Redescription of Cu%ex (Cuzex) bihamatus Edwards with a Discussion1 of its Affinity (Diptera: Culicidae)

The male holotype of CuZex (CuZex) bihamatus Edwards 1926 is redescribed, the male genitalia illustrated and its affinity as determined from comparative studies of genitalia of related species in the Sitiens group is discussed. In the preliminary study of the type material of Oriental CuZex at the British Museum (Natural History), I have also examined for comparative purposes the types of a number of extralimital species which were previously described from regions closely adjacent to or at the periphery of Southeast Asia. One of these is C. bihamatus Edwards from Timor--a major island in the Lesser Sundas, which has been considered to be within the Australasian region. This species is known only from the single male holotype. It appears very likely that it may be found among the nearby islands in eastern Indonesia to the north and east of Timor. As the original description of ,%hamatus by Edwards (1926: 107-108) is very brief and no figure of the male genitalia is provided; it appears most appropriate to redescribe the type and to illustrate the male genitalia of this species so that when encountered it will be readily recognized and distinguished from other Oriental forms of CuZex (CuZex). In addition, an attempt has also been made to compare in detail the adult morphology and the genitalia of bihmatus with other CuZex {Cuzex) species and to provide a sounder interpretation as to its identity and affinity. Cukx (Culex) bihmatus Edwards Culex bih.amatus Edwards 1926: 107(d). CuZex (Cuhx) bihmatus Edwards, Edwards 1932: 203 (taxonomy).