The Mosquitoes of Querétaro, Mexico: Distribution, Ecology, and Discovery of Shannoniana huasteca n. sp. (Diptera: Culicidae)

Abstract

In order to document the diversity and distribution of mosquitoes inhabiting the Querétaro State of México, collection trips were conducted in all physiographic regions and sub-regions of the state (Sierra Madre Oriental, Central Plateau, and Neo-Volcanic Axis). In addition, mosquito specimens collected in Querétaro and deposited in the Collection of Arthropods of Medical Importance (CAIM) were re-examined. A total of 2718 specimens (570 larvae, 384 larval exuviae, 537 pupal exuviae, 30 pupae, 807 females, 368 males, and 22 male genitalia) were analyzed. In total, 2 subfamilies, namely Anophelinae and Culicinae, 5 tribes, 12 genera, 20 subgenera, and 50 species were found. Of these, 3 tribes, 8 genera, 11 subgenera, and 33 species are new records for the mosquito fauna of Querétaro. Two undescribed species were found, and one of them, Shannoniana huasteca Ortega n. sp., is described here using morphology and Cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) DNA barcoding. Taxonomic notes, new distribution limits, comments about the medical importance of species, and a key to identify adult females of Shannoniana species are provided.