and inhabit shallow freshwater environments including lake margins and spring-fed streams. Adults exhibit sex-specific antennal morphology and chemical communication, with females producing sex pheromones that attract males to mating sites near water.
Molanna blenda
hood casemaker
Molanna blenda is a species of caddisfly in the family Molannidae, commonly referred to as hood casemakers. The species was described by Sibley in 1926. It is known from North America, where it inhabits freshwater environments. Like other members of Molannidae, larvae construct distinctive portable cases using silk and sand particles.
Molanna ulmerina
hood casemaker
Molanna ulmerina is a species of caddisfly in the family Molannidae, commonly referred to as a hood casemaker. It is found in North America and is one of approximately 30 described species in the genus Molanna. The species was described by Navás in 1934. As with other members of Molannidae, larvae construct distinctive portable cases with a hood-like anterior extension.
Molanna uniophila
Molanna uniophila is a caddisfly species in the family Molannidae. Larvae inhabit shallow, sand-bottomed lake margins and construct portable cases from sand grains and organic debris. They exhibit distinctive diel foraging behavior, migrating from sandy substrates to hard surfaces (rocks, wood, macrophytes) during evening and night to feed on periphyton, then returning to sandy areas by day. Adults display sex-dependent antennal dimorphism associated with asymmetric pheromone communication, where only females produce volatiles.
Molannidae
Hood Casemaker Caddisflies
Molannidae is a small family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) containing approximately 40 described species across three genera: Molanna, Molannodes, and Indomolannodes. The family occurs in the Holarctic and Oriental biogeographic regions. Adults are commonly known as "hood casemakers" and have a distinctive appearance in repose, resembling short branch segments. Larvae construct portable cases and inhabit lentic and slow lotic environments, primarily on sandy substrates.
Mystacides
long-horned caddisflies
Mystacides is a genus of caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, commonly known as long-horned caddisflies. The genus contains at least 20 described species distributed across North America and Eurasia. Adults are characterized by exceptionally long antennae, often exceeding body length. Larvae construct portable cases from sand grains and plant fragments.
Mystacides alafimbriatus
long-horned caddisfly
Mystacides alafimbriatus is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, described by Hill-Griffin in 1912. It is one of approximately 20 species in the genus Mystacides. The species is known from the Nearctic region, with records from North America. As with other Leptoceridae, adults are characterized by antennae that are notably longer than the body.
Nectopsyche
White Miller Caddisflies, White Millers
Nectopsyche is a genus of caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, commonly known as white millers. The genus contains at least 70 described species distributed across the Americas, with records from North America through the tropical Andes. Species occupy diverse freshwater habitats ranging from lentic (still-water) environments to lotic (flowing) highland streams. Several species have been studied as bioindicators of aquatic pollution due to their sensitivity to pesticides and heavy metals.
Nectopsyche albida
White Miller Caddisfly
Nectopsyche albida is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is found in North America. The species is associated with lentic (still-water) habitats including lakes and ponds.
Nectopsyche candida
Radiant Long-horned Caddisfly
Nectopsyche candida is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is found in North America. The species belongs to a genus characterized by elongated antennae, a trait reflected in the common name for this group. Like other caddisflies, it has an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage.
Nectopsyche diarina
White Miller Caddisfly
Nectopsyche diarina is a species of caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, first described by Ross in 1944. The genus Nectopsyche is commonly referred to as "white millers," a name derived from the pale coloration of adults. Like other members of this genus, N. diarina is attracted to ultraviolet light, making it observable during nocturnal blacklight surveys. The species occurs in North America within the Nearctic region.
Nectopsyche exquisita
exquisite long-horned caddisfly
Nectopsyche exquisita is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, characterized by its distinctive wing patterning and banded antennae. Adults are medium-sized caddisflies with striking yellow and white hair patterns on the wings. The species is found in eastern North America near slow-moving aquatic habitats. Adults are attracted to light and have been documented in urban settings.
Nemotaulius hostilis
Inimical Northern Caddisfly
Nemotaulius hostilis is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, found in North America. It inhabits permanent freshwater pools and exhibits a univoltine life cycle with adults emerging in late May. The species is notable for its use of sex pheromones in mate attraction and a distinctive reproductive phenomenon involving egg mass liquefaction. Larvae build cases using plant material and grow at rates comparable to other detritivorous shredders in permanent waters.
Neophylax
autumn mottled sedges
Neophylax is a genus of caddisflies commonly known as autumn mottled sedges, containing more than 30 described species. Larvae are aquatic case-builders that construct protective cases using silk and materials gathered from streambeds, including sand, stones, shells, and plant material. The genus exhibits notable life history diversity, with species showing temporal and spatial segregation in stream systems. Adults typically emerge in autumn, giving rise to the common name.
Neophylax aniqua
Neophylax aniqua is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) first described by Ross in 1947. The species occurs in North America, with documented populations in southern Ontario and Vermont. Larvae inhabit cool headwater sections of streams and construct protective cases using silk and gathered materials. Adults emerge in September and October following a summer prepupal diapause.
