Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae

52 (suppl.2) 

2012 

ACTA ENTOMOLOGICA 

MUSEI NATIONALIS PRAGAE 

Insect Biodiversity 

of the Socotra Archipelago 

Edited by: 

Jiří Hájek & Jan Bezděk 

Socotraproctus haghier

Chairman of the 

editorial board: Josef Jelínek (Czech Republic) 

Editor-in-chief: Petr Kment (Czech Republic) 

Associate editors: Martin Fikáček (Czech Republic) 

Igor Malenovský (Czech Republic) 

English language editor: Jitka Aldhoun (United Kingdom) 

Advisory board: 

Jitka Aldhoun (United Kingdom) 

Michael Balke (Germany) 

Jan Bezděk (Czech Republic) 

David S. Boukal (Czech Republic) 

Freddy Bravo (Brazil) 

Vladimir M. Gnezdilov (Russia) 

Jiří Hájek (Czech Republic) 

Petr Kočárek (Czech Republic) 

Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae 

Volume 52 (supplementum 2) 

Date of issue: December 17, 2012 

Zdeněk Laštůvka (Czech Republic) 

Lubomír Masner (Canada) 

Wolfram Mey (Germany) 

Carl W. Schaefer (USA) 

Aleš Smetana (Canada) 

Alexey Yu. Solodovnikov (Denmark) 

Pavel Štys (Czech Republic) 

Sonja Wedmann (Germany) 

Published biannually by the National Museum, Václavské náměstí 68, CZ-115 79 Praha 1, 

Czech Republic. 

Scope of the journal: Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae (AEMNP) publishes entomological papers 

focused on taxonomy, nomenclature, morphology, bionomics and phylogeny as well as catalogues, faunistic papers 

dealing with large areas and short notes. 

Manuscripts should be sent to: AEMNP journal offi ce, Department of Entomology, National 

Museum, Kunratice 1, CZ-148 00 Praha 4, Czech Republic. 

E-mails: aemnp.editors@gmail.com, aemnp@nm.cz. 

Journal web page: http://www.nm.cz/publikace/acta.php; http://www.aemnp.eu 

Typeset & design: M. Fikáček. 

Printed by H.R.G. spol. s r.o., Svitavská 1203, Litomyšl, Czech Republic. 

Distributed by the Department of Entomology, National Museum, Praha. 

Indexed in Biological Abstracts, EBSCO, Entomology Abstracts, SCOPUS, BIOSIS Previews, 

Zoological Record and Scientifi c Citation Index Expanded. 

ISI Impact Factor (2011): 0.72 

ISSN 0374-1036 (Print) © Národní muzeum, Praha – 2012 

ISSN 1804-6487 (Online) 

ISBN 978-80-7036-360-7 

Cover: Socotraproctus haghier Král, Sehnal & Bezděk, 2012 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). Drawn by Zuzana Čadová.

Insect Biodiversity 


Edited by: 

Jiří HÁJEK & Jan BEZDĚK 

Published with the fi nancial support of: 

the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic (INGO LA 10036) 

and 

the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic (DKRVO 00023272). 

ACTA ENTOMOLOGICA MUSEI NATIONALIS PRAGAE 

volume 52 (supplementum 2) 

National Museum, Prague 

2012

Contents 

Foreword. ............................................................................................................................. v 

BATELKA J.: Socotra Archipelago – a lifeboat in the sea of changes: advancement in Socotran 

insect biodiversity survey. ............................................................................................... 1 

BEZDĚK J., PURCHART L., KRÁL K. & HULA V.: List of local Socotran geographical 

names used in entomological literature. ........................................................................ 27 

FARKAČ J. & HÄCKEL M.: Calosoma chlorostictum ivinskisi, a new synonym of Calosoma 

chlorostictum chlorostictum (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Carabini). .................................. 69 

FELIX R. F. F. L., FARKAČ J. & SULEIMAN A. S.: Annotated checklist of the Carabidae 

(Coleoptera) of the Socotra Archipelago. ...................................................................... 75 

FIKÁČEK M., DELGADO J. A. & GENTILI E.: The Hydrophiloid beetles of Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Georissidae, Hydrophilidae). .................................................................. 107 

JÄCH M. A. & DELGADO J. A.: Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov. from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: 

Hydraenidae). .................................................................................................... 131 

HLAVÁČ P.: New species of Euconnus, subgen. Euconophron (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: 

Scydmaeninae) from Socotra Island. ............................................................................135 

LÖBL I.: Baeocera socotrana sp. nov., the fi rst species of Scaphidiinae (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) 

reported from Socotra Island. ................................................................... 141 

KRÁL D. & KUBÁŇ V.: Afromorgus reiterorum sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Trogidae) from Socotra 

Island. .......................................................................................................................... 147 

KRÁL D., SEHNAL R. & BEZDĚK A.: Tanyproctini (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) 

of Socotra Island. ............................................................................................. 153 

ŠÍPEK P., VENDL T. & KRÁL D.: Homothyrea inornatipennis (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: 

Cetoniinae: Leucocelina): immature stages and distribution. ..................................... 183 

VOLKOVITSH M. G.: Polycestinae (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) of Socotra Island. ....... 195 

BÍLÝ S.: A new species of the genus Chalcogenia from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: 

Buprestinae: Anthaxiini). ................................................................................. 209 

KUNDRATA R.: Description of Selasia socotrana sp. nov. (Elateridae: Agrypninae: Drilini) 

from Socotra Island, with notes on S. homhilia. ......................................................... 213 

BELLÉS X.: Ptinus bertranpetiti, a new species of spider beetle from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: 

Ptinidae). ........................................................................................................... 219 

HALSTEAD D. G. H.: New species of Oryzaephilus and Silvanolomus from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Silvanidae: Silvaninae). .......................................................................... 223 

GIMMEL M. L.: Phalacridae of Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea). .................... 233 

AUDISIO P.: A new species of Lamiogethes from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae: 

Meligethinae). .............................................................................................................. 241 

RÜCKER W. H.: Description of a new Corticaria from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Latridiidae). 

......................................................................................................................... 249 

HORÁK J., FARKAČ J. & NAKLÁDAL O.: Mordellidae (Coleoptera) from Socotra 

Island. .......................................................................................................................... 253 

BATELKA J.: Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov., the fi rst ripiphorid from Socotra Island, with 

an account of the biogeography of the Ptilophorini (Coleoptera: Ripiphoridae). ....... 269 

SCHUH R.: Colydiinae (Coleoptera: Zopheridae) of Socotra Island. ............................. 287

PURCHART L. & NABOZHENKO M. V.: Description of larva and pupa of the genus Deretus 

(Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) with key to the larvae of the tribe Helopini. .................. 295 

SCHAWALLER W. & PURCHART L.: Nanocaecus hlavaci gen. & sp. nov. – fi rst record of 

the tribe Gnathidiini (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Diaperinae) from the Socotra Archipelago. 

...................................................................................................................................... 303 

PURCHART L. & SCHAWALLER W.: A new species of the genus Corticeus (Coleoptera: 

Tenebrionidae) from Socotra Island. ........................................................................... 315 

NOVÁK V. & PURCHART L.: New species of the genus Socotralia and fi rst record of the 

genus Alogista from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Alleculinae). ......... 323 

ŠVIHLA V.: A review of the family Oedemeridae (Coleoptera) of the Socotra Archipelago. 

...................................................................................................................................... 337 

KEJVAL Z.: Studies on the genus Anthelephila (Coleoptera: Anthicidae). 12. Review of the 

species from Yemen, including Socotra Island. ........................................................... 347 

HÁJEK J. & KABÁTEK P.: Synonymical notes on the genus Sybrinus from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae). ..................................................................... 365 

DELOBEL A.: Bruchinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) from Socotra Island. ............... 373 

ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA J. & BOROWIEC L.: Cassidinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) from 

Socotra Island. ............................................................................................................. 381 

BEZDĚK J.: Tituboea purcharti sp. nov., the fi rst representative of Clytrini from Socotra 

Island (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cryptocephalinae). ............................................ 395 

BEZDĚK J.: Galerucinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) of Socotra Island, with a review of 

taxa recorded from Yemen. .......................................................................................... 403 

DÖBERL M.: Alticinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) of Socotra Island. ....................... 429 

ZOIA S.: Eumolpinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) of Socotra Island. ......................... 449 

KNÍŽEK M.: Description of a new species of Aglycyderes (Coleoptera: Belidae: Oxycoryninae). 

............................................................................................................................. 503 

KNÍŽEK M.: A new species of Halystus from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: 

Scolytinae: Polygraphini). ........................................................................................... 511 

JANŠTA P.: Description of male of Leucospis insularis (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Leucospidae) 

with new records and check-list of Chalcidoidea of Socotra Island. .......... 517 

LO CASCIO P., ROMANO M. & GRITA F.: New species and new records of mutillid wasps 

from Socotra Archipelago (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae). .............................................. 525 

JEŽEK J. & TKOČ M.: A new species of the genus Gondwanoscurus, and two new records 

of non-biting moth fl ies (Diptera: Psychodidae: Psychodinae) from Socotra Island. ... 545

Foreword 

Socotra, the largest island of the archipelago of the same name, also called the Island of Bliss, 

Dragon’s Blood Island, and referred to as the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean by some natural 

scientists. An island mentioned for the fi rst time as Dioskouridou (Dioscoridus in Latin) in the 

Periplus of the Erythraean Sea in 1 st century A.D. An island located on the boundary between 

the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. An island which has been living a life of its own for at 

least 16 million years. And, fi rst and foremost, an island with a unique fauna and fl ora. 

Socotra has been known to man since ancient times, when it was an important producer 

of incense, myrrh and ‘dragon’s blood’. In spite of that, a vast majority of today’s Westerners 

don’t have the faintest idea of its existence. Both poor access to the island, with no safe 

harbour, and long-term political instability in the region have resulted in centuries of limited 

connection between Socotra and the world around. For this reason, a fragile balance of sustainable 

co-existence of man and unique ecosystems has been maintained until recently. The 

improving standard of living of the inhabitants, combined with an increasing consumption 

of precious water and destruction of indigenous vegetation, as well as growing interest from 

investors, who fi nd Socotra highly attractive, together with an increasing number of tourists, 

for whom the infrastructure of the island is not adequate, are now pushing this fragile balance 

to the verge of (probably irreversible) collapse. Ironically, all the negative aspects are 

becoming fully apparent shortly after Socotra was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve 

in 2003 and a Natural World Heritage Site in 2008. 

An essential prerequisite for the preservation of Socotra’s unique environment is a detailed 

understanding of the biodiversity of the island. In 1999–2012, Czech natural scientists were given 

a rare opportunity to visit Socotra repeatedly under several projects focusing on the restoration 

of original vegetation, sustainable development and invertebrate biodiversity. Collection activity 

of varying degrees of intensity during these visits amassed unique insect material, which 

became the main source of information for the present supplement. More than 550 pages present 

40 papers dealing with the biodiversity of different groups of insects. Altogether, the supplement 

describes fi ve new genera, 69 species, four subspecies, while it reports 63 fi rst records for the 

island. A vast majority of the papers (35) concern beetles. In addition to beetles, only two groups 

of Hymenoptera and a family of Diptera have been treated. Additional groups of Coleoptera, 

Diptera, Hemiptera, Orthoptera and other groups are in varying stages of work in progress. 

However, we are still in what can be seen as the fi rst stage of our research – an overwhelming 

majority of the papers are of a ‘cataloguing’ nature, i.e. they chart what kind fauna lives on 

Socotra. For the time being, they do not discuss the connections between the insects and the 

environment of the island or the faunas of the surrounding areas of Africa and Asia. This is one 

of the reasons for our reluctance and inability to draw major conclusions from our research on 

Socotra at this point. We believe that this volume is merely the fi rst piece in a puzzle which will 

be followed by more pieces in the coming years. However, we also hope that this publication will 

make an important contribution to the understanding of the island, helping to preserve Socotra’s 

unique nature for the future. At the same time, we encourage all the responsible institutions in 

Yemen and Socotra to continue supporting the study of the biodiversity on this unique island. 

In Prague and Brno, 5 November 2012 

Editors


Published 17.xii.2012 Volume 52 (supplementum 2), pp. 1–26 ISSN 0374-1036 

Socotra Archipelago – a lifeboat in the sea of changes: 

advancement in Socotran insect biodiversity survey 

Jan BATELKA 

Nad Vodovodem 16, CZ-100 00 Prague 10, Czech Republic; e-mail: janbat@centrum.cz 

Abstract. Nature conditions in the Socotra Archipelago are briefl y summarised, 

main factors contributing to the composition and diversity of the insect fauna, i.e. 

geological history, geographic position, geomorphology, climatic conditions and 

plant diversity, are circumscribed. Results of the Socotran invertebrate biodiversity 

research are reviewed, the fi rst annotated list of 40 insect genera and subgenera 

endemic to the Socotra Archipelago is provided. Recorded high level of endemism 

in the Socotra Island is in accordance with the estimated geological age and 

continuous stability of its ecosystem. Brief comparison of biodiversity in Socotra 

and Seychelles Islands – both granitic archipelagos of Gondwanan origin in the 

West Indian Ocean – is performed. Difference in composition of insect fauna in 

Socotra and allied Abd el Kuri Island is commented. Main threats and conservation 

issues concerning the fragile Socotran ecosystem are summarised, and examples 

of possible consequences for insect fauna are given. Based on comparison of 

scarce outputs and research activities concerning the Socotran insect fauna so far 

with the number of those elaborated for other countries/islands, establishing of a 

long-term insect survey is recommended. 

Key words. Review, insularity, geology, fl ora, climate, biodiversity, endemism, 

insect genera, habitat conservation, insect survey, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Because of their remarkable richness in endemic forms, study of the isolated biotas (also 

called ‘insularity’) has been one of the most interesting topics among naturalists and especially 

evolutionary biologists since the second half of the 19 th century (WITT & MALIAKAL-WITT 2007). 

Diversity of insular faunas and fl oras is particularly infl uenced by the combination of geological 

history of the respective archipelago or island, its geographical location, isolation and by the 

past and current climatic conditions (e.g. DEL-ARCO et al. 2006, FERNÁNDEZ-PALACIOS et al. 2011). 

During the last several hundred years, composition of insular biotas worldwide has been, however, 

negatively infl uenced by the permanent human presence and the increasing exploitation. 

HÁJEK J. & BEZDĚK J. (eds.): Insect biodiversity of the Socotra Archipelago. Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis 

Pragae 52 (supplementum 2): i–vi + 1–557.

2 

BATELKA: Socotra Archipelago – a lifeboat in the sea of changes 

Fig. 1. Location map of the Socotra Archipelago. 

Not only endemic vascular plants and vertebrate animals like fl ightless birds, giant lizards or 

tortoises were brought to extinction or nearly so (e.g. FAY et al. 1997, STEINER & SAYERS 2002, 

OLSON 1973, MACHADO 1985, PALKOVACS et al. 2003, MIRALLES et al. 2011 – giving just a few 

examples from insular habitats around Africa). Also many peculiar endemic insect forms known 

to scientists were exterminated due to destruction of their habitat, like large monotypic ground 

beetle Aplothorax burchelli Waterhouse, 1842 and giant earwing Labidura herculeana (Fabricius, 

1798) from St. Helena (ASHMOLE & ASHMOLE 2004) or many species of dung beetles of the tribe 

Helictopleurini from Madagascar (HANSKI et al. 2007), and certainly many others had been lost 

forever before they were discovered. Some islands, like Easter Island in Polynesia, are even no 

longer suitable for research of biodiversity or biogeographic pattern of terrestrial arthropods 

because of the complete environmental degradation (DESENDER & BAERT 1997). 

Socotra Archipelago (also spelt as ‘Soqotra’ or ‘Suqutra’) is by its nature and despite some 

current negative human activities considered a unique spot on the planet and it therefore 

represents an outstanding place for research of animal and plant diversity and biogeography. 

To protect all its terrestrial and marine wildlife and original human settlement and cultural 

heritage, Socotra was designated as a Biosphere Reserve in 2003 and a Natural World Heritage 

site in 2008 (UNEP-WCMC 2008). 

However, the research of the Socotra’s fragile biota is far from giving a complete and comprehensive 

picture. Short-term expeditions of various institutions focused on investigation of

Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae, 52 (supplementum 2), 2012 3 

the terrestrial invertebrate communities are still bringing to light many species new to science 

or new island records of species which are naturally present in the region of the Gulf of Aden, 

and which all undoubtedly represent important although so far overlooked components of this 

island ecosystem. Much of the fi eldwork still needs to be done and many contributions are 

yet to be published before we obtain data comparable with those available about arthropod 

faunas of other archipelagos worldwide or adjacent zoogeographic regions. 

Figs. 2–3. Main landscape features of Socotra Island. 2 – granitic peaks of the Hagher massif (view from Skand to 

Hadibo); 3 – wadi south of Ba’a village.

4 


Figs. 4–5. Main landscape features of Socotra Island. 4 – Canyons bellow the Diksam plateau (Photo J. Hájek, 2010); 

5 – North-East cliffs with sand dunes, close to the Arher spring.


Natural conditions of the Socotra Archipelago 

Geography and geomorphology. Socotra Archipelago is situated in the western part of the 

Arabian Sea and forms the most distinct insular feature on its surface (Fig. 1). The archipelago 

consists of one main eponymous east-west orientated island (3,625 km 2 ), two smaller 

islands Samha (41 km 2 ) and Darsa (10 km 2 ) (also known as ‘The Brothers’ or ‘Al Ikhwan’) 

and a bit detached Abd el Kuri (133 km 2 ) which lies just about 100 km southwest of the main 

island. All four islands are closer to east Africa than to their place of origin – southern shore 

of Yemen and Oman. The highest mountain of the archipelago is situated in the eastern half of 

the Socotra Island in the Haggeher mountain range and reaches slightly above 1,500 m a.s.l. 

(Fig. 2). The smaller islands with a much more eroded surface reach only 743 m a.s.l. at their 

highest point in Abd el Kuri (UNEP-WCMC 2008). Three smaller islands are characterized 

by arid and rocky landscape without any permanent running water or seasonal pools. On the 

contrary, Socotra has numerous south to north orientated wadis and streams with running 

water (Fig. 3) which sometimes incised deep canyons into the slopes of the Hagher massive 

(Fig. 4). Water is abundant during the rainy seasons (see further under Climatic conditions) 

and scattered pools remain long after the rains. North-west shore is formed by steep cliffs of 

a limestone plateau (Fig. 5) with some well known cave systems (e.g. Arher, Hoq or Kazekas 

Cave – for coordinates of these and some other caves see TAITI & CHECCUCCI (2009)). The 

karstic system in Socotra is remarkably large and complex – altogether 35 different caves with 

underground galleries with a total length of 25 km were documented (GEEST et al. 2005). Both 

longer edges of the island are bordered by a strip of coastal plains sometimes up to several 

kilometers wide with occasional sandy dune areas. 

Geological and tectonic history. It is beyond the author’s competence to comment on or 

interpret the complex geological and particularly tectonic history of the Socotra Archipelago. 

However, as such information is often used in biological papers, for example in phylogenetical 

analyses, short review is in place here. All four islands are situated east of Gulf of Aden 

on the so-called ‘Socotran Platform’. Only Abd el Kuri is detached from the remaining three 

islands by the Brothers Basin (BIRSE et al. 1997). The archipelago is of the east Gondwanan 

origin similarly to the Madagascar and Seychelles in the south (e.g. KRAUSE et al. 2006, 

GANERØD et al. 2011) and to the neighbouring landmasses of south Arabia in the north and 

Africa in the west. Between the Socotran Platform and the Arabian Peninsula a deep trench 

with earthquake epicentres, so-called ‘Sheba Ridge’ is developed (MATTHEWS et al. 1967). 

Spreading of the Gulf of Aden is considered to be a result of the anticlockwise rotation of 

Arabia with respect to the African continent, and the period of 30–17 million years ago (Mya) 

was chosen for the early spreading phase (GIRDLER & STYLES 1978). D’ACREMONT et al. (2010) 

investigated magnetic anomalies in the area between the Alula-Fartak and Socotra-Hadbeen 

Fracture Zones of the Sheba Ridge and confi rmed an oceanic accretion from at least 17.6 Mya 

just close to the north-west edge of Socotra. Socotra is thus in insular position with respect to 

Arabia from at least 16 Mya (D’ACREMONT et al. 2010: Figure 10) while with respect to east 

Africa its position and distance has only little changed. According to the same authors the 

rifting between Arabia and Africa started around 35 Mya.

6 


Figs. 6–7. Marine (?) fossils. 6 – Unidentifi ed fossil from Firmihin (490 m a.s.l.); 7 – One of the abundant fossil 

specimens from the Madboh Sinhin plateau (820 m a.s.l.) which I tentatively identifi ed as a domical ‘cabbage-head’ 

stromatolite sensu ANADÓN & ZAMARREÑO (1981); it is probably identical with ‘silicifi ed concretions’ showed in 

BEYDOUN & BICHAN (1970, Plate 22, Fig. b). 

