Stratiomystery: Ability of aquatic Odontomyia (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larvae to survive stream drying using dormancy

Authors: Susan Washko, Michael Bogan

Year: 2023

Abstract

Aquatic solider fly larvae (Diptera: Stratiomyidae, subfamily Stratiomyinae) are known for their abilities to live in extreme environments. In the Sonoran Desert, Odontomyia larvae use dormancy to survive when temporary rock pools dry. Climate change is expected to make rock pool dry periods longer, which could test the limits of dormancy in aquatic solider fly larvae. To better understand the limitations of this strategy on larval survival and body condition, we conducted a series of laboratory-based microcosm experiments. We found that Odontomyia larvae can survive at least two extended dry periods (≥30 days) through dormancy. The presence of moisture in the substrate during dormancy is not necessary to survive and had no effect on survival or larval body mass in our experiments. Energy and bodily water loss likely limit survival in dormant stages. Although these results suggest Odontomyia are fairly resistant to drying, more data is needed on body mass, pupation, and reproductive success across hydroregimes. The more we understand about the survival limitations of rock pool aquatic invertebrates, the more successful conservation efforts will be for their unique aquatic biota.