Neophylax concinnus
Neophylax concinnus is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) described by McLachlan in 1871. As a member of the family Uenoidae, it belongs to a group of case-building caddisflies whose larvae construct protective cases using silk and gathered materials. The species is recorded from North America, though specific details regarding its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Neophylax consimilis
Neophylax consimilis is a caddisfly species in the family Uenoidae, first described by Betten in 1934. Its larvae construct protective cases using silk and materials gathered from aquatic environments, with documented instances of exceptionally beautiful cases built from stones of varying colors. The species is found in North America and is part of the Nearctic fauna.
Neophylax fuscus
Neophylax fuscus is a species of caddisfly in the family Uenoidae (formerly placed in Thremmatidae). It occurs in North America. Like other members of the genus Neophylax, the larvae are case-building caddisflies that construct protective cases using silk and materials gathered from their aquatic environment.
Neophylax kolodskii
Kolodski's caddisfly
Neophylax kolodskii is a species of caddisfly in the family Uenoidae (formerly placed in Thremmatidae), described by Parker in 2000. It is known from North America. Larvae of the genus Neophylax are case-building caddisflies that construct protective cases using silk and gathered materials such as sand, stones, and plant fragments.
Neophylax mitchelli
Neophylax mitchelli is a North American caddisfly species in the family Uenoidae. Like other members of its genus, it has aquatic larvae that construct protective cases from silk and environmental materials. The species was described by Carpenter in 1933.
Neophylax oligius
autumn sedge
Neophylax oligius, commonly known as the autumn sedge, is a North American caddisfly species in the family Uenoidae. In southern Ontario, larvae grow from late autumn through spring, with adults emerging in September and October following a summer prepupal diapause. The species occupies stream habitats and exhibits case-building behavior typical of the genus.
Neophylax rickeri
Neophylax rickeri is a caddisfly species in the family Uenoidae, described by Milne in 1935. Larvae construct protective cases using silk and materials gathered from their aquatic environment. The species has been studied in northern California streams, where its life history characteristics have been documented.
Neophylax splendens
Neophylax splendens is a species of caddisfly in the family Uenoidae (formerly Thremmatidae). Larvae construct protective cases using silk and materials gathered from streambeds. The species was first described from North America in 1948 and has since been recorded in the Cypress Hills of Saskatchewan, Canada, representing a significant biogeographical extension linking montane regions of British Columbia and Utah to the southwestern corner of Saskatchewan.
Neothremma
Neothremma is a genus of caddisflies in the family Uenoidae, established by Dodds and Hisaw in 1925. The genus contains at least one described species, Neothremma siskiyou, known as the Siskiyou caddisfly, which is found in California. As a member of the Uenoidae, it belongs to a family of case-making caddisflies associated with cool, flowing waters.
Neothremma alicia
Neothremma alicia is a species of caddisfly in the family Uenoidae, first described by Dodds & Hisaw in 1925. It belongs to the order Trichoptera, a group of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases from silk and environmental materials. The genus Neothremma is part of the subfamily Uenoinae within the superfamily Limnephiloidea. Very little specific biological information is available for this species.
Nerophilus
mortarjoint casemakers
Nerophilus is a monotypic genus of caddisflies in the family Odontoceridae, containing the single described species N. californicus. These insects are commonly known as mortarjoint casemakers, a name reflecting their larval case-building behavior. The genus was established by Nathan Banks in 1899 and is endemic to western North America. As members of the order Trichoptera, adults possess hairy wings and aquatic larval stages.
Nerophilus californicus
California Mortarjoint Caddisfly
Nerophilus californicus is a species of caddisfly in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as the California Mortarjoint Caddisfly. It was described by Hagen in 1861 and is native to North America. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it represents one of approximately 60 observation records documented on iNaturalist. The species belongs to a family whose larvae are typically associated with lotic (flowing water) habitats.
Nothotrichia
Nothotrichia is a genus of microcaddisflies in the family Hydroptilidae, established by Flint in 1967. The genus belongs to the subfamily Hydroptilinae and is characterized by distinctive morphological features that separate it from related genera. As with other Hydroptilidae, members are small-bodied caddisflies with reduced wing venation.
Nyctiophylax
Nyctiophylax is a genus of caddisflies in the family Polycentropodidae, established by Brauer in 1865. Species in this genus are small, predatory caddisflies whose larvae construct silken retreats in freshwater habitats. The genus has been documented from Colombia, though its actual distribution likely extends more broadly across the Neotropics. Adults are generally small with reduced wing venation characteristic of the family.
Odontoceridae
Mortarjoint Casemaker Caddisflies
Odontoceridae is a family of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) commonly known as mortarjoint casemakers. The family contains approximately 12 genera and at least 100 described species. Larvae are aquatic case-builders that typically construct cases from mineral particles such as sand and small stones. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution with representatives in North America, Europe, South America, and other regions. Adults are generally active during spring and summer months.
Oecetis
long-horned caddisflies
Oecetis is a genus of long-horned caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, containing over 500 described species worldwide. Adults are distinguished by exceptionally long maxillary palps and an unbranched forewing M vein. Larvae inhabit freshwater environments including lakes, streams, and rivers with sandy substrates. The genus is among the largest and most widely distributed caddisfly genera, occurring in all faunal regions.
