Variation and life strategies of the Trichoptera (Insecta) larvae community in a first order tributary of the Paquequer River, southeastern Brazil.

Abstract

The Trichoptera fauna was sampled in a first order tributary of Paquequer River, in the district of Teresópolis, Rio de Janerio State. Quantitative samples of litter from pools, litter from riffles, sand, and stones were taken on each season from February 1991 to February 1992. The life cycles of common genera were categorized into three groups of biological strategies. The largest group represented the general profile of the community, in which ultimate instar larvae were predominant in spring and the younger ones in summer. Probably, emergence and oviposition occur in spring.