The Comparative Morphology of the Larval Ventromental Plates of Australasian Species of Kiefferulus Goetghebuer and Nilodorum Kieffer (Diptera, Chironomidae)

Abstract

The morphology of larval ventromental plates of Australasian species of Kiefferulus Goetghebuer and Nilodorum Kieffer have been studied by light and scanning electron microscopy. The ventromental plates of all species studied were similar in their general pattern of micro-architecture, which incorporated a lamella-like system of striae and two marginal rows of spines on the inner surface. Information is presented on variation among species in plate features including size, shape, striae, and inner and outer rows of spines. Taxonomic implications of these data are discussed.