A description of the remarkable larva of Pseudolestes mirabilis Kirby (Odonata: Pseudolestidae)

Abstract

The larva of the Chinese endemic Pseudolestes mirabilis is described and figured for the first time. Specimens were collected from Hainan, the only known locality for this species. The presence of ventral paired gill tufts on S10 and sack-like caudal gills indicate that among other zygopteran families this species may be most closely related to the Amphipterygidae, but other characters, especially those of the adult suggest it may be sufficiently unique to warrant placement in its own family.

Keywords: Odonata, dragonfly, Zygoptera, Pseudolestidae, Pseudolestes mirabilis, larva

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