Verrallina indica
Verrallina indica is a species of mosquito in the genus Verrallina, first described by Frederick Vincent Theobald in 1907. This species is believed to occur in the Oriental region, particularly in India and parts of Southeast Asia, based on its name and the distribution patterns of related species.
Description
As a member of the genus Verrallina, V. indica exhibits morphological traits typical of the group. These include broad decumbent scales on the vertex of the head, a scutum with dorsocentral setae, and curved, narrow scales on the scutellum. The wings feature broad marginal scales on the alula, and the legs have dark-scaled tarsomeres I to III. Specific details distinguishing V. indica from other species in the subgenus Neomacleaya are not widely documented, but it likely shares a similar appearance with its close relatives.Distribution and habitat
Verrallina indica is thought to be distributed across the Oriental region, including India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia. The genus Verrallina is known to range from the Oriental region northward to Russia and Japan, and southeast into the Papuan Subregion and northeastern Australia.This species typically inhabits temporary ground waters such as flood pools, puddles, road ruts, and animal hoof prints. It may also occur in coastal brackish water pools, swamps, and natural containers like crabholes and plant axils. Adults are commonly found in jungle environments and coastal mangroves, reflecting the ecological preferences of the genus.