Xenochironomus canterburyensis (Diptera: Chironomidae), a commensal of Hyridella menziesi (Lamellibranchia) in Lake Taupo; features of pre-adult life history |
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| Authors: | D.J. Forsyth I.D. McCallum |
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| Affiliation: | Ecology Division, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research , P.O. Box 415, Taupo , New Zealand |
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| Abstract: | Abstract The larvae and pupae of the univoltine chironomid Xenochironomus canterburyensis (Freeman) are inquiline commensals of the freshwater mussel Hyridella menziesi (Gray). The 1st- and 2nd-instar larvae enter the mantle/valve cavity of the mussel in midsummer, and by early winter migrate as 3rd-instar larvae to the posterior end of the valve to lodge near its margin beside the inhalant siphon. During the spring, growth of the periostracum of the valve margin between the larva and the mantle of the mussel leaves the 4th-instar larva outside the mantle/valve cavity, where it pupates before leaving the mussel for the lake surface and adult emergence. |
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