Taxonomy, Phylogeny, and Larval Feeding Habits

Abstract

AbstractCecidomyiidae are currently divided into seven subfamilies. The higher taxonomy and their phylogenetic relationships are presented in this chapter. Some studies estimate that Cecidomyiidae are one of the most speciose families in Diptera or even in whole insects. Recent molecular phylogenetic analyses of Cecidomyiidae were mostly consistent with morphology-based phylogenetic assumptions and suggested to have radiated in the Upper Cretaceous, coincided with the radiation of angiosperms. As a result of radiation, gall midges belonging to the subfamily Cecidomyiinae have become the most dominant gall inducers among various gall-inducing arthropod taxa. Therefore, we take up the gall midges in this book to show their diverse ecological aspects including interrelations with their host plants and associated arthropods. From the contents of this book, we expect readers can learn something about an ecological way of thinking, which is essential under recent conditions of global environment.KeywordsHigher taxonomySpecies numberPhylogenetic relationshipGall-inducing cecidomyiid