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Stressor-response models are used to detect and predict changes within ecosystems in response to anthropogenic and naturally occurring stressors. While nonlinear stressor-response relationships and interactions between stressors are common in nature, predictive models often do not account for them due to perceived difficulties in the interpretation of results. We used Irish river monitoring data from 177 river sites to investigate if multiple stressor-response models can be improved by accounting for nonlinearity, interactions in stressor-response relationships and environmental context dependencies. Out of the six models of distinct biological responses, five models benefited from the inclusion of nonlinearity while all six benefited from the inclusion of interactions. The addition of nonlinearity means that we can better see the exponential increase in Trophic Diatom Index (TDI3) as phosphorus increases, inferring ecological conditions deteriorating at a faster rate with increasing phosphorus. Furthermore, our results show that the relationship between stressor and response has the potential to be dependent on other variables, as seen in the interaction of elevation with both siltation and nutrients in relation to Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) richness. Both relationships weakened at higher elevations, perhaps demonstrating that there is a decreased capacity for resilience to stressors at lower elevations due to greater cumulative effects. Understanding interactions such as this is vital to managing ecosystems. Our findings provide empirical support for the need to further develop and employ more complex modelling techniques in environmental assessment and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecology and distribution of caddisflies is an important topic with regard to the general biodiversity of insects and also the ecological quality of freshwaters. Our recent rediscovery of Chimarra marginata (Linnaeus) in the Czech Republic took place after more than 80 years and is important from a biomonitoring point of view. We present new data from the Ohře River in western Bohemia and give a review of the historical occurrence of this species in the territory of former Czechoslovakia. Ecological preferences are discussed as well as the potential value of the species for bioindication. This report also emphasizes the importance of regular routine sampling to monitor changes in species diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Northeastern Argentina is covered by a subtropical forest that extends through the Parana and the Araucaria Forest provinces. It is considered a biodiversity hotspot, and it has been studied extensively in regard to the diversity of vertebrates and vascular plants, but the knowledge of invertebrates, in particular insects, is scarce. In order to address this gap, the diversity of caddisfly species, a group of aquatic insects inhabiting freshwater systems and its riparian habitat, was analyzed. Specimens of Trichoptera from insect collections and bibliographical data were used to estimate the species richness and composition of the two biogeographical provinces, its protected and unprotected areas, and the Yungas province, the other main area of diversification of Trichoptera species in Neotropical Argentina. Additionally, two indexes that incorporate the taxonomic structure of each area were calculated to estimate its diversity: the average taxonomic distinctness and its variation. The study showed that both biogeographical provinces harbor 43.3% of the Trichoptera species of the country, even though an extensive understudied area in the Uruguay River basin was found. Twenty four new records were provided, 15 for Argentina, and 27 endemic species identified. Despite finding differences in species composition, species richness and sometimes the taxonomic structure of the assemblages, the diversity of the studied areas resulted similar, only being lower in the Yungas province. Our results show a complementarity of the species composition in the different areas, highlighting the importance of the preservation of each one to maintain the pool of species of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caddisfly sampling conducted during 2023 in the Bistrica e Shalës River, belonging to the Ibër basin and in the Mirusha River, belonging to the Drini i Bardhë (White Drin) basin, revealed the first record of Stactobiella risi (Felber, 1908) for Kosovo and for Ecoregion 5 (Dinaric Western Balkans). Previously, this species had only been known from few localities in Europe. The morphology of the male genitalia in the collected specimens generally corresponds to the described species, with the exception of a less apically elongated inferior appendages in lateral view, which may be attributed to geographical variability. This discovery increases the knowledge about the distribution of family Hydroptilidae in Kosovo and the Balkans. In addition to this we provide a list of sympatric species in both localities including few rare species such as Hydropsyche botosaneanui Marinković Gospodnetić, 1966 and Rhyacophila macedonica Karaouzas, Valladolid & Ibrahimi, 2022.

Freshwater biodiversity in the Maghreb region remains largely unexplored, providing significant opportunities for further discovery. Algerian caddisflies have received relatively little attention. The present study aims to fill gaps in caddisfly taxonomy and distribution by conducting a comprehensive survey of rivers and streams in northeastern Algeria, with a focus on collecting adult caddisflies. Through our research, we identified a total of 28 species from Algeria, and a new caddisfly species, Hydropsyche tenerifa, collected in the Canary Islands, expanding our knowledge of the caddisfly fauna in North Africa. Among these discoveries, we describe 15 new species (H. cherfa, H. makhloufa, H. seybousa, H. algirica, H. dbabcha, H. farrahae, H. guitna, H. chenioura, H. edougha, H. louara, H. vinconi, H. linae, H. nardjissae, Agapetus ferrerasi, A. yasminae) from Algeria and reclassify three subspecies or varieties as distinct species (Wormaldia numidica, Thremma africanum, Mesophylax hoggarensis). In addition, our surveys led to the discovery of three previously unrecorded caddisfly species (Lype reducta, Lepidostoma kumanskii, and Adicella syriaca) in Algeria, as well as the expansion of the known range of seven additional species. These results underscore the importance of the Maghreb's freshwater biodiversity and highlight the need for a more comprehensive understanding of caddisfly taxonomy in the region. By providing a clearer taxonomy and distributional framework for caddisflies, our research establishes a solid foundation for future monitoring and conservation initiatives targeting these important aquatic insects and the ecosystems they inhabit.

