Hydroptilidae

Hydroptilidae
Microcaddisfly from Pryor Creek, Oklahoma
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Trichoptera
Suborder: Spicipalpia (?)
Superfamily: Hydroptiloidea
Family: Hydroptilidae
Stephens, 1836
Subfamilies
Hydroptila larva

The Hydroptilidae are a large family of caddisflies (Trichoptera) with a worldwide distribution. They are commonly known as microcaddisflies or purse-case caddisflies, in reference to two characteristic traits of this family: Hydroptilidae are much smaller than other caddisflies, rarely exceeding 5 mm (0.20 in) in length. Their larvae do not build a protective case until the final instar of their growth. At that time however, they build a typically Purse-shaped case, either portable or stuck to the substrate, in which the larva finishes growth and pupates.[1]

  1. ^ Ralph W. Holzenthal; Roger J. Blahnik; Aysha Prather; Karl Kjer (January 12, 2010). "Trichoptera". Tree of Life Web Project. Retrieved April 4, 2010.