Neoperla spio(Plecoptera): a species complex?

摘要

Abstract.Almost thirtyNeoperlaspecies have been described from Africa, but have subsequently been grouped together as one very variable species,Nspio(Newman), only one author publicly disagreeing. In this study new techniques have been used to test the hypothesis that only a single species of African perlid exists. Samples were collected from an area where three morphologically dissimilar forms were sympatric on a temporal and spatial basis. These are here considered to belong to three species ofNeoperlaas a result of differences in chorionic features of the egg (elucidated by the scanning electron microscope). Multivariate analysis and electrophoretic data support the conclusion thatNspiois a species complex. Sexes of the three species were associated on the basis of mating experiments, and ecological data pertaining to mating.