Insects have evolved complex and diverse visual systems in which light-sensing protein molecules called "opsins" couple with a chromophore to form photopigments. Insect photopigments group into three major gene families based on wavelength sensitivity: long wavelength (LW), short wavelength (SW), and ultraviolet wavelength (UV). In this study, we identified 123 opsin sequences from whole-genome assemblies across 25 caddisfly species (Insecta: Trichoptera). We discovered the LW opsins have the most diversity across species and form two separate clades in the opsin gene tree. Conversely, we observed a loss of the SW opsin in half of the trichopteran species in this study, which might be associated with the fact that caddisflies are active during low-light conditions. Lastly, we found a single copy of the UV opsin in all the species in this study, with one exception: Athripsodes cinereus has two copies of the UV opsin and resides within a clade of caddisflies with colorful wing patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While most species of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) have entirely terrestrial life histories, ∼0.5% of the described species are known to have an aquatic larval stage. Larvae of aquatic Lepidoptera are similar to caddisflies (Trichoptera) in that they use silk to anchor themselves to underwater substrates or to build protective cases. However, the physical properties and genetic elements of silks in aquatic Lepidoptera remain unstudied, as most research on lepidopteran silk has focused on the commercially important silkworm, Bombyx mori. Here, we provide high-quality PacBio HiFi genome assemblies of 2 distantly-related aquatic Lepidoptera species [ Elophila obliteralis (Pyraloidea: Crambidae) and Hyposmocoma kahamanoa (Gelechioidea: Cosmopterigidae)]. As a step toward understanding the evolution of underwater silk in aquatic Lepidoptera, we used the genome assemblies and compared them to published genetic data of aquatic and terrestrial Lepidoptera. Sequences of the primary silk protein, h-fibroin, in aquatic moths have conserved termini and share a basic motif structure with terrestrial Lepidoptera. However, these sequences were similar to aquatic Trichoptera in that the percentage of positively and negatively charged amino acids was much higher than in terrestrial Lepidoptera, indicating a possible adaptation of silks to aquatic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution and diversity of insects are crucial conservation issues. The order Trichoptera is comprised of numerous endangered species, but the rarity of some makes it challenging to determine their conservation priority. In recent decades, data based on caddisfly larvae have become more frequent in limnological research in Slovakia. Our research, focusing mainly on adult caddisflies, has led to more reliable and accurate identification of many species that cannot be identified with certainty in the larval stage.We combined several entomological methods, including sweeping, Malaise traps, and UV light attraction, to increase the likelihood of catching rare species. The text lists and discusses the discoveries of caddisfly species that are particularly important for faunistics or biodiversity in Slovakia, as well as in the Central European context. Enoicyla reichenbachii (Kolenati, 1848), Limnephilus incisus Curtis, 1834, Ptilocolepus granulatus (Pictet, 1834) and Oecetis testacea (Curtis, 1834) were recorded for the first time in Slovakia. The rare species Hagenella clathrata (Kolenati, 1848) and Adicella balcanica Botosaneanu and Novák, 1965, previously found in Slovakia, were also recorded. Additionally, a new locality of Adicella syriaca Ulmer, 1907 indicates a further northward shift of this Mediterranean species. We further discussed the faunistically important records of Beraeamyia hrabei Mayer, 1937, Allotrichia pallicornis (Eaton, 1873), Ceraclea riparia (Albarda, 1874), Grammotaulius nitidus (Müller, 1764) and Limnephilus fuscicornis Rambur, 1842 from Slovakia. The conservation status of each species is proposed and discussed on the basis of our faunistic records, in accordance with the forthcoming update of the Slovak Red Book. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xiphocentronidae comprises eight genera found across tropical regions. In Brazil, two genera are present: Xiphocentron Brauer, 1870 and Machairocentron Schmid, 1982. Xiphocentron is further divided into five subgenera: Xiphocentron (Antillotrichia) Banks, 1941, X. (Glyphocentron) Schmid, 1982, X. (Rhamphocentron) Schmid, 1982, X. (Sphagocentron) Schmid, 1982, and X. (Xiphocentron). Xiphocentron (Antillotrichia) is the most species-rich subgenus and the only one occurring in South America. In Brazil, there are 18 species of X. (Antillotrichia), mainly distributed in the Atlantic Forest, with one species recorded in the Brazilian Amazon. Machairocentron, another Neotropical genus, comprises nine species, but only one species is known in Brazil. Recent research in the Brazilian Amazon led to the discovery of three new species of Xiphocentron: Xiphocentron (Antillotrichia) moasp. n., Xiphocentron tapajossp. n., and Xiphocentron (Antillotrichia) xingusp. n. This study describes and illustrates these species, focusing on adult males, and highlighting the distinctive morphology of segment IX and inferior appendages. New distribution records are provided for X. (Antillotrichia) sclerothrix Pes & Hamada, 2013 and M. falciforme Pes & Hamada, 2013. Additionally, M. amahuaca Vilarino, Salles & Bispo, 2023 and X. (Antillotrichia) surinamense Flint, 1974 are reported for the first time in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbivores in wetlands are key organisms that shape the structure and composition of wetland plant communities (algae and vascular plants). The detritus produced by herbivory contributes to nutrient cycling and provides important resources for other organisms in the ecosystem. Due to their importance, we decided to survey a set of 12 seasonal wetlands located in Andean Patagonian forests. We registered the biotic and abiotic variables of each wetland and the diversity and abundance of herbivores. We found two groups of wetlands: short hydroperiod and long hydroperiod. Despite this, the structure of the communities was not related to the hydroperiod length, abundance, or species composition. In particular, the abundance of herbivores was explained by chlorophyll, pH and dissolved oxygen, among others. Their diversity and abundance were (in decreasing order): rotifers, copepods, cladocerans, caddisflies, and amphibians. Probably, the species found in these wetlands are well adapted to different hydroperiod regimens and, even in short hydroperiods, can complete their life cycle. The results found here do not match with the model of hydroperiod gradient; however, other variables not measured here, such as diversity and abundance of aquatic plants or predation by invertebrates, could impact the composition and abundance of herbivores in these wetlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Triassic represents a critical period for understanding the turnover of insect fauna from the Paleozoic to the Mesozoic following the end-Permian mass extinctions (EPME); however, fossil deposits from the Early-Middle Triassic are scarce. The exceptionally preserved 239 million-year-old fossil insect fauna recorded at Monte San Giorgio (Switzerland), including 248 fossils representing 15 major insect clades is presented here. Besides the exceptional features, including their small size and excellent preservation, the fossils have importance in the evolutionary history of the group. The taxonomic and ecological diversity recovered, including both freshwater (dragonflies and caddisflies) and terrestrial taxa (true bugs and wasps), demonstrates that complex environments sustained a paleocommunity dominated by monurans (thought not to have survived the EPME), midges, and beetles. Interestingly, a blattodean-like fossil bearing an external ootheca was also found, important for understanding Paleozoic