Rhyacopsyche otarosa, Wasmund, Anne M. & Holzenthal, Ralph W., 2007

Wasmund, Anne M. & Holzenthal, Ralph W., 2007, A revision of the Neotropical caddisfly genus Rhyacopsyche, with the description of 13 new species (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae), Zootaxa 1634, pp. 1-59 : 17

Rhyacopsyche otarosa , new species

Fig. 23

This species is unique within Rhyacopsyche . The lobes of segment IX originate laterally, rather than dorsolaterally. The anterior margin of segment IX is extremely anteroventrally produced. Tergum X is exposed and plate-like in dorsal view. In addition, the bifid apex of the inferior appendage is distinct with a large spatulate dorsal lobe and a hooked, truncate ventral lobe.

Adult (male: n=2). Forewing length 2.0, 2.2 mm. Color of head dark brown, antennae light brown, legs medium brown, wings mottled medium and dark brown. Sternum VII without apicomesal point.

Male genitalia. Abdominal segment IX with no apparent setae, anterior margin nearly straight, produced anteroventrally; sternum IX, in lateral view, with posterior margin produced into small rounded process; posterior margin nearly straight; dorsolateral lobe of segment IX elongate, in dorsal view acicular, widely separated, bearing 2 long, dorsal setae. Tergum X elongate, in dorsal view, spatulate. Intermediate appendage not evident. Inferior appendage elongate, heavily setose, apex bifid with ventral lobe truncate, the dorsal lobe inflated and spatulate, bearing several thin setae; ventral margin produced into small medial point. Phallus linear, membranous sheath absent; central tubule with small apical hook; apex of lateral process lanceolate.

Holotype male: VENEZUELA: T. F. A. [Amazonas], Camp IV, Cerro d.l. Neblina, 0°58’ N, 65°57’ W, 760 m, 15–18.iii.1984, O S Flint, Jr. ( UMSP 000115112) ( NMNH).

Paratype: VENEZUELA: same data as holotype — 1 male ( IZAM).

Distribution. Venezuela.

Etymology. The Greek word otaros meaning large-eared, referring to the prominent “ear lobe” on the inferior appendage.

Figures

FIGURE 23. Rhyacopsyche otarosa, new species. Male genitalia: A—lateral; B—dorsal; C—ventral; D—phallus, dorsal.