Palp markings as a basis for identification 



which may be easily distinguished from one another by other 

 characteristic markings. When the probable name of the mosquito 

 we are dealing with has been found out by means of the table the 

 full description of the mosquito of this name may be turned up (in 

 Part II of this monograph), and we can ascertain by a more 

 thorough examination of all the markings, scale structure, &c., 

 whether we have identified the insect correctly. 



In selecting the palp markings as the basis of the table of 

 Indian species, we have been guided by the facts that they are less 

 variable than the markings on the legs or wings, and that, whether 

 as a result of coincidence or not, such an arrangement of the 

 Indian species brings together into the same groups the species of 

 which the habits and pathological significance are very similar. It 

 should be noted that the markings of male mosquitoes vary so 

 much that it is not advisable to use them for the identification of 

 species and female specimens only should be employed. 



A few examples will serve to illustrate the method of using 

 the table. 



Example I. A MOUNTED MOSQUITO FOR IDENTIFICATION. 



Antennae. With short, inconspicuous hairs at the joints 

 (Plate III, Figs. 2 & 4), showing that the mosquito is a female. 



Palpi. As long as the proboscis (Plate III, Fig. 4) showing 

 that it is an " anopheles." 



Wings. Spotted with dark and light scaled areas. The 

 mosquito therefore comes under group I. 



Palpi. With three white bands or rings, viz., one broad ring 

 including the tips (which are therefore white) and two narrower ones. 



It therefore comes under the group C, sub-group 2. 



Legs. None of the tarsal segments of the hind legs are white 

 in their whole length, but there are distinct white bands at the 

 tarsal joints (sub-group 6). 



The mosquito is therefore A. rossi or A. stephensi. The 

 femora and tibiae are not speckled with white patches, and the 

 abdomen is not covered with scales. 



Diagnosis. A. rossi. 



Confirm by comparison of the wing and other markings with the 

 coloured plate of A. rossi and with the description of that mosquito. 



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