Morphology and ontogeny of immature stages of Helotidae based on descriptions of Helota thoracica Ritsema and H-gemmata Gorham (Insecta : Coleoptera : Cucujoidea)

Abstract

Three larval instars and the pupae of Helota thoracica Ritsema, 1895 are described and figured for the first time. The larval chaetotaxy of the head, pro- and mesonota, abdominal terga III, legs, abdominal sterna III, and urogomphi is described. Almost all setae present in larval instar I are primary. Subprimary setae appear on the abdominal sternites, head, and legs. Pupae are very conservative since no differences were observed between H. thoracica and H. gemmata. A novel method for rearing adult and larval helotids is also provided.