First data on early instar Afrotropical Miltogramminae (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) reveal unexpected morphological diversity

Abstract

Abstract First instar larvae of the genera Hoplacephala Macquart, 1846 and Lamprometopia Macquart, 1846 are described for the first time, along with the first instar larva of an Afrotropical species of the genus Phylloteles Loew, 1844. Their morphology is analyzed using a combination of various microscopy techniques, confirming their close phylogenetic affinity with other members of the tribe Sarcotachinini. Substantial morphological differences are observed between the investigated genera, as well as in comparison to other known larvae of Miltogramminae. Noteworthy unique character states are identified in the shape of the cephaloskeleton, the sculpture of the integument, and the shape of the papilla of the thoracic and abdominal segments. The larva of Hoplacephala sp. stands out as the most peculiar, featuring a massive cephaloskeleton, integument armoured by cuticular scales, and modification of body papillae into fleshy processes. The first instar larva of Phylloteles picifrons Pape, 1985 possesses a large, bladder-like structure with unknown function dorsally on the first thoracic segment. All documented larvae are characterized by a maxillary palpus forming a distinct protuberance with elongated second sensillum basiconicum and the absence of a dorsal bridge of the cephaloskeleton. This last character state indicates a parasitic or parasitoid life history for all studied taxa.