Date and place of Socotra’s splitting-off from the Dhofar region in Oman is interpreted 

in several different ways in biological papers. Here are some examples: ‘The archipelago is 

of continental origin and was connected to the Arabian plate in the region of today’s Dhofar 

and Al-Mahra prior to the rifting of the Gulf of Aden, at least 15 Myr (at most 35 Myr) ago 

(Richardson & al. 1995, Samuel & al. 1997)’ (KÜRSCHNER et al. 2006) or ‘one unpublished 

record from Oman ... from an Oligocene site (ca. 32 mio BP) located exactly (in time and space) 

at the splitting point, where Socotra was separated from the pre-Arabian continental plate 

(K. van Damme, in prep.)’ (NEUBERT 2009) or ‘Although today geographically closer to the 

Horn of Africa, the Socotran archipelago was separated from the Arabian peninsula 18–15 Ma 

(Richardson et al., 1995; Fleitmann et al., 2004; Van Damme, 2009)’ (THIV et al. 2011). 

However, historical reconstruction of the insular nature of Socotra in geological papers is 

not so straightforward. Although SAMUEL et al. (1997: Figure 11) found apparent similarities 

in stratigraphy of Socotra and Dhofar they just pointed out that ‘... prior to the Gulf of Aden 

rifting, Socotra was located adjacent to the Dhofar region...’. In BIRSE et al. (1997: Figure 

7), the Socotran Platform is even fi gured in isolated position with respect to the neighbouring 

landmasses since the Late Jurassic. In some other papers insularisation of Socotra is even


attributed to isolation from Africa: e.g. ‘Kopp (1999) considers isolation from Africa for at 

least 70 Myr, but minimal estimates are ca. 10 Myr (Laughton et al. 1970). Krupp et al. (2002) 

hypothesize that the archipelago was separated from Africa “at about the same time as India 

and Madagascar”.’ (NAGY et al. 2003). 

Stratigraphy. Three main stratigraphic units dominate the Socotra Island. Paleocene-Eocene 

plateaus are spread in mid altitudes all over the island and overlay the Proterozoic-Paleozoic 

granitic basement, which is elevated only in eastern Socotra in the Haggeher massif and in 

the westernmost part in Qalansiyah and Ras Shúab. It is believed that the highest part of the 

Haggeher massif was never submerged since the Cretaceous (FOURNIER et al. 2007) although 

marine (?) fossils (of age unknown to the author) can be found on limestone plateaus up to 

800 m a.s.l. (J. Batelka, pers. observ., Figs. 6–7). Mesozoic outcrops rise along the main wadis 

and steep edges of Paleocene-Eocene plateaus (MORRISON et al. 1997, FOURNIER et al. 2007). 

Third, the lowest parts of the island consist either of Quaternary Formations (sensu FOURNIER 

et al. 2007) or they are interpreted as Oligocene-Miocene or Lower Cretaceous strata (sensu 

MORRISON et al. 1997). 

Climate. Socotra lies within boundaries of the monsoonal precipitation regime (also called 

Indian summer monsoon). It means that Socotra has bimodal distribution of rainfall due to the 

seasonal migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (FLEITMANN et al. 2007). Southwest 

winds of summer monsoon start in April/May by heavy rains in southern part of the island 

and usually end between September/October. Shortly after (between October/November), 

northwest winds bring winter monsoon with precipitation mainly in northern part of the island 

and this second seasonal peak ends in February. Impacts of both rainy periods are different in 

different parts of Socotra due to the natural barrier formed by the Haggeher mountain massif 

(HABROVA et al. 2007). 

The highest rainfall measured between years 2002–2006 was during September-November 

and March-May. Fogs are common in the highest parts of the main massif during the southeast 

summer monsoon, when fog-derived moisture may reach up to 800 mm of precipitation. In 

several past decades, the precipitation did not reach the mean annual amount in some years, 

causing droughts some of which are remembered and named by local people (SCHOLTE & DE 

GEEST 2010). Recorded air temperature ranged from 8.2 °C in January 2005 in Skant (1,450 

m), Haggeher Mts., to 43.5°C in June 2005 in Hadibo. Mean annual records taken by the 

same weather stations ranged between 17.9°C and 28.0°C, respectively (HABROVA et al. 2007). 

According to SCHOLTE & DE GEEST (2010) the hottest month is May with the average recorded 

temperature of 31.2°C. 

Paleoclimate. Climatic conditions during the Pleistocene-Holocene period were inferred from 

the data obtained by analysis of stalagmites from caves in Socotra and Oman (FLEITMANN et al. 

2007, SHAKUN et al. 2007). In Pleistocene, interpluvial periods (i.e. dry periods corresponding 

to glacials in the northern temperate zone) reached its peak ~23 thousand years ago (kya), 

followed by gradual increase in precipitation (pluvial period) until the following ~16.4 kya 

dry period. Rainfall increased suddenly again ca. 14.5 kya during the Bølling warming (Oldest 

and Older Dryas) and was still growing through Allerød. Through Allerød and Younger Dryas,

8 


Socotra was exposed to continuous drying, and then precipitation increased suddenly again 

at the beginning of the Holocene (11.4 kya) (SHAKUN et al. 2007). During the early Holocene 

(10.5–9.5 kya), the mean latitudinal position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone expanded 

rapidly northward and from 7.8 kya to the present it migrated back southward, causing 

the decrease in summer monsoon intensity and precipitation amount and shortening the rain 

period duration (FLEITMANN et al. 2007). 

Figs. 8–11. Endemic fl owering plants. 8 – Aerva revoluta (Skant); 9 – Caralluma socotrana (Wadi Ayhaft); 10 

– Trichodesma scottii (Skant-Wadi Madar); 11 – Begonia socotrana (Skant).


Vegetation. Owing to its complex geomorphology and geological history, the limited area 

of Socotra holds a remarkably diverse vegetation cover. KRÁL & PAVLIŠ (2006) used satellite 

data combined with their own fi eld observations and distinguished 19 land-cover classes 

including e.g. grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, forests and mangroves. 

There are about 825 species of vascular plants, 307 of which are regarded as endemic 

(Figs. 8–13) (MILLER & MORRIS 2004). Fifteen genera are endemic to the archipelago, e.g. 

Figs. 12–13. Endemic fl owering plants. 12 – Croton sulcifructus (Wadi Madar); 13 – Hypericum scopulorum 

(Skant).

10 


Cyanixia Goldblatt & J. C. Manning (Iridaceae), Nesocrambe A. G. Mill. (Brassiceae) or 

Socotrella Bruyns & A. G. Miller (Apocynaceae) (MILLER & MORRIS 2004, GOLDBLATT et al. 

2004). Several other genera include high number of endemic taxa due to insular radiations 

(e.g. Boswellia Roxb., Helichrysum Gärtn. or Heliotropium Linn.) (ORLANDO & MIES 2004). 

According to the results of an extensive fl oristic research conducted by German botanists 

Figs. 14–15. Examples of vegetation cover: Crotonion sulcifructi alliance. 14 – Leucado hagghierensi-Pittosporetum 

viridifl orum association, Skant Mt. env., forest meadow, 1,450 m a.s.l. (Photo: L. Purchart, 2010); 15 – Trichodesmo 

scotii-Cephalocrotonetum socotrani association, Wadi Madar, open steppe forest, 1,180–1,230 m a.s.l.


(KILIAN & HUBAISHAN 2006), the vegetation cover of Socotra (so-called Acridocarpo socotrani- 

Crotonatelia socotrani order) can be further divided in two alliances: (semi)deciduous lowland 

and low montane communities (i.e. Crotonion socotrani alliance) up to 750–800 m a.s.l., and 

high montane communities (i.e. Crotonion sulcifructi alliance) above 800–1,500 m a.s.l. (Figs. 

14–15) (KÜRSCHNER et al. 2006). 

Socotran Dracaena woodland of mid altitudes with its characteristic fl ag-species Dracaena 

cinnabari Balf. f. is supposed to be a remnant of the Miocene-Pliocene xerophyllous 

and sclerophyllous Tethyan fl ora (ADOLT & PAVLIS 2004). Although one can thus expect 

mainly vicariant origin of the endemic plants due to the continental origin of the island, 

recent studies show that the presence of some endemic taxa (e.g. in the genera Aerva Forssk., 

Campylanthus Roth, Echidnopsis Hook f. or Thamnosma Torr. & Frém) is caused by 

the long-distance dispersal of their ancestors (THIV et al. 2006, 2010, 2011; THIV & MEVE 

2007). The majority of the fl ora has East-African or South-Arabian affi nities, although 

some disjunct distributional patterns related for example to Macaronesia are commonly 

discussed (ANDRUS et al. 2004). 

Insects of the Socotra Archipelago 

(Figs. 16–21) 

Endemic genera. Endemic species and particularly endemic genera in insular habitats 

deserve our attention because they could help us, at least to some extent, unveil the history 

of colonisation and speciation process. In the case of Socotra, the endemic terrestrial 

forms may be either descendants of species already present on this piece of land before 

its separation from Oman (speciation by vicariance) or they may have evolved from later 

colonists that reached the already existing Socotra Archipelago by the over-sea disperse 

from various mainland sources (speciation caused by founder effect). Natural colonisation 

of remote islands can happen either by: (1) passive aerial dispersal by wind currents, 

(2) rafting on organic matter, (3) phoresy on the surface of rafting or fl ying animals, and 

(4) active aerial dispersal of winged species (BATELKA & STRAKA 2011). Thus dispersal 

abilities of insects must also be seriously taken into account when analyzing the origin of 

island biodiversity (ASHMOLE & ASHMOLE 1988). Colonisation of what is now the Socotra 

Archipelago and what was before its Oligocene-Miocene rifting part of the breaking-up 

post-Gondwanan landmass was doubtless a complex process. Infl uence of a substantially 

increased genetic drift on speciation of the Socotran terrestrial arthropods immediately 

after the Arabian Sea barrier had developed could be expected because, at least so far, any 

putative post-rifting connection with Arabia or Africa through possible land-bridges is not 

evidenced in the reviewed geological literature. 

So far altogether 40 genus-level taxa of insects are known exclusively for the archipelago 

(see Table 1). In addition, three yet undescribed genera of Heteroptera (P. Kment, pers. comm. 

2012), one genus of Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) (Hlaváč & Baňař, pers. comm. 2012) and 

nine genera of Curculionidae (Coleoptera) (Colonnelli, pers. comm. 2012) are known to occur 

in Socotra as well and will be described in near future, so far making a total of 50 genera 

and three subgenera in ten insect orders endemic for the Socotra Archipelago. Although their 

total count shall certainly fl uctuate in the future, this remarkable endemism on the genus-taxa

12 


level indicates that the insect biota of the main island of the archipelago (see below remark 

about insects and land-snails in Abd el Kuri) has gone through a long and uninterrupted period 

of insular isolation. Overall richness corresponds to the estimated antiquity of the island 

and apparently benefi ts from preservation of ‘one of the oldest forest ecosystem on Earth’ 

(HABROVA et al. 2007). 

Genera and subgenera described from the Socotra Archipelago but no longer considered 

valid or endemic. Nine genera and two subgenera are not mentioned in Table 1 because of 

the subsequent changes in taxonomy or distribution. 

• Monotypic subgenus Svatacesta Zabransky, 2004 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Strigoptera 

Dejean, 1833) from Socotra (ZABRANSKY 2004) is considered invalid by VOLKOVITSH 

(2012). 

• Genus Sybrinus Gahan, 1900 and its subgenus Sokotrosybrinus Breuning, 1949 (Coleoptera: 

Cerambycidae) were established to accommodate a single Socotran species each 

(GAHAN 1900, BREUNING 1949). As Sokotrosybrinus is a junior synonym of Sybrinus, which 

(within current concept) also contains several species from east Africa and Yemen (HÁJEK 

& KABÁTEK 2012), both names are excluded from the list. 

• Genus Pseudapis Kirby, 1900 (Hymenoptera: Halictidae), described upon one new Socotran 

species (KIRBY 1900), is no longer endemic to the island having included more than 70 

species in the Old World (ASCHER 2012). 

• Monotypic Socotran Pararhynchomia Becker, 1910 (Diptera: Calliphoridae) (BECKER 

1910) was subsequently recorded also from east Africa and Oman by DEEMING (1996, 

spelled there as Pararhyncomia). 

• Genus Goniophthalmus Villeneuve, 1910 in BECKER (1910) (Diptera: Tachinidae) is no 

longer endemic to Socotra having included another species with the Old World distribution 

(RICHTER & ZHUMANOV 1994). 

• Crossogaster Mayr, 1886 (Hymenoptera: Agaonidae) established by MAYR (1886) as a 

monotypic Socotran genus is now a speciose Afrotropical genus (VAN NOORT 1994). 

• Amefrontia Hampson, 1899 (= Palafrontia Hampson, 1908) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) established 

by Hampson for two Socotran species (HAMPSON 1899, NHM 2012a) now contains 

also some species from Africa and Arabia (HACKER & SALDAITIS 2010, HACKER et al. 2011). 

Three monotypic lepidopteran genera were proposed by REBEL (1907): Pseudomicra Rebel, 

1907 (Noctuidae) from Abd el Kuri, and Neosema Rebel, 1907 (Noctuidae) and Epimesophleps 

Rebel, 1907 (Gelechiidae) from Socotra. None of them is likely to be endemic to the 

archipelago. 

• Pseudomicrodes Hampson, 1910 (a replacement name for Pseudomicra Rebel, 1907 

(NHM 2012b)) currently contains nine species distributed elsewhere (NHM 2012b). However 

HACKER & SALDAITIS (2010) assumed that other ‘six [sic!] species ... are not really 

congeneric’ with Pseudomicrodes and concept of this genus apparently deserves thorough 

taxonomic investigation. 

• Neosema is a junior synonym of the speciose genus Agrotis Ochsenheimer, 1816 (NHM 

2012c). 

• Finally, in Epimesophleps another species was described from Egypt by MEYRICK 

(1925).


Table 1. List of insect genera/subgenera endemic to the Socotra Archipelago. 

Remarks: If not stated otherwise, the particular genus or subgenus has been so far reported from the Socotra 

Island only. In the Reference(s) column either paper with original description or the latest available review and/or 

revision of the genus is cited. Given the wide systematic range of the corroborated taxa, it might have happened 

that some name or some taxonomic change was overlooked in the extensive amount of references. 

Order: Family Endemic genus / subgenus Sp. Reference(s) 

Collembola: Sminthuridae Sokotrasminthurus Bretfeld, 2005 2 BRETFELD (2005) 

Collembola: Bourletiellidae Diksamella Bretfeld, 2005 1 BRETFELD (2005) 

Archaeognatha: Machilidae Afrochilis Sturm, 2002 1 STURM (2002) 

Zygentoma: Lepismatidae Primacrotelsa Mendes, 2004 1 MENDES (2004) 

Neuroptera: Nemopteridae Apocroce Tjeder, 1974 1 TJEDER (1975) 

Neuroptera: Nemopteridae Parasicyoptera Tjeder, 1974 1 TJEDER (1974) 

Orthoptera: Acrididae Dioscoridus Popov, 1957 1 UVAROV & POPOV (1957) 

Orthoptera: Acrididae Physemophorus Krauss, 1907 1 UVAROV & POPOV (1957) 

Orthoptera: Acrididae Oxytruxalis Dirsh, 1951 1 DIRSH (1951) 

Orthoptera: Eumastacidae Phaulotypus Burr, 1899 4 DESCAMPS (1970) 

Orthoptera: Eumastacidae Socotrella Popov, 1957 1 DESCAMPS (1970) 

Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae Xenephias Kevan, 1973 1 KEVAN (1973) 

Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae Pachysmopoda Karsch, 1886 1 UVAROV & POPOV (1957) 

Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae Phaneroptila Uvarov, 1957 1 UVAROV & POPOV (1957) 

Orthoptera: Phalangopsidae Socotracris Desutter-Grandcolas, 2012 1 DESUTTER-GRANDCOLAS & FELIX 

(2012) 

Mantodea: Mantidae Teddia Burr, 1899 1 BURR (1899) 

Coleoptera: Cicindelidae Socotrana Cassola et Wranik, 1998 1 CASSOLA & WRANIK (1998) 

Coleoptera: Geotrupidae Socotrabolbus Cambefort, 1998 1 CAMBEFORT (1998) 

Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae Canudema Lacroix, 1994 1 LACROIX (2002) 

Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae Canuschiza Lacroix, 1999 2 LACROIX (2002) 

Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae Socotraproctus Král et al., 2012 1 KRÁL et al. (2012) 

Coleoptera: Elateridae Gahanus Platia, 2012 1 PLATIA (2012) 

Coleoptera: Elateridae Socotrelater Platia, 2012 1 PLATIA (2012) 

Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Histeromorphus Kraatz, 1865 (Socotra, 

Samha, Darsa and Abd el Kuri) 

2 KOCH (1970), SCHAWALLER (2004) 

Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Eusyntelia Waterhouse, 1881 (Socotra, 

Samha and Darsa) 


Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Socotropatrum Koch, 1970 (Socotra and 

Samha) 


Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Apithesis Waterhouse, 1881 (Socotra and 

Samha) 


Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Dioscoridemus Koch, 1970 1 KOCH (1970), SCHAWALLER (2004) 

Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Deretus Gahan, 1900 6 PURCHART (2012) 

Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Socotralia Novák, 2007 7 NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012) 

Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Nanocaecus Schawaller & Purchart, 2012 1 SCHAWALLER & PURCHART (2012) 

Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Gahanosis Penrith, 1983 (as subgenus of 

Zophosis Latreille, 1802) (Abd el Kuri) 

1 PENRITH (1983) 

Coleoptera: Cerambycidae Sokothesthes Adlbauer, 2002 (as subgenus 

of Chariesthes Chevrolat, 1858) 

1 ADLBAUER (2002) 

Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae Beenenia Bezděk, 2012 2 BEZDĚK (2012) 

Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae Bezdekaltica Döberl, 2012 1 DÖBERL (2012) 

Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae Erythraella Zoia, 2012 1 ZOIA (2012) 

Hymenoptera: Halictidae Erythronomioides Pesenko, 1983 (as 

subgenus of Nomioides Schenck, 1866) 

1 PESENKO & PAULY (2005) 

Hymenoptera: Megachilidae Xenostelis Baker, 1999 1 BAKER (1999) 

Lepidoptera: Plutelliidae Genostele Walsingham, 1900 1 WALSINGHAM (1900), ROBINSON & 

SATTLER (2001) 

Lepidoptera: Geometridae Mimaplasta Herbulot, 1993 1 HERBULOT (1993)

14 


Endemism on the family-rank level. For the orthopteran genus Socotrella Popov, 1957 (in 

UVAROV & POPOV 1957), whose name should not be confused with the vascular plant name 

Socotrella (Apocynaceae), a separate subfamily Socotrellinae was established to accommodate 

the sole species of the genus owing to its unusual combination of characters (UVAROV 

& POPOV 1957). However, the name is no longer valid as Socotrellinae was synonymised 

with Thericleinae by DESCAMPS (1970) and there is currently no endemic insect taxon on the 

family-rank level in the archipelago. 

Comparison with other insular biota. Socotra Archipelago with its unique history and 

natural conditions cannot be directly compared with any other African insular biota. All 

islands in the eastern Atlantic Ocean are of the volcanic origin, so they have completely 

different history of colonization and geological events. The same is true for the Comoros 

Islands and Mascarenes in western part of the Indian Ocean. The only possible candidates for 

a comparison with Socotra in respect of evolutionary processes are thus granitic islands of 

Seychelles. Their oceanic isolation from the breaking eastern Gondwana (in their case from 

the Indian subcontinent) is supposed to be much older (63–64 Mya according to GANERØD et 

al. 2011), however, until recently they were part of a much larger microcontinent (Seychelles 

Bank, 55,000 km 2 ), and their current isolation by the ocean barrier is much stronger (some 

1,600 km east of Africa and 3,000 km from India) (CUMBERLIDGE 2008). Even though the 

four granitic islands of Seychelles are currently much smaller than Socotra (larger Mahé and 

smaller Praslin, Silhouette and La Digue have a combined area only 454 km 2 (CUMBERLIDGE 

2008)) with the highest point slightly above 900 meters in Mahé, they harbour almost the 

same number of vascular plant species as Socotra (850 fl owering plants and ferns); however, 

only 69 species are supposed to be endemic. Some of them are placed in only 10 endemic, 

usually monotypic genera (STODDART 1984). 

Surprisingly, Seychelles have much higher rate of endemism in insect genera than Socotra – altogether 

215 endemic genera in 10–12 orders (STODDART 1984). Similarly to Socotra, the most 

diverse order is Coleoptera with 85 endemic genera out of the total 387 genera present there, 

but the order and total generic counts of other orders in spite of endemism differ markedly. E.g., 

Seychelles harbour 24 endemic genera of Diptera, eight genera of Psocoptera and four genera 

of Trichoptera – all three orders have so far no endemic genus recorded from Socotra. On the 

contrary, Seychelles has no endemic genus of Neuroptera (STODDART 1984). 

