The morphology of the last instar larva of Aglaope infausta (Lepidoptera: Zygaenidae: Chalcosiinae)

Abstract

The larval morphology of the western Palaearctic zygaenid species Aglaope infausta (Linnaeus, 1767) is described and figured in detail. Unlike other members of the zygaenid subfamily Chalcosiinae, the last instar larva of A. infausta has numerous secondary setae and a multitude of cuticular cavities that are devoid of openings. The other chalcosiine genera have primary setae and cuticular cavities with specialized openings through which a defensive secretion can be discharged. Imaginal characters, on the other hand, provide strong evidence for placing Aglaope in the Chalcosiinae.

Keywords

• zygaenidae
• aglaope infausta
• larva
• morphology
• histology
• chaetotaxy