Salmonflies
Pteronarcys californica
The giant Salmonflies of the Western mountains are legendary for their proclivity to elicit consistent dry-fly action and ferocious strikes.
Featured on the forum
This is a striking caddis larva with an interesting color pattern on the head. Here are some characteristics I was able to see under the microscope, but could not easily expose for a picture:
- The prosternal horn is present.
- The mandible is clearly toothed, not formed into a uniform scraper blade.
- The seems to be only 2 major setae on the ventral edge of the hind femur.
- Chloride epithelia seem to be absent from the dorsal side of any abdominal segments.
Based on these characteristics and the ones more easily visible from the pictures, this seems to be Grammotaulius. The key's description of the case is spot-on: "Case cylindrical, made of longitudinally arranged sedge or similar leaves," as is the description of the markings on the head, "Dorsum of head light brownish yellow with numerous discrete, small, dark spots." The spot pattern on the head is a very good match to figure 19.312 of Merritt R.W., Cummins, K.W., and Berg, M.B. (2019). The species ID is based on Grammotaulius betteni being the only species of this genus known in Washington state.
- The prosternal horn is present.
- The mandible is clearly toothed, not formed into a uniform scraper blade.
- The seems to be only 2 major setae on the ventral edge of the hind femur.
- Chloride epithelia seem to be absent from the dorsal side of any abdominal segments.
Based on these characteristics and the ones more easily visible from the pictures, this seems to be Grammotaulius. The key's description of the case is spot-on: "Case cylindrical, made of longitudinally arranged sedge or similar leaves," as is the description of the markings on the head, "Dorsum of head light brownish yellow with numerous discrete, small, dark spots." The spot pattern on the head is a very good match to figure 19.312 of Merritt R.W., Cummins, K.W., and Berg, M.B. (2019). The species ID is based on Grammotaulius betteni being the only species of this genus known in Washington state.
Troutnut is a project started in 2003 by salmonid ecologist Jason "Troutnut" Neuswanger to help anglers and
fly tyers unabashedly embrace the entomological side of the sport. Learn more about Troutnut or
support the project for an enhanced experience here.
Brachycentrus appalachia (Apple Caddis) Caddisfly Adult Pictures
This caddisfly was collected from the Beaverkill River in New York on May 7th, 2005 and added to Troutnut.com by Troutnut on May 16th, 2006.
Discussions of this Adult
Bald Eagle Caddis
Posted by Troutboomer on Mar 23, 2010
Last reply on Mar 23, 2010 by Troutboomer
There are grannoms aplenty in the Bald Eagle, however by May 20th there are no grannoms on any of our central Pa streams. More likely Ryacophila (green rock worms)size 14/12, which can emerge throughout late April and May, or Hydropsyche,size 16/18 with a tan wing and a cinnamon body. The trout behavior you describe is common on the Little Juniata. In either case, fishing a pupa in the film is the way to go, especially for Hydropsyche. They spend hours struggling in the film before emerging.
Bald Eagle Creek Hatch
11 replies
Posted by Gfallon58 on Feb 22, 2007
Last reply on Apr 14, 2007 by GONZO
I was on Bald Eagle Creek around Milesburg last year in May. It was mid morning and fish were rising everywhere. I saw caddis in the air but the rises weren't splashy. Every caddis pattern I tried, fish would rise to and refuse so I'm fairly certain they were taking caddis. Do the trout up there get selective to egg sac or spent wings because they were the only types I didn't have to try. I'm not even sure they were Grannoms, so does anyone know what other caddis hatch around May 20th? This year I'll be there from May 12 to 19, so any ideas would be terrific and much appreciated. Thanks George.
Brachycentrus female
Posted by Litobrancha on Sep 5, 2006
Last reply on Sep 5, 2006 by Litobrancha
Looks like a Brachycentrus female. Check out the kink in the forewing just at the stigmatic area in pic 4. Pics are great!
Start a Discussion of Adult
References
- Merritt R.W., Cummins, K.W., and Berg, M.B. 2019. An Introduction to the Aquatic Insects of North America (Fifth Edition). Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company.
Brachycentrus appalachia (Apple Caddis) Caddisfly Adult Pictures
Collection details
Location: Beaverkill River, New York
Date: May 7th, 2005
Added to site: May 16th, 2006
Author: Troutnut
Date: May 7th, 2005
Added to site: May 16th, 2006
Author: Troutnut