roachoids to extant cockroaches' transition and the evolution of maternal brood care. Moreover, the youngest and first complete specimen of †Permithonidae and the oldest sawfly fossils were discovered. Finally, round-shaped bodies, compatible with seminal capsules or lycophyte spores, were found on the abdomens of several midge-like individuals. If these are spores, non-seed-bearing plants could have been the first entomophilous plants rather than gymnosperms, as recently supposed. Altogether, these fossils contribute substantially to understanding insect evolution and Paleozoic-Mesozoic faunal turnover. The exceptionally preserved 239 million-year-old fossil insect fauna discovered at Monte San Giorgio includes 248 fossils from 15 major insect clades, contributing significantly to the understanding of insect evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swarming, as a special form of mating aggregation, is most noteworthy in insects of the orders Ephemeroptera, Diptera, and Trichoptera. Swarming in extant trichopterans is well understood in terms of sex composition, specific mating behaviors, and functional morphological specializations of adults, but an exploration of the evolution of such aggregative behaviors is hampered by the dearth of available examples from the fossil record as well as the ability to reliably distinguish the few gatherings as the result of swarming relative to other taphonomic or behavioral factors. Herein we describe five new fossil species of caddisflies preserved in mid-Cretaceous amber from Myanmar, all preserved as large aggregations. Monospecific aggregations of these five new species can be positively identified as swarms based on morphological traits of wing shape, as well as the presence of particular forms of sexual dimorphism. Results of a phylogenetic reconstruction of both molecular and morphological data as well as ancestral-trait reconstructions and tip-dating analyses indicate that swarming was likely present in the Triassic as a feature of the trichopteran groundplan. Since most Mesozoic insectivorous predators were diurnal based on morphological evidence, largely nocturnal caddisflies would have been freed from such pressures. The phylogeny also shows a correlation between the rise of nocturnal bat predators from the Paleocene or early Eocene and the repeated loss of swarming from various clades of caddisflies, revealing the potential impact of bat predation on reshaping the behavioral landscape of Trichoptera during the Cenozoic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caddisfly larvae are aquatic insects that play a crucial role in the diverse ecological functions of river ecosystems. In this study, the authors document the caddisfly fauna in northwest Hunan from 2017 to 2022, presenting a checklist for Hunan Province. Prior to this research, only 22 caddisfly species were known in this region. Our collections revealed 73 species, including 67 new records for the province. Descriptions and illustrations of seven new species, Chimarra ventriserrata n. sp., Wormaldia shapingensis n. sp., Psychomyia longispina n. sp., Psychomyia paralonga n. sp., Oecetis unguiculata n. sp., Anisocentropus rotundatus n. sp., Agapetus aries n. sp., along with two noteworthy known species, Diplectrona cf. Kallirrhoe Malicky 2002 and Wormaldia unispina Sun, 1998 are provided. This elevates the total caddisfly fauna in Hunan Province to 89 species, surpassing the previous record fourfold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trophic relationships between bats (Chiroptera) and Lake Baikal biota have been assessed based on microscopic studies of Myotis petax feces (n = 22). From 82 to 86% of samples had fragments of exoskeletons of caddis flies (Trichoptera) and dipterans (Diptera). These taxa include mainly aquatic and semiaquatic species. Many species from these taxa are endemic to Lake Baikal. Terrestrial insects are found in studied samples less frequently (Hymenoptera 41%, Neuroptera 27%, and Heteroptera 9%). Morphological analysis has revealed fragments of Baikal amphipods in two fecal samples of M. pretax. Further molecular studies will make it possible to detect greater invertebrate taxa diversity in fecal samples of bats feeding near Lake Baikal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sierra Nevada (southern Iberian Peninsula) harbours a great biodiversity and the studies on some aquatic insect groups have been and continue to be numerous there. This database brings together information on Plecoptera, Trichoptera and Coleoptera inhabiting running waters of this mountain system above 800 m of altitude. It includes data on the number, life stage and sex of individuals as well as the available information on abiotic characteristics of their habitats. The dataset is composed of 1,718 sampling events carried out between 1901 and 2022 in approximately 60 different water bodies, 15,347 occurrences pertaining to more than 203,000 individuals, and 10,173 records of associated measurements (23 physico-chemical parameters). The dataset is the result of a comprehensive review of scientific literature and of integrating data from recent research projects and the Sierra Nevada Global-Change Observatory's long-term monitoring data. This information is valuable for those studying past distributions and abundances of the species in the dataset, for building predictive models or just studying temporal trends in the current context of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caddisflies (Trichoptera) are among the most diverse groups of freshwater animals with more than 16 000 described species. They play a fundamental role in freshwater ecology and environmental engineering in streams, rivers and lakes. Because of this, they are frequently used as indicator organisms in biomonitoring programmes. Despite their importance, key questions concerning the evolutionary history of caddisflies, such as the timing and origin of larval case making, remain unanswered owing to the lack of a well-resolved phylogeny. Here, we estimated a phylogenetic tree using a combination of transcriptomes and targeted enrichment data for 207 species, representing 48 of 52 extant families and 174 genera. We calibrated and dated the tree with 33 carefully selected fossils. The first caddisflies originated approximately 295 million years ago in the Permian, and major suborders began to diversify in the Triassic. Furthermore, we show that portable case making evolved in three separate lineages, and shifts in diversification occurred in concert with key evolutionary innovations beyond case making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichoptera are a diverse group of insects with aerial adults and aquatic immature stages. Despite their importance in freshwater environments, fundamental aspects of their biology are unknown, and no chromosomal studies have been performed in Neotropical species. The aim of this study was to provide the first cytogenetic analysis of four Trichoptera species from the Neotropics. We analysed the meiotic development and chromosome behaviour in Smicridea (Rhyacophylax) pampeana Flint (Annulipalpia: Hydropsychidae), Marilia flexuosa Ulmer (Integripalpia: Odontoceridae), Triplectides misionensis Holzenthal (Integripalpia: Leptoceridae), and Grumicha grumicha (Vallot) (Integripalpia: Sericostomatidae) by conventional cytogenetic procedures. The chromosome numbers are 2 n  = 31/32 (female/male) in S. (R.) pampeana , 2 n  = 57 (female) in M. flexuosa , 2 n  = 47 (female) in T. misionensis , and 2 n  = 35 (female) in G. grumicha. All four species have a simple sex chromosome system Z/ZZ (female/male). Females are the heterogametic sex, and their meiosis is achiasmatic. Our results together with available cytogenetic data provide more information on the karyology of Trichoptera and contribute to the current scientific knowledge of the possible mechanisms involved in chromosomal evolution. Based on all the evidence, we propose the existence of possible positive relationships between biological traits, ecological strategies, and cytogenetic features