Systematics of Saskatchewan Trichoptera Larvae with Emphasis on Species from Boreal Streams

Abstract

Larvae and adults of more than 163 species of Trichoptera in 15 families and 61 genera are recorded from Saskatchewan. Keys and descriptions are provided for larvae of most species collected in the northern boreal forest region. For each species the following information is presented: synonymy, taxonomic notes, diagnosis, description, biological notes, and material examined. Diagnostic illustrations supplement keys and descriptions. Possible post-glacial movements of Saskatchewan Trichoptera are discussed and related to vegetational movements and alterations in post-glacial drainage. Importance of ecological requirements of species to our understanding of post-glacial dispersal is discussed. Several possible sources for elements of the Saskatchewan boreal caddisfly fauna are identified. Six different provincial distribution patterns are identified for Saskatchewan Trichoptera. It is shown that the species composition of Trichoptera faunas on the Interior Plains and Shield regions of Saskatchewan differ to some extent but the reasons for these differences can not currently be identified.