How do spongillafly larvae live in freshwater habitats?

Spongillafly larvae (family Sisyridae) are unique among the order Neuroptera because they are aquatic and live as parasites on freshwater sponges.123

Their life cycle and habitat interactions include the following:

• Development: Females deposit egg clusters on or near the water, often under a silky web.1
• Feeding: The larvae are specialized parasites that inhabit freshwater sponges, using elongated, bristle-like mandibles and maxillae to pierce and feed on their host.12
• Morphology: Unlike many other neuropterans, these larvae are aquatic and possess long, bristle-like antennae. They lack labial palpi and have a single tarsal claw on each leg.2
• Pupation: Once the larvae reach maturity, they leave the water to undergo their pupal stage, during which they spin a double-walled, lacelike cocoon.1

These insects are found globally wherever their host freshwater sponges thrive in clean lakes and slow-moving streams.14