Rediscovery of Eristalinus (Merodonoides) multifarious (Walker, 1852) (Diptera, Syrphidae) from Kerala, India and its molecular phylogeny

Abstract

The hoverfly species Eristalinus (Merodonoides) multifarius (Walker, 1852) rediscovered from Kerala after 45 years was reported. The total number of species of hoverflies in Kerala has been updated to 60, based on the previously omitted first record of the species. Male of the species have been redescribed along with illustrations of male genitalia. The species have been molecular characterised for the mtCO1 gene for the first time. Phylogenetic analysis of the members of the tribe Eristalini showed close affinity of E. (Merodonoides) multifarius with other members of Eristalinus Rondani followed by Mallota Meigen.