The first stage of the evolution of Rhabdomastix (Diptera, Limoniidae) and the taxonomic implications of genus

A new subgenus Myanmamastix subgen. n. and four new species of Rhabdomastix from Cenomanian Burmese amber were described: Rhabdomastix (Myanmamastix) asiatica subgen. and sp. n., Rhabdomastix (Myanmamastix) cretacica subgen. and sp. n., Rhabdomastix (Myanmamastix) krzeminskae subgen. and sp. n., Rhabdomastix (Myanmamastix) myanmae subgen. and sp. n. The species Rhabdomastix jarzembowskii known from Burmese amber was reclassified to the new subgenus Myanmamastix subgen. n. An analysis of the morphological structures and taxonomical differences between the representatives of Cretaceous Rhabdomastix was carried out. The manuscript presents results of original research, including the first 3D reconstruction of a Dipteran preserved as an inclusion in Burmese amber using computer microtomography.

Automated summary

A new subgenus Myanmamastix and four new species of Rhabdomastix were described from Cenomanian Burmese amber, with 3D reconstruction of a Dipteran preserved in the amber being presented as part of the original research results. The taxonomical differences between representatives of Cretaceous Rhabdomastix were analyzed in the manuscript.