in Trichoptera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The FibH gene, crucial for silk spinning in insects, encodes a protein that significantly influences silk fiber mechanics. Due to its large size and repetitive sequences, limited known sequences of insect FibH impede comprehensive understanding. Here, we analyzed 114 complete FibH gene sequences from Lepidoptera (71 moths, 24 butterflies) and 13 Trichoptera, revealing single-copy FibH in most species, with 2–3 copies in Hesperinae and Heteropterinae (subfamily of skippers). All FibH genes are structured with two exons and one intron (39–45 bp), with the second exon being notably longer. Moths exhibit higher GC content in FibH compared to butterflies and Trichoptera. The FibH composition varies among species, with moths and butterflies favoring Ala, Gly, Ser, Pro, Gln, and Asn, while Trichoptera FibH is enriched in Gly, Ser, and Arg, and has less Ala. Unique to Trichoptera FibH are Tyr, Val, Arg, and Trp, whereas Lepidoptera FibH is marked by polyAla (polyalanine), polySer (polyserine), and the hexapeptide GAGSGA. A phylogenetic analysis suggests that Lepidoptera FibH evolved from Trichoptera, with skipper FibH evolving from Papilionoidea. This study substantially expands the FibH repertoire, providing a foundation for the development of artificial silk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caddisfly sampling conducted during 2023 in the Bistrica e Shalës River, belonging to the Ibër basin and in the Mirusha River, belonging to the Drini i Bardhë (White Drin) basin, revealed the first record of Stactobiella risi (Felber, 1908) for Kosovo and for Ecoregion 5 (Dinaric Western Balkans). Previously, this species had only been known from few localities in Europe. The morphology of the male genitalia in the collected specimens generally corresponds to the described species, with the exception of a less apically elongated inferior appendages in lateral view, which may be attributed to geographical variability. This discovery increases the knowledge about the distribution of family Hydroptilidae in Kosovo and the Balkans. In addition to this we provide a list of sympatric species in both localities including few rare species such as Hydropsyche botosaneanui Marinković Gospodnetić, 1966 and Rhyacophila macedonica Karaouzas, Valladolid & Ibrahimi, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of two high‐head dams on macroinvertebrate communities within the regulated reaches of the Wujiang River in China was explored, using longitudinal monitoring data spanning from 2006 to 2016. In this study, we set up 10 sampling sites categorized into four areas based on different stressors and defined three stages based on the timeline of dam construction. Our findings revealed significant changes in community composition before and after dam impoundment. While certain original dominant taxa, such as Rivularia globosa and Lithoglyphopsis ovatus, remained dominant throughout the stages, mayflies and caddisflies nearly vanished in the downstream reaches of the dams. This trend was accompanied by the disappearance of taxa with low adaptability and the emergence of tolerant taxa downstream of the dams. Additionally, typical limnological taxa colonized the inundated reaches. Dam impoundment affected not only macroinvertebrate community composition but also diversity. In this study, the recovery effect of communities downstream of dams was not observed due to the limited distance, but the presence of Wujiangdu Dam upstream of the two dams for over 20 years makes us believe that in a large river system, macroinvertebrate communities downstream of high‐head dams may fully recover if the distance from the dams is long enough. The original and vulnerable species R. globosa, which demonstrated remarkable adaptability and thrived downstream of dams, should be further studied in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater aquatic ecosystems are threatened globally. Biological monitoring is required to deliver rapid and replicable assessment of changes in habitat quality. The Ephemeroptera, Plectoptera, Trichoptera (EPT) index is a globally recognised rapid bioassessment that measures taxa richness of three insect orders whose larvae are considered sensitive to freshwater habitat degradation. South-western Australia contains threatened freshwater ecosystems but has depauperate EPT fauna and high endemism, potentially reducing the capacity of the EPT index to track degradation. This study investigated if EPT species richness, composition or individual species tracked physical or chemical river degradation in three catchments in south-western Australia. We sampled EPT fauna and measured water chemistry, erosion, sedimentation, riparian vegetation cover and instream habitat at 98 sites in the winters of 2007 and 2023. We found 35 EPT taxa across the study area with a median number of species per site of two. EPT species richness had weak positive associations with a composite water quality index and dissolved oxygen and weak negative associations with electrical conductivity and total nitrogen. No association was found between physical and fringing zone degradation measures and EPT species richness. EPT community structure generally did not distinguish between sites with high or low degradation levels. The presence of the mayfly Nyungara bunni tracked salinity, dissolved oxygen and nitrogen levels, but its usefulness as a bioindicator could be limited by its restricted range. This study suggests that the EPT index would need modification or combination with other indices to be a useful rapid bioassessment in south-western Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rare and beautifully colourful old-world Parasetodes is a so-called set-aside genus with unsettled taxonomy. For instance, a recent survey (Malicky 2006) has synonymised all the Palaearctic and Oriental species to the type species Parasetodes respersellus (Rambur, 1842). The diverse forewing pattern, as a potential diagnostic character state is liable to disappear rapidly in alcohol or denuded and faded even on dry pinned specimens. In this revision we have delineated species by the ventral, surface-perpendicular profile of the dorsal arm of gonopod, the titillating plate, as well as by the lateral profile of the phallic organ and increased the species number of the genus from 12 to 45 describing 33 new species from the Palaearctic, Oriental, and Afrotropical fauna regions. Palaearctic fauna region: Parasetodes temirlik Oláh & Salokannel, sp. nov., Oriental fauna region: P. bali Oláh, sp. nov., P. baoloc Oláh, sp. nov., P. borneo Oláh & Mey, sp. nov., P. dalat Oláh, sp. nov., P. gunung Oláh & Mey, sp. nov., P. hoang Oláh, sp. nov., P. indicus Oláh, sp. nov., P. kambait Oláh & Johanson, sp. nov., P. lamdong Oláh, sp. nov., P. madacus Oláh & Johanson, sp. nov., P. maechaem Oláh & Mey, sp. nov., P. maehong Oláh & Mey, sp. nov., P. namgen Oláh & Johanson, sp. nov., P. nokrek Oláh & Mey, sp. nov., P. pahang Oláh, sp. nov., P. ratnapur Oláh, sp. nov., P. sinicus Oláh, sp. nov., P. tumbang Oláh & Me,y sp. nov., P. umran Oláh & Mey, sp. nov. Afrotropical fauna region: P. amboas Oláh, sp. nov., P. ambovom Oláh, sp. nov., P. barnardi Oláh, Johanson, Mey & Salokannel, sp. nov., P. caprivi Mey & Oláh, sp. nov., P. ikeleng Oláh & Johanson, sp. nov., P. kindam Oláh, sp. nov., P. mahajan Oláh & Johanson, sp. nov., P. meyan Oláh, sp. nov., P. rwandicus Oláh & Me,y sp. nov., P. sikasso Oláh & Johanson, sp. nov., P. tinko Oláh & Johanson, sp. nov., P. weytus Mey & Oláh, sp. nov., P. zambicus Oláh & Johanson, sp. nov. We have reinstated the species status of P. aquilonius Yang & Morse, 1997 stat. restit., P. ussuriensis Martynov, 1935 stat. restit., P. bakeri (Banks, 1913) stat. restit., P. kiangsinicus (Ulmer, 1932) stat. restit., P. maculatus (Banks, 1911) stat. restit., raised the taxonomic status from subspecies to species rank of Parasetodes tanganicanus Marlier, 1956 stat. nov., and transferred Triaenodes demoulini Jacquemart, 1966 to Parasetodes as P. demoulini (Jacquemart, 1966) comb. nov.

