STRELKOVIMERMIS-ACUTICAUDA N-SP AND STRELKOVIMERMIS-BUCCALIS N-SP (NEMATODA, MERMITHIDAE) FROM ADULT CHIRONOMIDS (DIPTERA, CHIRONOMIDAE) FROM LAKE-ITASCA, MINNESOTA
Aa. Johnson et Mg. Kleve, STRELKOVIMERMIS-ACUTICAUDA N-SP AND STRELKOVIMERMIS-BUCCALIS N-SP (NEMATODA, MERMITHIDAE) FROM ADULT CHIRONOMIDS (DIPTERA, CHIRONOMIDAE) FROM LAKE-ITASCA, MINNESOTA, The Journal of parasitology, 82(3), 1996, pp. 478-483
Specimens of 2 mermithid species were obtained from adults of undeterm
ined species of chironomids emerging from Lake Itasca (Clearwater Coun
ty), Minnesota. Both species have the characteristics of species in th
e genus Strelkovimermis. The new species are distinguishable from one
another and from the 8 currently accepted species in the genus by thei
r small size, shape of the posterior end, length of the buccal funnel,
length of the cephalic papillae, location of the mouth, and morpholog
y of the spicule region and vagina. Strelkovimermis acuticauda n. sp.
is unique in possessing an acute posterior end, an auxiliary protracto
r muscle, and a relatively long vagina, whereas Strelkovimermis buccal
is n. sp. is distinguishable from other Strelkovinermis species by its
thick cuticle and exceptionally long buccal funnel. The significance
of the tail muscles is emphasized as a taxonomic feature to be used in
describing future species of Streikovimermis. A key to the 10 species
of Strelkovimermis is provided.