STRELKOVIMERMIS-ACUTICAUDA N-SP AND STRELKOVIMERMIS-BUCCALIS N-SP (NEMATODA, MERMITHIDAE) FROM ADULT CHIRONOMIDS (DIPTERA, CHIRONOMIDAE) FROM LAKE-ITASCA, MINNESOTA

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.