Based on recent collecting and a synthesis of ~100 years of historical data, 219 caddisfly species are reported from the state of Indiana. Seventeen species are reported herein from the state for the first time, including two previously thought to be endemic to the southeastern USA. Species records are also presented herein organized by drainage basin, ecoregion, glacial history, and waterbody type for two distinct time periods: before 1983 and after 2005. More species were reported from the state before 1983 than after 2005, despite collecting almost 3× the number of occurrence records during the latter period. Species occurrence records were greater for most families and functional feeding groups (FFGs) for the post-2005 time period, although the Limnephilidae, Phryganeidae, Molannidae, and Lepidostomatidae, particularly those in the shredder FFG , instead had greater records before 1983. This loss of shredders probably reflected the ongoing habitat degradation within the state. While species rarefaction predicts only a few more species to be found in Indiana, many regions still remain under-sampled and 44 species have not been collected in >40 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Samarco/Vale/BHP mine tailing dam breach that took place in Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil, in 2015, deposited high concentrations of metals and metalloids in the Rio Doce basin, severely impacting freshwater and riverine forest ecosystems. To assess developmental instability of caddisflies in response to the environmental impacts of the dam breach, we investigated the fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in the species Smicridea (Rhyacophylax) coronata (Trichoptera: Hydropsychidae). FA was assessed at individual and populational scales using geometric morphometric methods in the cephalic capsule and mandibles of larvae and also on the forewings of adults, both collected under the impacted condition, and under the least disturbed condition. The levels of FA increased in response to stressors on the forewings at the populational scale, and on the mandibles, at individual scale. These morphological variations in the larval and adult stages may lead to detrimental effects and result in high mortality rates as well as lower adult fitness. Trichoptera forewings are revealed as suitable traits for assessing FA, holding potential for applications in biomonitoring programs. Directional asymmetry levels were higher than FA levels for all traits, and this correlation could be explained by a transition from fluctuating to directional asymmetry in the presence of heightened disturbance. Our results validate the relationship between the impacts from the dam breach and increased developmental instability in this species with likely cascade effects on the insect community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tests for the role of species' relative dispersal abilities in ecological and biogeographical models rely heavily on dispersal proxies, which are seldom substantiated by empirical measures of actual dispersal. This is exemplified by tests of dispersal–range size relationships and by metacommunity research that often features invertebrates, particularly freshwater insects. Using rare and unique empirical data on dispersal abilities of caddisflies, we tested whether actual dispersal abilities were associated with commonly used dispersal proxies (metrics of wing size and shape; expert opinion). Across 59 species in 12 families, wing morphology was not associated with actual dispersal. Within some families, individual wing metrics captured some dispersal differences among species, although useful metrics varied among families and predictive power was typically low. Dispersal abilities assigned by experts were either no better than random or actually poorer than random. Our results cast considerable doubt on research underpinned by dispersal proxies and scrutiny of previous research results may be warranted. Greater progress may lie in employing innovative survey and experimental design to measure actual dispersal in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies consider spatio‐temporal variation in egg‐laying for benthic insects in streams. However, such variation can have lasting effects on the numbers and distribution of offspring and subsquent life‐cycle stages. For species that require specific egg‐laying habitats, such as rocks that protrude from the water surface (emergent rocks, ER), densities of egg‐laying habitat can affect densities of benthic eggs and even larvae for some species. For such species, changes in water levels alter the spatio‐temporal distribution of ER and can affect densities of eggs and, potentially, larvae. Below dams, modified flow regimes may alter the temporal availability of ER. In this study we tested whether river regulation altered the availability of oviposition habitat and changed the phenology of oviposition compared to unregulated rivers.At multiple sites in two regulated (Murrumbidgee, Tumut) and three unregulated (Goobarragandra, Goodradigbee, Micalong) rivers (south‐east Australia), we surveyed densities of ER and egg masses of five species of caddisflies (family Hydrobiosidae) seasonally over 3 years (2019–2021). Samples of adults also were collected during two seasons using light traps.High flows in both regulated rivers submerged all rocks during spring and summer and low‐flow releases stranded rocks above the waterline at all (Murrumbidgee River) or most (Tumut River) sites during autumn and winter. No ER or egg masses were observed on any date in the Murrumbidgee River, despite relatively large catches of adults. On the Tumut River, low densities of ER and egg masses were twice observed at one site, during seasons (winter, autumn) when oviposition was low in the unregulated rivers.In unregulated rivers, ER and egg masses (five species, four genera) were present at all sites but with lower densities in winter than in other seasons. During peak oviposition periods, densities of egg masses per site were not strongly related to densities of ER. In summer 2019, ER in two unregulated rivers were blanketed by sheets of algae and sediment that appeared to prevent oviposition because no egg masses were observed at this time.In regulated rivers, aseasonal flows precluded egg‐laying by submerging (summer, autumn) or stranding (winter, spring) all or most ER. In contrast, ER were available all year in the unregulated rivers and egg‐laying occurred all year, except when ER were blanketed by algae and sediment. Within seasons, local densities of egg masses may be limited by numbers of gravid females, rather than numbers of ER, which differs from previous research.Identifying impediments to reproduction is critical to understanding variability in population numbers in natural and altered systems. Our observations of oviposition failure downstream of dams present a new hypothesis for why some insect species are absent from channels where flows are regulated for irrigation. Blankets of algae may similarly preclude reproduction in rivers with low‐flow conditions, but this remains untested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater salinity regimes vary naturally and are changing in response to anthropogenic activities. Few insect species tolerate saline waters, and biodiversity losses are associated with increasing salinity in freshwater. We used radiotracers (22Na, 35SO4, and 45Ca) to examine ion uptake rates across concentration gradients in mayflies (Ephemeroptera), caddis flies (Trichoptera), and mosquitoes (Diptera) and made observations for some traits in seven other taxa representing mayflies, stone flies (Plecoptera), true flies (Diptera), and true bugs (Hemiptera). We further assessed the permeability of the cuticle to 3H2O influx and 22Na efflux when faced with deionized water in these same taxa. We hypothesized a relationship between uptake rates and reported saline tolerances, but our data did not support this hypothesis, likely because acclimatory responses were not part of this experimental approach. However, we found several common physiological traits across the taxa studied, including (i) ionic uptake rates that were always positively correlated with dissolved concentrations, (ii) generally low Ca uptake rates relative to other freshwater taxa, (iii) greater Na loss than Na uptake in dilute conditions, (iv) ion uptake that was more variable in ion-rich conditions than in dilute conditions, and (v) 3H2O influx that occurs quickly (but this rapidly exchangeable pool of body water accounts for a surprisingly small percentage of the water content of species tested). There remains much to learn about the physiology of these important organisms in the face of changing salinity regimes worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The flora and fauna of Panama is species-rich due to its location and topography, and the resulting diversity of microclimates and habitats. The last two summaries (benchmarks) of information about the caddisfly fauna (Insecta, Trichoptera) Panama were published in1992 and 2015. From 1861 to 2015, researchers from outside of Panama recorded 13 families, 45 genera, and 257 species of caddisflies. From 2015 through 2023, a series of publications by the Aquatic Invertebrate Research Group at the Universidad Autónoma de Chiriquí in David, Panamá have recorded an additional 2 families,11 genera, and 278 species. Thus, a total of 535 species of caddisflies, now recorded from the Republic of Panama, are distributed among 15 families and 56 genera. Panama's Trichoptera fauna shows greatest affinity to other Central