The Nymphomyiidae (Diptera), with special reference to Palaeodipteron walkeri Ide and its larva in Quebec, and a description of a new genus and species from India

Abstract

The literature on the two described species of Nymphomyiidae, Nymphomyia alba Tokunaga and Palaeodipteron walkeri Ide, is reviewed. Previous opinions on the systematic position of the family and what is known or surmised about their biology are outlined. The occurrence of P. walkeri in Canada is discussed and new records are given from a small upland stream in western Quebec. The larvae of Nymphomyiidae were previously unknown, but those of P. walkeri have been discovered. It is confirmed that they are aquatic. Details of habitat of P. walkeri are given, and the larva is described and figured in detail. An outline of the probable bivoltine life history of this species and some further considerations regarding the relationships of the Nymphomyiidae are also made. An appendix makes additional comments on P. walkeri adults and the opportunity is taken by the second author to describe a new genus and species, Felicitomyia brundini, from the eastern Himalaya.