Oecetis cinerascens
Ashy Long-horned Caddisfly
Oecetis cinerascens is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, commonly known as the Ashy Long-horned Caddisfly. It is native to North America and was first described by Hagen in 1861 under the basionym Setodes cinerascens. As a member of the Leptoceridae, it possesses the characteristically elongated antennae that give this family its common name. The species has been documented through over 500 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is regularly encountered by naturalists.
Oecetis inconspicua
Inconspicuous Long-horned Caddisfly
Oecetis inconspicua is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It is found in North America, with additional records from Brazil. The species belongs to a family characterized by larvae that construct portable cases and adults with notably elongated antennae.
Oligophlebodes
Oligophlebodes is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Uenoidae. It was established by German entomologist Georg Ulmer in 1905. The genus belongs to the subfamily Thremmatinae, a group of case-making caddisflies primarily associated with freshwater habitats. Species in this genus are found in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in Asia and North America.
Oligostomis
giant casemakers
Oligostomis is a genus of giant casemaker caddisflies in the family Phryganeidae, established by Kolenati in 1848. The genus contains at least four described species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. One species, O. ocelligera, has been documented inhabiting acidic mine drainage environments in Pennsylvania, demonstrating tolerance to extreme pH conditions. Members construct portable cases from plant material, characteristic of the family.
Oligostomis ocelligera
giant casemaker
Oligostomis ocelligera is a species of giant casemaker caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It has been documented inhabiting acidic mine drainage environments in Pennsylvania, demonstrating tolerance to extreme conditions including low pH and high metal concentrations. The species is known from North America.
Oligostomis pardalis
Giant casemaker
Oligostomis pardalis is a species of giant casemaker caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It is found in North America, where it inhabits freshwater environments. The species was first described by Walker in 1852. Two subspecies are recognized: O. p. pardalis and O. p. redmani.
Onocosmoecus
Onocosmoecus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, established by Banks in 1943. The genus contains three described species: O. occidentalis, O. sequoiae, and O. unicolor. These are northern caddisflies distributed in western North America, with larvae that construct portable cases. The genus is classified within the subfamily Dicosmoecinae, a group of case-making caddisflies often associated with cool, running waters.
Onocosmoecus unicolor
northern caddisfly
Onocosmoecus unicolor is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as the northern caddisfly. It was described by Banks in 1897. The species is distributed across North America and is part of the diverse caddisfly fauna associated with freshwater habitats.
Palaeagapetus
Palaeagapetus is a genus of microcaddisflies in the family Hydroptilidae, subfamily Ptilocolepinae. The genus contains at least two North American species: the western P. nearcticus and the eastern P. celsus. Life stages including larva, pupa, and adult have been described, with larvae constructing portable cases.
Pedomoecus
early smoky wing sedges
Pedomoecus is a genus of caddisflies in the family Apataniidae, established by Ross in 1947. The genus contains one described species, Pedomoecus sierra. Members are classified as "early smoky wing sedges," indicating spring-emerging adults with darkened wings.
Pedomoecus sierra
Pedomoecus sierra is a species of caddisfly in the family Apataniidae, described by Ross in 1947. It is known from the Sierra Nevada region of California. Like other members of the order Trichoptera, the larvae are aquatic and construct protective cases from silk and environmental materials. The specific epithet 'sierra' refers to its type locality in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Phanocelia
Phanocelia is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae. The genus contains one described species, Phanocelia canadensis. Larvae of this species inhabit acidic bog ponds, specifically within floating Sphagnum moss at the water margin. The life cycle is univoltine with autumnal adult emergence.
Phanocelia canadensis
Phanocelia canadensis is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Banks in 1924. The species has been documented at the southern extreme of its range, where studies have examined its habitat preferences and life history traits adapted to northern conditions. As a member of the Limnephilidae, it belongs to a diverse family of caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material or sand.
Philocasca
Philocasca is a genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) established by Ross in 1941, containing species native to western North America. The genus has undergone taxonomic revision, with three species (P. alba, P. thor, and P. antennata) transferred to the new genus Montiphylax based on morphological distinctions in wing patterns, genitalia structure, and larval setae. Remaining Philocasca species include P. banksi, P. demita, P. oron, and P. rivularis. The genus exhibits notable ecological diversity, including both aquatic and terrestrial larval habits.
Philopotamoidea
Philopotamoidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) comprising two families: Philopotamidae and Stenopsychidae. The superfamily is considered paraphyletic in current phylogenetic treatments. Members are aquatic insects with larval stages inhabiting freshwater environments. The group is recognized by morphological features of adult mouthparts and larval case construction.
Phryganea
giant caddisfly, giant caddisflies
Phryganea is a genus of large caddisflies in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as giant caddisflies. The genus contains approximately 25–30 described species distributed across the northern hemisphere, with particularly high diversity in Europe and Asia. Larvae construct portable cases from plant material and are among the most primitive of the tube-case-building caddisflies. Adults are notable for their relatively large size compared to other caddisfly genera.
