Back to the Chaoboridae page

Australomochlonyx nitidus Australomochlonyx nitidus Australomochlonyx Freeman, 1 sp.        The monotypic genus, Australomochlonyx is restricted to Victoria and New South Wales, Australia. Adults, similar to Mochlonyx spp., have reduced first tarsi and lack tibial spurs. Australomochlonyx adults can be distinguished from Mochlonyx and other chaoborids based on wing venation and the laterally compressed genitalia of the adult female. Enlarged mandibular brushes unique among the chaoborids, and reduced antennae distinguish A. nitidus larvae from other chaoborids.       Immature stages can be found in heavily shaded shallow pools. Unlike other chaoborids, A. nitidus larvae do not use their antennae for prey capture, instead they strain food particles out of the surrounding water with enlarged mandibular brushes (Colless 1979). Adults can be found resting on vegetation near suitable immature habitats Species list Australomochlonyx nitidus Freeman