DNA barcode library revealed unknown diversity of chironomid midges in Montenegro

We present the first results of study aiming to investigate diversity non-biting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae) fauna Skadar Lake system (Montenegro and Albania), a well-known hotspot freshwater biodiversity composed by young lake (originated 1200 before present) its old springs during Pliocene). During study, 8,147 COI barcodes were obtained revealed presence 474 BINs 586 OTUs assigned 148 species. Our provide insight into factual molecular among chironomids inhabiting basin fill significant gap in knowledge Balkan region. With 219 (46.2%) unique from new for BOLD, we can expect that further development barcode reference libraries will help bind unidentified developmental stages with those identified based on morphology reveal hidden Chironomidae species diversity. Further studies should be focused sampling which provides best species-level resolution, such as mature males. It develop reliable library - fundamental assessments.