Strepsiptera of Canada

Abstract

In Canada, the order Strepsiptera consists of 27 known species representing five families: Corioxenidae (1 species), Elenchidae (1 species), Halictophagidae (5 species), Stylopidae (15 species), and Xenidae (5 species). These totals represent an increase of 21 species since the 1979 assessment. Half of these species represent unpublished records recently discovered by study of stylopized hosts in museum collections and DNA barcoded species. It is estimated that as many as 19 more species will eventually be discovered in Canada. DNA barcode sequences are available for 4 Canadian species. The fauna of Canada is poorly surveyed and there is a need to fill knowledge gaps with increased examination of museum specimens for stylopized hosts, broader field surveys (including use of pheromone-baited traps), and more effort to obtain DNA samples.