Wyeomyia sp. [white abebela]

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This is one of the most common species in Pitilla’s bromeliads. They are similar to Wyeomyia abebela, though W. abebela is less abundant and has a more setose overall appearance. Besides, W. abebela has a green body coloration that is conserved after preservation, while Wyeomyia sp. [white abebela] has a white body in early and mid-larval stages and can gain a yellow body coloration to red in the thorax in late stages, close to pupation.
 
Only one species was identified with molecular species delimitation – ten individuals were sequenced.
 
Habitat: Aquatic
 
Synonyms in the BWG database: Wyeomyia abebela
 
 
 

Preserved specimens

P118 – CULW02 dorsal view
P104 – CULW02 dorsal view
P226 – CULW02 dorsal view
Photos of preserved specimens (90% ethanol)

Live individuals

P118 – dorsal view
P104 – dorsal view
P226 – dorsal view
CULW02 – dorsal view
CULW02 – dorsal view
CULW02 – pupa
CULW02 – pupa
Photos of live individuals

Notes: i) early instars of Wyeomyia species are difficult to discern – 1 to 2 mm, ii) when molting, culicid larvae appear to have rings throughout the body, not to be confused with different species,  iii) pupae change color from light to dark through development.