Abstract
The Canary Islands are an excellent natural laboratory for understanding ecological and evolutionary processes such as biogeographical colonisation. The morphology of the larva, puparium and adult of the endemic Canarian copper fly, Calliphora splendens, is described, illustrated and contrasted with those of the other species of Calliphora that occur in Africa, the Iberian Peninsula and Macaronesia. Partial cytochrome oxidase I sequences show a connection between C. splendens, Calliphora vicina, Calliphora loewi and Calliphora croceipalpis, but more distant relationship with Calliphora vomitoria. Calliphora splendens produced unisexual offspring in captivity. This work confirms the relict character of the Canarian copper fly associated with the endemic laurel forest habitat.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call