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Abstract We review the developments in caddisfly (Insecta: Trichoptera) systematics starting with Linnaeus through to the present time. We give a brief introduction to the natural history and biology of the order, survey the contributions of prominent caddisfly taxonomists, explore the history of Trichoptera phylogenetics, define synapomorphies for the major caddisfly clades, identify gaps in our knowledge, and make recommendations for the future research in caddisfly systematics. While the pattern of early evolutionary divergences within the order is becoming clearer with phylogenomic data, much work remains to be done to describe unknown caddisfly diversity and to fully resolve their tree of life. This will require the training of a new generation of Trichoptera systematists, particularly in tropical regions, equipped with broad knowledge in natural history, taxonomy, systematics, genomics, and phylogenetics. 

Abstract Insects have evolved complex and diverse visual systems in which light-sensing protein molecules called “opsins” couple with a chromophore to form photopigments. Insect photopigments group into three major gene families based on wavelength sensitivity: long wavelength (LW), short wavelength (SW), and ultraviolet wavelength (UV). In this study, we identified 123 opsin sequences from whole-genome assemblies across 25 caddisfly species (Insecta: Trichoptera). We discovered the LW opsins have the most diversity across species and form two separate clades in the opsin gene tree. Conversely, we observed a loss of the SW opsin in half of the trichopteran species in this study, which might be associated with the fact that caddisflies are active during low-light conditions. Lastly, we found a single copy of the UV opsin in all the species in this study, with one exception: Athripsodes cinereus has two copies of the UV opsin and resides within a clade of caddisflies with colorful wing patterns.