Oecetis inconspicua
This record describes Oecetis inconspicua (species). Recorded family: Leptoceridae. Recorded order: Trichoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Oecetis inconspicua is very widespread because it is really group of species that look very similar as adults. The larvae are more distinctive. It has been known for quite a few years now but, so far, no one wants to take the time to figure it out. –D. Ruiter, pers. comm. to A. Hunt, 15.ix.2016
Wikipedia reference for Oecetis inconspicua: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oecetis_inconspicua.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Trichoptera (Caddisflies)
- Suborder
- Integripalpia
- Superfamily
- Leptoceroidea
- Family
- Leptoceridae (Long-horned Caddisflies)
- Genus
- Oecetis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
[sp. complex] *widely* distributed across N. Amer. - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly: May-Sept (BG & GBIF data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Oecetis inconspicua (Walker 1852)
About Caddisflies: the wider group
Order-level background for Trichoptera, the group containing Oecetis inconspicua. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Trichoptera (caddisflies) includes ~14,500 described species worldwide. Larvae are aquatic and build protective cases from silk, sand, pebbles, and plant material - each species creates a distinctive case design.
Ecological role of the group
Caddisfly larvae are critical food sources for trout and other freshwater fish, making them essential to recreational fishing industries worth billions annually. Their silk is being researched as an underwater adhesive for medical applications.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Caddisfly larvae are among the most important biological indicators of water quality. Their presence or absence in streams is used by the EPA and state agencies to assess pollution levels and ecosystem health.
Recorded sources for this group: EPA, freshwater ecology research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Oecetis inconspicua (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , Blocky
Frequently Asked Questions About Oecetis inconspicua
What is Oecetis inconspicua?
Oecetis inconspicua is a species in the family Leptoceridae, within the order Trichoptera.
Where is Oecetis inconspicua found?
Range: [sp. complex] *widely* distributed across N. Amer. - Map
When is Oecetis inconspicua active?
Oecetis inconspicua: seasonal activity - mostly: May-Sept (BG & GBIF data).