American countries, and to Costa Rica in particular. Indeed, 289 Costa Rican species are shared with Panama, including 91 former Costa Rican endemics now known from both countries. The Hydroptilidae is the most species rich family in Panama. Although the number of new species and new country records of macro-Trichoptera has diminished somewhat over this third benchmark period, no similar fall-off has yet been detected in the micro-Trichoptera. The caddisfly fauna of Panama is now better known, but much more work remains to define the fauna and, just as importantly, to map the surficial and altitudinal distribution of each genus and species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydromorphological degradation is one of the most common stressors to freshwater ecosystems nowadays. Rivers lose riparian vegetation, habitat heterogeneity, natural flow velocity, etc., due to hydromorphological alterations. We analyzed macroinvertebrate communities in a wide range of hydromorphological conditions – from near natural sites to significantly altered water bodies, focusing on Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT). Considering that the EPT group is a quite sensitive and generally stenovalent group, we wanted to examine which of the hydromorphological pressures affects them the most. We also wanted to identify indicator taxa for different levels of degradation: minor, moderate, and severe. We collected samples from 84 karst rivers sites in Croatia. We found 52 taxa of EPT (Ephemeroptera – 21, Plecoptera – 11, Trichoptera – 20). Changes in river morphology proved to be the most important stressor affecting the distribution of the EPT group. Hydrological regulation did not show significance toward the EPT community, possibly due to the karst nature of the rivers studied. The most sensitive EPT taxa were those with the greatest preference for macrophytes and lithal habitats. More tolerant EPT taxa were those with a wide range of habitat preferences and/or taxa that feed on particulate organic matter. HIGHLIGHTS Our research underscores the pivotal role of morphological changes in rivers as the primary stressor impacting EPT communities.; We identify indicator taxa for different levels of hydromorphological degradation.; Focusing on the understudied karst rivers, our research provides unique insights into the complex and heterogeneous habitats of these ecosystems.; Reliable metrics for assessing river health.;

A recent article in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B discusses a study on the evolutionary history of caddisflies, a type of aquatic insect. The study used molecular data and fossil evidence to construct a phylogenetic tree of caddisflies and determine their evolutionary relationships. The findings suggest that caddisflies originated earlier than previously thought, in the Permian period, and began to diversify in the Triassic and Cretaceous periods. The study also found that different types of caddisfly cases evolved independently multiple times. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of fossils and genomes in further understanding the evolutionary history of caddisflies. [Extracted from the article]

Suspended and deposited sediments in streams can interfere with filter-feeding caddisfly larvae by reducing feeding sites and feeding efficiency, potentially lowering the densities, growth rates, and secondary production of an important trout prey. We conducted field studies at multiple stream sites with differing suspended-sediment loads, and a laboratory study was conducted under controlled conditions; together, these were designed to examine the role of suspended sediments in the population dynamics and behavior of Brachycentrus occidentalis (Trichoptera: Brachycentridae) larvae in a Minnesota, USA, trout stream. Stream sites that had elevated turbidities and elevated levels of suspended sediments also had significantly more fine bottom substrates and higher substrate embeddedness. In addition, Brachycentrus densities were reduced, growth rates were slower, secondary production was reduced, and the overall benthic macroinvertebrate taxa richness was lowest at the site with the highest suspended-sediment loading. Colder water temperatures at one site also influenced Brachycentrus production. In 24 h laboratory studies conducted in recirculating aquaria, the feeding activities of Brachycentrus larvae were reduced and their positioning altered under high turbidities (500 nephelometric turbidity units, NTU) relative to low turbidities (50 NTU or lower). High suspended-sediment loads have adversely affected filter-feeding caddisfly larvae by embedding and burying preferred coarse feeding substrates, altering their feeding positions and movements during the highest flows, and potentially impacting densities, growth rates, and secondary production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to test the significance of the EPT index in the water quality assessment of three types of water bodies in hilly and mountainous region of Serbia. The aquatic macroinvertebrate community was dominated by the group of insects, of which 95 taxa represent the EPT group. We compared the obtained values of biological indices used for the assessment of water quality according to the national legislation with the overall status assessment represented by the ecological quality classes (EQC). The results of the Spearman correlation test showed a negative correlation of EQC with the EPT index, BMWP score, H′, total number of taxa and number of sensitive taxa, while a positive correlation was observed for the values of SI and Tubificinae %. The values of EQC and biological indices were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that the parameters that contributed most to the differences were the EPT index, the BMWP score and the number of sensitive taxa. The results indicate that the EPT index is an excellent indicator of changes in water quality and an important tool for the ecological categorization of water bodies in mountain regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichoptera is one of the most evolutionarily successful aquatic insect lineages and is highly valued value in adaptive evolution research. This study presents the chromosome-level genome assemblies of Himalopsyche anomala and Eubasilissa splendida achieved using PacBio, Illumina, and Hi-C sequencing. For H. anomala and E. splendida, assembly sizes were 663.43 and 859.28 Mb, with scaffold N50 lengths of 28.44 and 31.17 Mb, respectively. In H. anomala and E. splendida, we anchored 24 and 29 pseudochromosomes, and identified 11,469 and 10,554 protein-coding genes, respectively. The high-quality genomes of H. anomala and E. splendida provide critical genomic resources for understanding the evolution and ecology of Trichoptera and performing comparative genomics analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abstraction of surface water from rivers to meet human demands is widespread and predicted to increase in extent and intensity in the future. Indeed, the combined impact of increasing abstraction and climate change is one of the greatest threats to river ecosystems. Therefore, it is important to understand how rivers respond to increasing magnitudes of abstraction as well as other aspects of abstraction including duration, season, and river condition. I conducted a meta-analysis on the relationships between abstraction and macroinvertebrates to examine 1) the strength and shape of the relationship with increasing abstraction magnitude, 2) the relationship with abstraction duration, 3) whether season influenced the relationship, 4) whether river condition influenced the relationship, and 5) whether small-scale experimental abstraction had similar relationships with macroinvertebrates as larger-scale institutional abstraction. Abstraction magnitude was negatively associated with 3 of 6 macroinvertebrate metrics. Increasing duration of abstraction was related to decreased Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera density and drift concentration. Most studies examined abstraction during the summer, making it difficult to compare seasonal effects of abstraction except for its effects on benthic density, for which there was no difference between spring and summer. There was also no effect of river condition on macroinvertebrate responses to abstraction. Finally, small-scale experimental studies generated a different relationship of abstraction magnitude on Diptera density than larger-scale studies, calling into question the usefulness of small-scale experimental studies. Although there were some generalities in the response of macroinvertebrates to abstraction, there was variability in both the strength and direction of response among studies. This finding suggests that it will be difficult to develop prescriptive rules regarding the amount, duration, and timing of abstraction that provides water for human uses but has little impact on river ecosystems. Further work should explore whether rivers with similar attributes (e.g., size, ecoregion, climate) respond to abstraction in similar fashions. In addition, there is a great need to explore the mechanistic factors driving the response of biota to abstraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Insects that undergo complete metamorphosis, collectively known as Holometabola, are the most successful lineage of living organism, including about 830,000 species. Understanding the intricate relationships among the major groups of holometabolous insects is a critical task in systematic biology, particularly given their immense diversity. This research analyzed