Snail-Case Caddis vs Caddisfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Snail-Case Caddis | Caddisfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Helicopsyche borealis | Limnephilus rhombicus |
| Order | Trichoptera | Trichoptera |
| Family | Helicopsychidae | Limnephilidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 10-15 mm body |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Snail-Case Caddis
A remarkable caddisfly whose larvae build coiled cases from sand grains that closely resemble tiny snail shells. It is widespread in North American streams.
Did You Know?
Its spiral case is so convincing that early naturalists classified the larvae as snails rather than insects.
Caddisfly
Moth-like adults with hairy wings held tent-like over the body. Aquatic larvae are famous architects that build portable cases from silk, pebbles, sand, leaves, and shells.
Did You Know?
Artist Hubert Duprat gave caddisfly larvae gold flakes, pearls, and precious stones — the larvae incorporated them into their cases, creating tiny jeweled sculptures.