A new species of Simulium (Gomphostilbia) (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Northern Thailand, with its genetic relationship in the S. asakoae species-group

A new black fly species, Simulium (Gomphostilbia) kiewlomense, is described from females, males, pupae and mature larvae in Thailand. This new species is placed in the S. asakoae species-group and is characterized by having a combination of the elongate female sensory vesicle, widened male hind basitarsus, which is much wider than the hind femur, small pupal terminal hooks, and light greenish larval abdominal segments 1?3. Taxonomic notes are given to separate this new species from other related species. A DNA analysis using the COI gene shows that this new species has two genoforms with 1.21% difference. This is the 28th species of the S. asakoae speciesgroup in Thailand, strengthening the evidence for high species diversity of this species-group.

Automated summary

A new black fly species, Simulium (Gomphostilbia) kiewlomense, has been discovered in Thailand, belonging to the S. asakoae species-group with unique characteristics that set it apart from related species. DNA analysis revealed two genoforms with a 1.21% difference, highlighting the high species diversity within this species-group.