California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Aquatic Biological Assement

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Hydroptilidae Level 1 Level 2

Hydroptilidae

 

Key  Characters

Small size, usually < 6mm ("microcaddisflies"). Thoracic segments with dorsal, sclerotized plates. Most larvae construct portable, purse-like cases (final instar). Many feed on filamentous algae (piercers). Undergo hypermetamorphosis: free-living during first four instars.
Tolerance generally 3-6, may be as high as 8 in some genera (Agraylea)
Distribution CA, OR, WA, NV, AZ