Larvae of terrestrial Chironomidae (Diptera) colonize the vegetation layer during the rainy season

Pedobiologia 44, 622-626.

Yannick R. Delettre

C.N.R.S. / University of Rennes I, Biological Field Research Station, F-35380 Paimpont, France.

Summary

Several qualitative observations show that larvae of terrestrial Chironomidae (Diptera) are able to colonize the vegetation above the soil surface on heathlands in Brittany (France). In winter, during rainy periods, larvae of several species move into the thick layer of lichens on which they feed. This behaviour, previously unknown, expands food resources which can be used by species. Its occurrence only in winter is related to ecophysiological requirements, mainly drought avoidance. It is discussed in a cost-benefit perspective.

Keywords

Diptera, Chironomidae, drought avoidance, feeding behaviour, competition