General colonisation model applicable for insular biotas within the frame of long geological 

time-scale which would include speciation opportunities, immigration and extinction rates, 

population divergence, host or habitat shifts, anagenetic and phylogenetic changes leading to 

speciation and diversifi cation and other phenomena is still under hot debate (e.g. WHITTAKER 

et al. 2007, 2008; WITT & MALIAKAL-WITT 2007). It seems that the only way how to test and 

answer these questions in insular environments is analyses of phylogenies of multiple taxa 

including insular forms (WHITTAKER et al. 2007, WITT & MALIAKAL-WITT 2007). From this 

point of view we can now only superfi cially and tentatively comment on the current composition 

of the Socotran insect biota in comparison with other insular systems or neighbouring 

continents simply because any such dataset for any insect group including Socotran taxa is 

not available.


Figs. 16–17. Endemic insects. 16 – Amitermes socotrensis Harris, 1954 (Termitidae) – chambers inside the ground 

nest, Madboh Sirhin plateau, 12.xi.2010; 17 – Azuragrion granti (McLachlan, 1903) (Coenagrionidae) – mating 

pair, Ayhaft, 7-8.xi.2010 (Photo J. Hájek).

16 


Figs. 18–21. Endemic insects. 18 – Pachysmopoda abbreviata (Taschenberg, 1883) (Tettigoniidae), female, Madboh 

Sinhin plateau, 12.xi.2010; 19 – Julodis clouei Buquet, 1843 (Buprestidae), Noged plain, 10.xi.2010 (Photo J. Hájek); 

20 – Mallodon arabicum Buquet, 1843 (Cerambycidae), male, Firmihin plateau, 16.xi.2010; 20 – Acraea neobule 

socotrana Rebel, 1907 (Nymphalidae), mating pair, Skant, 12.xi.2010.


Origin and different composition of fauna among Socotran islands. Composition and 

presence of some insect families or for example land snails, whose biological requirements 

and colonisation history are at least to some extent comparable with those of some groups of 

insect, may refl ect important events in geological history of Socotra. Predominant Pimeliinae 

(Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) may indicate that the fauna is older than Miocene because this 

subfamily is supposed to be placed phylogenetically more basally contrary to e.g. Tenebrioninae 

which is predominant in the Madeira Archipelago (SCHAWALLER 2006). Some terrestrial 

invertebrate groups may also refl ect possible different geological history of Socotra and Abd 

el Kuri. Differences in composition of the Tenebrionidae fauna on both islands (SCHAWALLER 

2006) or in distribution of land snails of the genera Zootecus Westerlund, 1887 (NEUBERT 2003: 

158–159), Achatinelloides G. Nevill, 1878 (NEUBERT 2005: 248) and Guillainia Crosse, 1884, 

Lithidion Gray, 1850 and Platypoma Neubert, 2009 (NEUBERT 2009: 122) are supposed to be 

result of independent separation of Socotra and Abd el Kuri from the Arabian Peninsula. 

Absence of single-island endemic insect genera in Samha and Darsa and only one singleisland 

endemic subgenus presented in Abd el Kuri (Table 1), may be result of some sudden 

bottleneck-event after which the insect biota of these islands (contrary e.g. to the land-snails in 

Abd el Kuri) has never fully recovered again, rather than indicate a unique geological history. 

It is of interest that, in comparison, even some of the smallest and the most arid islets of the 

Madeira Archipelago, like Porto Santo (one islet with several allied rocks, 43 km 2 in total), 

Desertas (three islets, 13.5 km 2 in total) and Selvagens (several islets and fragment rocks, 

2.73 km 2 in total), keep remarkable single-island endemic insect genera until their almost last 

subaerial stage and despite irreversible destruction of their habitats by man (BECKER 1992, 

BORGES et al. 2008). 

Gaps in our knowledge of Socotran insect fauna. Endemic insect genera and their radiations 

are often considered fl ag-ships of insular biodiversity and prime examples of adaptations to the 

natural conditions ruling in their insular habitat (e.g. GEISTHARDT 1995, GRESSITT 1978, RITCHIE 

& MACÍAS GARCIA 2005). However, in this regard our information about Socotran insect fauna 

is still regrettably scarce. Five endemic genera of a total number of 40 generic rank taxa were 

described simultaneously with this contribution (Table 1), and the corroborated families still 

represent only part of the Socotran insect biota. Until very recently our knowledge of some 

endemic genera on a species-level was not much better either. Of the six known species of 

endemic Deretus Gahan, 1900, fi ve species (i.e. 83 %) were described in the years 2004 and 

2012 (PURCHART 2012) and all seven species of the endemic Socotralia Novák, 2007 were 

described in 2007 and 2012 (NOVÁK & PURCHART 2012). All these genera and species can be 

identifi ed by common methods, no special techniques like molecular barcoding or statistic 

morphometry are necessary. Neither any collecting technique unknown in the past has to 

be used to discover the species. Also, it should be mentioned that for none of the described 

Socotran insect endemic genera either molecular or morphological phylogenetic analysis of 

its particular group has been performed until now. 

Although the fi rst attempts to corroborate material collected in Socotra are dated back to 

the second half of the 19 th century, the fact is that the previous research works resulted in 

only limited number of publications in the 20 th century altogether insuffi ciently covering the

18 


Socotran biodiversity heritage. We may speculate about the reasons, the most dominant role 

among which undoubtedly played inaccessibility of the archipelago, especially between years 

1968–1990 due to the political situation in Yemen (ORLANDO & MIES 2004, SCHOLTE et al. 

2011). It is therefore no surprise that from all those above listed genera (subgenera) endemic 

to the Socotra Archipelago, 50 % have been described during the last 20 years, i.e. within the 

period which began soon after the Socotra had been opened up to foreign visitors. Lack of 

skilled taxonomists with knowledge of the complex biogeography in some groups (LÖBL & 

LESCHEN 2005) or insuffi cient distribution of material collected during previous surveys may 

also have had negative infl uence on low number of elaborated outputs. 

Conclusions 

Nature conservation issues. Major threats to until now well-preserved natural habitats of 

the Socotra Island are the increase in tourism causing road and infrastructure development, 

increasing immigration and import of goods from mainland Yemen, and pollution by irreducible 

waste around settlements (DAMME & BANFIELD 2011). Countryside is exposed to 

overgrazing by increasing herds of goats and other livestock (SCHOLTE et al. 2011; shortly 

after the rain period, we saw some areas almost completely devoid of herbs and grass due to 

intensive grazing) followed by subsequent aridisation and soil erosion (e.g. cattle trails on 

Skant). Another problem is a woodland fragmentation and commercial collection of fi re wood 

(ORLANDO & MIES 2004; e.g. we saw bundles of collected wood (for commercial purposes?) 

by the road from Hadibo to Shibhon). 

Giving an example, Dracaena populations, which are growing between 300–1,500 m a.s.l., 

are one of the well known cases of Socotra’s conservation issues. Desintegration and decline 

of Dracaena woodlands is expected within some 30–77 years. As the available data indicate, 

overmaturity and insuffi cient regeneration of Dracaena growths happened either because of 

the change of climatic conditions or because of overgrazing by the increasing population of 

livestock (ADOLT & PAVLIS 2004). As the number of goats does no longer depend on fl uctuation 

of natural conditions due to human support (drought anomalies usually caused livestock losses 

in the past (SCHOLTE et al. 2011)), both grazing and prolonged drought periods represent almost 

impenetrable barrier for the recovery of vegetation, and Dracaena seedlings show extremely 

low survival capacity in open habitats if they are not protected against goats (ATTORE et al. 

2007, HABROVA et al. 2009). Impact on the arthropod fauna restricted to this type of habitat 

could be fatal. In Firmihin Dracaena forest, we found at least three endemic beetle species 

associated exclusively with the mature Dracaena trees: Corticeus socotranus Purchart & 

Schawaller, 2012, Deretus necopinatus Purchart, 2012 (both Tenebrionidae; PURCHART 2012, 

PURCHART & SCHAWALLER 2012) and one undescribed species of Mechistocerus Fauvel, 1863 

(Curculionidae; Colonnelli, pers. comm.). Some other endemic beetles have been found associated 

with the very same old trunks: e.g. the large prionid Mallodon arabicum Buquet, 1843 

(Cerambycidae), scarabaeid Oryctes vicinus Gahan, 1900 (Scarabaeidae), Calais sulcicollis 

(Gahan, 1900) (Elateridae) and others (J. Batelka, pers. observ.). All these species are therefore 

endangered as well although they are also able to develop in other trees in the same habitat 

(e.g. Boswellia). Suddenly, Boswellia trees, especially those belonging to the ground-rooted


group, also show poor regeneration and may be subject to a progressive decline because of 

overgrazing, similarly to Dracaena (ATTORE et al. 2011). As a memento we can remind of 

another Tertiary survivor, Dracaena draco (L.) from the Macaronesian islands, which had 

been completely brought to extinction on some islands (or nearly so on others) within several 

hundred years after colonisation by Europeans (MARRERO et al. 1998, SZIEMER 2010: 75–76). 

Putative insect fauna associated with these disappeared Dracaena forests in the Macaronesia 

archipelagos had not been recorded before its decline and remaining scattered solitary trees 

(often cultivated) no longer support any specifi c fauna. 

Last but not least, native organisms are exposed to competition with numerous introduced 

alien and sometimes highly invasive species (DAMME & BANFIELD 2011). SENAN et al. (2010) 

reported in Socotra presence of 87 alien plant species with invasive potential which might to a 

large extent replace the indigenous host plants of herbivore insects. Introduced birds, rodents 

or livestock could be also serious direct (predation) or indirect (overgrazing of host-plants) 

threat for some arthropods (e.g. PECK 2006: 58). 

Future prospects of insect surveys. Socotra represents an island ecosystem with long and 

complex geological and ecological history. Various organisms both of vicariant and dispersal 

origin have found here suitable shelter against the world of turbulent changes on near continents 

and many of them have had even enough time to develop into remarkable endemic 

forms. However this preserved ‘Lost World’ is changing rapidly. 

As it was highlighted above, insect communities are in general endangered by changes 

and degradation of their habitats but not by sampling or collecting whatsoever. Giving just 

one example from Socotra (although concerning a non-endemic species): large and hard-tooverlook 

Afrotropical dragonfl y Rhyothemis semihyalina (Desjardins, 1832) is supposed to be 

locally extinct in the island due to the waste accumulation and pollution of its former water 

habitats in Hadibo plain (DAMME & BANFIELD 2011: 39). In a similar way, many endemic species 

may disappear before they are discovered. While endangered plants could be preserved 

in botanical gardens and nurseries or their seeds could be stored in a seed bank, for insects 

the only chance to survive is the continuous preservation of localities they inhabit. 

It should be noted here, that almost all so far published papers about Socotran insects 

were written from the purely taxonomical perspective, often represented by sole descriptions 

of particular taxon without any other biological information (e.g. for the endemic genera 

Mimaplasta or Xenostelia the only available data is a holotype female of each genus labeled 

‘east Socotra, 500m, 5–25.i.1993’ and ‘Socotra’ respectively). This is hardly more than a 

starting point. Little or nothing is known about phylogeny, biology, genetic variability or 

ecological fi tting of the so far described and recorded species. More complete knowledge 

and understanding of the biology of the species are undoubtedly essential for any future 

conservation efforts focused on the Socotran insect biodiversity. Establishing of a long-term 

arthropod survey similar to those which have been conducted already e.g. in the United 

Arab Emirates, to name the most infl uential biodiversity project ever established in the 

Arabian Peninsula (HARTEN 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011), or in Galápagos Islands, to give an 

insular example (PECK 2006), is highly recommended for documentation of insect fauna 

of Socotra and adjacent islands.

20 


Acknowledgements 

I am obliged to Luboš Purchart and Jan Bezděk (both Mendel University, Brno) for the 

possibility to join the Socotra research project. I thank Martin Fikáček, Jiří Hájek (both 

National Museum, Prague), Antonius van Harten (Portugal), Mike Thiv (State Museum of 

Natural History, Stuttgart, Germany), David Král (Charles University, Praha), Jan Bezděk 

and Luboš Purchart who kindly commented upon early version of the manuscript. Martin 

Fikáček, Jan Bezděk, Antonius van Harten and Jiří Hájek also helped obtain numerous 

references and Luboš Purchart created the maps. Mike Thiv provided identifi cation of some 

fi gured endemic plants. 

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List of local Socotran geographical names used 

in entomological literature 

Jan BEZDĚK 1) , Luboš PURCHART 2) , Kamil KRÁL 3,4) & Vladimír HULA 1) 

1) Mendel University, Department of Zoology, Zemědělská 1, CZ-613 00 Brno, Czech Republic; 

e-mails: bezdek@mendelu.cz; hula@mendelu.cz 

2) Mendel University, Department of Forest Ecology, Zemědělská 3, CZ-613 00 Brno, Czech Republic; 

e-mail: lubos.purchart@post.cz, lubos.purchart@mendelu.cz 

3) The Silva Tarouca Research Institute for Landscape and Ornamental Gardening, Department of Forest Ecology, 

Lidická 25/27, CZ-602 00 Brno, Czech Republic; e-mail: kamil.kral@vukoz.cz 

4) Mendel University, Department of Forest Botany, Dendrology and Geobiocoenology, 

Zemědělská 3, CZ-613 00 Brno, Czech Republic 

Abstract. The paper presents a list of local geographical names and their alternatives 

quoted in entomological literature related to the Socotra Archipelago. It 

includes their exact localization with coordinates and visualization on the map. 

Key words. Entomology, geographical names, list, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The Socotra Archipelago is a group of four main islands – Abd el Kuri, Darsa, Samha and 

Socotra, located in the northwest part of the Indian Ocean. Especially the last one, the island 

of Socotra, the largest island of the archipelago (about 95 % of its landmass), is inhabited 

by native people – Socotrans, whose origin is not yet known with confi dence and remains 

a matter for conjecture (NAUMKIN 1993, CHEUNG & DEVANTIER 2006). They speak their own 

language called ‘Socotri’, which belongs to the Semitic language family (NAUMKIN 1993). The 

uniqueness of this language is highlighted by the fact that it has no written form (MILLER & 

MORRIS 2004), although it is rich in poetic culture (NAUMKIN 1993, CHEUNG & DEVANTIER 2006). 

As a necessary consequence of this fact, diffi culties with recording local geographical names 

(e.g. villages, mountains, wadis) arose. Many visitors (travellers, researchers) of the island 

tried to write down these names based on their listening (phonetic transcription). It naturally 

led to diverse variations of many names published in the literature simply because people 

with different spoken languages took down the names with different spellings. This situation 

continues up to the present time. Moreover, especially in older literature, such localities are 

not visualized on maps. It brings diffi culties for researchers (e.g. botanists, zoologists) when 



28 

BEZDĚK et al.: List of Socotran geographic names in entomological literature 

studying the relevant literature. They usually have to sort through a number of different names 

and in many cases it is hard or even impossible to locate a particular locality accurately. 

For reasons mentioned above, we compiled a list of all geographical names that have 

been used in entomological literature in the past and which refer to the Socotra Archipelago 

(papers dealing exclusively with the subphyla Hexapoda and Myriapoda sensu REGIER et al. 

(2010) respectively, i.e. taxa formerly constituting subphylum Tracheata (Arthropoda)). The 

aim of this paper is simply to identify all so far mentioned Socotran localities, to synonymize 

different names used for one place and, wherever it was possible, to provide localities with 

geographical co-ordinates and place them in the map for easier orientation of future researchers. 

On the other hand, this contribution has no ambitions to codify the transcription of 

Socotri language or spelling of Socotran geographical names. 

Material and methods 

Almost all scientifi c papers dealing with Hexapoda and Myriapoda from the Socotra 

Archipelago were used to compile all names and their alternatives ever mentioned in this 

literature. Non entomological literature, maps, internet sources and information given by 

local people were used as well to fi nd out which variations of a particular geographical name 

belong together. 

During the work, several complications appeared. As the Socotri language has no written 

form (see also Introduction above), all variations of local names were created in the form of 

phonetic transcription, which was in turn infl uenced by the nationality and spoken language 

of the travellers. Due to this fact, several alternative names of the same place exist in most 

cases. Furthermore, Arabic transliteration could not be used either, because it was not available 

for all names concerned. Moreover, Socotri pronounciation differs somehow in different 

parts of the island. For all the reasons mentioned the authors faced diffi culties when deciding 

which variation of a name should be chosen as its primary variation. Eventually they decided 

to use the variation in which its English pronunciation most resembles the pronunciation in 

Socotri. Names whose spelling and location were ‘approved’ by Socotri people are listed with 

an asterisk. For the rest of names the authors used variations mentioned in published papers. 

They also strongly emphasize that the chosen names have no linguistic value. 

All names presented at fi rst place (bold letters) are listed alphabetically followed by square 

brackets containing name of the respective island and type of the name (e.g. settlement, 

wadi). All available alternatives for each name stated in literature (see above for specifi cation), 

including Russian and Arabic, are listed as well, and represent written form only and 

are adopted verbatim. 

The reason why the authors present also Russian transcriptions is, that former Soviet 

Union had signifi cant activities on the island (submarine base and military facilities, scientifi 

c research) and therefore a considerable number of names is available also in the Cyrillic 

alphabet. 

In accordance with BROWN & MIES (2012) we are using the spelling ‘Socotra’, rather than 

the more correct transliteration ‘Soqotra’, as most non-Arabic speakers would have diffi culty 

in correctly pronouncing the Arabic ‘q’.


Map 1. Socotra Archipelago. Small-scaled localities visualized as points.

30 


Map 2. Socotra Archipelago. Wadis visualized as lines.


Map 3. Socotra Archipelago. Large-scaled localities visualized as polynoms.

32 


Geographical coordinates and altitude that were available from authors’ personal fi eld 

observations or in recently published literature are given. When such information was not 

available then Google Earth was used to obtain an approximate coordinates. Larger areas 

(e.g. mountains, plateaus, some wadis) are delimited by more coordinates. 

The maps of the archipelago (Maps 1–3) were created using data of remote sensing. Planimetry, 

namely islands boundaries, shape/position of wadis and partly specifi c areas, is based 

on standard terrain corrected Landsat 7 ETM imagery. For Socotra Island the Landsat image 

was georeferenced using set of ground control points measured in the fi eld (KRÁL & PAVLIŠ 

2006). The altimetry is based on Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) data (RABUS et al. 

2003). The missing data in SRTM digital elevation model were fi lled by TIN interpolation. 

List of geographical names 

Abd el Kuri [island] 

Coordinates. 12°11′N 52°13′E 

Alternatives. Abdalkuri, Abd al Kuri, Abd al-Kuri, Abdal Kuria, Abd-el-Curia, Abd-el-Kouri, Abd-el-Kuri, 

Abdelkuri, Abdul Koury, Абд-эль-Кури, 

Entomological sources. KIRKALDY (1899), KOHL (1907), KRAUSS (1907), REBEL (1907), KOCH (1970), GELLER- 

GRIMM (2002), COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), MENDES (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), etc. 

Darsa [island] 


Alternatives. Darsa, Darsi, Darzah, Darze, Darzi, Derse, Dersi, Dharsa, Jarsah, Дарса, 

Entomological sources. KOCH (1970), ŠVIHLA (1985), COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004). 

Samha [island] 


Alternatives. Chaumah, Samah, Samha, Samheb, Samheh, Samheb, Sanchar, Semha, Самха, 

Entomological sources. KOHL (1907), REBEL (1907), COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), TOSKINA 

(2004), HACKER & SALDAITIS (2010), BORTH et al. (2011), LO CASCIO & GRITA (2011), etc. 

Socotra [island] 


Alternatives. Cacotora, Dioscoridus, Sacatora, Sacotora, Scotra, Soccotora, Socotia, Socotora, Socotera, 

Socothora, Sokotra, Soqotra, Soquotora, Suqutra, Zacatora, Zacotora, Zocotera, Zocotora, Zocotorah, 

Сокотра, 

A’aith [Socotra] 

Entomological source. MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. 

Abataro* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 1) (Fig. 1) 

Coordinates. 12°21′44″N 54°02′47″E, 10 m a.s.l. 

Alternative. Абетиру 

Entomological sources. DELOBEL (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Abelhen* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 2) 


Alternatives. Albahan, Diabelhan 

Entomological source. SCHAWALLER (2004).


Comments. For closely adjoinig villages Abelhen and Diaf (distance not more than 30 m) we use the same 

coordinates and one mark in the map. 

Adah* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 3) 

Coordinates. 12°38′23″N 54°04′38″E (lower part) – 12°38′57″N 54°05′33″E (upper part), 30–110 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Adda, Addah 

Entomological sources. KIRBY (1903), OGILVIE-GRANT (1903), RICARDO & THEOBALD (1903), KOHL (1907). 

Comments. Locality name ‘Lahas’ (pass or wadi) in CROSSKEY et al. (2002), KEJVAL (2002), FELIX et al. (2012), 

HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), PURCHART (2012), ZOIA (2012) and COLONNELLI (in prep.) undoubtedly refers to 

Wadi Adah. In Socotri, word Lahas means ‘wadi without water with some trees’. We think that the collectors 

received this general information when asked for the name of the place. 

