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Type: Article
Published: 2003-03-12
Page range: 1–14
Abstract views: 79
PDF downloaded: 3

Character analysis of adaptations for tarsal pollen collection in the Bombyliidae (Insecta: Diptera): the benefits of putting your foot in your mouth

Central Texas Melittological Institute, 7307 Running Rope, Austin, Texas 78731, USA
Central Texas Melittological Institute, 7307 Running Rope, Austin, Texas 78731, USA Section of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA
J. Linsley Gressitt Center for Entomological Research, Bishop Museum, 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96817-2704, USA
Department of Biological Sciences, Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, Missouri, USA
Diptera Bombyliidae pollen feeding tarsal setae

Abstract

Using direct observations and analyses of gut contents, we document that pollen feeding is widespread among female bombyliid flies. Pollen feeding is typically indirect with the initial pollen acquisition accomplished by foretarsal stroking of the anthers. Observations of the foretarsi using light and scanning electron microscopy showed that the foretarsi bear modified setae that play a role in pollen collection. Across the family, we found considerable variation in the morphology and distribution of the foretarsal setae that appear to be more related to phylogeny than pollen host. The major patterns of foretarsal setal specialization are illustrated and discussed.

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