New Investigation Technique for Thoracic Sclerites of Mosquitoes (Diptera, Culicidae) for the Correct Identification of Genera and Species

摘要

A new technique for studying the external morphology of thoracic sclerites of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) was developed. According to this method, the shape of sclerites and the position of setae and scales can be examined using SEM or light microscopy even in cases when setae or scales have been lost. The method can be recommended for the damaged material which is often obtained during sampling. The bases of setae usually exceed 100 jim in diameter and thus differ significantly from the bases ofscales which are about 30 (im in diameter. Analysis of the structure of sclerites and the arrangement of setae and scales on them in different specimens of one species may reveal intraspecific variation of this character complex. Comparison of species from different genera of the family Culicidae, as well as comparison of closely related species, will probably help to estimate the diagnostic value of thoracic sclerites as morphological characters.