Phryganea cinerea
Rush Sedge Caddisfly
Phryganea cinerea is a caddisfly species in the family Phryganeidae, one of the most primitive families of tube-case-building caddisflies. Larvae are characterized by abundant setae (bristles) across the body surface, which play a significant role in sensory perception and behavior given their poor eyesight. The species has been studied for its tactile responses, with setae on different body regions producing distinct directional responses to mechanical stimulation.
Phryganea sayi
Say's Giant Caddisfly, Say's Giant Casemaker
Phryganea sayi is a species of giant caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae, commonly known as Say's Giant Caddisfly or Say's Giant Casemaker. It is one of the larger caddisfly species in North America. Like other members of Phryganeidae, the larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species was described by Milne in 1931.
Phryganeidae
Giant Casemaker Caddisflies
Phryganeidae is a family of large caddisflies comprising approximately 16 genera and at least 80 described species. Adults are among the largest caddisflies, with wingspans reaching 40 mm or more. Larvae are aquatic case-makers, constructing distinctive cylindrical cases from plant fragments arranged in ring-like patterns. The family occurs across the Holarctic region, with species inhabiting diverse freshwater habitats from cool mountain streams to acidic bog pools.
Phylloicus aeneus
Phylloicus aeneus is a caddisfly species in the family Calamoceratidae, first described by Hagen in 1861. It is known from Central America and is part of a genus of caddisflies whose larvae construct distinctive leaf-case shelters. The species belongs to an order of aquatic insects with high ecological importance in freshwater ecosystems.
Phylloicus mexicanus
Phylloicus mexicanus is a species of caddisfly in the family Calamoceratidae, described by Nathan Banks in 1900. The genus Phylloicus is known for larvae that construct distinctive leaf cases using cut pieces of living leaves. This species occurs in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions, with the specific epithet suggesting Mexican distribution. As with other Calamoceratidae, larvae are likely associated with freshwater habitats where they feed on plant material.
Phylocentropus
Phylocentropus is a genus of caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Dipseudopsidae, containing approximately 17 described extant species. The genus was established by Nathan Banks in 1907. Fossil species have been documented from Lebanese amber (Barremian, Early Cretaceous) and New Jersey amber (Turonian, Late Cretaceous), indicating a long evolutionary history. Members of this genus are part of the subfamily Hyalopsychinae.
Phylocentropus lucidus
Phylocentropus lucidus is a species of caddisfly in the family Dipseudopsidae. It is found in North America. The species was first described by Hagen in 1861. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects closely related to moths and butterflies, with larvae that typically inhabit freshwater environments.
Platycentropus
chocolate and cream sedge
Platycentropus is a genus of northern caddisflies (order Trichoptera) in the family Limnephilidae. The genus was established by Ulmer in 1905 and contains at least three described species distributed across North America. One species, Platycentropus radiatus, is commonly known as the "chocolate and cream sedge." These are case-making caddisflies typical of the family Limnephilidae.
Platycentropus radiatus
Chocolate-and-cream Sedge, chocolate and cream sedge
Platycentropus radiatus is a northern caddisfly species in the family Limnephilidae. Adults are recognized by their distinctive chocolate-brown and cream color pattern. The species occurs across North America and is one of the more frequently observed caddisflies in its range, with over 2,000 documented records. Larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from plant material.
Plectrocnemia
tube maker caddisflies
Plectrocnemia is a genus of tube maker caddisflies in the family Polycentropodidae comprising more than 120 described species. Larvae are aquatic predators that construct silken capture nets to intercept prey. The genus has been extensively studied for its larval silk production, vibration-mediated predatory behavior, and population genetics. Species occur across Europe and into western Asia, with detailed biological information available for several well-studied species including P. conspersa and P. brevis.
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cinerea
Plectrocnemia cinerea is a species of caddisfly in the family Polycentropodidae. It was originally described as Polycentropus cinereus by Hagen in 1861. The species is known from North America, with distribution records including Vermont in the United States. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it belongs to a group of insects closely related to moths and butterflies, with aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Plectrocnemia crassicornis
tube maker caddisfly
Plectrocnemia crassicornis is a species of tube maker caddisfly in the family Polycentropodidae, first described by Walker in 1852. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it belongs to a group of aquatic insects whose larvae construct protective cases or retreats. The species is known from North America, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented in published literature.
Polycentropodidae
Tube Maker Caddisflies, Trumpet-net Caddisflies
Polycentropodidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as tube makers or trumpet-net caddisflies. The family contains at least 33 genera and over 720 described species globally. Larvae construct distinctive silken retreats—short flattened tubes in rock hollows or slender tubular structures among aquatic vegetation—often surrounded by silken threads that function as prey detection devices. The family exhibits a disjunct distribution pattern in some regions, with species found in both tropical and temperate zones.
Polycentropus
tube maker caddisflies
Polycentropus is a large genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the family Polycentropodidae, containing more than 190 described species. The genus is commonly referred to as 'tube maker caddisflies' due to the silken retreat structures constructed by larvae. Species occur across multiple continents including Europe, Asia, and South America. Larvae are predatory and inhabit running waters, where they build silken retreats with capture nets to trap prey.
