The distribution of Chironomus (s.s.)? cucini (salinarius group) larvae (Diptera: Chironomidae) in Parry Sound, Georgian Bay, with particular reference to structural deformities

Abstract

The results of a study of the macroscopic zoobenthos in Parry Sound, Georgian Bay, Ontario, suggest that the larvae of Chironomus (s.s.)? cucini (salinarius group), which are present only in the deep cool regions below the summer thermocline, are most abundant when their environment has been 'altered' as a result of the activities of man. Furthermore, when these 'alterations' reach a too intense level larvae in this and other chironomid taxa may exhibit morphological deformities.