Saddle-Case Caddisfly vs New Zealand Caddisfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Saddle-Case Caddisfly New Zealand Caddisfly
Scientific Name Glossosoma conformis Olinga feredayi
Order Trichoptera Trichoptera
Family Glossosomatidae Conoesucidae
Size 6-9 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions North America New Zealand
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.

New Zealand Caddisfly

A stony-cased caddisfly endemic to New Zealand streams. Larvae are important grazers found in virtually all clean New Zealand rivers.

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Did You Know?

It is the most commonly encountered caddisfly in New Zealand freshwater surveys.