Original Article

Neurigona susanrocesae, the first Neurigona species from the Philippines

Authors:
Custer C. Deocaris¹, Malona V. Alinsug¹ , Gladys R. Cabelin², and Reizl P. Jose^2
1Atomic Research Division, Department of Science and Technology, Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Commonwealth Ave., Quezon City 1101, Philippines
²Department of Forestry and Environmental Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Bohol Island State University, Bilar, Bohol 6317, Philippines

ABSTRACT
The first species of the genus Neurigona is described from the Philippines. The diagnosis, description and molecular data based on the partial DNA sequence of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene were documented. The Neurigona species exhibits distinct characteristics, including a sub-apical dorsal stylus resembling an arista, a peduncle on the seventh abdominal segment, a flat dorsal postcranium, elongated legs devoid of prominent setae or bristles, and a distinctive rectangular bend in wing vein M. Based on the DNA sequence analysis, the unknown species is 90.06% similar to Cyrtona sp. and Neurigona zhejiangensis. However, 10% of its DNA sequences are significantly variable making it a totally different species. The specimen was verified by a dipterist as a species belonging to Genus Neurigona under Family Dolichopodidae. These flies are recognized for their lengthy legs and sizable yellow bodies. The species was named as N. susanrocesae as a tribute to the late Susan Roces, the “Queen of Philippine Movies”.

Keywords: Bohol Island, DNA barcoding, new species, phylogenetic analysis, taxonomy

^{Available Online: 21 June 2023}

How to Cite:
Deocaris CC, Alinsug MV, Cabelin GR and Jose RP. Neurigona susanrocesae, the first Neurigona species from the Philippines. The Palawan Scientist, 16(1): 1-7. https://doi.org/10.69721/TPS.J.2024.16.1.01

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