A critical taxonomic analysis of the <I>Hydrellia pakistanae</I> species group (Diptera: Ephydridae)

Abstract

Critical taxonomic analysis of the Hydrellia pakistanae species group yielded H pakistanae Deonier, H. sarahae, n.sp. (composed of H. sarahae sarahae, n.ssp. in China and H. sarahae laticapsula, n.ssp. in India and Pakistan), H balciunasi Bock known only from Australia, and a related species, H. bogorae, n.sp. from ,Java, Indonesia. These species all have the same primary host-plant species, i.e., Hydrilla verticillata, a fact making them all potential biocontrol agents for this aquatic plant pest in North America and other areas where it has pest status. Morphology is summarized as well as perceived synapomorphies of this species group.