Caddisflies

The Caddisfly (Order Trichoptera) is an animal that has held some interest to me once i'd finished reading 'The Selfish Gene'.

The Caddisflies evolution has enabled them to build portable cases is the vernal pool the enhabit. They may attach their case to some underwater object, seal the front and back apertures against predation though still allowing water flow, and pupate within it. Once developed, the pupal caddisflies cut through their cases, swim up to the water surface, cast off skin and the now-obsolete gills, and emerge as fully formed adults.

For me, this is one example of the wonder of nature and I hope to have the opportunity for observe the full cycle some day.