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Essential Caddisfly Information

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Types of Caddisflies

Caddisflies (order Trichoptera) are a diverse group of aquatic insects closely related to moths and butterflies. There are over 12,000 known species worldwide, and they are especially notable for their aquatic larval stage and the silk cases many species build. Caddisflies are categorized based on the type of case or retreat their larvae construct, as well as their behavior and habitat.

Here are the main types of caddisflies based on larval construction behavior:

  1. Case-Making Caddisflies (Case-Builders)
    These larvae construct portable cases from materials like sand, twigs, leaf fragments, or shell particles, held together with silk. Each species tends to use specific materials, and the shape of the case can help with identification. Families: Limnephilidae, Leptoceridae, Helicopsychidae.

  2. Net-Spinning Caddisflies (Retreat-Makers)
    These species build fixed silk retreats or nets in flowing water to trap organic particles for food. Their larvae remain anchored in these shelters and filter feed. Families: Hydropsychidae, Philopotamidae, Polycentropodidae.

  3. Free-Living Caddisflies (No Case or Net)
    These caddisflies do not build protective cases or nets during most of their larval life. They actively crawl and hunt along the bottom of streams. They may construct pupal cases only when ready to metamorphose. Families: Rhyacophilidae, Hydrobiosidae.

  4. Purse-Case Makers
    These larvae create small, rounded cases resembling a coin purse, typically from silk and fine detritus. The cases are often flattened and carried around as they move. Family: Glossosomatidae.

  5. Saddle-Case Makers
    These caddisflies build a dome-shaped case that is open at both ends, resembling a saddle on the larva’s back. They typically live in flowing waters and graze on algae. Family: Glossosomatidae (also includes saddle-case forms).

  6. Tube-Case Makers
    These larvae create cylindrical tube-like cases and are found in a variety of freshwater environments, including slow-moving streams and lakes. Family: Brachycentridae.

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Caddisfly Removal Services

What’s the best way to eliminate caddisflies?

How Homezies Helps Get Rid of Caddisflies?

Caddisflies are primarily aquatic insects, but adult caddisflies can become a nuisance when they emerge in large numbers near homes—especially those near rivers, streams, or lakes. While they don’t bite or spread disease, they’re attracted to lights and can accumulate around doors, windows, and porches.

Homezies offers an effective and environmentally responsible approach to controlling caddisfly infestations:

  • Targeted Inspection
    Our experts assess your property to identify breeding sources and environmental conditions that attract caddisflies, such as nearby water features or standing water.

  • Light Management Solutions
    We provide recommendations and solutions for reducing outdoor lighting that attracts adult caddisflies, including installing yellow bug lights or motion-activated lighting.

  • Moisture Control
    We help manage moisture levels around the home by improving drainage, sealing cracks, and reducing areas where water collects—making your property less appealing to caddisflies.

  • Barrier Treatments
    In cases of heavy infestation, we apply safe, targeted treatments to exterior surfaces to discourage caddisflies from gathering on your home.

  • Ongoing Monitoring
    Homezies offers regular follow-up and monitoring to ensure long-term control and to adjust strategies if needed.

With a focus on prevention and eco-friendly practices, Homezies keeps your home clear of nuisance insects like caddisflies—so you can enjoy your space without the swarms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Caddisflies are aquatic insects that often emerge near water sources. While harmless to humans, adult caddisflies can become a nuisance when they swarm around lights and gather on walls, windows, and doors.
No, caddisflies do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases. However, their large numbers and tendency to gather around lights and buildings can make them an annoyance, especially during seasonal hatches.
Caddisflies are drawn to light sources at night and are usually found near water bodies such as rivers, ponds, or streams. Moisture and outdoor lighting are the main attractants.
Caddisflies typically stay outdoors but may enter homes through open doors, windows, or cracks. They don’t reproduce indoors and usually die off quickly inside, but their presence can be bothersome.
Minimize outdoor lighting at night, seal entry points, and use yellow "bug lights" that are less attractive to insects. Proper landscaping and reducing standing water also help discourage them.
Homezies offers inspections to identify attractants, applies exterior treatments where needed, and recommends light and moisture management strategies to reduce future caddisfly activity around your home.

Remove existing pests and stop future infestations from happening.

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