What do caddisfly larvae eat?

Caddisfly larvae exhibit diverse dietary habits depending on their species, ranging from herbivorous to carnivorous or omnivorous diets.12

• Herbivores: Most larvae primarily consume aquatic plants, algae, diatoms, and plant debris.1
• Carnivores: A smaller number of species are predatory, feeding on other aquatic insects, crustaceans, and mollusks.1
• Omnivores: Some species maintain an omnivorous diet.1

To obtain their food, these larvae employ various strategies. Some species construct funnel-like webs between stones in running water to capture prey or organic matter, while others are free-living or create protective lairs. By consuming plant growth and disposing of organic debris, caddisfly larvae play a vital role in maintaining the health of their aquatic ecosystems.21