Eucorethra underwoodiEucorethra Underwood, 1 sp
The sole member of the subfamily Eucorethrinae, Eucorethra underwoodi Underwood is restricted to the taiga and coniferous forest regions of North America. Eucorethra underwoodi is one of the largest chaoborids: adults range in length from 9.0 – 10.0 mm and fourth-instar larvae reach lengths of 14.0-16.0 mm. Larvae have a well-developed tracheal system terminating into a stout respiratory siphon. The larvae lack enlarged thoracic tracheal air sacs present in the other Chaoboridae genera. The adults are distinguished from other chaoborids by their large size and elongate mouthparts.
The biology of E. underwoodi larvae is atypical. Inhabiting shaded temporary bodies of water, E. underwoodi larvae are surface film predators. Larvae feed by capturing and pulling terrestrial insects, which land on the surface, underwater.
Species list
Eucorethra underwoodi Underwood
