Functional morphology of the feeding apparatus of the nymph of Farrodes sp. (Ephemeroptera: Leptophlebiidae)

Farrodes nymphs are specialized periphyton/biofilm scrapers. Their maxillae are the most specialized mouthparts, but other elements, with their systems of variously modified setae, are designed to obtain and transport food particles to the pharynx with a minimum of loss. The morphology and adaptations of these mouthparts and related head areas, as well as associated musculature, are described.