Major Group: Insecta Order: Diptera Family: Thaumaleidae Subfamily: none |
Descriptive Features: prothoracic spiracles on a short respiratory tube
truncated head ventrally directed
unpaired prolegs present
head capsule complete, not retractile into thorax
mandibles usually with several teeth
abdomen 9-segmented
Total length:
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Taxonomic Checklist: Genera Austrothaumalea 26 species (1 undescribed species) Niphta 3 species |
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Distribution: WA, NSW, ACT, Qld, Vic, Tas. This family is endemic.
Sensitivity Rating: SIGNAL grade 7. Larvae are intolerant of elevated temperatures.
Functional Feeding Group: scrapers |
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Fitzroy Falls, NSW |
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Ecology: Instream habitat: Thaumaleid larvae are predominantly hygropetric, living in vertical, thin water films alongside waterfalls and torrents, avoiding the main flow. They are intolerant of elevated temperatures and so are usually found in fully shaded areas. Feeding ecology: Larvae are scrapers grazing on diatoms. Habit: The larval dorsal integument is hydrophobic which allows the water to wash over them, enabling them to maintain position in the water film. Pupae have abdominal hooks to secure themselves to the substrate. Life history: Larvae are most commonly encountered during summer. The pupal stage lasts for approximately 10-20 days. |
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Information Sources: Sinclair 2008, Bugledich 1999, Sinclair 2000a, Cranston 1995, Evenhius 1997 Key to Genera: Sinclair 2000a Key to Species: none |
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