Adho Dimello* [Socotra; pass] (Map 1: 4) 

Coordinates. 12°34′15″N 54°02′50″E, ca. 1050 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Adahan, Addehen, Adehen, Adho Demalu, Adho Dhemalu, Adho Di Meleh, Adho di Melho, Adhoh 

di-Melhoh, Adho Dimelho, Adho Dimellus, Ardahan, Di Melo, Dimele, Sigreh di Méleh 

Entomological sources. KRAUSS (1907), REBEL (1907), UVAROV & POPOV (1957), DESCAMPS (1970), KEVAN (1973), 

SOIKA (1974), HREBLAY (1996), POPOV (1997), HAAS et al. (2004), MENDES (2004), FELIX et al. (2012), etc. 

Comments. Based on SCHÄTTI & DESVOIGNES (1999) ‘Adho’ means ‘pass’ and name Adho Dimellus (and its 

variants) refers to the immediate vicinity of the Dihaal (Dimele) pass at altitude 1050 m a.s.l. 

Aduno* [Socotra; pass] (Map 1: 5) 


Alternatives. Adona, Adouna, Aduna, Adunoh, Miris Aduno 

Entomological sources. KRAUSS (1907), REBEL (1907). 

Ahelef* [Socotra; hills] (Map 3: 6) 

Coordinates. 12°37′17″N 53°25′17″E – 12°35′18″N 53°30′35″E, ca. 500–750 m a.s.l. 

Alternative. Ahelif 

Entomological source. REBEL (1907). 

Ain Tsahrin* [Socotra; spring] (Map 1: 7) 


Entomological source. DELOBEL (2012). 

Al Alyah [Abd el Kuri; settlement] (Map 1: 8) 


Alternative. Алийя 

Entomological source. RISERVATO et al. (2010). 

Comments. The coordinates were taken from RISERVATO et al. (2010). However, this settlement is, perhaps more 

precisely, depicted more eastwards in the map by CHEUNG & DEVANTIER (2006). 

Alha* [Socotra; settlement, plant nursery] (Map 1: 9) 


Alternatives. Elhe, Elhé, Ilah, Ilha, Альха, 

Entomological sources. KIRKALDY (1899, 1903), BURR (1903), RICARDO & THEOBALD (1903), POPOV (1997), 

COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Alilo [Socotra; pass or peak] 

Entomological sources. KIRKALDY (1899), KIRBY (1900), WALSINGHAM (1903), GREATHEAD (1969). 

Comments. Exact position unknown to us. Based on notes in OGILVIE-GRANT & FORBES (1903) and WALSINGHAM 

(1903) it is placed in Wadi Dineghen.

34 


Aloove* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 10) (Fig. 2) 


Alternatives. Di Mirko, Di-Mirkoh, Mirkoh, Ди-Мирко, 

Entomological sources. ÁBRAHÁM (2011), DELOBEL (2012), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), FIKÁČEK et al. 

(2012), GIMMEL (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), KNÍŽEK (2012), LO CASCIO et al. (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART 

(2012), PURCHART (2012), SCHUH (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Comments. The name of village is Aloove and it is inhabited by people of the tribe Di Mirko. However, in 

various maps the name Di Mirko is often used as the name of the village. 

Due to misunderstandings or inaccurate information given by the local people, the locality names and 

their coordinates of Zemhon area and Haasan village were mismatched in the Czech expeditions 2009 and 

2010. Locality names ‘Zemhon area, 12º30′58″N, 54º06′39″E’ (ÁBRAHÁM 2011, BELLÉS 2012, BEZDĚK 2012b, 

DELOBEL 2012, DÖBERL 2012, FELIX et al. 2012, FIKÁČEK et al. 2012, HORÁK et al. 2012, LO CASCIO et al. 2012, 

SCHUH 2012, ŠVIHLA 2012, ZOIA 2012) and ‘Aloove area, Hassan vill. env. 12º31.2′N, 54º07.4′E’ (ÁBRAHÁM 

2011, DELOBEL 2012, DÖBERL 2012, FELIX et al. 2012, FIKÁČEK et al. 2012, GIMMEL 2012, KNÍŽEK 2012, NOVÁK 

& PURCHART 2012, PURCHART 2012, SCHUH 2012, ZOIA 2012) refer to the close vicinity of Aloove village. 

Amak [Socotra; beach] (Map 1: 11) 

Coordinates. 12°20′33″N 54°01′13″E, 0–3 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Aomak, Homaq, Omaq, 

Entomological source. PLATIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Arher* [Socotra; spring, beach and cave] (Map 1: 12) (Fig. 3) 


Alternatives. ArAr, Arhar, Erher, Erhr, Faka, Fikah, Fikar, Fikhah, Fka, Hallah Arhar, Факa, 

Entomological sources. RISERVATO et al. (2010), ÁBRAHÁM (2011), DESUTTER-GRANDCOLAS & FELIX (2012), FELIX 

et al. (2012), FIKÁČEK et al. (2012), JÄCH & DELGADO (2012). 

Ashul [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 13) 

Coordinates. 12°29′39″N 53°40′44″E (lower part) – 12°28′22″N 53°40′46″E (upper part), ca. 60–70 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Ashui, Ried 


Comments. Exact beginning and the end of this wadi are unknown to us. Approximate coordinates are derived 

from the map published by ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY (1978) and RISERVATO et al. (2010). 

Ayhaft* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 14) (Fig. 4) 


Alternatives. Ayafht, Ayheft, Ayhft, Ayaft, Ayhaff, Ayev, Hayaft, Hayhaft, 

Entomological sources. GREATHEAD & EVENHUIS (2001), ADLBAUER (2002), HOLZSCHUH (2008), MASSA (2009), 

RISERVATO et al. (2010), ÁBRAHÁM (2011), HACKER & SALDAITIS (2011), BEZDĚK (2012b), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX 

et al. (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), JÄCH & DELGADO (2012), KNÍŽEK (2012), KRÁL 

et al. (2012), PURCHART (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), etc. 

Comments. In the map by ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY (1978) the lower part is named Wadi Magahah. 

Ba’a* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 15) 


Alternatives. Ba’ah, Baha, Баа, 

Entomological sources. HÁVA (2007), HOLZSCHUH (2008), LO CASCIO & GRITA (2011), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Bait Eesa [Abd el Kuri; settlement] (Map 1: 16) 


Alternatives. Badh Issa, Badt Eissa, Bait Iesa, Бейт-Иса 

Entomological source. SCHAWALLER (2004).


Bedo* [Socotra; cape] (Map 1: 17) 


Alternatives. Baduwa, Bedai, Bedoo, Bedu, Beydoh, Bidoh, Bidou, Bidu, Баду, 


Begobig* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 18) 


Alternatives. Bagubi, Beghiogik, Bego Big, Begobich, Багуби, 


Berbher [Socotra; waterfall] – see comments under Qaareh. 

Betin* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 19) 


Alternatives. Beyten, Tenten, Бeйтен, 

Entomological source. MASSA (2009). 

Bijo [Socotra] (Map 1: 20) 


Alternative. Biiyeurh 

Entomological sources. UVAROV & POPOV (1957), DESCAMPS (1970). 

Comments. Based on the schematic maps in POPOV (1957) and UVAROV & POPOV (1957) it might be approximately 

located in the middle part of Wadi Di Azerho. In our opinion it refers to the village Biiyeurh in the map by 

ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY (1978), the coordinates of which are derived from Google Earth. 

Bi’r Haarso [Socotra; waterhole] (Map 1: 21) 



Bizidig* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 22) 


Alternatives. Di-Bizirdig, Buzadec 

Entomological source. PURCHART (in prep.). 

Bojhin [Socotra] 

Alternative. Bajin 

Entomological sources. HARRIS (1954), UVAROV & POPOV (1957), DESCAMPS (1970), POPOV (1997). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. Approximately located in the schematic maps by POPOV (1957) and UVAROV 

& POPOV (1957). The approximate coordinates (12°31′N 54°03′E) were published by POPOV (1997). 

Cheyrha* [Socotra; slopes] (Map 3: 23) 

Approximate coordinates. 12°39′32″N 53°26′23″E – 12°39′58″N 53°26′52″E – 12°36′57″N 53°34′37″E 

– 12°37′25″N 53°34′46″E, ca. 200–600 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Keyrakh, Khayra, Khayrha, Kheyrha, Хейрxа 

Entomological sources. HOLZSCHUH (2008), FELIX et al. (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI 

(in prep.). 

Comments. In Socotri, the word Cheyrha means slopes. In the above mentioned papers Cheyrha refers to the 

northern slopes of Maaleh hills. 

Dahamis [Socotra; basecamp or wadi] (Map 2: 24) 

Approximate coordinates. 12°37′42″N 54°07′29″E – 12°37′22″N 54°07′10″E, ca. 120–150 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Dahamies, Dahamish, Dahanus, Dehamis

36 


Entomological sources. KIRBY (1900, 1903), KRAUSS (1907), REBEL (1907), MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956), KOCH 

(1970), etc. 

Comments. Locality name frequently used mainly in papers from the end of the 19 th and the beginning of 20 th 

centuries. Approximate position is based on the maps published in BALFOUR (1888) and KOSSMAT (1907). In 

KOSSMAT (1907) we have also found the sentence ‘… Lager in Dahamis, am rechten Gehänge des Wadi Iheli…’ 

[= ... the camp at Dahamis, on the right slope of Wadi Iheli ...]. MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956) listed Dahamis as 

wadi with coordinates 12°30′N 54°10′E, which seems to be a mistake. POPOV (1997) suggested Dahamis to be 

identical with Deham, which is evidently false. BROWN & MIES (2012) suggested the placement of Dahamis 

in Wadi Dineghen what is also false in comparison with maps in BALFOUR (1888) and KOSSMAT (1907). 

Dajog [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 25) 


Alternatives. Dajoj, Dajuj 

Entomological sources. DESCAMPS (1970), POPOV (1997). 

Comments. Although POPOV (1997) mentioned the position of this wadi at Hadiboh plain, we found it in the map 

by ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY (1978) as the uppermost part of Wadi Di Farho. 

Danoho [Socotra; sinkhole] (Map 1: 26) 



Comments. Place unknown to us. Name and coordinates taken from RISERVATO et al. (2010). 

Darho* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 27) 


Alternatives. Da’arho, Daerhu, Daeru, Dahero, Dahro, Da’rhoh, Darhu, Dearho, Dhero, Dheroh, Di-Da’rhoh, 

Вади Дарху, 

Entomological sources. WEWALKA (2004), MASSA (2009), RISERVATO et al. (2010), FELIX et al. (2012), GIMMEL 

(2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Dehamd* [Socotra; settlement and water pool] (Map 1: 28) 


Alternatives. Deham, Di Hamdh, Diham, 

Entomological sources. POPOV (1997), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Dehlme [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 29) 


Entomological source. PLATIA (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012). 

Deiqab* [Socotra; cave] (Map 1: 30) (Fig. 5) 


Alternatives. Degub, Deigyup, Deiqub, Deiqyub, Dejub, Deyup, Dijoub, Diqyub, Dogub, 

Entomological sources. COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), HAAS et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), BARRA (2006), 

RISERVATO et al. (2010), BEZDĚK (2012b), DESUTTER-GRANDCOLAS & FELIX (2012), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. 

(2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), KRÁL et al. (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Delisha* [Socotra; settlement, beach] (Map 1: 31) 


Alternatives. Delaisha, Deleisha, Delesha, Delicia, Delishi, Delishia, Delli Shah, Di Lisha, Di-Lishah, Di Lishe, 

Di Lisheh, Dilish, Dilicia, Делиша, 

Entomological sources. COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), MENDES (2004), MASSA (2009), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Devil’s Creek [Socotra] 


Comments. Place unknown to us.


Di Asmo* [Socotra; ridge and settlement] (Map 1: 32) 


Alternatives. Asma, Da-’Asmoh, Diasma, Di-’Asmoh, Diasmu, Диасму, 

Entomological sources. UVAROV & POPOV (1957), KIMMINS (1960), COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004). 

Di Azerho* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 33) 


Alternatives. Aserho, Di-’Asrhoh, Azrho, Azro, Deazara, Di Asrhon, Вади ди-Азерху, 


Di Farho* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 34) 

Coordinates. 12°25′00″N 54°08′55″E (lower part) – 12°27′42″N 54°08′43″E (upper part), ca. 100–130 m 

a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Defa’arho, Defearoho, Di Faerho, Difa’erho, Di-Farhoh, Di-Fa’rhoh, Di-Fa’rohr, Difarho, Difarhu, 

Difarroha, Eshal, Eshall, Fa’erho, Fahuh, Far’ha, Farhar, Farho, Far’hu, Farihus, Helofe, Вади ди-Фаарху, 

Entomological sources. SCHAWALLER (2004), BARRA (2006), RISERVATO et al. (2010), BORTH et al. (2011), HACKER 

& SALDAITIS (2011), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Comments. Based on the coordinates associated with the following localities ‘Nogeed, Farmihin, Steroh’, 

‘Nogeed, Farmihin, Steroh, wadi’ and ‘Noged, Wadi between Farmihin and Steroh’ (MENDES 2004, STRASSEN 

2004, SCHAWALLER 2004, BRETFELD 2005, HÁVA 2007, BELLÉS 2009, PURCHART 2012, ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA & BOROWIEC 

2012), these data undoubtedly refer to lowermost part of Wadi Di Farho. 

Di Hamri* [Socotra; cape and settlement] (Map 1: 35) 


Alternatives. Dehammeri, Dehammerie, di-Hamari, Di Hamari, Dihamri, Dihamry, Ди-Хамри, 

Entomological sources. ARENBERGER (2009), HAUSMANN (2009), MASSA (2009), HACKER & SALDAITIS (2010), 

BORTH et al. (2011), BEZDĚK (2012b), ŠVIHLA (2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.), etc. 

Di Hashus* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 36) 

Coordinates. 12°31′59″N 54°00′00″E, ca. 950–990 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Dihashas, Dirhashas, Has Hus, Yehazahaz 

Entomological sources. GELLER-GRIMM (2002), COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004). 

Comments. KOSSMAT (1907) used name Wadi Dihashas for today’s Wadi Ireh. Above mentioned coordinates are 

taken from http://www.fallingrain.com. 

Di Ishal* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 37) 


Alternatives. Dedshal, Deishel, Di-Ishal, Di’ishal, Dishaail, Dishaall, Диишхель, 

Entomological sources. BARRA (2004), RISERVATO et al. (2010). 

Di Kasekas* [Socotra; cave] (Map 1: 38) 


Alternatives. De Qaseqas, Kasakes, Kazekas 

Entomological source. SCHAWALLER (2004). 

Diaf* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 39) 


Alternatives. Deezaf, Dief, Dizaiaf, Dizyaf, Shi’faar, Shifa, Tiaf, Wadi Homhil, Zeewef, Вади Тыяф, 

Entomological sources. MALICKY (1999), CROSSKEY et al. (2002), GELLER-GRIMM (2002), HAAS et al. (2004), 

JIROUX et al. (2004), NEUMANN et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), RISERVATO et al. (2010). 

Comments. Particular parts of this wadi, which begins in Homhil basin, probably have their names derived from 

the adjoining villages. Unfortunately, we were unable to detect all these names, except for the lower part

38 


which is called Diaf and one part in the upper section of the wadi, which is called Shifa. For simplifi cation 

purposes we use the name wadi Diaf for its whole length. 

Diaf* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 2) 


Alternatives. Deezaf, Dief, Dizyaf, Tiaf, Zeewef, Тыяф, 


Comments. For closely adjoining villages Abelhen and Diaf (the distance between them does not exceed 30 m) 

we use the same coordinates and one mark in the map. 

Dibni* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 40) 


Alternatives. Debeni, Debenee, Debna, Вади Дебна, 


Comments. This wadi is also known as Wadi Di-Lishah (e.g. ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY 1978, RISERVATO et 

al. 2010). SCHNEIDER & DUMONT (1998) collected almost in the same place but called it Wadi in Kefaf. 

Digeila [Socotra; cave] (Map 1: 41) 


Alternatives. Dilaihe, Dilheila 

Entomological sources. PURCHART (2009), BEZDĚK (2012b), FELIX et al. (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), NOVÁK & 

PURCHART (2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Dighat* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 42) 


Alternatives. De Got, Dighati, Dikat, Вади Дигахт, 

Entomological source. CROSSKEY et al. (2002). 

Dikseheten [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 43) 


Alternative. Dikshihitin 

Entomological source. COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Dilish [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 44) 

Coordinates. 12°31′48″N 53°59′08″E 

Entomological source. FELIX et al. (2012). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. The coordinates are taken from FELIX et al. (2012). 

Dimere [Socotra] 

Entomological sources. COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), HAAS et al. (2004). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. Based on TAITI & FERRARA (2004), it is placed in the Hagher mountains. 

Possibly lapsus of the name Dimele (see comments under Adho Dimellus). 

Dimichiro* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 45) 


Alternatives. Dimishiro, Вади Димиширо, 

Entomological sources. OGILVIE-GRANT (1903), RICARDO & THEOBALD (1903). 

Dinatuf [Samha] 

Entomological sources. GELLER-GRIMM (2002), MENDES (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. The approximate coordinates (12°09′N 53°05′E) were published by GELLER- 

GRIMM (2002) and MENDES (2004).


Dineghen* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 46) 

Coordinates (in wider sense). 12°39′31″N 54°02′16″E (lower part) – 12°34′46″N 54°03′03″E (upper part), 

5–900 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Danegan, Daneghan, De Hazafag, Dehzafak, Denegen, Deneghan, Deneghen, Di Negehen, Digal, 

Dihaal, Dihazafaq, Dihzafaq, Dilal, Dinegan, Dineghan, Dinehan, Geneghen, Kischen, Kishen, Kishin, Kishjn, 

Qishn, Rischen, Вади Данагхон, 

Entomological sources. KIRBY (1903), RICARDO & THEOBALD (1903), UVAROV & POPOV (1957), KIMMINS (1960), 

DESCAMPS (1970), KOCH (1970), SOIKA (1974), CROSSKEY et al. (2002), BARRA (2004), HAAS et al. (2004), HORÁK 

et al. (2012), MENDES (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), STRASSEN (2004), BRETFELD (2005), HÁVA (2007), RISERVATO 

et al. (2010), FELIX et al. (2012), PURCHART (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.), etc. 

Comments. Long wadi with various names in zoological literature, often leading to confusions or misunderstandings. 

The actual wadi Dineghen starts at the mountain foothills and ends by its uppermost part called Wadi 

Dihaal (Digal, Dilal, Dimele), terminating with Dihaal pass (= Adho Dimellus, see SCHÄTTI & DESVOIGNES 

1999). Parts of this wadi, which are located on Hadiboh plain, derive their names from the adjoining villages 

and from seashore to foothills are named as follows: wadi Sirhin (including Sirhin water pool) – wadi Erhina 

– wadi Katha – wadi Siklof – wadi Kishin. We were not able to locate the exact coordinates of each part’s 

boundaries. The exact position of Wadi Hazafag was not located. Yet, based on information from local people 

it is a small parallel wadi connected with wadi Siklof. In the map, just for simplifi cation, we depict the whole 

wadi under the name wadi Dineghen. 

POPOV (1997) erroneously mentioned the position of Kischin with the coordinates 12°33′N 54°03′E. 

Dirhor* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 47) (Fig. 6) 

Coordinates. 12°27′58″N 54°00′45″E (lower part) – ca. 12°29′15″N 54°00′08″E (upper part), 300–570 m 

a.s.l. 

Alternatives. De Erhor, Derhour, Dihaher, Dirhor, Вади Дархер, 

Entomological sources. CROSSKEY et al. (2002), DÖBERL (2012). 

Comments. Wadi Esgego and Wadi Dirhor form the upper and lower parts of one wadi which is often referred 

to simply as Wadi Esgego. The coordinates published in NOVÁK (2007), KOPECKÝ (2009), DÖBERL (2012), 

FELIX et al. (2012), GIMMEL (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), KEJVAL (2012), KRÁL & KUBÁŇ (2012), NOVÁK 

& PURCHART (2012), PURCHART & SCHAWALLER (2012) and ZOIA (2012) for Wadi Esgego refer to Wadi Dirhor. 

RISERVATO et al. (2010) published their material from Wadi Di-Darhor (= Darho) but the coordinates also 

undoubtedly refer to Wadi Dirhor. 

Ditwah* [Socotra; lagoon] (Map 1: 48) 


Alternatives. Detwa, Detwah, Diduah, Ditwa, 

Entomological sources. HOLZSCHUH (2008), MASSA (2009), FELIX et al. (2012), PLATIA (2012), ŠÍPEK et al. (2012), 

ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Dixam* [Socotra; plateau] (Map 3: 49) (Fig. 7) 


– 12°28′54″N 53°55′16″E, ca. 500–1000 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Deksam, Dexam, Dicksam, Diksam, Dixem, Dixiam, Dixsam, 

Entomological sources. MALICKY (1999), CROSSKEY et al. (2002), STURM (2002), HAAS et al. (2004), MENDES 

(2004), STRASSEN (2004), BRETFELD (2005), HOLZSCHUH (2008), FELIX et al. (2012), KRÁL et al. (2012), PURCHART 

(2012), ŠVIHLA (2012). 

Dohor [Socotra; settlement] 


Comments. Place unknown to us.

40 


Egiya [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 50) 


a.s.l. 

