Apple Caddis vs Mother of Pearl Caddisfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Apple Caddis Mother of Pearl Caddisfly
Scientific Name Brachycentrus appalachia Mystacides azurea
Order Trichoptera Trichoptera
Family Brachycentridae Leptoceridae
Size 8-12 mm 7-10 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Detritivores
Regions North America Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Apple Caddis

A caddisfly of Appalachian streams that builds tapered square cases from plant material. Larvae orient their cases facing into the current for filter feeding.

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Did You Know?

The square cross-section of the case is thought to reduce drag in fast currents.

Mother of Pearl Caddisfly

A small iridescent caddisfly with long antennae and pearly blue-green wings. It swarms in large mating flights over lakes and slow rivers.

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Did You Know?

The iridescent wing scales of this caddisfly create a shimmering blue-green appearance unique among the Trichoptera.