the wing base structure of Holometabola using comparative morphology to further clarify several crucial relationship nodes within Holometabola. Morphological data were selected from both the forewing base and hindwing base, comprising fifty-three discrete characters. Many phylogenetic relationship nodes among Holometabola were recovered exclusively using the wing base structure. Our research further highlights the efficacy of wing base morphology data in understanding insect phylogeny and evolution. Phylogenetic relationships among Holometabola have been the subject of controversy. The value of the wing base structure in phylogenetic analysis has been demonstrated but remains largely underexplored and scarce in studies of Holometabola. We studied the phylogenetic relationships among Holometabola (excluding Siphonaptera), focusing exclusively on wing base structure. Cladistic assessments were conducted using 53 morphological data points derived from the bases of both the forewing and hindwing. The results of wing base data revealed a sister relationship between Hymenoptera and remaining orders. The sister-group relationships between Strepsiptera and Coleoptera, Mecoptera and Diptera, Trichoptera and Lepidoptera, and Neuropterida and Coleopterida were corroborated. In Neuropterida, our results recovered the sister relationship between Megaloptera and Neuroptera, as well as the monophyly of Megaloptera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the first field observations of caddisfly (Trichoptera) larvae using an invasive alien aquatic plant, Crassula helmsii (Kirk) Cockayne, in case construction. In samples from invaded ponds across the UK and Belgium, we have recorded the presence of C. helmsii fragments in cases from Limnephiluslunatus Curtis, 1834, Limnephilus marmoratus Curtis, 1834, Limnephilus flavicornis (Fabricius, 1787) (Limnephilidae), Triaenodes bicolor (Curtis, 1834), and Oecetis furva (Rambur, 1842) (Leptoceridae). Fragmentation of C. helmsii in case creation and augmentation may produce vegetative propagules, thus facilitating further dispersal of this invasive macrophyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted a field survey and rearing experiment to investigate habitat, larval morphology, and ecology of Diplectrona aiensis Kobayashi, 1987. Larvae of this species look similar to those of D. takaii Nozaki, 2021, originally described as Diplectrona sp. DC by Akagi (1956); however, they can be distinguished by shape of the secondary setae on the head, thoracic nota, and abdominal segments. Our results revealed that generations of D. aiensis have overwintering and non-overwintering cohorts. Larvae build their retreat and capture nets on boulders and among leaf patches and prefer lower water velocity (mean: 22.2 cm/s, range: 1.3 ≦ 52.4 cm/s). Until the third instar, they feed only on detritus and after that, they feed on both animal and plant matter. This is the first study to report morphology, habitat, and ecology of D. aiensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Tizatetrichia Harris, Flint, and Holzenthal, 2002 (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae) was described based on a single male of T. costatricensis Harris, Flint, and Holzenthal, 2002 collected from Guanacaste Province in northwestern Costa Rica. Since then, the second species (T. panamensis Harris and Armitage, 2019) was discovered in a small Caribbean drainage near Chiriquí Grande, Panama. No female of this genus had been described. Recent collections carried out by the Aquatic Invertebrate Research Group (AIRG) at the Universidad Autónoma de Chiriquí (UNACHI) now expand our knowledge of this genus. Herein, we describe a female of Tizatetrichia for the first time, comparing it with that of the related genus Bredinia Flint, 1968. In addition, we describe two new species from central and western Panama (T. escabrosa sp. n. and T. paloseco sp. n.), report one first country record (T. costaricensis), provide keys to the identification of Stactobiinae genera and Tizatetrichia species, and discuss the distribution of the genus in relation to altitude. Panama is now the home to all four species of this Neotropical genus, and its endemic status expanded to Central America. The Republic of Panama has 490 species of caddisflies distributed among 15 families and 56 genera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we describe a new species of the Hydropsyche angustipennis species group, Hydropsyche nador sp. n., from Selouan and Bni Snassen areas in Morocco. The males of the new species are closest to those of Hydropsyche maroccana Navás, 1936 and H. resmineda Malicky, 1977 but differ from them mainly in the shape of the apical part of phallus, dorsal keel of segment IX, and the shape of harpago. We also used the size of head, eyes, and occipital setal warts and interocular distance, as well as the associated ratios for species delimitation. In total, ten species of the genus Hydropsyche Pictet, 1834 are now known from Morocco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xiphocentron species are often distinguished only by subtle differences in genital structures, and species are usually described with small type series not allowing the distinction of intra and interspecific variation. Herein we evaluated for the first time the use of the forewing geometric morphometrics to verify Xiphocentron species distinctiveness at a population level. Most of the known specimens from Atlantic rainforest and Brazilian savanna were analyzed, including six new species (Xiphocentron guarani sp. n., Xiphocentron karaja sp. n., Xiphocentron schmidi sp. n., Xiphocentron tapuia sp. n., Xiphocentron tupi sp. n., Xiphocentron xokleng sp. n.). Species were analyzed in two comparative datasets of species with similar genitalia. Forewing shape among species differed statistically. Canonical variate analysis showed partial overlapping of wing shape in most species except to X. karaja sp. n. and X. xokleng sp. n. Cross-validation test was able to discriminate species with an overall correctness of 64.65 % and 73.15 % in each dataset. So, forewing morphometrics showed moderate to high effectiveness depending on the Xiphocentron species, but had a lower informativeness compared to the >80 % correctness shown in studies with another Trichoptera genus, Smicridea. The lower forewing distinction in Xiphocentron might be associated with a stronger functional selection of wing traits related to miniaturization. Additionally, two very similar species described from the same locality Xiphocentron steffeni and Xiphocentron ilionea were re-described, clarifying their distinctiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomonitoring is an approach that uses indicators or sentinel species to assess the health or pollution of an environment, combining diversity based on specific taxonomic groups with the taxa's indicator of pollution into a single index or score. Benthic macroinvertebrates are among the most preferred and valuable indicators of the biotic index. Our study aims to evaluate water quality and ecological status using biotic and diversity indices based on benthic macroinvertebrates. The macroinvertebrate samples used in this study were collected seasonally from 16 stations determined in Karasu Stream. These samples consist of 14,747 specimens belonging to 9 orders and 40 families of Insecta, Malacostraca, Hirudinea and Oligochaeta. In addition, some physicochemical parameters were measured at the stations. The data obtained were analysed using the Turkey‐Biological Monitoring Working Group (TR‐BMWP), Average Score per Taxon (ASPT), Family Biotic Index (FBI), Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) taxon richness index, and Shannon–Wiener, Simpson and Hill's diversity indices. Our results showed that the last six stations of Karasu Stream were under pressure due to various anthropogenic effects. According to biotic indexes, the ecological quality status of the water in the stations was determined to be high or good in the first 10 stations and average, poor or bad in the last 6 stations. The results of our study showed that TR‐BMWP, FBI and EPT indices are more reliable in determining water quality than the ASPT index and reflect the environmental situation better. Since the TR‐BMWP index is adapted to macroinvertebrate taxa distributed in Türkiye, it can be used as a suitable tool for evaluating other rivers' water quality in Türkiye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect feeding structures, such as mandibles, interact with the ingesta (food or/and substrate) and can be adapted in morphology, composition of material and mechanical properties. The foraging on abrasive ingesta, as on algae covering rocks, is particularly challenging because the mandibles will be prone to wear and structural failure, thus suggesting the presence of mandibular adaptations to accompany this feeding behavior. Adaptations to this are well studied in the mouthparts of molluscs and sea urchins, but for insects there are large gaps in our knowledge. In this study, we investigated the mandibles of a grazing insect, the larvae of the trichopteran Glossosoma boltoni. Using scanning electron microscopy, wear was documented on the mandibles. The highest degree was identified on the medial surface of the sharp mandible tip. Using nanoindentation, the mechanical properties, such as hardness and Young's modulus, of the medial and lateral mandible cuticles were tested. We found, that the medial cuticle of the tip was significantly softer and more flexible than the lateral one. These findings indicate that a self-sharpening mechanism is present