Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 July 2009
A few larve of Tabanus fasciatus niloticus were obtained on 4th March 1925 near Renk, on the White Nile, their habitat being the Nile cabbage (Pistia stratiotes, Linn.). They were by no means common, a search of a couple of hours yielding but seven specimens. They were lying submerged in the water, supported on the bases of the lower leaves in such a position that their caudal respiratory siphons could be extended to reach the surface of the water, and never more than a single larva occurred on an individual plant. In appearance they were typical Tabanid larvae, except as regards colour ; the normal colour is white to yellowish, but the larvae in question were bright green, similar to the green of the leaves among which they were situated. They were placed in a glass jar with water, plant débris and some Nile cabbages, and taken to Khartoum, the journey occupying ten days. When the contents of the jar were examined in Khartoum two larvae were recovered and removed each to a test-tube containing a roll of filter-paper and water. They fed readily on earthworms.