A systematic revision of the mesembrinellidae, stat. nov. (diptera, cyclorrhapha)

Abstract

A revised classification of the family Mesembrinellidae, stat. nov., is presented, and its affinities discussed. This group is withdrawn from the family Calliphoridae and raised to full family status in the Calyptratae. Three subfamilies, two tribes, and seven genera are recognized; keys to these taxa are provided. The aedeagus, spermatheca, and the labial sclerite of the first instar larva are figured for nearly all species. Two new genera: Thompsoniella (type-species, anomala, sp. n.) and Souzalo-pesiella (type-species, Mesembrinella facialis Aldrich) are described. The zoogeography and phylogeny of this group indicate a long isolation. The distribution patterns and phylogenetic relationships of the Neotropical genera are also analyzed, suggesting a Gondwanian origin for the Mesembrinellidae. The study of the internal anatomy of the female reproductive system showed that this group possesses a peculiar adenotrophic viviparity, presenting modification in the structure of the spermathecae, unknown in any other Calyptratae group. A comparison of the female genital tract of the Mesembrinellidae with that of Glossina and Melophagus ovinus discloses that it is fundamentally the same, ano essentially that of the other higher Muscoidea. The evolutionary trends within the Mesembrinellidae are discussed and critica) morphological details discussed and, illustrated.