
Caddisflies (order Trichoptera) are insects with aquatic larvae and terrestrial adults, comprising about 14,500 species mainly categorized into two suborders: Integripalpia and Annulipalpia. Integripalpian larvae create portable cases for protection, while annulipalpian larvae build fixed retreats. Their aquatic larvae inhabit diverse environments like streams, ponds, and oceans, utilizing silk to craft cases reinforced with various materials. Feeding strategies vary, with some being predators, while adults typically live short lives without feeding. In fly fishing, caddisflies are imitated using dry flies for adults and wet flies or nymphs for larvae. They serve as bioindicators of water quality and have inspired artistic creations, such as those by Hubert Duprat, who incorporates precious materials into larvae-constructed cases.