The genus Hydroptila Dalman 1819 in Italy: Ecology and morphology

Abstract

The 27 Hydroptila species listed as of 2012 in Italy were found in 434 biotopes located in lotic and lentic waters of the Italian mainland regions and islands (Sicilia, Sardegna, Capraia, Elba). The richest regions are Umbria (15 species), Toscana and Piemonte. The most widespread species are H. vectis, found in18 regions and H. angulata found in 16 regions. Hydroptila fiorii, H. serrata and H. cortensis were found only in Sardegna, the latter only in one site. Hydroptila tacheti was found only in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. No Hydroptila species were found in Valle d’Aosta. Four species are endemic to the Italian fauna (H. cortensis, H. fiorii, H. ruffoi, H. stellifera). The main ecological parameters of Hydroptila spp. collection sites are discussed. The organization of scent organs in male H. aegyptia was examined by means of light and electron microscopy. Finally, an updated catalogue of the Italian species is reported.