Feeding Habits of Larvae of Seven Rhyacophila (Trichoptera: Rhyacophilidae) Species with Notes on Other Life-History Features1

Abstract

Of 7 species of Rhyacophila recovered from an experimental stream, 5 were carnivorous, 1 omnivorous, and 1 herbivorous. Chironomidae, Copepoda, and Acari were the most important constituents of the diets of the carnivorous forms. The 2 last-mentioned constituents were preyed upon in excess of their relative abundance on the stream bottom. Data relating to other features of the life histories are presented, including emergence periods, current preferences, and a breakdown of the duration of each of the instars and life stages. The ecological isolation of these congeneric species in a homogenous environment is discussed.