in the mandibles of this species, since the softer medial cuticle is probably abraded faster than the harder lateral one, leading to sharp mandible tips. To investigate the origins of these properties, we visualized the degree of tanning by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The autofluorescence signal related to the mechanical property gradients. The presence of transition and alkaline earth metals by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was also tested. We found Ca, Cl, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, P, S, Si, and Zn in the cuticle, but the content was very low and did not correlate with the mechanical property values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydropsyche and Arctopsyche are filter-feeding caddisflies (Order: Trichoptera; Family: Hydropsychidae) that are commonly used to monitor metal exposures in rivers. While tissue residue concentrations provide important bioaccumulation data regarding metal bioavailability, they do not provide information regarding the mechanisms of uptake and loss, or exposure history. This study examined the physiological processes that control Cu and Cd uptake and loss using a biokinetic bioaccumulation model. Larvae of each taxon were experimentally exposed to either water or food enriched with stable isotopes (65Cu and 106Cd). Dissolved Cu uptake (ku) was similar between species (2.6–3.4 L-1g 1d-1), but Cd uptake was 3-fold higher in Hydropsyche than Arctopsyche (1.85 L-1g 1d-1 and 0.60 L-1g 1d-1, respectively). Cu and Cd efflux rates (ke) were relatively fast (0.14 d-1–0.24 d-1) in both species, and may explain, in part, their metal tolerance to mine-impacted rivers. Food ingestion rates (IR), assimilation efficiency (AE) of 65Cu and 106Cd from laboratory diets were also derived and used in a biodynamic model to quantify the relative contribution of dissolved and dietary exposure routes. Results from the biodynamic model were compared to tissue concentrations observed in a long-term field study and indicated that because dissolved Cu and Cd exposures accounted for less than 20% of body concentrations of either taxon, dietary exposure was the predominant metal pathway. An estimation of exposure history was determined using the model to predict steady state concentrations. Under constant exposure conditions (dissolved plus diet), steady state concentrations were reached in less than 30 days, an outcome largely influenced by rapid efflux (ke). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological speciation within the mormyrid genus Campylomormyrus resulted in sympatric species exhibiting divergence in their feeding apparatus and electric organ discharge (EOD). This study documents the overall diet of the genus Campylomormyrus and examines the hypothesis that the Campylomormyrus radiation is caused by adaptation to different food sources. We performed diet assessment of five sympatric Campylomormyrus species (C. alces, C. compressirostris, C. curvirostris, C. tshokwe, C. numenius) and their sister taxon Gnathonemus petersii with markedly different snout morphologies and EODs using hybrid capture/HTS DNA metabarcoding of their stomach contents. Our approach allowed for high taxonomic resolution of prey items, including benthic invertebrates, allochthonous invertebrates and vegetation. Comparisons of the diet compositions using quantitative measures and diet overlap indices revealed that all species are able to exploit multiple food niches in their habitats, that is fauna at the bottom, the water surface and the water column. A major part of the diet is larvae of aquatic insects, such as dipterans, coleopterans and trichopterans, known to occur in holes and interstitial spaces of the substrate. The results indicate that different snout morphologies and the associated divergence in the EOD could translate into different prey spectra. This suggests that the diversification in EOD and/or morphology of the feeding apparatus could be under functional adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change involves increases in mean temperature and changes in temperature variability at multiple temporal scales but research rarely considers these temporal scales. The climate variability hypothesis (CVH) provides a conceptual framework for exploring the potential effects of annual scale thermal variability across climatic zones. The CVH predicts ectotherms in temperate regions tolerate a wider range of temperatures than those in tropical regions in response to greater annual variability in temperate regions. However, various other aspects of thermal regimes (e.g. diel variability), organisms' size and taxonomic identity are also hypothesised to influence thermal tolerance. Indeed, high temperatures in the tropics have been proposed as constraining organisms' ability to tolerate a wide range of temperatures, implying that high annual maximum temperatures would be associated with tolerating a narrow range of temperatures. We measured thermal regimes and critical thermal limits (CTmax and CTmin) of freshwater insects in the orders Ephemeroptera (mayflies), Plecoptera (stoneflies) and Trichoptera (caddisflies) along elevation gradients in streams in temperate and tropical regions of eastern Australia and tested the CVH by determining which variables were most correlated with thermal breadth (Tbr = CTmax − CTmin). Consistent with the CVH, Tbr tended to increase with increasing annual temperature range. Tbr also increased with body size and Tbr was generally wider in Plecoptera than in Ephemeroptera or Trichoptera. We also find some support for a related hypothesis, the climate extreme hypothesis (CEH), particularly for predicting upper thermal limits. We found no evidence that higher annual maximum temperature constrained individuals' abilities to tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The support for the CVH we document suggests that temperate organisms may be able to tolerate wider ranges of temperatures than tropical organisms. There is an urgent need to investigate other aspects of thermal regimes, such as diel temperature cycling and minimum temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many aquatic insects emerge as adults from water bodies to complete parts of their life cycle in terrestrial ecosystems and are potential prey for riparian predators. The benefits of riparian predators from aquatic insects include higher contents of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) compared to terrestrial insects. Aquatic insects are therefore considered a high-quality food. Food containing high levels of PUFA can enhance growth and immune response of spiders. However, agricultural stressors like nutrient increase, pesticides and habitat degradation can affect the biomass of aquatic insects and in turn the diet of spiders. Studies quantifying the influence of land use on fatty acid (FA) profiles of emergent aquatic insects and riparian predators are lacking. We quantified differences in exports of FA, saturated FA, monounsaturated FA, and PUFA, FA profiles of aquatic insects and spiders between forested and agricultural sites over the primary emergence period within one year. The FA export to the riparian food web is crucial to understand energy fluxes between ecosystems. Furthermore, we monitored environmental variables to identify associations between agricultural stressors and FA profiles of aquatic insects and spiders. Results: We found differences in FA export and profiles of aquatic insects between land-use types. The quantity of total FA export via aquatic insects was lower in agricultural sites (95% CI 1147–1313 µg m−2) in comparison to forested sites (95% CI 1555–1845 µg m−2), while the biomass export was higher in agricultural sites. Additionally, in spring the PUFA export was significantly lower (up to 0.06 µg d−1 m−2) in agricultural than forested sites. Agricultural stressors explained only little variation in the FA profiles of aquatic insects, e.g., 4% for caddisflies and 12% for non-biting midges. Percentage of shading and pool habitats were identified as most important variables explaining the variation in FA profiles. Conclusion: The quality of aquatic insects as food source for riparian spiders was smaller in agricultural than forested sites, which can decrease the fitness of riparian predators. To improve our capacity to predict potential adverse effects in the riparian food web, future studies should identify the mechanisms underlying a lower PUFA content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, 15 new species of microcaddisflies in the genus Neotrichia Morton, 1905 (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) from Panama are described and illustrated: Neotrichia abrebotella sp. nov.; Neotrichia candela sp. nov.; Neotrichia codaza sp. nov.; Neotrichia embera sp. nov.; Neotrichia flennikeni sp. nov.; Neotrichia honda sp. nov.; Neotrichia landisae sp. nov.; Neotrichia lenati sp. nov.; Neotrichia mindyae sp. nov.; Neotrichia panamensis sp. nov.; Neotrichia parajarochita sp. nov.; Neotrichia paraxicana sp. nov.; Neotrichia snixae sp. nov.; Neotrichia spangleri sp. nov.; Neotrichia veraguasensis sp. nov. In addition, two new country records are presented: Neotrichia minutisimella (Chambers, 1873) and Neotrichia vibrans Ross, 1944. Finally, the male of N. vibrans is re-illustrated, the female is illustrated and descriptive information given, and a key is provided to the males of all current Neotrichia species in Panama. There are now 45 species of Neotrichia and a total of 525 Trichoptera species recorded from Panama. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]