Species Insects & ArthropodsNet-spinning Caddisfly

Net-spinning Caddisfly

Hydropsyche betteni

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Net-spinning Caddisfly (Hydropsyche betteni)

The Net-spinning Caddisfly is a common stream caddisfly whose larvae spin elaborate, fine-meshed filtering nets anchored to rocks in fast water to capture drifting food particles. It is one of the most important aquatic insects for clean-water bioassessment — very sensitive to organic pollution. Adults are moth-like and are attracted to lights near streams.

Habitat
Fast, clean rocky streams and rivers
Diet
Larvae: algae, diatoms, and organic particles caught in silk nets. Adults: plant fluids
How common
Common

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