Polycentropus arizonensis
Polycentropus arizonensis is a species of caddisfly in the family Polycentropodidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1905. As a member of the order Trichoptera, it represents one of the diverse aquatic insect groups whose larvae develop in freshwater environments. The species is known from the southwestern United States and adjacent regions of Mexico. Like other Polycentropus species, it likely possesses larvae adapted for predatory or filter-feeding lifestyles in lotic or lentic habitats.
Polycentropus denningi
Polycentropus denningi is a species of tube maker caddisfly described by Smith in 1962. It belongs to the family Polycentropodidae, a group of predatory caddisflies whose larvae construct silken retreats rather than portable cases. The species is known from the Nearctic region.
Polycentropus maculatus
spotted tube maker caddisfly
Polycentropus maculatus is a species of tube-making caddisfly in the family Polycentropodidae. The species was described by Banks in 1908 and is known from North America. As a member of the genus Polycentropus, it constructs silken tubes for larval habitat.
Polycentropus variegatus
Polycentropus variegatus is a species of caddisfly in the family Polycentropodidae, originally described by Banks in 1900. It is currently treated as a synonym of Plectrocnemia variegata. The species is known from North America. As a member of the Polycentropodidae, it belongs to a group of net-spinning caddisflies whose larvae construct silken nets to capture prey.
Protoptila
Protoptila is a genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the family Glossosomatidae, subfamily Protoptilinae. The genus is primarily Neotropical in distribution, with numerous species described from Central America, northern South America, and Mexico. Species-level taxonomy relies heavily on male genitalia morphology. The genus has been subject to multiple regional revisions, with 19 species recorded from Costa Rica alone and new species continuing to be described.
Protoptilinae
Protoptilinae is the most diverse subfamily of Glossosomatidae, the saddle- or tortoise-case-making caddisflies. The subfamily contains 18 genera with a strikingly disjunct global distribution: five genera occur in the East Palaearctic and Oriental regions, while the remaining thirteen genera are restricted to the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. Members construct portable cases from mineral or plant material. The subfamily has undergone extensive taxonomic revision based on adult morphology and molecular phylogenetics, resulting in several new synonymies and refined generic diagnoses.
Pseudostenophylax
northern caddisflies
Pseudostenophylax is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, containing at least 80 described species. The genus was established by Martynov in 1909 with Pseudostenophylax fumosus as the type species. Species are primarily distributed across northern regions of North America and Eurasia, with notable diversity in Japan and alpine regions. Research on Japanese species has revealed strong phylogeographic patterns linked to mountain formation and glacial history.
Pseudostenophylax uniformis
Pseudostenophylax uniformis is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, originally described by Betten in 1934. It is currently recognized as a synonym of Pseudostenophylax sparsus. The species belongs to the subfamily Pseudostenophylacinae, a group of case-making caddisflies. Records indicate presence in North America, specifically in Vermont, United States.
Psilotreta
mortarjoint casemakers
Psilotreta is a genus of caddisflies in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as mortarjoint casemakers. The genus contains more than 30 described species. These insects are aquatic in their larval stage and are found in freshwater habitats. Adults are terrestrial and short-lived.
Psilotreta frontalis
mortarjoint casemaker
Psilotreta frontalis is a species of caddisfly in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as the mortarjoint casemaker. The species was described by Banks in 1899 and is known to occur in North America. As a member of the Odontoceridae, it belongs to a family of caddisflies whose larvae construct distinctive cases using silk and mineral particles.
Psilotreta indecisa
mortarjoint casemaker
Psilotreta indecisa is a species of caddisfly in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as a mortarjoint casemaker. The species has been documented in North America, with confirmed records from Michigan indicating it is widely distributed within that state. As a member of Odontoceridae, it belongs to a group of caddisflies known for constructing distinctive larval cases.
Psilotreta labida
mortarjoint casemaker
Psilotreta labida is a species of caddisfly in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as the mortarjoint casemakers. The species was described by Ross in 1944. It is known from North America. Larvae in this family construct distinctive case structures using sand grains and silk, cemented together in a manner resembling mortar joints.
Psilotreta rufa
mortarjoint casemaker
Psilotreta rufa is a species of caddisfly (order Trichoptera) in the family Odontoceridae, commonly known as the mortarjoint casemakers. The species was described by Hagen in 1861. Like other members of its family, larvae construct distinctive case coverings using mineral materials. The species occurs in North America, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in available literature.
Psychoglypha
Snow Sedges
Psychoglypha is a genus of northern caddisflies in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as Snow Sedges. The genus contains approximately 14 described species, with most species being cold-adapted and exhibiting late-season activity patterns. The majority of species are distributed in northern and western North America, including Oregon, California, Nevada, Idaho, and western Canada.
Psychoglypha avigo
Psychoglypha avigo is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to the "northern caddisfly" group within this family. The species is documented from North America, specifically within the Nearctic region. Available records for this species remain limited.
Psychoglypha bella
Beautiful Northern Caddisfly
Psychoglypha bella is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, commonly known as the Beautiful Northern Caddisfly. Originally described as Glyphotaelius bellus by Banks in 1903, this species is part of the tribe Chilostigmini within the subfamily Limnephilinae. The genus Psychoglypha comprises northern caddisflies found primarily in North American freshwater habitats.
