Description of larvae of Herophydrus musicus (Klug) and analysis of relationships with members of the genus Hygrotus Stephens (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae)

Description of the larvae of Herophydrus musicus (Klug, 1833) is presented including a detailed chaetotaxic and porotaxic analysis of the cephalic capsule, head appendages, legs, last abdominal segment and urogomphi. Compared to other genera of the tribe Hydroporini, it is postulated that Herophydrus Sharp is more closely related to members of the genus Hygrotus s. lat. Stephens based on the following synapomorphies: (i) absence of the primary pore ANf; (ii) absence of the primary seta TR2; (iii) absence of a ventroapical spinule on antennomere 3; and (iv) more proximal position of the primary seta UR8 on urogomphomere i. Larvae of Herophydrus musicus are very similar morphologically to members of Hygrotus s. let. lacking natatory setae on legs.