Entomological sources. RISERVATO et al. (2010), PLATIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. The position and coordinates are derived from the map by ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL 

SOCIETY (1978) and RISERVATO et al. (2010). 

Eidam [Socotra; plateau] (Map 1: 51) 


Entomological source. HROMÁDKA (2011). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. The coordinates are taken from HROMÁDKA (2011). 

Eqarhi* [Socotra; palm tree plantation] (Map 1: 52) 


Alternatives. Akarhi, Aqarhi, Aquarhi, Eqerhi, Hackabee, Hakari, Hakeri, Hakiri, Hakkari 


Comments. In Socotri, the word Eqarhi means ‘palm tree plantation’, which can be found at several places in 

Socotra. The exact position of REBEL’s (1907) Hakari is however shown on map in KOSSMAT (1907). 

Erhina* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 53) 


Alternatives. Erhima, Эрхина 

Entomological source. KIMMINS (1960). 

Erisseyl* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 54) 


Alternatives. Arasal, Erissel, Ersil, Irisal, Irisel, Irisseyl, Irsal, Irsel, Radressa, Redrésse, Ресель, 

Entomological sources. RISERVATO et al. (2010), HACKER & SALDAITIS (2011), FELIX et al. (2012), ŠVIHLA 

(2012). 

Eserhe* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 55) 


Entomological sources. DÖBERL (2012), KRÁL et al. (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012). 

Esgego* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 56) 

Coordinates. ca 12°29′15″N 54°00′08″E (lower part) – 12°31′00″N 54°00′52″E (upper part), 570–650 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Es Gedo, Es Gego, Esdegob 

Entomological sources. GREATHEAD & EVENHUIS (2001), NOVÁK (2007), KOPECKÝ (2009), DÖBERL (2012), GIMMEL 

(2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), KEJVAL (2012), KRÁL & KUBÁŇ (2012), NOVÁK & 

PURCHART (2012), PURCHART & SCHAWALLER (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), ZOIA (2012), etc. 

Comments. Wadi Esgego and Wadi Dirhor form the upper and lower parts of one wadi which is often called 

simply Wadi Esgego. In our opinion, specimens from the above mentioned publications were most likely 

collected in the lowermost part (Dirhor), rather than in the almost unaccessible upper part (Esgego). Based 

on the coordinates we can confi rm this idea for specimens in NOVÁK (2007), KOPECKÝ (2009), DÖBERL (2012), 

FELIX et al. (2012), GIMMEL (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), KEJVAL (2012), KRÁL & KUBÁŇ (2012), NOVÁK 

& PURCHART (2012), PURCHART & SCHAWALLER (2012) and ZOIA (2012). 

Eyro* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 57) 


Alternative. Erah 


Comments. RISERVATO et al. (2010) erroneously used the name Erah for the adjacent wadi.


Faar [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 58) 

Coordinates. 12°25′36″N 54°11′51″E (lower part) – ca. 12°28′10″N 54°11′05″E (upper part), ca. 35–100 m 

a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Fahr, Fa’ir, Far 

Entomological sources. KEJVAL (2002), COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), WEWALKA (2004), 

RISERVATO et al. (2010), FELIX et al. (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Comments. Wadi Faar is probably alternative name of the lower part of Wadi Dishten (Distin, Вади Дистан, 

) (12°25′36″N 54°11′51″E – 12°31′27″N 54°09′54″E). 

Firmihin* [Socotra; protected area] (Map 3: 59) (Fig. 8) 

Coordinates. 12°28′11″N 54°00′49″E – 12°29′18″N 54°00′10″E – 12°30′19″N 54°01′07″E – 12°29′33″N 

54°01′43″E, ca. 390–760 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Firmhin, Farmihin, Fermhen, Firmin, Rokeb Defrimhin, Rokeb di Firmihin, 

Entomological sources. KEJVAL (2002), HAAS et al. (2004), WEWALKA (2004), RISERVATO et al. (2010), ÁBRAHÁM 

(2011), CARAPEZZA (2011), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), HALSTEAD (2012), 

HORÁK et al. (2012), KEJVAL (2012), KRÁL et al. (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012), PURCHART (2012), PURCHART 

& SCHAWALLER (2012), SCHUH (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA & BOROWIEC (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), 

ZOIA (2012). 

Gisfo* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 60) 


Alternatives. Deegyspho, Dgisfu, Dgisvu, Di Gisfo, Адху-Гесфу, 

Entomological sources. BEZDĚK (2012b), DELOBEL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), KEJVAL (2012), PLATIA (2012), 

ŠVIHLA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Goahar* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 61) 


Alternatives. Goahal, Govhal, Kawhar 

Entomological sources. KIRBY (1900, 1903), KRAUSS (1907), REBEL (1907), SOIKA (1974), CROSSKEY et al. 

(2002). 

Go’o [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 62) 


Alternatives. Goeeh, Go’oh, Goor, Gow, Jo’oh, Гуу, 

Entomological sources. MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956), GELLER-GRIMM (2002), MENDES (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), 

STRASSEN (2004), BRETFELD (2005), BARRA (2006), etc. 

Comments. Goa in schematic map by LEESON & THEODOR (1948) probably also refers to Go’o. 

Gubba* [Socotra; settlement and two water pools] (Map 1: 63) 


Alternatives. Ghoba, Ghuba, Ghubbach, Ghubbah, Goba, Gobbah, Gubbah, Qubba, Hadjin, Hadjun, Hagin, 

Губба, 

Entomological sources. LEESON & THEODOR (1948), MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956), TOWNSEND (1990), CASSOLA & 

POHL (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), HÁVA (2007), RISERVATO et al. (2010), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Comments. MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956) listed Khor Hadjun with coordinates 12°33′N 53°53′E which seems 

to be a clear mistake. 

Haalla* [Socotra; coastal area] (Map 3: 64) 

Coordinates. 12°36′32″N 54°18′59″E – 12°33′07″N 54°31′03″E, 0–50 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Hala, Halla, Hallah, Halle

42 


Haasan* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 65) 


Alternatives. Hasaant, Hasan, Hassan, Хасен, 

Entomological sources. COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004, 2006). 

Comments. Hazeen in the schematic map by LEESON & THEODOR (1948) probably also refers to Haasan. Due to 

inaccurate information given by local people, the locality names and their coordinates of Zemhon area and 

Haasan village were mismatched in the Czech expeditions 2009 and 2010. The locality ‘Aloove area, Hassan 

vill. env. 12º31.2′N, 54º07.4′E’ cited in ÁBRAHÁM (2011), DELOBEL (2012), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), 

FIKÁČEK et al. (2012), GIMMEL (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012), PURCHART (2012), SCHUH (2012) and ZOIA 

(2012) refers to the close vicinity of Aloove village (see headword Aloove). 

Hadiboh* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 66) 


Alternatives. Bilad-as-Sulyan, Habido, Habidu, Hadiba, Haddiboh, Hadeeboo, Hadibo, Hadibou, Hadibu, Hadibuh, 

Hedibo, Hudaybu, Tamarid, Tamarida, Tamaridah, Tamarin, Tamarinda, Tamrida, Хадейбо, Хадибо, 

Entomological sources. KIMMINS (1960), DESCAMPS (1970), SOIKA (1974), TJEDER (1974), LINNAVUORI (1994), 

HREBLAY (1996), POPOV (1997), MOULET (2001), BARRA (2004), HAAS et al. (2004), MENDES (2004), STRASSEN 

(2004), HÁVA (2007), RISERVATO et al. (2010), FELIX et al. (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), KNÍŽEK (2012), 

KRÁL et al. (2012), PURCHART (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), etc. 

Hagelghol* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 67) 


Alternative. Haeoghol 

Entomological source. SCHNEIDER & DUMONT (1998). 

Hagher* [Socotra; mountains] (Map 3: 68) 


– 12°36′50″N 54°04′06″E, highest peak Scant: 1526 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Al Haghier, Ha Geher, Hadhier, Hadjar, Haggeher, Hagghier, Haggiar, Haggier, Haghier, Haghir, 

Hagien, Hagier, Hajar, Hajher, Hajhir, Haygier, Higgher, Jha Geher, Хагхер, Хагьер 

Entomological sources. REBEL (1907), ENDERLEIN (1929), KIMMINS (1960), DESCAMPS (1970), POPOV (1997), HAAS 

et al. (2004), HÁVA (2007), HOLZSCHUH (2008), FELIX et al. (2012), PURCHART (2012), etc. 

Hallat Salih [Abd el Kuri; plain] (Map 1: 69) 


Alternative. Hallat Saleh 


Halmi* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 70) (Fig. 9) 


Alternatives. Halma, Helmieh, Hhalmi, Hilmi, Sharet Halma, Хальма, 

Entomological sources. ÁBRAHÁM (2011), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), GIMMEL (2012), HALSTEAD (2012), 

HORÁK et al. (2012), SCHUH (2012), ŠÍPEK et al. (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Hamadero* [Socotra; hills] (Map 3: 71) 

Coordinates. 12°37′42″N 54°15′08″E – 12°35′40″N 54°18′20″E, ca. 250–710 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Hamadara, Hamadari, Hamadera, Hamaderi, Hamaderoh, Hamaderon, Hamaderom, Hamaderu, 

Hamadiroh, Hammadero, Harmadera, Hemedero 

Entomological sources. GREATHEAD (1969), DESCAMPS (1970), SOIKA (1974), POPOV (1997), PURCHART (2012), 

HORÁK et al. (2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Hawari* [Socotra; hill] (Map 1: 72) 

Coordinates. 12°40′07″N 54°04′56″E, 353 m a.s.l.


Alternatives. Hauwari, Hauweri, Hayweri, Omari, Omhari, Ommari, Wahari 

Entomological sources. REBEL (1907), GREATHEAD (1969), TJEDER (1974). 

Hayf* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 73) 


Alternatives. Ha’eef, Hayft, Heyf, Хайф, 

Entomological sources. LEESON & THEODOR (1948), FELIX et al. (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Heybaq* [Socotra; cape] (Map 1: 74) 


Alternatives. Habuck, Haibak, Heback, Hebak, Hebaq, Hibak, Hubbha 

Entomological sources. GELLER-GRIMM (2002), SCHAWALLER (2004). 

Hijama [Socotra] 

Entomological sources. UVAROV & POPOV (1957), KIMMINS (1960), DESCAMPS (1970), POPOV (1997). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. In the schematic maps by POPOV (1957) and UVAROV & POPOV (1957) it is placed 

in the northern foothills of Hagghier Mts. POPOV (1997) mentions its position at Hadiboh plain. 

Homhil* [Socotra; basin, protected area] (Map 3: 75) (Fig. 10) 

Coordinates. 12°34′20″N 54°16′42″E – 12°34′50″N 54°19′12″E – 12°35′36″N 54°18′07″E, ca. 300–600 m 

a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Hom Hil, Hom Hill, Homhi, Homhill, Homil, Humhil, Хумхиль, 

Entomological sources. KRAUSS (1907), POPOV (1997), ADLBAUER (2002), KEJVAL (2002), STURM (2002), HAAS et 

al. (2004), JIROUX et al. (2004), HOLZSCHUH (2008), MASSA (2009), RISERVATO et al. (2010), CARAPEZZA (2011), 

BEZDĚK (2012b), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), KNÍŽEK 

(2012), KRÁL & KUBÁŇ (2012), KRÁL et al. (2012), PURCHART (2012), ZOIA (2012), etc. 

Hoq* [Socotra; cave] (Map 1: 76) 


Alternative. 

Entomological sources. HAAS et al. (2004), MENDES (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), GOLOVATCH & MAURIÈS (2007), 

KOPECKÝ (2009), DESUTTER-GRANDCOLAS & FELIX (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), etc. 

Comments. Wadi Hoq, which is evidently close to Hoq cave, was published with wrong coordinates 12°41′32″N 

54°01′35″E, placing it in the sea by HÁVA (2007) and PLATIA (2012). 

Hulaf* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 77) 


Alternatives. Haulaf, Haular, Hawlaf, Howlef, Хаулаф 

Entomological sources. REBEL (1907), RISERVATO et al. (2010). 

Ireh* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 78) 


Alternatives. Airi, Ayra, Ayri, I’irih, Ire, Ireeh, Irek, Irih, Вади Aйра, Вади Ира, 

Entomological sources. FELIX et al. (2012), KEJVAL (2012), KNÍŽEK (2012), PLATIA (2012), PURCHART (2012), 

SCHUH (2012), ŠÍPEK et al. (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Comments. Sometimes the upper part of this wadi (approximately between coordinates 12°24′15″N 54°00′17″E 

and 12°27′46″N 54°00′34″E) is called Wadi Hadele and the name Wadi Irih is restricted to the lower part. 

On the other hand, the lower part is called Wadi Mahalis in the map by ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY (1978). 

KOSSMAT (1907) mismatched the names of wadis. His Wadi Dihashas refers to Wadi Ireh and his Wadi Irih 

refers to today’s Wadi Divagga. 

Jena-agahan [Socotra] 

Alternatives. Jena-agaham, Thluteed, Thlutid 

Entomological sources. HAMPSON (1899), KIRKALDY (1899), KIRBY (1900, 1903), REBEL (1907), KOCH (1970), 

POPOV (1997), COLONNELLI (in prep.).

44 


Comments. Locality name is missing in all recent maps but it is schematically pictured in the map by GREGORY 

(1903) under the name ‘Thlutid’ (with synonymy statement Jena-agahan = Thlutid in the text). Based on this 

scheme we assume that Jena-agahan probably refers to a mountain ridge between 12°34′00″N 54°04′00″E 

– 12°36′05″N 54°05′43″E with Shihali as its highest peak. It also agrees with the information in REBEL 

(1907): ‘bei Jena-agahan auf der Nordseite des Haghergebirges’ [= at Jena-agahan on the northern side of 

the Hagher Mts.]. On the other hand, SCHÄTTI & DESVOIGNES (1999) placed Jena-agahan more eastwards to 

the low ridge south of Rookeb hill. 

Kam* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 79) 


Alternatives. Kami, Kham, Вади Kaм, 

Entomological sources. BORTH et al. (2011), HACKER & SALDAITIS (2011), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Kam* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 80) 


Alternatives. Kami, Kham, Kaм, 

Entomological sources. LEESON & THEODOR (1948), KIMMINS (1960), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Kawkaban [Socotra] 



Kaza Kazihon* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 81) 


Entomological source. ZOIA (2012). 

Kazazhan* [Socotra; settlement and small area] (Map 1: 82) 

Coordinates. 12°33′48″N 54°19′48″E, ca 550 m a.s.l. 

Entomological source. DÖBERL (2012). 

Khaybib [Socotra; pool] (Map 1: 83) 



Comments. Place unknown to us. The coordinates taken from RISERVATO et al. (2010). 

Khaysat [Samha; settlement] (Map 1: 84) 



Comments. The coordinates are taken from RISERVATO et al. (2010). However, no settlement seems to exist at this 

position. Khaysat seems to be more precisely depicted in the map by CHEUNG & DEVANTIER (2006) placed 

in the north shore of Samha. 

Kilisan* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 85) 


Alternatives. Kaleesa, Kalleesa, Kalysan, Kilisan, Kilissan, Klison 

Entomological sources. GELLER-GRIMM (2002), STURM (2002), NEUMANN et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004). 

Kilim* [Socotra; plateau and wadi] (Map 3: 86) 


–12°24′24″N 53°59′43″E, ca. 200–550 m a.s.l. 

Alternative. Killiem 


Comments. Wadi Killiem mentioned in MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956) is unknown to us. Evidently, it should be placed 

in Kilim plateau and might refer to Wadi Saya (Di-Seya, Seia, Вади Сайа) (12°22′34″N 53°57′42″E).


Maabad* [Socotra; wadi and area] (Map 3: 87) 

Approximate coordinates. 12°37′43″N 54°07′44″E – 12°38′57″N 54°08′48″E – 12°37′36″N 54°09′32″E, 

30–70 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Maabid, Maabudh, Moabbadh, Moa bbadh, Moabdadh, Moabdah, Moaddhab, Маабид 

Entomological sources. BROWN (1954), UVAROV & POPOV (1957), KIMMINS (1960), DESCAMPS (1970). 

Maaleh* [Socotra; peak] (Map 1: 88) 


Alternatives. Djebel Bedu, Hali, Maalah, Ma’alah, Ma’alih, Ma’alla, Mahli, Mahlih, Mala, Mal’eh, Ma’li, 

Mali, Ma’lih, Маала, 


Maaleh* [Socotra; hills] (Map 3: 89) 

Approximate coordinates. 12°39′05″N 53°24′41″E – 12°36′40″N 53°35′50″E, ca. 500–650 m a.s.l. 

Alternative. Fedhan Mala 


Madar* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 90) (Fig. 11) 


a.s.l. 

Entomological sources. BEZDĚK (2012a,b), DÖBERL (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012), 

PURCHART (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Mahaaref* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 91) 


Alternatives. Mahaarf, Mayhah, Mayahah, Mayehah, Meyhah, Вади Майха, 


Mahaba [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 92) 



Comments. Place unknown to us. The coordinates are taken from FELIX et al. (2012). The name may refer to 

Maabad area. 

Mahalis [Socotra; area] 

Alternative. Mahallas 

Entomological source. UVAROV & POPOV (1957). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. In the map by UVAROV & POPOV (1957) it seems to be treated as a plain area 

around the lowermost plain part of Wadi Ireh. In the map by ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY (1978) we found 

Wadi Mahalis referring to the lower part of Wadi Ireh. 

Mahferhin* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 93) 


Alternatives. Farmihin, Firmihin, Mahfarhin, Mahfi nem, Mahfi rhin, Mahfi rihin, Махфархен, 

Entomological sources. CROSSKEY et al. (2002), GELLER-GRIMM (2002), CASSOLA & POHL (2004), SCHAWALLER 

(2004), BELLÉS (2009), FELIX et al. (2012), HALSTEAD (2012). 

Comments. In some papers (e.g. GELLER-GRIMM 2002, CASSOLA & POHL 2004, SCHAWALLER 2004, BELLÉS 2009, 

FELIX et al. 2012, HALSTEAD 2012) this village is called Farmihin or Firmihin (do not confuse with Firmihin 

area). 

Mahtenaq* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 94) 


Alternatives. Mahtenage, Махтейнак, 

Entomological source. RISERVATO et al. (2010).

46 


Manifo* [Socotra; wadi and river] (Map 2: 95) 


Alternatives. Hanefu, Hanfu, Hanifu, Keregingiti, Karegnigi, Keregnidi, Keregnigiti, Kereguiti, Kerignigi, 

Ma’naifah, Ma’nifoh, Manufo, Ханефу 

Entomological sources. OGILVIE-GRANT (1903), KIMMINS (1960). 

Comments. Locality Keregingiti (and its variants), frequently used in the zoological papers at the end of the 

19 th century, is shown as a river in the map by BALFOUR (1888). In accordance with SCHÄTTI & DESVOIGNES 

(1999) we consider Keregingiti an old name for wadi Manifo. 

Marshim* [Socotra; cave] (Map 1: 96) 


Entomological sources. FELIX et al. (2012), KRÁL et al. (2012). 

Matyaf* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 97) 


Alternatives. Falag, Falanj, Falenk, Fekink, Feleng, Feling, Felink, Filling, Mateaf, Mathif, Matiaf, Matiaph, 

Matiyaf, Mutayaf, Вади Метиф, 

Entomological sources. REBEL (1907), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Maurid [Socotra; wadi] 

Alternative. Maurio 

Entomological sources. MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956), TOWNSEND (1990). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. The name may refer to Mori. 

Mayu [Socotra] 

Alternatives. Hajoo, Hayoo 

Entomological sources. LEESON & THEODOR (1948), MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956). 

Comments. Locality name is missing in all recent publications. Our local guides informed us that the name 

perhaps refers to a small area with several villages east of Qeysoh (12°39′59″N 53°28′17″E), which agrees 

with two schematic maps by KOSSMAT (1907) and LEESON & THEODOR (1948). MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956) 

listed Hayoo with coordinates 12°38′N 53°57′E, which seems to be a clear mistake. 

Mazaakh [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 98) 



Mijana [Socotra] 

Entomological source. HREBLAY (1996). 


Mokasu* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 99) 


Alternatives. Magasu, Mogasa, Mogasu 

Entomological sources. COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), HORÁK et al. (2012). 

Mokhar* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 100) 


Alternatives. Har, Margahor, Moghar, Харр, 

Entomological sources. KEJVAL (2002), ADLBAUER (2004), KOPECKÝ (2009), FELIX et al. (2012), GIMMEL (2012), 

ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Momi* [Socotra; plateau] (Map 3: 101) 


– 12°32′14″N 54°28′02″E, ca. 300–600 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Mômi, Moomi, Moumi, Mumi, Muomi, Муми,


Entomological sources. LINNAVUORI (1994), COLLINGWOOD & AGOSTI (1996), BARRA (2004), HAAS et al. (2004), 

MENDES (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), STRASSEN (2004), etc. 

Mori* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 102) 

Coordinates. 12°38′47″N 53°54′30″ E, 10 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Moree, Mouri, Muri, Мурий, 

Entomological sources. LEESON & THEODOR (1948), MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956), TOWNSEND (1990), COLLINGWOOD 

& AGOSTI (1996), COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004). 

