Saddle-Case Caddisfly vs Dog Biting Louse

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Saddle-Case Caddisfly Dog Biting Louse
Scientific Name Glossosoma conformis Trichodectes canis
Order Trichoptera Phthiraptera
Family Glossosomatidae Trichodectidae
Size 6-9 mm 1.5-2 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Underground
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions North America Europe, Asia, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Saddle-Case Caddisfly

A small caddisfly whose larvae build distinctive saddle-shaped cases from tiny stones. When it pupates, it cuts the case free from the rock and seals itself inside.

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Did You Know?

Saddle-case caddisfly larvae graze algae so efficiently that they can create visible clean patches on otherwise algae-covered stream rocks.

Dog Biting Louse

A chewing louse that infests domestic dogs, feeding on skin debris and secretions. It can serve as an intermediate host for the dog tapeworm.

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Did You Know?

Dogs can acquire tapeworm infections by accidentally swallowing these lice during grooming, as the lice carry tapeworm larvae.