Mosquito Taxonomic Inventory

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Definition:

A modified seta comprised of a slender basal stalk, the pedicel, and an expanded and/or flattened distal part, the squame; all scales have longitudinal ridges and arise from alveoli that are usually minute.

Explanation:

Two main types of scales are recognised in mosquitoes by cross section of the squame. If the squame is round or elliptical, the scale is piliform; if it is thin and flat, the scale is lamellar. Many forms of lamellar scales exist but only one type of piliform scale. The piliform and the more common types of lamellar scales that occur in mosquitoes are listed and defined below. It should be noted that piliform scales tend to grade into the lamellar form and that the types of lamellar scales grade into one another. For this reason, mosquito scales are divided into a number of extreme types with broad definitions in order that the transitional forms may be classified more easily.

asymmetrical - A lamellar scale that is obviously unevenly developed on opposite sides of a plane which is parallel to the plane of the squame.

falcate - A sickle-shaped lamellar scale; the squame narrow and curved with a sharp or narrowly rounded apex.

forked - A lamellar scale that is cuneate or gently flared distally; with a long thick pedicel that gradually merges into the squame; distal margin of squame cut off squarely or notched.

fusiform - Widest at the middle and tapered toward the ends; apex sharply pointed or narrowly rounded; ranging from short and broad to long and slender.

linear - A strap-like lamellar scale; much longer than broad with parallel sides; always truncate.

piliform - Any scale of which the squame is circular or elliptical in cross section; normally narrow, curved and pointed; seta-like.

spatulate - A lamellar scale that is very broad distally, attenuate at base; top rounded or truncate, rarely emarginate (heart-shaped); the squame may be parallel-sided, obovate or accrescent.

twisted - A curled lamellar scale with a spiral or winding form; the squame is usually accrescent.

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