Psychomyia
Psychomyia is a genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the family Psychomyiidae, established by Latreille in 1829. The genus has an almost cosmopolitan distribution with species recorded across Europe, Asia, and other regions. Larval stages have been described for at least some species, with diagnostic morphological characters established for instar identification. The genus is taxonomically active, with new species continuing to be described, particularly from China.
Psychomyiidae
Net Tube Caddisflies, tube-making caddisflies, trumpet-net caddisflies
Psychomyiidae is a family of tube-making caddisflies (order Trichoptera) characterized by larvae that construct silken galleries or tubes on submerged surfaces. Adults are typically small with reduced wing venation, including absence of forewing fork I and shortened hindwing forks. The family is distinguished from similar Polycentropodidae by leg spur formula 2-4-4, short thyridial cell, and male genitalia with elongate preanal appendages and reduced tergum IX. Larvae possess separated submental sclerites, broad foretrochantin, and whip-like pupal mandible apices. The family contains approximately 10 extant genera and has a global distribution with notable diversity in the Oriental and Western Palearctic regions.
Psychomyioidea
net-tube caddisflies
Psychomyioidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the suborder Annulipalpia, commonly known as net-tube caddisflies. The superfamily comprises five families: Psychomyiidae, Xiphocentronidae, Dipseudopsidae, Polycentropodidae, and Pseudoneureclipsidae. Members are characterized by specialized antennal sensilla and larval case-building behavior using silk nets or tubes. The group is primarily distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with significant diversity in the Neotropics, Oriental region, and Brazilian Amazon.
Ptilostomis
Giant Rusty Sedges, Giant Casemakers
Ptilostomis is a genus of large caddisflies commonly known as giant casemakers or giant rusty sedges. The genus comprises at least four described species distributed in North America. Adults are recognized by their substantial size relative to other caddisflies and rusty or brownish coloration. Larvae construct portable cases using plant material, characteristic of the family Phryganeidae.
Ptilostomis postica
giant casemaker
Ptilostomis postica is a species of giant casemaker caddisfly in the family Phryganeidae. It is found in North America. The species was originally described as Neuronia postica by Walker in 1852. As a member of Phryganeidae, it belongs to a family of relatively large caddisflies known for constructing portable cases from plant material.
Pycnopsyche
northern caddisflies
Pycnopsyche is a genus of northern caddisflies comprising approximately 17 described species. Larvae are aquatic shredders inhabiting leaf packs in temperate streams, where they construct portable cases from leaf material. The genus exhibits temporal niche partitioning among sympatric species, with differences in case materials, habitat preferences, and adult flight periods reducing interspecific competition.
Pycnopsyche antica
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche antica is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, a group of aquatic insects known for their larval cases constructed from plant material. The species occurs in North America, with records from the Nearctic region including the northeastern United States. As with other Limnephilidae, larvae are likely case-building and aquatic, though specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented in available sources.
Pycnopsyche gentilis
caddisfly
Pycnopsyche gentilis is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. Larvae are shredders that inhabit allochthonous organic materials in freshwater streams, where they feed on leaf litter colonized by aquatic fungi. The species is contemporaneous with congeneric P. luculenta, though larvae differ in case materials and habitat preferences. Adult males exhibit temporal partitioning of flight activity, with distinct peak arrival times at light sources when active on the same night as congeners.
Pycnopsyche guttifera
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche guttifera is a species of northern caddisfly described by Walker in 1852. It belongs to the family Limnephilidae, one of the largest families of caddisflies. The species is known from North America and is part of the Nearctic fauna. As with other members of its genus, it likely has an aquatic larval stage and terrestrial adult stage.
Pycnopsyche indiana
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche indiana is a species of northern caddisfly described by Ross in 1938. It belongs to the family Limnephilidae, one of the largest families of caddisflies. The species is known from North America and is part of a genus whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material.
Pycnopsyche lepida
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche lepida is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It is found in North America. Larval ecology has been studied in Michigan streams, where microdistribution is limited by physical habitat factors.
Pycnopsyche limbata
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche limbata is a species of northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. It occurs in North America, with records from the Nearctic region including the northeastern United States. As a member of Limnephilidae, it belongs to one of the most species-rich families of caddisflies, commonly known as northern caddisflies or case-makers.
Pycnopsyche luculenta
northern caddisfly
Pycnopsyche luculenta is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, native to North America. Larvae inhabit allochthonous organic materials and show distinct habitat preferences and case material choices that differ from congeneric species. The species exhibits temporally segregated adult flight behavior, with male peak arrival times at light differing from sympatric P. gentilis. Research has documented larval dispersion patterns using unique tagging methods.
Pycnopsyche scabripennis
giant red sedge
Pycnopsyche scabripennis, commonly known as the giant red sedge, is a northern caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae. Larvae inhabit allochthonous organic materials in stream environments. The species exhibits rapid larval growth followed by early aestivation and emergence, a temporal pattern that reduces competition with congeners. Adult males display distinct peak arrival times at light sources when active alongside related species, suggesting temporal partitioning as a coexistence mechanism.
