Emergence and Composition of Trichoptera from Karst Habitats,Plitvice Lakes Region,Croatia

Adult Trichoptera were observed at the Plitvice Lakes, Croatia during two years (2000 and 2001) using pyramid‐type emergence traps. A total of 1350 individuals and 37 species were collected. Throughout the study, the emergence patterns showed only minor variations regarding differences in particular habitats. During 2000 most species emerged in June, and in 2001 in May. The complete emergence period is shown for all collected species and studied in detail for abundant species. Excluding Allogamus uncatus, all abundant species emerged in summer, with most exhibiting a long emergence period. Rhyacophila fasciata had the longest emergence period in both years of the study and also showed winter activity. Trichopteran diversity and equitability were calculated and trophic relationships of the collected species were identified for each sampling site in order to obtain better insight into trichopteran community structure. Results indicated that the trichopteran community could be grouped according to travertine barriers and stream habitat types. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)