New Neotropical species of Downeshelea Wirth and Grogan and redescription of D. multilineata (Lutz) (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)

Abstract

Seven new species of Downeshelea Wirth and Grogan 1988–D. casimirensis, D. costaricensis, D. eclectica, D. jarina, D. litorale, D. marambaia and D. moravia–are described and illustrated based on male and female specimens from Central and South America. The new species are compared with their similar congener D. multilineata (Lutz). A redescription of D. multilineata is presented and its neotype designated. These eight species were included in the multilineata species group, and a diagnosis and identification key are presented for each.