Pycnopsyche virginica
Virginia Caddisfly
Pycnopsyche virginica is a species of caddisfly in the family Limnephilidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1900. It is native to North America within the Nearctic region. As a member of the genus Pycnopsyche, it belongs to a group of case-making caddisflies whose larvae construct portable cases from plant material. The species is part of the diverse Limnephilidae family, which contains many species with aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adults.
Rhyacophila
caseless caddisflies
Rhyacophila is a large genus of caddisflies (Trichoptera) in the family Rhyacophilidae, comprising at least 640 described species. The genus is cosmopolitan in distribution, with significant diversity in Europe, Asia, and North America. Larvae are commonly known as 'caseless caddis' because they do not construct portable cases, instead using silk to anchor themselves to substrates in running water. The genus exhibits high endemism in certain regions, with multiple species restricted to specific mountain ranges or islands.
Rhyacophila acutiloba
Rhyacophila acutiloba is a species of free-living caddisfly in the family Rhyacophilidae, first described by Morse & Ross in 1971. As a member of the genus Rhyacophila, it belongs to a group commonly known as "caseless caddis" or "free-living caddisflies" whose larvae do not construct portable cases. The species is known from North America, with records from Vermont and other parts of the Nearctic region. Like other rhyacophilids, it is associated with lotic (flowing water) habitats.
Rhyacophila angelita
Rhyacophila angelita is a species of free-living caddisfly described by Banks in 1911. It belongs to the family Rhyacophilidae, a group characterized by predatory larvae that do not construct portable cases. The species is known from North America.
Rhyacophila carpenteri
Rhyacophila carpenteri is a free-living caddisfly species in the family Rhyacophilidae, described by Milne in 1936. It is found in North America. As a member of the genus Rhyacophila, it belongs to a group commonly known as 'caseless caddis' that do not construct protective cases during their larval stage.
Rhyacophila formosa
Rhyacophila formosa is a species of free-living caddisfly first described by Nathan Banks in 1911. As a member of the family Rhyacophilidae, it belongs to a group of caddisflies whose larvae do not construct portable cases, instead living freely on rocky substrates in freshwater habitats. The species is known to occur in North America.
Rhyacophila grandis
Rhyacophila grandis is a species of free-living caddisfly in the family Rhyacophilidae, first described by Banks in 1911. Unlike many caddisflies, it does not construct portable cases as larvae. The species is documented from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Rhyacophila manistee
Rhyacophila manistee is a species of free-living caddisfly described by Ross in 1938. As a member of the family Rhyacophilidae, its larvae are caseless, constructing silk retreats rather than portable cases. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its ecology and distribution remain limited.
Rhyacophila nigrita
Rhyacophila nigrita is a free-living caddisfly species described by Nathan Banks in 1907. It belongs to the family Rhyacophilidae, a group of caddisflies whose larvae do not construct protective cases. The species has been documented in North America, with specific records from Vermont in the United States. Available information for this species remains limited.
Rhyacophila oreta
Rhyacophila oreta is a species of caseless caddisfly in the family Rhyacophilidae, described by Ross in 1941. It belongs to a genus whose larvae are free-living predators in freshwater habitats, constructing no protective cases. The species is known from North America in the Nearctic region. As with other Rhyacophila species, the larvae are aquatic and the adults are terrestrial, short-lived, and primarily reproductive in function.
Rhyacophilidae
Free-living Caddisflies
Rhyacophilidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as free-living caddisflies. Larvae are distinctive for not constructing portable cases, instead living freely on substrates in freshwater habitats. Most species are predatory. The family contains over 700 described species, with the genus Rhyacophila alone comprising approximately 500 species distributed primarily across the Northern Hemisphere.
Sericostomatidae
Bushtailed Caddisflies
Sericostomatidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as bushtailed caddisflies. The family comprises approximately 19 genera and at least 90 described species. Larvae construct portable cases using silk and environmental materials. The family has a global distribution with notable diversity in the Palearctic region, including endemic species in the Balkans, Iberian Peninsula, and Madagascar.
Sericostomatoidea
Sericostomatoidea is a superfamily of caddisflies (Trichoptera) containing approximately 13 families. The superfamily includes diverse case-making caddisflies, notably the Helicopsychidae (snail-case caddisflies) and the Australasian endemic family Conoesucidae. Molecular and morphological studies have confirmed the monophyly of at least some constituent families, though relationships among families remain under investigation.
Setodes
long-horned caddisfly
Setodes is a genus of long-horned caddisflies in the family Leptoceridae, established by Rambur in 1842. The genus contains at least 230 described species, making it one of the largest genera within the family. Species occur across multiple continents including Africa, Asia, and Madagascar, with colonization patterns suggesting potential dispersal from India to Madagascar. Larval stages are aquatic and inhabit freshwater lotic environments.
Setodes incertus
Setodes incertus is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. It was originally described as Leptocerus incertus by Walker in 1852 and later transferred to the genus Setodes. The species is known from North America and is a member of the Setodini tribe within the Leptocerinae subfamily.
Smicridea signata
netspinning caddisfly
Smicridea signata is a species of netspinning caddisfly in the family Hydropsychidae. The species is found in North America and belongs to the Smicridea (Smicridea) fasciatella species group, which is characterized by a phallic apparatus that is a simple tube with eversible internal sclerites at the apex. The fasciatella group has a broad distribution from the southwestern USA through Central America, the Greater Antilles, and most of South America.
