Use of genitalia preparations in the species determination of Leafminers (Agromyzidae: Diptera)

Abstract

Morphological characters are not sufficient in the species determination of leaf miners. Preparing genitalia slides, making illustrations and their studies were used in the present investigation. 15 species of flies were redescribed and 13 more species were described and named as new, associated with leguminous host. Many species of leaf miners were also reared on various non-leguminous hosts from eastern Nepal. About 1500 genitalia slides were prepared for this work. Interspecific and intraspecific variations were illustrated. More variations were found in the interspecific group. Small variation was found in causing speciation.