Mot Zhadeten Dbaha* [Socotra; spring] (Map 1: 103) 


Entomological source. ZOIA (2012). 

Mozha [Socotra] 

Entomological sources. SCHNEIDER & DUMONT (1998), WEWALKA (2004). 

Comments. Position unclear, not found in any map. BARIBWEGURE & DUMONT (2000) located it with the following 

coordinates 12°38′34″N 54°08′24″E. In two entomological papers (SCHNEIDER & DUMONT 1998, WEWALKA 

2004) we have found ‘wadi in Mozha’ located more westwards with coordinates 12°38′40″N 54°05′42″E 

placed closely to Wadi Adah. 

Mseyren [Abd el Kuri; waterhole] (Map 1: 104) 



Comments. Based on FIEGE & VAN DAMME (2002), Mseyren is one of the two waterholes on Jabal Salih, the 

highest peak of Abd el Kuri. 

Neet* [Socotra; coastal area] (Map 3: 105) 


Alternatives. Nait, Nayt, Né, Nea, Neat, Nee, Neh, Neht, Net, Netti, Ni, Nit, Niyt, Нейт, 

Entomological sources. REBEL (1907), MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956), ADLBAUER (2002), NEUMANN et al. (2004), 

SCHAWALLER (2004), RISERVATO et al. (2010), FELIX et al. (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Comments. Possibly, some of entomological sources listed here may refer to Nit in Momi plateau. 

Nishah [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 106) 


a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Вади Нейша, 

Entomological source. GELLER-GRIMM (2002). 

Comments. This wadi is probably often called Wadi Kilisan. 

Nit [Socotra] 


Alternatives. Nee 

Entomological source. LEESON & THEODOR (1948), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. The coordinates are taken from FELIX et al. (2012). This locality is not visualized 

in the map because we received the data after the fi nal preparation of map sources. 

Noged* [Socotra; coastal area] (Map 3: 107) 


Alternatives. Naoukad, Naukad, Nawgeet, Nawkad, Nawqid, Nogad, Nogeed, Noget, Noghed, Nogid, Nojed, 

Nojid, Nuged, Nuget, Nujad, Ногд, Ноугед 

Entomological sources. UVAROV & POPOV (1957), KIMMINS (1960), LINNAVUORI (1994), COLLINGWOOD & AGOSTI 

(1996), GREATHEAD & EVENHUIS (2001), GELLER-GRIMM (2002), BARRA (2004), STRASSEN (2004), FELIX et al. 

(2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), ZOIA (2012), etc.

48 


Pataria [Socotra] (Map 1: 108) 



Comments. Place unknown to us. The coordinates are taken from RISERVATO et al. (2010). The name may refer 

to Qatariyah plateau located more eastwards (approximately within coordinates: 12°20′20″N 53°40′50″E 

– 12°21′35″N 53°41′00″E – 12°22′15″N 53°45′40″E – 12°20′50″N 53°47′51″E, ca. 350–550 m a.s.l.). 

Penegaham [Socotra] 



Qaarah* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 109) 


Alternatives. Meige, Meighe, Вади Каара, 


Qaareh* [Socotra; waterfall] (Map 1: 110) 


Alternatives. Kuirah, Kuireh, Qa’arah, Qareeh 

Entomological sources. NOVÁK (2007), HOLZSCHUH (2008), KOPECKÝ (2009), BEZDĚK (2012b), DÖBERL (2012), 

FELIX et al. (2012), GIMMEL (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), HLAVÁČ (2012), KEJVAL (2012), SCHUH (2012), 

ŠÍPEK et al. (2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Comments. According to our local guides, Qaareh is sometimes used as a name for an area and a waterfall in 

this case called Berbher (= Berber, ), mentioned in COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Qademenoh* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 111) 


Alternatives. Qademinoh, Qedemeno, Quaduminhu 


Qadub* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 112) (Fig. 12) 


Alternatives. Cadhoop, Ghadeb, Ghadheb, Kadhab, Kadheb, Kadhohp, Kadhoop, Kadhoup, Kathoop, Kathoup, 

Kathub, Kathup, Khadoop, Khadup, Kodhab, Qadab, Qadheb, Qadhub, Qadib, Qadob, Qathb, Quadab, Qadheb, 

Quadheb, Quadhob, Quadhub, Quadob, Qadub, Quadup, Qudub, Кадyб, Кадыб, 

Entomological sources. LEESON & THEODOR (1948), MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956), TOWNSEND (1990), ARENBERGER 

(2009), HAUSMANN (2009), ÁBRAHÁM (2010), HACKER & SALDAITIS (2010), RISERVATO et al. (2010), FELIX et 

al. (2012). 

Qalansiyah* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 113) 


Alternatives. Calanthia, Calantia, Colesseah, Colleseah, Gallancie, Galonsie, Galonsir, Ghalansyah, Golenseah, 

Gollensir, Gollonsier, Gollonsir, Golonsia, Kalansiva, Kalansiya, Kalansiye, Kalasinga, Kalenzia, Kalinsiya, 

Kallansiya, Kallansiye, Khallinsiya, Kolessea, Qalanciya, Qalancyia, Qalansia, Qalansiya, Qalansiyya, Qalansiyyah, 

Qalansyah, Qalassyah, Qalasyah, Qualaansiyah, Qulansiyah, Qualansya, Qualenthiah, Qualentiah, 

Qualunsya, Калансия, 

Entomological sources. UVAROV & POPOV (1957), DESCAMPS (1970), SOIKA (1974), TJEDER (1974), POPOV (1997), 

MOULET (2001), HAAS et al. (2004), HOLZSCHUH (2008), RISERVATO et al. (2010), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. 

(2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), etc. 

Comments. CROSSKEY et al. (2002) mentioned Wadi Qalansiyah with wrong coordinates (12°26′461N 54°09′339E) 

which refer to Wadi Di Farho. 

Qariyah* [Socotra; settlement and water pool] (Map 1: 114) 

Coordinates. 12°38′18″N 54°12′32″E, ca. 5–20 m a.s.l.


Alternatives. Curreyah, Garieh, Garriah, Garrieh, Gharriah, Gharrieh, Ghurreayh, Karii’e, Kariyah, Qaariah, 

Qariah, Qariha, Qariyah, Qaryah, Qarye, Qaryih, Quarye, Quryah, Карья, 

Entomological sources. OGILVIE-GRANT (1903), REBEL (1907), HARRIS (1954), KOCH (1970), CASSOLA & POHL 

(2004), BÍLÝ (2005), NOVÁK (2007), BEZDĚK (2012a), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Qarmah* [Socotra; cape] (Map 1: 115) 


Alternatives. Karma, Kharmah, Qormih, Qurmah, Кaрма, Кырма 

Entomological source. UVAROV & POPOV (1957). 

Qasroo [Socotra] 



Qeysoh* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 116) 


Alternatives. Gaiso, Kesa, Kesso, Kissa, Kissoh, Qaysa, Qaysah, Qayssa, Qaysoh, Qaysuh, Quasoit, Quaysoh, 

Кайсу, 

Entomological sources. RISERVATO et al. (2010), ÁBRAHÁM (2011), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), GIMMEL 

(2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), KEJVAL (2012), KRÁL & KUBÁŇ (2012), NOVÁK & 

PURCHART (2012), PURCHART (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Qisso [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 117) 


Entomological source. CROSSKEY et al. (2002). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. Based on coordinates published in CROSSKEY et al. (2002) it is placed close to 

Di Ishal. We cannot exclude that the coordinates are wrong and Wadi Qisso in fact refers to Qeysoh. 

R. A. F. Camp [Socotra; military basecamp] (Map 1: 118) 


Entomological sources. UVAROV & POPOV (1957), KIMMINS (1960). 

Comments. R. A. F. Camp was situated at place of todays airport. 

Rahmen [Socotra; hill] (Map 1: 119) 


Alternative. Rahmum 


Ras H. M. [Socotra] 

Entomological sources. SOIKA (1974), LEVEY & VOLKOVITSH (1996), VOLKOVITSH (2012). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. This locality acronym ‘Hadibo Plain, Ras H. M. foothills, 400 m’ was used 

in locality labels by Guichard. However, some beetles were also provided with mismached locality data 

‘Hadibo Plain, Kalansiya’ (see LEVEY & VOLKOVITSH 1996, VOLKOVITSH 2012). Therefore the placement of 

this locality in Hadibo plain is uncertain. 

Ridah [Socotra] 



Comments. Place unknown to us. The coordinates are taken from FELIX et al. (2012). This locality is not visualized 

in the map because we received the data after the fi nal preparation of map sources. 

Rooget* [Socotra; hill] (Map 1: 120) 


Alternatives. Raggiad, Raggit, Rakhab, Reiged, Regit, Reyged, Rughid, Rewged 

Entomological sources. KIRBY (1900, 1903), HAMPSON (1903), KOHL (1907), POPOV (1997).

50 


Comments. Moukaradia (Monkaridia, Moukardia) was listed as identical with Rooget hill by HAMPSON (1903), 

KIRBY (1903) or KOHL (1907). It probably refers to Mokaderihon pass (Maqadrihon, Makdirhan, Muqadrihon) 

on the southeastern slope of Rooget hill. 

Rookeb* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 121) 


Alternatives. Rocab, Rocap, Rokeb, Rokeeb, Rokib, Rookib, Rowkeb, Рокоб, 

Entomological sources. JIROUX et al. (2004), NEUMANN et al. (2004), ARENBERGER (2009), ÁBRAHÁM (2010), 

HACKER & SALDAITIS (2010). 

Rookeb* [Socotra; hill] (Map 1: 122) 


Alternatives. Kamahanu, Kamakanu 

Entomological sources. HAMPSON (1899, 1903), BURR (1903). 

Comments. HAMPSON (1899, 1903), BURR (1903) published the locality Kamahanu which is missing in recent maps 

and is unknown to local guides. From the maps by FORBES (1903) and GREGORY (1903) it can be concluded 

that Kamahanu refers to todays Rookeb hill. 

Salih [Abd al Kuri; hill] (Map 1: 123) 


Alternatives. Salah, Saleh, Салех 

Entomological sources. GREATHEAD (1969), KOCH (1970), SOIKA (1974), SCHAWALLER (2004). 

Saqal [Socotra] 

Alternatives. Sagal, Sayal 

Entomological sources. UVAROV & POPOV (1957), KIMMINS (1960), DESCAMPS (1970), POPOV (1997). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. Based on schematic maps by POPOV (1957) and UVAROV & POPOV (1957) and 

approximate coordinates (12°32′N 54°02′E) added by POPOV (1997), it can be located in the uppermost part 

of Wadi Darho. 

Serain* [Socotra; peak] (Map 1: 124) 


Alternative. Serai 


Shederhed [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 125) 



Comments. Place unknown to us. Based on the coordinates taken from COLONNELLI (in prep.) Wadi Shederhed 

is placed closely to Wadi Hagelghol or may be its local name. 

Sheq* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 126) 


Alternatives. Saq, Shiq, Shoq, Sok, Sokk, Soq, Suk, Suq, Сук, 

Entomological sources. REBEL (1907), SOIKA (1974), GELLER-GRIMM (2002), CASSOLA & POHL (2004), HÁVA 

(2007), RISERVATO et al. (2010), FELIX et al. (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), etc. 

Sherhen [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 127) 


a.s.l. 


Shey* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 128) 


Alternatives. Shay, Shee, Shei, Шай, 

Entomological source. HACKER & SALDAITIS (2011).


Fig. 1. Sand dunes near Abataro, Noged plain (Photo J. Hájek, June 2012). 

Fig. 2. Aloove. High shrubland with dominanting Jatropha unicostata, Croton socotranus and Adenium obesum 

socotranum mixed with Boswellia elongata (Photo V. Hula, June 2012).

52 


Fig. 3. Arher. Freshwater spring in sand dune surrounded by Tamarix nilotica (Photo J. Hájek, November 2010). 

Fig. 4. High shrubland in Wadi Ayhaft (Photo J. Batelka, November 2010).


Fig. 5. Deiqab cave and its vicinity covered with shrubland (dominating Croton socotranus and Jatropha unicostata) 

(Photo J. Hájek, June 2012). 

Fig. 6. Wadi Dirhor (Photo J. Hájek, November 2010).

54 


Fig. 7. Dixam plateau (Photo J. Hájek, November 2010). 

Fig. 8. Dracaena cinnabari forest in Firmihin (Photo J. Suchomel, November 2010).


Fig. 9. Dwarf shrubland near Halmi, Noged plain (Photo J. Hájek, November 2010). 

Fig. 10. Homhil basin. Slopes covered with open woodland with Boswellia elongata, Commiphora ornifolia, Dracaena 

cinnabari and Adenium obesum socotranum (Photo J. Hájek, June 2012).

56 


Fig. 11. Montane shrubland with Cephalocroton socotranus in Wadi Madar (Photo J. Batelka, November 2010). 

Fig. 12. Coastal salt marsh near Qadub (Photo J. Hájek, June 2012).


Fig. 13. Mangroves (Avicennia marina) surrounded by dwarf and low shrubland near Shuab (Photo J. Hájek, June 

2012). 

Fig. 14. Montane evergreen woodland at Skand Mt. (Photo J. Suchomel, November 2010).

58 


Fig. 15. High shrubland with Commiphora planifrons in Tudhen (Photo J. Hájek, November 2010). 

Fig. 16. Wadi Zerig. Water pools with Juncus sp. marsh surrounded by low shrubland and Dracaena cinnabari 

(Photo J. Hájek, June 2012).


Shibhon* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 129) 


Alternatives. Dik Shibahn, Shabhan, Shebehan, Shebehon, Shibehon, Shibon, Шибхун, 

Entomological sources. SCHAWALLER (2004), FELIX et al. (2012), KRÁL et al. (2012), PURCHART (2012), ŠVIHLA 

(2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Shidahah [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 130) 



Shihali* [Socotra; peak] (Map 1: 131) 


Alternatives. Scheheli, Shehally, Shehaly, Shenaly, Shenéli 

Entomological sources. DESCAMPS (1970), KOCH (1970), KEVAN (1973), POPOV (1997). 

Shilhin* [Socotra; settlement and wadi] (Map 1: 132) 


Alternatives. Shilhen, Shiliyin, Шельхен, 

Entomological sources. RISERVATO et al. (2010), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Comments. FELIX et al. (2012) also mention Wadi Shimi but with exactly the same coordinates as their Wadi 

Shiliyin. 

Shuab* [Socotra; cape] (Map 1: 133) (Fig. 13) 


Alternatives. Cha’abe, Choab, Chouab, Sa’b, Shaab, Sha’ab, Shaeb, Shaheb, Shauab, Shawib, Sherebrub, 

Sherubrub, Shoab, Sho’ap, Shoep, Shouab, Shu’ab, Shu’ub, Шaав, Шоав, 

Entomological sources. KRAUSS (1907), DESCAMPS (1970), EYLES (1973), SOIKA (1974), POPOV (1997), GELLER- 

GRIMM (2002), MASSA (2009), etc. 

Shuab* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 134) 


Alternatives. as above 

Entomological sources. REBEL (1907), ARENBERGER (2009), HAUSMANN (2009), ÁBRAHÁM (2010), FELIX et al. 

(2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Sirhin* [Socotra; settlement and water pool] (Map 1: 135) 


Alternatives. Sirhan, Si’irhin, Tsirhin, Сирхeн, 

Entomological sources. HAAS et al. (2004), FELIX et al. (2012). 

Comments. Part of adjoining wadi is also called Wadi Sirhin – see comments under Wadi Dineghen. 

Sirhin* [Socotra; wadi and small area with school] (Map 3: 136) 

Coordinates. 12°31′05″N 53°59′08″E, ca 800 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Madboh Sirhin, Mahdob Sirihin, Sinhin, Sirhin area 

Entomological sources. FELIX et al. (2012), FIKÁČEK et al. (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Skand* [Socotra; peak] (Map 1: 137) (Fig. 14) 


Alternatives. Scand, Scant, Skant, Skend, Skent 

Entomological sources. OGILVIE-GRANT (1903), SCHAWALLER (2004), NOVÁK (2007), RISERVATO et al. (2010), 

BEZDĚK (2012b), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), HÁJEK & KABÁTEK (2012), HLAVÁČ (2012), HORÁK et al. 

(2012), KRÁL et al. (2012), LÖBL (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012), PURCHART (2012), PURCHART & NABO- 

ZHENKO (2012), PURCHART & SCHAWALLER (2012), RÜCKER (2012), SCHAWALLER & PURCHART (2012), SCHUH 

(2012), ZOIA (2012).

60 


Stero* [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 138) 


Alternatives. Stera, Steroh, Steru, Стиру, 

Entomological sources. MENDES (2004), SCHAWALLER (2004), STRASSEN (2004), BRETFELD (2005), HÁVA (2007), 

BELLÉS (2009), PURCHART (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Tamhar [Socotra] (Map 1: 139) 



Comments. Locality name not found in any recent map. The coordinates are taken from RISERVATO et al. 

(2010). 

Teida [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 140) 


a.s.l. 

Alternative. Teidha. 


Thar [Socotra] 

Entomological sources. DÖBERL (2012), PLATIA (2012), ZOIA (2012), COLONNELLI (in prep.). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. The name may refer to Thar Di Itrur. 

Thar Di Itrur* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 141) 


Alternatives. Terr Ditrur, Вади Атрур, Тардитрер 

Entomological source. ŠVIHLA (2012). 

Timre [Socotra; settlement] (Map 1: 142) 


Alternatives. Tamerah, Timera, Timeroh 


Tintern [Socotra; wadi] 

Entomological sources. LEESON & THEODOR (1948), MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. Found in a schematic map in LEESON & THEODOR (1948), but it is not clear to 

which point in map the name refers. MATTINGLY & KNIGHT (1956) listed it with coordinates 12°30′N 54°10′E 

– this position refers to the upper part of Wadi Dishten. However, since most other Socotran coordinates 

listed in this paper are evidently wrong, we have some doubts also in this case. 

Towanie [Abd el Kuri; settlement] 

Entomological sources. ARENBERGER (2009), HACKER & SALDAITIS (2010), BORTH et al. (2011), ŠVIHLA (2012). 

Comments. Place unknown to us. The approximate coordinates (12°10′N 52°13′E) were published by HACKER & 

SALDAITIS (2010). According to A. Saldaitis (pers. comm. 2012), the insects were collected on the south coast 

in the most narrow part of the island, west from Kilmia village (12°11′08″N 52°13′59″E). 

Trubah [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 143) 


Alternatives. Terhobe, Terubeh, Thruba, Troba 


Tudhen* [Socotra; place] (Map 1: 144) (Fig. 15) 


Entomological source. DÖBERL (2012).


Za’pad [Socotra] 

Entomological source. COLLINGWOOD et al. (2004). 


Zemhom* [Socotra; area] (Map 3: 145) 

Approximate coordinates. 12°32′09″N 54°04′18″E – 12°33′43″N 54°03′43″E – 12°34′45″N 54°05′41″E, 

250–800 m a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Di Zumhum, Zam Hom, Zehmon, Zemhon, Zemihon, Zum Hum 

Entomological sources. MASSA (2009), DELOBEL (2012), LO CASCIO et al. (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012), 

ŠÍPEK et al. (2012), ZOIA (2012). 

Comments. Due to inaccurate information given by the local people, locality names and their coordinates of 

Zemhon area and Haasan village were mismatched in the Czech expeditions 2009 and 2010. The locality 

‘Zemhon area, 12º30′58″N, 54º06′39″E’ cited in ÁBRAHÁM (2011), BELLÉS (2012), BEZDĚK (2012b), DELOBEL 

(2012), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), FIKÁČEK et al. (2012), GIMMEL (2012), HORÁK et al. (2012), LO 

CASCIO et al. (2012), SCHUH (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012) and ZOIA (2012) refers to the close vicinity of Aloove 

village (see headword Aloove). On the contrary, the locality ‘Zemhon, 12°32′17″N 54°04′12″E’ listed in 

DELOBEL (2012), LO CASCIO et al. (2012), NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012), ŠÍPEK et al. (2012) and ZOIA (2012) 

refers to true Zemhon area. 

Zerig* [Socotra; wadi] (Map 2: 146) (Fig. 16) 


a.s.l. 

Alternatives. Zeeriq, Zerik, Zeriq, Zherik, Zirage, Zirig, Zirigh, Zirik, Zorik 

Entomological sources. SCHAWALLER (2004), HÁVA (2007), KOPECKÝ (2009), MASSA (2009), RISERVATO et al. 

(2010), DÖBERL (2012), FELIX et al. (2012), GIMMEL (2012), HÁJEK (2012a), HORÁK et al. (2012), KRÁL et al. 

(2012), PURCHART (2012), PURCHART & SCHAWALLER (2012), SCHUH (2012), ŠVIHLA (2012), ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA & 

BOROWIEC (2012), VOLKOVITSH (2012), ZOIA (2012), etc. 

Zerig* [Socotra; cave] (Map 1: 147) 


Alternatives. Zeeriq, Zerik, Zeriq, Zherik, Zirage, Zirig, Zirigh, Zirik, Zorik 

Entomological source. DESUTTER-GRANDCOLAS & FELIX (2012). 