Thremmatidae
Thremmatidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) currently classified within the family Uenoidae as subfamily Thremmatinae. The family includes genera such as Thremma, Neophylax, and Oligophlebodes. Larvae are case-building and can be identified by distinctive morphological features including mesonotal sclerite shape, foretrochantins, forefemora, ventral sclerites on abdominal segment I, head coloration patterns, and case morphology. At least one species, Neophylax splendens, exhibits an extended pre-pupal diapause lasting approximately three months.
Tinodes
Tinodes is a genus of caddisflies in the family Psychomyiidae, first described by John Curtis in 1834. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution with the richest species assemblages in the Oriental region and southern Western Palearctic. Species have been documented from Europe, Africa, Madagascar, the Comoros, and Asia. Larvae of at least some species construct fixed tunnel-like retreats (galleries) on stone surfaces in freshwater streams. The genus serves as an important bioindicator of freshwater ecosystem health due to its sensitivity to environmental changes.
Triaenodes
Triaenodes is a genus of long-horned caddisflies (family Leptoceridae) containing at least 170 described species. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution, with species documented across the Neotropics, North America, Europe, and Asia. Larvae construct portable cases and are primarily aquatic, with some species exhibiting specialized swimming behavior to navigate between aquatic macrophytes. The genus serves as the type genus for the tribe Triaenodini.
Triaenodes aba
Aba's Long-horned Caddisfly
Triaenodes aba is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, described by Milne in 1935. The common name references its notably elongated antennae, which extend well beyond the body length—a characteristic trait of the genus. As with other Leptoceridae, the larvae are aquatic and construct portable cases from plant material or sand grains. Adult emergence patterns and specific habitat preferences for this species remain poorly documented, with only four verified observations recorded on iNaturalist.
Triaenodes baris
Triaenodes baris is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, described by Ross in 1938. The species is found in North America and belongs to a genus characterized by elongated antennae in adults. As with other Leptoceridae, larvae likely inhabit aquatic environments and construct portable cases from plant material.
Triaenodes flavescens
Triaenodes flavescens is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, described by Banks in 1900. It belongs to a genus characterized by elongated antennae that often exceed body length. The species is known from North America. As with other members of Leptoceridae, adults are associated with aquatic habitats where larvae develop.
Triaenodes injusta
Triaenodes injusta is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. The genus Triaenodes is characterized by elongated antennae, often exceeding body length, and larvae that construct distinctive portable cases. This species is part of a diverse Nearctic fauna of Triaenodes, though specific biological details remain limited in published literature.
Triaenodes marginata
Triaenodes marginata is a species of caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. The genus Triaenodes belongs to the tribe Triaenodini within the subfamily Leptocerinae. The species has been treated taxonomically with at least one recognized synonym, Triaenodes marginata tarda Milne, 1934, which is now considered a synonym of Triaenodes tardus. Information regarding the biology, ecology, and distribution of this specific species is limited in the provided sources.
Triaenodes tardus
long-horned caddisfly
Triaenodes tardus is a North American long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae. Larvae construct portable cases and are capable swimmers, using setae on their extended metathoracic legs to move between aquatic macrophytes. Swimming speed averages 1.47 cm/s even while carrying cases nearly double their body mass. The species exhibits reduced swimming activity when vegetation is available, indicating swimming functions primarily for habitat relocation rather than escape.
Uenoidae
Stonecase Caddisflies
Uenoidae is a family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) commonly known as stonecase caddisflies. The family comprises approximately 7 genera and at least 80 described species, distributed across North America, Asia, and Europe. Larvae construct portable cases using mineral materials, hence the common name. The family was revised taxonomically in 1988 to include the subfamilies Uenoinae and Thremmatinae, incorporating genera formerly placed in separate families. Studies of Neophylax species demonstrate univoltine life cycles with temporal segregation between co-occurring species.
Wormaldia
Wormaldia is a diverse genus of fingernet caddisflies (family Philopotamidae), comprising approximately 175 extant species globally. It is the second-largest genus in Philopotamidae after Chimarra. Species occur across all biogeographic regions except Australasia, with notable diversification in the Neotropics and Nearctic. The genus includes fossil species from Late Cretaceous Burmese amber, indicating an ancient evolutionary history. Taxonomic revisions have focused heavily on male genitalia morphology for species identification.
Wormaldia arizonensis
Wormaldia arizonensis is a species of caddisfly in the family Philopotamidae, originally described by Ling in 1938. It belongs to the second largest genus in its family, with approximately 175 extant species worldwide. The species is known from the southwestern United States and Mexico. As with other philopotamid caddisflies, it is presumed to have aquatic larval stages and terrestrial adult stages, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented.
Wormaldia moesta
fingernet caddisfly
Wormaldia moesta is a species of fingernet caddisfly described by Banks in 1914. It belongs to the family Philopotamidae, a group of caddisflies characterized by their distinctive net-spinning larval behavior. The species has been documented in North America, with specific records from Vermont in the United States.