Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory

19 Aug, 07 PM - 22 Aug, 10 AM

Chironomids (Diptera, non-biting midges) are a diverse, species-rich family of aquatic insects, which are often the most numerically abundant group of insects in freshwater habitats. The goal of my sabbatical project is to construct a molecular-genetic phylogeny for species groups within the chironomid Genus Cricotopus in the Northern hemisphere. Cricotopus larvae are associated with attached algae and aquatic plants. I will collect larvae and pupal exuviae in stream reaches that are not involved in ongoing research projects. Sampling of larvae will involve hand collection of small amounts of algae or plant parts or benthic substrate, and sorting out the minute larvae with assistance of a hand lens. In the field, I can distinguish sub-families of Chironomidae, and I can usually distinguish Cricotopus larvae from many other genera. I will preserve (in 85% ethanol) a small number of mature larvae for direct barcoding, to ensure detection of all Cricotopus species present at a location. The surface-floating pupal exuviae left behind by flies that have successfully emerged from the stream are also valuable in providing an integrated sample of chironomid species emergence. I will use a shallow pan and a sieve to skim exuviae from the waters surface in eddies at points along the edge of the stream where floating debris accumulates. Exuviae will be preserved in 70 % ethanol and later mounted on permanent slides. I will collect adult Cricotopus flies, which may form mating swarms in late afternoon, using an aerial net to sweep in the riparian zone. I will also use a light trap (a small lantern and a white sheet) to attract flies at dusk/early evening. Flies which appear to be Cricotopus will be preserved in 85% ethanol for barcoding. These methods of collecting will allow me to be as selective as possible in my focus on Cricotopus individuals, and to minimize injury to other aquatic insects.

Visit #58184 @Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory

Approved

Under Project # 41043 | Research

Sampling survey of Cricotopus species: a hyperdiverse genus of non-biting midges

faculty - Towson University

Reservation Members(s)

Susan Gresens Aug 19 - 22, 2018 (4 days)

Reserve Resources(s) | Create Invoice

Lodging (nightly) 1 Aug 20 - 22, 2018