Acknowledgement 

We are obliged to Michaela Hanousková (Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic) 

for the transcription of Arabian locality names, to Tristan Lee (Great Britain) for helping us 

with the spelling of some geographical names, to Petr Maděra and Hana Habrová (Mendel 

University, Brno, Czech Republic) for their valuable comments on the Socotran localities, 

and to Jiří Hájek (National Museum, Praha, Czech Republic) for GPS localisation of places 

visited. Our special thanks are due to our Socotran friends, guides and drivers Ismael and 

Muhammad Aamar who, besides other things, gave us invaluable information about the 

transcription of names and explanation of the exact locations of many places. 

This study was supported by grant No. LA10036/MSMT ‘Participation of young scientists 

of MZLU Brno in research activities of IUFRO - The Global Network for Forest Science 

Cooperation’, and by the Research plan No. MSM6215648905 ‘Biological and technological 

aspects of sustainability of controlled ecosystems and their adaptability to climate change’ 

– both fi nanced by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic; and 

also was supported by institutional support of VUKOZ v.v.i.

62 


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68 

Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae, 52 (supplementum 2), 2012



Calosoma chlorostictum ivinskisi, a new synonym 

of Calosoma chlorostictum chlorostictum 

(Coleoptera: Carabidae: Carabini) 

Jan FARKAČ 1) & Martin HÄCKEL 2) 

1) Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 1176, 

CZ-165 21 Prague 6, Czech Republic; e-mail: farkac@fl d.czu.cz 

2) Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 1176, 

CZ-165 21 Prague 6, Czech Republic; e-mail: hackel@uvn.cz 

Abstract. On the basis of extensive material from the Socotra Island, Calosoma 

chlorostictum ivinskisi Obydov & Saldaitis, 2010, syn. nov., is hereby synonymized 

with Calosoma chlorostictum chlorostictum Dejean, 1831. Specimens from the 

Socotra Island described as C. c. ivinskisi do not differ from those in southern and 

eastern Africa including Madagascar and southwestern Asia. 

Key words. Carabidae, Carabinae, Calosoma, new synonymy, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Caterpillar hunters of the genus Calosoma Weber, 1801 are the second most species-rich 

genus of the subfamily Carabinae. LORENZ (2005) recognizes 170 species from all zoogeographic 

areas. Most of them are excellent fl yers with extensive distributions, and are known 

from all continents and many oceanic islands. However, some representatives are secondarily 

apterous and have only limited distributions (cf. DARLINGTON 1936). 

Socotra is an island (3,550 km 2 ) in the Indian Ocean east of the Gulf of Aden. So far, 52 

species of ground beetles (Carabidae) have been recorded from the island (FELIX & FARKAČ 

2012). Calosoma chlorostictum Dejean, 1831, the only species of the genus Calosoma 

known to occur in Socotra, is a widely distributed Afrotropical species reaching also into 

the southwestern part of the Palearctic region. Recent authors (CULOT 1990, BUSQUET et al. 

2003, LORENZ 2005) recognize three subspecies, nominotypical form inhabiting eastern and 

southern Africa and south-western Asia, and two subspecies endemic to Atlantic islands: C. 

c. cognatum Chaudoir, 1850 from Cape Verde Islands and C. c. helenae Hope, 1838 from 

the Saint Helena Island. With the exception of Madagascar (and apparently also the adjacent 

Comoros Islands), until recently the species has not been recorded from any other islands in 



70 

FARKAČ & HÄCKEL: Calosoma chlorostictum ivinskisi a new synonym (Carabidae) 

the Indian Ocean. Colonization of the Indian-Ocean islands has not so far resulted in emergence 

of a separate taxon, and insular populations have been repeatedly referred to as the 

nominotypical subspecies. OBYDOV & SALDAITIS (2010) distinguished the Socotran population 

of C. chlorostictum as a subspecies separate from the south Arabian population without 

looking for differences in specimens from the African continent and Madagascar, and their 

samples were quite limited. Study of much larger material obtained during Czech expeditions 

to Socotra in 1999–2010 has shown that the Socotran population of C. chlorostictum does 

not substantially and consistently differ from southern or eastern African and Madagascan 

populations. The species defi nitely is a good enough fl yer to reach the continent and vice 

versa. Although it is approximately as far from Socotra to the Arabian Peninsula (Hadramaut, 

Yemen) as it is to Somalia, the latter destination is easier to reach because of several islands 

and atolls in between. Studies of distribution of similarly behaving species of Calosoma 

in the Caribbean show that several hundred kilometres of seawater do not pose much of a 

problem (GIDASPOW 1963). 


Material from Socotra Island (lgt. Vladimír Bejček & Karel Šťastný and Jan Farkač, 

respectively, all of Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic) was collected 

during implementation of the Czech project Socotra 2000 between 1999 and 2003, realized 

within the framework of the bilateral Foreign Developmental Assistance provided by the 

Czech Republic to the Republic of Yemen. The studied material is deposited in the following 

collections: Národní muzeum, Prague, Czech Republic (NMPC); Faculty of Forestry and 

Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Czech Republic (CULS); Jan 

Farkač collection, Prague, Czech Republic (JFCP); Martin Häckel collection, Hostivice, Czech 

Republic (MHCH); Rostislav Ross Sehnal collection, Unhošť, Czech Republic (RSCU). 

Following abbreviations are used in the text: EL = maximum length of elytra; EW = 

maximum width of combined elytrae; HW = maximum width of head (including eyes); PL = 

maximum length of pronotum; PW = maximum width of pronotum; TL = total body length 

(including mandibles). 

Systematics 

Calosoma (Calosoma) chlorostictum chlorostictum Dejean, 1831 

Calosoma chlorostictum Dejean, 1831 

Carabus rugosus DeGeer, 1778 (junior homonym of C. rugosus Fabricius, 1775) 

Calosoma crassipes Chaudoir, 1843 

Calosoma australe Hope, 1845 

Calosoma elegans Géhin, 1885 

Calosoma calidum Lapouge, 1924 

Calosoma amabile Mandl, 1954 

Calosoma hadramautum Mandl, 1954 

Calosoma rugosulum Mandl, 1954 (replacement name for C. rugosum DeGeer, 1778) 

Calosoma kasyi Mandl, 1970 

Calosoma (Caminara) chlorostictum ivinskisi Obydov & Saldaitis, 2010, syn. nov.


Material examined. YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND (74 specimens): 1 spec., Hadibu env., 12.652 N, 54.024 E, 10 m 

a.s.l., 6.–24.ix.1999, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Zídek (JFCP); 1 spec., Ayhaft 12.ii.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & 

K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); 4 spec., Hadibu, 12.652 N, 54.024 E, 10 m a.s.l., 11.–23.xi.2000, lgt. V. Bejček 

& K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); 2 spec., Ayhaft, 3.xi.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, 

CULS); 2 spec., Haghier, 12.575 N, 54.022 E, 1502 m a.s.l., 4.–8.x.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač 

(JFCP); 14 spec., Firmihin, 12.474 N, 54.015 E, 530 m a.s.l., x.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač 

(JFCP, CULS, MHCH); 1 spec., Lahas, 12.646 N, 54.091 E, 69 m a.s.l., 11.–23.xi.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, 

det. J. Farkač (JFCP); 1 spec., Homhil, 11.–23.xi.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP), 1 spec., 

Dixam plateau, 25.x.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný (JFCP); 1 spec., wadi Faar, 3.xii.2002, lgt.V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný (RSCU); 1 spec., wadi Ayhaft, 24.–26.xi.2003, lgt. J. Farkač (JFCP); 8 spec., Qalansiyah env., Khayrha mts., 

N slopes, 9.–10.xii.2003, lgt. J. Farkač (JFCP); 24 spec., Hadiboh, 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, lgt. J. Farkač, det J. Farkač 

(JFCP, MHCH, RSCU); 2 �� 3 ��, Qualentiah env., 4.–5.vi.2010, V. Hula J. & Niedobová lgt. (NMPC); 1 �, Al 

Haghier, wadi Madar, 1180–1230 m, 12.–14.xi.2010, L. Purchart lgt. (NMPC); 1 �, Wadi Ayhaft, 200 m, J. Hájek 

lgt. (NMPC); 1 �, Hadiboh, 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, P. Kabátek lgt. (NMPC); 1 � 2 ��, Khayrha, 9.–10.XII.2003, P. 

Kabátek lgt. (NMPC); 3 ��, Khayrha, 9.–10.xii.2003, D. Král lgt. (NMPC); 1 �, Hadiboh, 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, D. 

Král lgt. (NMPC); 1 � 1 �, Wadi Ayhaft, 24.–26.xi.2003, D. Král lgt. (NMPC). 

Continental Africa and Madagascar (45 specimens): ALGERIA: 1 � (NMPC). EGYPT: 2 �� 3 �� (NMPC); 

1 �, Ober Aegypten (NMPC); 2 ��, Luxor (NMPC); 1 �, Luxor, v.1900 (NMPC). ETHIOPIA: 1 �, Abessynia 

(NMPC); 1 � 1 �, Abesinia, Harar (NMPC); 1 �, Addis Ababa, viii.2006, D. Gennaro lgt. (RSCU). KENYA: 2 

�� 1 �, Namanga, 1200 m, 26.i.2001, L. Nadai lgt. (RSCU). MADAGASCAR: 1 � 2 ��, Mindongy (NMPC); 

1 � 2 ��, Sakaraha, i.1991, spec. coll. T. Taylor (MHCH); 1 � 1 �, Moramanga env., 2007, A. Reml & M. Trýzna 

lgt. (RSCU). REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA: 1 �, Africa austr. (NMPC); 1 �, Natal (NMPC); 1 �, Transvaal, 

Olifants Nek., 1938, Dr. Baum (NMPC); 3 �� 1 �, Orange riv., S of Phillippolis, 26.xii.2007, M. Snížek lgt. 

(RSCU); 1 �, Eastern Cape, 40 km E Plettenberg Bay, 8.i.2010, J. Halada lgt. (RSCU); 1 �, Limpopo, Klaserie, 

16.–17.xii.2003, I. Martinů lgt. (RSCU); 1 �, Mpumalanga, 45 km after Middelburg to Stollferg, 17.xi.2000, P. 

Schüle lgt. (RSCU); 1 � 1 �, Northwest Prov., Bothaville, Vaal riv., xi.2002, M. Halada lgt. (MHCH); 2 �� 1 �, 

same data, but M. Snížek lgt. (MHCH); 2 ��, same data, but 22.xii.2007, M. Snížek lgt. (RSCU); 1 �, Western 

Cape, S Swellendam, 28.xi.–1.xii.1997, R. Kmeco lgt. (RSCU); 1 �, Western Cape, Greyton env., x.1999, M. Snížek 

lgt. (JFCP). TANZANIA: 1 �, Arusha distr., Naberera env., iv.1997, J. Rolčík lgt. (MHCH). 

Comments on classifi cation. OBYDOV & SALDAITIS (2010) differentiate their new subspecies 

from Arabian population described, on the basis of two females, by MANDL (1954) as C. 

chlorostictum hadramautum, but in more recent publications regarded as synonyms of the 

nominotypical subspecies (CULOT 1990, BOUSQUET et al. 2003). Authors stated that their new 

subspecies from Socotra differs in size, robustness, width to length ratios of pronotum and 

elytra, markedness of primary elytral foveoles, convexity of eyes and sculpture of the head. 

However, study of our extensive material from Socotra and the African continent has shown 

the differences claimed by OBYDOV & SALDAITIS (2010) to be invalid. The size and body width 

to length ratios cannot be used to differentiate between populations (see Table 1), there are 

no differences in surface sculptures or convexity of eyes, and the shape of the aedeagus (cf. 

OBYDOV & SALDAITIS 2010: fi g. 4) is the same as in specimens from the African continent and 

Madagascar. We therefore consider C. chlorostictum ivinskisi a junior subjective synonym of 

C. chlorostictum chlorostictum. 

The subgeneric placement of C. chlorostictum in the subgenus Calosoma follows the 

recently proposed classifi cation supported by results of DNA analyses (SU et al. 2005). 

Collection circumstances. OBYDOV & SALDAITIS (2010) published C. chlorostictum only 

from the upper part of Ayhaft Valley, a habitat dominated by “Dracaena cinnabari, Rhus 

rhyrsifl ora [= thyrsifolia], Euryops arabicus, Buxus pedicillata, Gnidia socotrana, Cocculus 

balourii [= balfourii] and other plant species… Few specimens were light trapped during

72 

FARKAČ & HÄCKEL: Calosoma chlorostictum ivinskisi a new synonym (Carabidae) 

Table 1. Measurements of Calosoma chlorostictum Dejean, 1831. 

type specimens of 

C. chlorostictum invinskisi 

(OBYDOV & SALDAITIS 2010) 

Other material from 

Socotra Island 

the night. Another endemic beetle species Mallodon arabicum (Cerambycidae) was collected 

at the same time”. To the contrary, the new material shows C. chlorostictum to be a typical 

alate nocturnal predator present virtually throughout the island, although most specimens 

were collected at lights, many at the midst of Hadiboh, the largest town on the island, on 

the terrace of the Summer Land Hotel. The species is documented in Socotra Island from 

altitudes 10–1502 m a.s.l. 

Distribution. Eastern and southern Africa: Botswana, Djibouti, Democratic Republic of 

the Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, 

Namibia, Republic of South Africa, Somalia, Southern Sudan, Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, 

Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe; south-western Asia: Iraq, Iran, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen 

(including Socotra Isl.) (DARLINGTON 1936, MANDL 1954, BOUSQUET et al. 2003). 


The authors are grateful to Dmitry Vladimirovich Obydov (4 January 1957–13 November 

2010) for his great contribution to the world entomology, especially to the tribe Carabini 

expressed in more than 75 articles and several monographs. The fi rst author also thanks 

Dmitry for his exceptional hospitality and untiring help while studying material at his Moscow 

institution. 

References 

Africa and Madagascar 

male female male female male female 

TL 23.0–24.6 24.8–26.3 20.0–28.0 20.0–28.0 20.8–28.0 22.0–28.7 

EW 9.0–11.5 10.2–12.0 8.2–11.5 8.4–13.0 8.0–11.5 9.1–12.2 

PW / HW 1.65* 1.41–1.56 1.37–1.57 1.44–1.58 1.41–1.58 

PW / PL 1.75 1.50–1.68 1.46–1.75 1.43–1.78 1.49–1.75 

EL / EW 1.50 1.50–1.56 1.43–1.59 1.50–1.66 1.39–1.62 

EW / PW 1.53 1.38–1.64 1.43–1.62 1.37–1.66 1.48–1.74 

* PW / HW ratio given by OBYDOV & SALDAITIS (2010) is 1.65, but the habitus photos in their work indicate 1.45 for 

the male holotype and 1.57 for a female paratype. 

BOUSQUET Y., BŘEZINA B., DAVIES A., FARKAČ J. & SMETANA A. 2003: Tribe Carabini Latreille, 1802. Pp. 

118–201. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): The Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 1. Archostemata 

– Myxophaga – Adephaga. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 819 pp. 

CULOT J. 1998: Catalogue des calosomes du monde. Privately published, Bruxelles, 19 pp. 

DARLINGTON P. J., JR. 1936: Variation and atrophy of fl ying wings of some carabid beetles (Coleoptera). Annals 

of the Entomological Society of America 29: 136–176 + 3 pls. 

GIDASPOW T. 1963: The genus Calosoma in Central America, the Antilles, and South America (Coleoptera, Carabidae). 

Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History 124: 275–314.


FELIX R. F. F. L., FARKAČ J. & SULEIMAN A. S. 2012: Annotated checklist of the Carabidae (Coleoptera) of 

the Socotra Archipelago. Pp. 75–106. In: HÁJEK J. & BEZDĚK J. (eds.): Insect biodiversity of the Socotra 


LORENZ W. 2005: Systematic list of extant ground beetles of the world (Insecta Coleoptera “Geadephaga”: 

Trachypachidae and Carabidae incl. Paussinae, Cicindelinae, Rhysodinae). Second Edition. Wolfgang Lorenz, 

Tutzing, 530 pp. 

MANDL K. 1954: Ergebnisse einer Revision der Carabiden-Sammlung des Naturhistorischen Museums in Wien, 

(3. Teil). Neue Calosoma-Formen in der Koleopterensammlung des Naturhistorischen Museums in Wien. Koleopterologische 

Rundschau 32: 159–165. 

MANDL K. 1970: Calosoma chlorostictum Dejean und Calosoma imbricatum Klug. Koleopterologische Rundschau 

48: 57–63. 

OBYDOV D. & SALDAITIS A. 2010: New subspecies of the caterpillar hunter Calosoma (Caminara) chlorostictum 

Dejean 1931 from the Sokotra Island (Coleoptera, Carabidae). Acta Entomologica Slovenica 18: 53–57. 

SU Z.-H., IMURA Y. & OSAWA S. 2005: Evolutionary history of Calosomina ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae, 

Carabinae) of the world as deduced from sequence comparisons of the mitochondrial ND5 gene. Gene 

360: 140–150.

74 



Published 17.xii.2012 Volume 52(supplementum 2), pp. 75–106 ISSN 0374-1036 

Annotated checklist of the Carabidae (Coleoptera) 


Ron F. F. L. FELIX 1) , Jan FARKAČ 2) & Ahmed Saeed SULEIMAN 3) 

1) Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden, The Netherlands; e-mail: Ron.Felix@naturalis.nl 

2) Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 

CZ-165 21, Praha 6 – Suchdol, Czech Republic; e-mail: farkac@fl d.czu.cz 

3) Conservation and Research Unit at the Environmental Protection Authority Socotra Island, 

Hadiboh, Yemen; e-mail: qamhem@yahoo.com 

Abstract. The extensive material of Carabidae collected during expeditions to the 

Socotra Archipelago between 1999 and 2010 was studied. A total of 50 carabid 

species-group taxa were recognised, of which 42 were identifi ed at species level, 

while eight morpho-species remain unnamed. Four species appear to be endemic to 

the island; 30 species are recorded here for Socotra for the fi rst time. The majority 

of the Carabidae fauna of Socotra consists of species occurring in Africa and on 

the Arabian Peninsula. One species is cosmopolitan. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Carabidae, new records, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Socotra is the collective name for a small archipelago off the coast of Yemen, consisting 

of the islands of Socotra, Abd el Kuri, Samha and Darsa (the so-called Brothers) and the 

rocks Jazirat, Sabuniya and Ka’l Fir’awn, together sitting on the Socotra Platform that is a 

part of the Somali Block. This Somali Block was probably a part of the Afro-Arabian continent 

during the Paleogene. Since the Oligocene-Miocene, some 30 million years ago, the 

Arabian Plate began drifting away from the African Plate. About 15 million years later the 

Sheba Ridge’s development from the Indian Ocean into the Gulf of Aden was instrumental 

in accelerating the drifting of Socotra away from its original position close to today’s Oman. 

Parts of Socotra’s Hagher mountains have probably always remained above sea level. During 

the ongoing isolation from the African-Arabian continent, which coincided with alternating 

periods of wet and dry climates and changes in sea-level, the biota of the archipelago has 

brought forth strange and typical insular life forms (CHEUNG & DEVANTIER 2006). Today the 

climate is dominated by the southwest and northeast monsoons, resulting in a tropical semiarid 

climate with scarce rainfall (WRANIK 2003). 



76 

FELIX et al.: Annotated checklist of the Carabidae of Socotra Archipelago 

According to WRANIK (2003) the island Socotra can be divided into three main zones: 

1. The coastal plains in the south with a width of up to six kilometers and those in the north 

which are less wide. Estuaries and extensive sand dunes have developed at certain localities. 

2. The limestone plateau which has been elevated up to 700 meters, probably during the early 

Eocene. Here deep sheltered valleys, fi ssures and caves are present. 

3. The Hagher mountains, which reach 1530 meters. They are composed of granit and are 

interspersed with fertile valleys. 

The fi rst detailed scientifi c biological survey of the island of Socotra was made in 1880 

by Sir Isaac Bayley Balfour, who collected 565 species of fl owering plants in a period of 48 

days. Based on this collection 206 endemic species were described in his Botany of Socotra 

(BALFOUR 1888). WATERHOUSE (1881) published 24 beetles collected by Balfour, and newly 

described an endemic carabid beetle: Tetragonoderus fl avovittatus. GAHAN (1903) mentioned 

four identifi ed species of Carabidae and one unidentifi ed species. CASSOLA & WRANIK (1998) 

discovered a new endemic cicindelid beetle from Socotra: Socotrana labroturrita, and CASSOLA 

& POHL (2004) described the female of this extraordinary species. WRANIK (2003) depicted 21 

species of Carabidae of which only nine were named in the text. In recent years two species 

were added to the list of known Carabidae from Socotra: Tachyura ferrugata (Reitter, 1895) 

published by KOPECKÝ (2009) and an endemic Socotran species Lebia farkaci, described 

by KIRSCHENHOFER (2010). OBYDOV & SALDAITIS (2010) treated the Socotran population of 

Calosoma chlorostictum Dejean, 1831 as an endemic subspecies, C. chlorostictum ivinskisi, 

which was put to its synonymy by FARKAČ & HÄCKEL (2012). 

