Molecular systematics of the world Thaumaleidae (Diptera)

The Thaumaleidae, commonly referred to as seepage midges, are a small family of aquatic Diptera. The common name refers to the larval habitat, which is always a thin film of flowing water (i.e., madicolous). These habitats include vertical waterfalls and rock-face seepages and splash zones around waterfalls and along cascading mountain streams. Due to this habitat specificity, thaumaleids are poorly known and rarely collected. There are roughly 185 described species in 7 genera found on all continents, except Antarctica. The objective of this project is to generate the first phylogeny of the family Thaumaleidae and to shed light on the relationship between genera endemic to either the southern and northern hemisphere. Recent field collecting around the world has resulted in the acquisition of molecular grade material for representatives of all genera, as well as new species. Nucleotide sequences from the nuclear genes MCS and Big Zinc Finger will be acquired from representatives of all genera and several outgroup taxa and analyzed phylogenetically using modern likelihood-based methods. The major products from this research will include a predictive molecular-based phylogeny of the Thaumaleidae, reassessment of current generic concepts, and the first world checklist for the family.