Minute and diverse in fossil sticky stuff: Tanytarsini (Diptera: Chironomidae) from early Eocene Indian Cambay amber

Abstract We here present a pioneering systematic review of fossil dipterans of the tribe Tanytarsini (family Chironomidae) discovered in Indian amber from Cambay. The specimens examined belong to five species: Gujaratomyia miripes,Stempellina stebneri sp. nov., Stempellinella pollex sp. nov., Tanyta...

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Published in:Zoological journal of the Linnean Society 2020-08, Vol.189 (4), p.1398-1425
Main Authors: Zakrzewska, Marta, Singh, Hukam, Wagner-Wysiecka, Ewa, Giłka, Wojciech
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Amber
Aquatic insects
Chironomidae
Diagnostic systems
Eocene
Fossils
Inclusions
New species
Phylogeny
Physical properties
Resins
Sedimentary rocks
Shale
Systematics
Tanytarsini
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Summary:Abstract We here present a pioneering systematic review of fossil dipterans of the tribe Tanytarsini (family Chironomidae) discovered in Indian amber from Cambay. The specimens examined belong to five species: Gujaratomyia miripes,Stempellina stebneri sp. nov., Stempellinella pollex sp. nov., Tanytarsus forfex sp. nov. andTanytarsus ramus sp. nov., which are described. All species belong to the oldest known Tanytarsini and come from the Cambay shale formation in Tadkeshwar, dated to the early Eocene (~54 Mya). Displaying unusual characters/structures of diagnostic and phylogenetic importance, the specimens studied are discussed against the background of the evolution and systematics of the oldest fossil (Eocene) and extant representatives in the tribe. An updated checklist and key to the identification of genera and species of Tanytarsini from Eocene amber is also provided. The spectral characteristics and physical properties of Cambay amber are similar to those of glessite resins, which are discussed in detail in order to substantiate the identity of the amber and the origin of the inclusions studied.
ISSN:0024-4082
1096-3642
DOI:10.1093/zoolinnean/zlz159