Molecular evidence for multiple origins and high genetic differentiation of non-native winter crane fly, Trichocera maculipennis (Diptera: Trichoceridae), in the maritime Antarctic.

Native biodiversity and ecosystems of Antarctica safeguarded from biological invasion face recent threats from non-native species, accelerated by increasing human activities and climate changes. Over two decades ago, the winter crane fly, Trichocera maculipennis, was first detected on King George Island. It has now successfully colonized several research stations across King George Island. To understand the origin, genetic diversity, and population structure of this Holarctic species, we conducted mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequence analysis across both its native and invasive ranges. In parallel, we performed microsatellite loci analysis within the invasive ranges, utilizing 12 polymorphic microsatellite markers. Furthermore, we compared body sizes among adult males and females collected from three different locations of King George Island. Our COI sequence analysis exhibited two different lineages present on King George Island. Lineage I was linked to Arctic Svalbard and Polish cave populations and Lineage II was related to Canadian Terra Nova National Park populations, implying multiple origins. Microsatellite analysis further exhibited high levels of genetic diversity and significant levels of genetic differentiation among invasive populations. Body sizes of adult T. maculipennis were significantly different among invasive populations but were not attributed to genetics. This significant genetic diversity likely facilitated the rapid colonization and establishment of T. maculipennis on King George Island, contributing to their successful invasion. Molecular analysis results revealed a substantial amount of genetic variation within invasive populations, which can serve as management units for invasive species control. Furthermore, the genetic markers we developed in the study will be invaluable tools for tracking impending invasion events and the travel routes of new individuals. Taken together, these findings illustrate the highly invasive and adaptable characteristics of T. maculipennis. Therefore, immediate action is necessary to mitigate their ongoing invasion and facilitate their eradication.

New records of Trichoceridae (Diptera) from the island of Mallorca ​.

BACKGROUND: The Trichoceridae are a small family distributed mainly in the Holarctic Region, most of which are associated with cold seasons and even snow. From the Iberian peninsula, 5 species have been recorded; however only a single previous occurence record exists from the Balearic islands. NEW INFORMATION: In this paper we present new records of two species from Mallorca, of which Trichocera (Saltrichocera) saltator (Harris, 1776) has not previously been recorded from the Balearic islands. Trichocera (Saltrichocera) annulata Meigen, 1818 is recorded for the first time from Mallorca. We furthermore discuss the species' distributions within the Mediterranean region and report new morphological data for the Mallorca island form of T. saltator.

Checklist of the infraorder Tipulomorpha (Trichoceridae, Tipuloidea) (Diptera) of Finland.

A checklist of the infraorder Tipulomorpha: families Trichoceridae, Pediciidae, Limoniidae, Cylindrotomidae and Tipulidae (Diptera) recorded from Finland.