Caddisfly Facts
Caddisfly is a generic name given to the insects that belong to the Order Trichoptera. There are approximately 12,000 insects within this order, and some entomologists study caddisflies exclusively. The caddisfly is known by many names, including sedge, shadfly, and periwinkle. Caddisflies belong to one of the most prolific orders in the animal kingdom.
Caddisfly larvae are aquatic, while adults are terrestrial and only visit water to lay their eggs. Caddisflies serve an important role in upholding the ecological balance of freshwater sources, as fish feed on them. Caddisflies also help keep these bodies of water clean by feeding on fallen leaves and other detritus.
Caddisflies make shells or casings for their pupal stage. The type of materials used for caddisfly casings varies from species to species. Some use soil for casings, while other caddisflies use dead twigs and leaves.
