The genusEctemnia(Diptera: Simuliidae): taxonomy, polytene chromosomes, new species, and phylogeny

Abstract

The genus Ectemnia Enderlein consists of four North American species, two of which are described as new. The two previously described species, E. invenusta and E. taeniatifrons, are primarily northern in distribution and their immature stages occupy rocky rivers. The two new species, E. primaeva and E. reclusa, occur in the southeastern Coastal Plain; their immature stages inhabit blackwater swamp streams and sandy rivers. Keys are provided for larvae, pupae, and adults. The polytene chromosomes of all species are analyzed in detail. Seven fixed inversions, 10 unshared autosomal polymorphisms, two centromere-band expressions, and five sex-chromosome systems are recognized among the four species. At least 10 synapomorphies indicate that the genus is monophyletic. Phylogenetically, Ectemnia is in a clade with Metacnephia and Simulium.