The immature stages of the biting midge Culicoides debilipalpis Lutz (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)

The fourth instar larva and pupa of Culicoides debilipalpis Lutz, 1913 are described, illustrated, and photomicrographed from material collected in tree-holes of Salix sp. in Entre Rios Province, Argentina by using binocular, phase-contrast, and scanning electron microscopy. Measurements of instars I–IV are also presented. The larva shows features typical to carnivorous-predatory larvae, as well as characters typical of larvae occurring in tree holes and clean water. Details on larval biology, habitat, and feeding behavior are given.