Parakiefferiella sp.
Taxa description
Parakiefferiella sp. (Thienemann, 1936) is a genus of freshwater chironomids belonging to the Orthocladiinae subfamily. The genus is variable but can be distinguished by antennae with a hair-like, vestigial 6th segment and a single broad median tooth on the mentum. The ventromental plates are moderately developed and may extend beyond the lateral margin of the mentum. One species has a few inconspicuous beard setae on the ventromental plates. The S I are bifid, plumose, or with a variable number of branches. The genus is in need of revision as many species have inadequate descriptions or are unassociated with adults.
Distinguishing features
Habitat
Parakiefferiella sp. larvae are most frequently found in standing waters, but some species can inhabit both lotic and lentic ecosystems.
Lake occurrence
This genus occurs in Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Superior.
Similar species
Relative size
Parakiefferiella larvae are small, only reaching 4 mm in length.
Does it have a barcode reference from the Great Lakes?
References
Andersen, T., Cranston, P.S., Epler, J.H., 2013. The larvae of the Chironomidae (Diptera) of the Holarctic Region. Insect Systematics & Evolution, Supplement No 66.
NOAA and USEPA. 2019 Great Lakes Waterlife. Accessed on 06/05/2026.
Epler, J.H., 2001. Identification manual for the larval Chironomidae (Diptera) of North and South Carolina.
Walker, I.R., D.R. Oliver, and M.E. Dillon. 1992. The larva and habitat of Parakiefferiella nigra Brundin (Diptera: Chironomidae). Netherlands Journal of Aquatic Ecology 26: 527-531.