We test the effects of food type and temperature on the life history parameters and elemental content of Brillia bifida (Chironomidae)

Temperature accelerated the development of B. bifida larvae (i.e., three times faster at warm than at cold temperature), while the poor-quality food resource reduced its growth rates (i.e., three times)

Both factors together modified larvae nutrient ratios and nutrient fluxes (i.e., through FPOM production).

Differential effects observed on larval development, growth and elemental composition point out that food type and temperature might not only affect B. bifida performance, but also extend to other trophic compartments through detritivore-mediated nutrient cycling