Code QC030000

Larvae minute (under 2mm), body broadly ovate. Microsporid larvae are unique in having abdominal spiracles 1-8 protruding dorsally, forming balloon like gills. Antenna short, 2 segmented, 3 pairs of hooks ventrally on abdominal segment 10. The head is large and triangular, the mandibles are concealed behind the large labrum.

The family Microsporidae (suborder Myxophaga) comprises a single genus, Microsporus (= Sphaerius ) which occurs throughout the northern hemisphere and in Madagascar and Australia. The two described Australian species occur in New South Wales/Victoria and in northern Queensland. Adults and larvae are found in wet mud and gravel at the edges of streams, and probably feed on algae.

References:

Lawrence, J.F. (1991) Microsporidae (Myxophaga). pp. 302-303. In: Stehr, F.W. (ed.) Immature Insects. Volume 2. Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company, Dubuque, Iowa.

Lawrence, J.F. and Britton, E.B. (1991) Coleoptera. pp. 543-683. In: CSIRO, Insects of Australia. Volume 2. Melbourne University Press, Carlton, Victoria.