The adult caddisflies lay eggs on plants near the water edge. These hatch into larvae which live in the freshwater habitats before pupating into the adult caddisfly. The larvae have a long abdomen covered in material, three pairs of legs and their head and thorax are hardened to give protection. They look like small tubes and often appear lifeless.
Caddisfly larvae are found amongst plants at the bottom of fast flowing rivers and streams. They are extremely sensitive to pollution. If you find a cased caddisfly larva in the stream it shows it has excellent environmental quality.
The cased caddisfly larva builds itself a protective cocoon of sand, stones, leaves or twigs. This provides protection against predators and extra weight to prevent it being swept away by the current. The case also provides excellent camouflage with the surrounding stream bed.
Herbivore - Cased caddisly larvae mostly eat algae.
Unfortunately there are lots of pressures being placed on the freshwater habitats of the National Park. When drinking water is taken from the rivers this reduces their flow and has an impact on the plants and animals that can survive in the river.
Why not make a garden pond and attract pond animals into your garden! Adult caddisflies will lay eggs and you’ll soon have your own resident population!