The Humble Caddisfly Helps Clean Our Rivers

Have you ever noticed small tubes of pebbles in the river? Those are the cocoons of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most underrated marvels—the caddisfly!

Caddisflies go through a complete metamorphosis like butterflies. Starting underwater as aquatic larvae, the grubs build their cocoons out of the pebbles, twigs, sand, and other small debris they can scavenge. Once they metamorphose, they crawl to the water’s edge, emerging as a tan-orange mothlike fly.

Caddisflies help keep our rivers clean and healthy. As larvae, they are voracious eaters, consuming algae and organic debris that can otherwise lead to water pollution. They are like a tiny cleaning crew, working hard to maintain the conditions of their aquatic habitat. Additionally, caddisflies at all stages of life–larvae, pupae, and dry-fly are a prime lure for anglers.

Let’s give these tiny wonders the recognition they deserve!