Sand-Dwelling Caddis vs Common Malaria Mosquito

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Sand-Dwelling Caddis Common Malaria Mosquito
Scientific Name Molanna angustata Anopheles quadrimaculatus
Order Trichoptera Diptera
Family Molannidae Culicidae
Size 10-14 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Detritivores Blood Feeders
Regions Europe, Northern Asia North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Sand-Dwelling Caddis

A caddisfly whose larvae build flattened shield-shaped cases from sand grains. The wide case acts like a snowshoe, preventing the larva from sinking in soft sediment.

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Did You Know?

Its case has lateral flanges that distribute weight and prevent sinking into soft sand.

Common Malaria Mosquito

A freshwater mosquito that was the primary malaria vector in the eastern United States. Larvae float horizontally at the water surface in slow-moving waters.

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Did You Know?

It is named for the four dark spots on each wing that distinguish it from other Anopheles species.