Expression of cic^{ΔC2.T:Ivir\HA1} has a strong maternal effect, resulting in embryonic lethality. The penetrance of this is high with a single copy of the transgene in approximately half of the transgenic lines. The remaining lines cause embryonic lethality only when two copies are present.

Embryos expressing strong cic^{ΔC2.T:Ivir\HA1} insertions frequently lack the eight abdominal segment and the posterior spiracle. Stronger defects extending to the abdominal region are also observed in approximately 40% of the embryos.

Females expressing strong cic^{ΔC2.T:Ivir\HA1} combinations produce eggs with partial or complete fusion of their dorsal respiratory appendages.

cic^{ΔC2.T:Ivir\HA1} embryos are moderately ventralised.