Observations on the biology and laboratory rearing of Pseudostenophylax edwardsi (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae)

Abstract

The limnephilid caddis fly Pseudostenophylax edwardsi (Banks) was reared through a complete generation in mass culture and as individuals from egg to pupa. Observations of the egg masses, larval duration, case construction, feeding, and adult behavior are discussed. P. edwardsi is apparently univoltine in the field but completed two generations within a year at 15 °C. Diapause of final-instar larvae apparently occurred with a short-day photoperiod.As P. edwardsi females will mate and oviposit in the laboratory, it is probable that continuous culture methods can be developed for this species. The larvae can be easily reared. Potential advantages of P. edwardsi as a laboratory test organism for bioassay procedures and behavioral studies are suggested.