In this publication we present an updated checklist of the Carabidae of the Socotra 

Archipelago which is mainly based on a number of expeditions, that were made from 1999 

to 2010. Most of the material dealt with here, was collected during two Dutch expeditions 

in 2009 and 2010, and by numerous Czech expeditions from 1999 to 2010, predominantly 

within the framework of the international development-aid given by the Czech Republic to 

the Republic of Yemen, and by several other individual researching visits to Socotra. Only 

one of these trips visited also other islands of the archipelago and only one species has been 

collected there – Glycia cf. spencei (Gistel, 1838) on Abd el Kuri. 

The total number of Carabidae taxa from the Socotra Archipelago that are currently known 

is 52, among which 50 species of Carabidae are dealt with here. Not all material has as yet 

been identifi ed at the species level or even at the genus level and therefore only 42 species 

will be discussed here. 

Four species are endemic in the archipelago and another 30 taxa are recorded from Socotra 

for the fi rst time. 


Locality data is recorded verbatim from the data labels in the list of material examined. In 

general, for practical reasons we have followed the Palaearctic catalogue (LÖBL & SMETANA 

2003) for the genus level and species names, except for the subtribe of Tachyina Motschulsky, 

1864. Here we follow SCIAKY & VIGNA TAGLIANTI (2003) who propose a new classifi cation of


some genera and subgenera based on the work of a large number of specialists and abundant 

material from numerous museums and their own collections. The specimens included in this 

study are deposited in the following institutional and private collections: 

CULS Czech University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (Jan 

Farkač); 

DWCB David W. Wrase collection, Berlin, Germany; 

HLMD Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt, Germany (Sabine Wamser); 

IBCD Ingo Brunk collection, Dresden, Germany; 

IRSB Institut royal des Sciences naturelles de Belgique, Brussels, Belgium (Alain Drumont); 

JFCP Jan Farkač collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 

LTCV Luca Toledano collection, Verona, Italy; 

MHCH Martin Häckel collection, Hostivice, Czech Republic; 

MRAC Musée Royal de l’Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, Belgium (Marc De Meyer); 

NHMW Naturhistorisches Museum Wien, Austria (Erich Kirschenhofer collection); 

NMPC Národní muzeum, Prague, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek); 

OHCP Oldřich Hovorka collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 

PBCP Petr Bulirsch collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 

PLFG Pietro Lo Cascio and Flavia Gritta collection, Lipari, Messina, Italy; 

PVCP Petr Votruba collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 

RFBE Ron F. F. L. Felix collection, Berkel Enschot, The Netherlands; 

TKHK Tomáš Kopecký collection, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic; 

ZSMD Zoologische Staatssammlung, München, Germany (Michael Balke). 

List of recorded species 

BRACHININAE 

Brachinus (Aploa) nobilis Dejean, 1831 

Material examined (13 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Diksam plateau, Diksam lake, 1000 m a.s.l., 12°31′23″N, 

53°57′12″E, 12.v.2004, 12 spec., lgt. A. Reiter, det. D. W. Wrase (JFCP, NMPC, DWCB); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′39.1″N, 

53°58′44.8″E, 26.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 11.0–15.0 mm. Dorsum yellow, elytra with black spots: near the 

scutellum along the suture till 2/5 of elytra, two rounded subhumeral spots along the sides 

and a subapical transverse zigzag band. 

Collection circumstances. The specimen from Wadi Ayaft was found between stones on the 

bank of a pool in the wadi. 

Distribution. This steppe species is known from Africa (from the Sahara to the Cape Province) 

in a discontinuous distribution on each side of the equatorial zone. It is also known 

from the Middle East and from mainland Yemen. Mentioned from Socotra Island by WRANIK 

(2003). 

Pheropsophus (Stenaptinus) hilaris sobrinus (Dejean, 1826) 

Material examined (39 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: W Socotra, 6.–24.ix.1999, 4 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný, det. D. W. Wrase (DWCB, JFCP); Wadi Zeweef, Homhil plain, 320–640 m a.s.l., 7.–8.ii.1999, 12°35′N, 

54°18′E, 6 spec., lgt. H.Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Homhill, 12°34′13′′N, 54°18′32′′E, 29.x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. 

H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Wadi Faar, 12.433N, 54.195E, 69 m a.s.l., 1.iv.2001, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček &

78 


K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Kam village, 10 km E Hadibo, 12°33′42″N, 54°07′05″E, 60 m a.s.l., 5.v.2004, 2 

spec., lgt. A. Reiter, det. J. Farkač (NMPC, JFCP); Suq village, 6 km NE Hadibo, 12°39′59″N, 54°03′40″E, 12 m 

a.s.l., 7.v.2004, 5 spec., lgt. A. Reiter, det. J. Farkač (NMPC, JFCP); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 

24.ii.2009, 18 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Lagoon Sirhin, 12°40′09.4″N, 54°02′07.7″E, 27.ii.2009, 

1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Mômi plateau, Wadi Teida, 12°31′36.5″N, 4°14′52.8″E, 297 m. a.s.l., 

02.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 13.0–16.0 mm. Head yellow, pronotum yellow, sometimes with black 

margin at base and apex. Elytra with round median yellow spots and apex with yellow border. 

Shape and extension of median spots vary. Legs completely yellow. 

Comments on classifi cation. Already recorded from Socotra by GAHAN (1903) as Pheropsophus 

sobrinus. ANDREWES (1930) mentioned Pheropsophus hilaris var. sobrinus from 

Socotra. WRANIK (2003) mentioned the species as Pheropsophus africanus Arrow, 1901. 

Pheropsophus hilaris and its pale form sobrinus, both described from India, should be 

characterised by pale epipleura with fi ne tubercles, but almost always without visible setae. On 

the other hand, P. africanus should be recognised by its almost entirely black epipleura with 

always more or less distinctive seta-bearing tubercles. However, we have studied extensive 

material of all three taxa from Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, Iran and India and found that 

most of characteristics mentioned by other authors, like colour of pronotum and prosternum 

and the shape and extension of the median elytral spots, are highly variable among populations. 

The Socotran specimens mostly have more or less yellow epipleura with fi ne tubercles, but 

always without setae and thus we tentatively assigne them to P. hillaris sobrinus. According 

to D. W. Wrase and J. Hrdlička (pers. comm. 2012) the whole group is in urgent need of 

comprehensive taxonomic revision. 

Collection circumstances. More than 10 specimens were observed underneath stones near 

Wadi Shimi (Mômi), 12°32′10.5″N, 54°14′44.0″E, 25.ii.2009. They were usually collected 

near water underneath stones, and especially during the night abundantly running on swampy 

grassy banks (Ridah, Mômi). 

Distribution. Pheropsophus hilaris sobrinus is an Asian subspecies, known from India, Sri 

Lanka, Taiwan and also from Pakistan and Nepal (J. Hrdlička, pers. comm. 2012). 

CARABINAE 

Calosoma (Calosoma) chlorostictum chlorostictum Dejean, 1831 

Material examined (10 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadiboh village and environments, 12°36′57″N, 

54°01′01″E, 20.x.–1.xi.2000, 3 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (as C. chlorostictum ivinskisi Obydov & Saldaitis, 

2010) (HLMD); near Hadiboh, 11.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); top of Ayheft valley, 

17.i.2010, 3 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); sand dunes near Irisseyl location, 17.i.2010, 1 spec., 

lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Adhoh di Melhoh, 12°34′19.9″N, 54°02′49.0″E, 31.x.2010, 2 spec., lgt. 

& det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 23.0–24.5 mm. Black with bronze lustre. Pronotum wide, convex, 

coarsely punctured, basal fovea deep. Elytra short-oval, greatest width behind middle, rather 

convex, shoulders prominent. Elytral sculpture triploid, homodynamous, intervals moderately 

convex. 

Comments on classifi cation. GAHAN (1903) mentioned Calosoma rugosum (DeGeer, 1783) 

from Socotra, a synonym of Calosoma chlorostictum chlorostictum. OBYDOV & SALDAITIS


(2010) treat the Socotran population as the subspecies C. chlorostictum ivinskisi. The status 

of the latter is discussed by FARKAČ & HÄCKEL (2012). 

Collection circumstances. The specimens from Adhoh di Melhoh were found underneath 

stones near a low stony wall. 

Distribution. Widely distributed in eastern and southern Africa, from Egypt to Cape Province, 

also on the Arabian and Yemen mainland. 

CICINDELINAE 

Cicindelini 

Calomera aulica aulica (Dejean, 1831) 

Material examined (57 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Neet, x.2000, 30 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, 

det. P. Votruba (JFCP, CULS, PVCP); Qariyah, lagoon, 12°38′N, 54°12′E, 4.ii.1999, 4 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. F. 

Cassola (HLMD); Noged, Farmihin, near beach, 12°24′41″N, 54°13′35″E, 24.–25.x.2000, 2 spec., lgt. & det. H. 

Pohl (HLMD); Lagoon Qaryah, 12°32′22.7″N, 54°17′38.5″E, 24.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); 

Shuab location coast line, mangroves, 23.iii.2009, 10 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Gubbah di- 

Net, 12°28′52.9″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 28.x.2010, 8 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Deham, beach, 

4.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 8.0–15.0 mm (11.0–13.5 mm in Socotran specimens). Elytra dark 

coppery bronze with well developed spots, mostly united, elytral sides rounded, suture purple 

and with more or less purple triangle between basal spots of humeral lunula. The specimens 

from the Qaryah Lagoon lack purple triangle. 

Comments on classifi cation. MANDL (1959) described the subspecies Calomera aulica 

cupraria from Obock (Djibouti), which is 9.0–11.0 mm long, with a differently shaped 

pronotum and clearer spots on elytra compared to the nominate subspecies. Colour is light 

coppery-red with reddish golden suture. According to LORENZ (2005), C. a. cupraria is a 

synonym of C. a. aulica. PUCHKOV & MATALIN (2003) mention only the nominate subspecies 

from Yemen. 

Collection circumstances. An additional one specimen was observed on the beach near our 

campsite north of Qalansiya, 28.ii.2009. In 2010, the species was very abundant at light in 

mangrove-bushes, near an open saltmarsh in Gubbah di-Net. In Deham several specimens 

were seen around a pool on the beach. 

Distribution. The species was mentioned from Socotra by WRANIK (2003) and has a vast 

distribution from Cape Verde and southern Europe through North Africa and the Arabian 

Peninsula to Iraq, Iran, India and Pakistan. 

Myriochila (Myriochila) melancholica melancholica (Fabricius, 1798) 

Material examined (56 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadibu, 12.652N, 54.024E, 10 m a.s.l., 11.–23.xi.2000, 2 

spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. P. Votruba (JFCP, CULS); Lahas, 12.646N, 54.091E, 69 m a.s.l., 17.–18.xi.2000, 

3 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. P. Votruba (JFCP, CULS, PVCP); Homhil, 12.587N, 54.302E, 330 m a.s.l., 

20.–21.xi.2000, 3 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. P. Votruba (JFCP, CULS, PVCP); Hadibo village & environments, 

12°39′N, 54°01′E, 2.–26.ii.1999, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. F. Cassola (HLMD); Dijoub, environment 

cave, 12°23′05″N, 54°00′56″E, 90 m a.s.l., 24.x.2000, 9 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. H. Pohl (HLMD); Noged, Farmihin, 

near beach, 12°24′41″N, 54°13′35″E, 24.–25.x.2000, 2 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. H. Pohl (HLMD); Wadi di-Negehen, 

12°38′33.0″N, 54°03′18.5″E, 20.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayhaft, river, 12°36′49.1″N, 

53°59′26.4″E, 22.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Lagoon Qadhub, 12°38′55.0″N, 53°57′14.0″E,

80 


23.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Lagoon Qaryah, 12°32.378′N, 54°17.642′E, 24.ii.2009, 1 spec., 

lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Shiliyin (Mômi), 12°32′10.5″N,54°14′44.0″E, 25.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. R. Ketelaars, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Noged beach, south of Dejub-cave, camp, 12°20′43.58″N,54°01′12.49″E, 02.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Haghier Mts, Ayheft valley, 20.iii.2009, 4 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); top 

of Diksam valley, 22.iii.2009, 7 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Shuab location, coast line, mangroves, 

24.iii.2009, 5 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Ayheft valley, 12.i.2010, lgt. Saldaitis, 8 spec., det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (IRSB); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°36′55.58″N, 54°03′48.28″E, 25.10.2010, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); 

Wadi Ayhaft, river, 12°36′21.7″N, 53°59′33.9″E, 26.x.2010, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Gubbah di-Net, 

12°28′52.9″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 28.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length: 9.0–12.0 mm. Head, pronotum and elytra coppery green or brown, 

sides of pronotum setose. Whole underside heavily covered with white setae. 

Collection circumstances. The species was collected in large numbers in many sites on the 

island, both on banks of freshwater and on sea-shores. Also observed on the Nojid beach, 

south of Dejub cave, 12°20′43.58″N, 54°01′12.49″E, 2.iii.2009. In Wadi Shiliyin (Mômi), 

the beetles were seen running on algae covering the water. 

Distribution. This species has a wide distribution ranging from the Mediterranean, most of Africa, 

the Middle East, and Central Asia to India. Mentioned by WRANIK (2003) for Socotra. 

Dromicini 

Socotrana labroturrita Cassola & Wranik, 1998 

Material examined (11 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: near Suq, E of Hadiboh, approximately 12°26′N, 

54°01′E, 28.x.2000, 4 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. F. Cassola (HLMD); same data, 1 spec., lgt. A. van Harten, det. H. 

Pohl (HLMD); Suq, 2.xi.2010, 5 spec., lgt. R.F.F.L. Felix, R.P.W.H. Felix, J. Bouwman & R. Ketelaars, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE, IBCD); Shahab area, Baa village environment, ca. 12°32.5′N 54°10.4′E, 215 m, 9.xi.2010, 1 torso 

found under stone, leg. & det. J. Hájek (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 9.5–10.0 mm. Slender, long-legged, elytra bluish black, each with 

a narrow yellowish spot along lateral margin from shoulder to apex. A very extraordinary 

cicindelid beetle; placed by CASSOLA & WRANIK (1998) close to the African genera Dromica 

Dejean, 1826 and Euryarthron Guérin-Ménéville, 1849. 

Collection circumstances. In both February/March 2009 and October/November 2010 the 

species was often unsuccessfully searched for at the places mentioned by CASSOLA & WRA- 

NIK (1998) and CASSOLA & POHL (2004). Finally, it was found at dawn near Suq village. The 

beetles were extremely rapid and always in hiding underneath stones. The following evening 

no specimens were found at the same location although circumstances seemed similar. 

Distribution. A species endemic to Socotra Island. 

HARPALINAE 

Abacetini 

Abacetus (Astigis) cf. quadrisignatus Chaudoir, 1876 

(Fig. 1) 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadiboh env., 12°65′02″N [sic!], 54°02′04″E, 10–100 

m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC).


Diagnosis. (Fig. 1). Body length 9.5–10.0 mm. Head, pronotum and elytra shiny piceous 

brown. Antennae testaceous, legs and mouthparts yellow. Base of pronotum coarsely punctured 

between basal furrows. Each elytron with testaceous subhumeral spot and yellow subapical 

spot, that sometimes tends to divide. Elytral microsculpture fi ne and transverse. 

Comments on classifi cation. The status of the material from Socotra is not certain. It seems 

to be very similar to Abacetus quadripustulatus (Peyron, 1858), mentioned from Albania, 

Egypt, Turkey, Syria, Saudi Arabia and Yemen, but no specimens were examined. STRANEO 

(1961) characterised A. quadripustulatus as follows: “Lati del pronoto non o pochissimo 

sinuate all’indietro, di modo che gli angoli basali risultano sempre nettamente ottusi”. This 

characterization fi ts exactly specimens of A. quadrisignatus from Eritrea and Ethiopia, and 

also the material from Socotra and mainland Yemen. Abacetus quadrisignatus is not yet 

known from Yemen. Also the short description of PEYRON (1858) of A. quadripustulatus fi ts 

both species. Maybe A. quadripustulatus and A. quadrisignatus are synonyms, or both species 

occur in mainland Yemen. 

Distribution. Ethiopia and Eritrea. First record from Socotra Island. 

Chlaeniini 

Chlaenius (Chlaeniellus) laeviplaga laeviplaga Chaudoir, 1876 

(Fig. 2) 

Material examined (33 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi di-Negehen, 12°38′33.0″N, 54°03′18.5″E, 

20.ii.2009, 9 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayhaft, river, 12°36′49.1″N, 53°59′26.4″E, 22.ii.2009, 

3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, 8 spec., lgt. 

& det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Mathif, 12°27′28.38″N, 54°18′22.32″E, 20.vi.2009, 1 spec., lgt. V. Hula, det. 

Kirschenhofer (as Chlaenius (Chlaeniellus) obscurus Klug, 1832) (NMPC); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°36′55.58″N, 

54°03′48.28″E, 25.x.2010, 4 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°38.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200 m, 

7.–8.xi.2010, 4 spec., lgt. P. Hlaváč, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); same data, 2 spec., lgt. Jiří Hájek, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (NMPC); Rokeeb environment, 12°35.154′N, 54°09.358′E, 600 m, 6.–8.ii.2001, lgt. V. Neumann, 2 spec., 

det. E. Kirschenhofer (DWCB). 

Diagnosis. Body length 11.0–13.0 mm. Head and pronotum metallic green. Basal half of 

pronotum and along median stria up to three quarters heavily and coarsely punctured. Lateral 

margins of pronotum sinuate, base oblique towards obtuse posterior angles. Elytra blackish 

green with dense yellow pubescence. Lateral margins narrowly and apex broadly yellow. 

Legs and antennomeres I–III yellow, rest of antennae yellowish brown. 

One specimen was erroneously identifi ed by E. Kirschenhofer as Chlaenius (Chlaeniellus) 

obscurus Klug, 1832. This species does not have a broadly yellow apex of the elytra 

(Figs. 2–3). 

Comments on classifi cation. MANDL (1980) described Chlaenius laeviplaga saudiarabicus, 

which differs from the nominate form in having the lateral margins of the pronotum straight to 

the posterior angles, instead of clearly sinuate and with the apical yellow spot reaching much 

more forward towards base of elytra, along the sides up to one third or more of the length of 

the elytra. The specimens from Socotra do not fi t the description of this subspecies. 

Collection circumstances. This species was rather abundant at Wadi Di-Negehen and Ridah 

(Mômi) in a pasture along the wadi, where many more specimens were seen but not collected.

82 


The specimens from environments of Rokeeb were found, partly submerged, on algae in a 

watering hole. 

Distribution. Known from East Africa, mainland Yemen and the United Arab Emirates. First 

record from Socotra Island. 

Chlaenius (Pachydinodes) conformis Dejean, 1831 

Material examined (23 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Zeweef, Homhil, 12°35′N, 54°18′E, 320–640 m 

a.s.l., 7.–8.ii.1999, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Hartmann (HLMD); Ayhaft, 12.ii.2000, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný, det. E. Kirschenhofer (EKCP, JFCP); Homhil (light), 12°34′13″N, 54°18′32″E, 29.x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. H. 

Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Wadi Arher, Faka spring, 12°33′03″N, 54°27′36″E, 5 m a.s.l., 19.v.2004, 6 spec., lgt. 

A. Reiter, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, NMPC); Qalansiyah env., Khayrha mts., N slopes, 12°38′50″N, 53°27′45″E, 85–592 

m a.s.l., 9.–10.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Wadi Zerik, Diksam, 12°30′09.1″N, 53°59′24.2″E, 

21.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayhaft, camp, 12°36′58.7″N, 53°59′30.6″E, 22.ii.2009, 

1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & 

det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Dilish, 12°31′48.8″N, 53°59′08.5″E, 26.ii.2009, 3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(RFBE); Adhoh di Melhoh, 12°34′19.9″N, 54°02′49.0″E, 31.x.2010, 3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); on 

the way from Wadi di-Negehen to Adhoh di Melhoh, 31.x.2010, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 12.5–14.0 mm. Head and pronotum metallic green, scarcely punctured, 

but heavily and coarsely punctured in basal furrows. Posterior angles rounded, lateral 

margin evenly curved. Elytra green, with dense yellow pubescence. Apex with virgule-like 

markings. Legs and antennomeres I–III yellow, rest of antennae brown. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens were collected near water, but they were never 

abundant. 

Distribution. Mentioned from West, Central and East Africa and mainland Yemen. Mentioned 

for Socotra by GAHAN (1903). 

Chlaenius (Pachydinodes) sokotranus Csiki, 1931 

Material examined (135 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: E Socotra, 6.–24.ix.1999, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); S Socotra, 6.–24.ix.1999, 8 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. E. Kirschenhofer 

(JFCP, DWCB, CULS); Dexam, Scant, 12.553N, 54.007E, 1170 m a.s.l., 6.–24.ix.1999, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & 

K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (CULS); Hadiboh, 6.–24.ix.1999, 4 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. E. Kirschenhofer 

(JFCP); Deneghen, 12.617N 54.084E, 108 m a.s.l., 19.–20.ii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. 

J. Farkač (CULS); Ayhaft, 22.ii.2000, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Dixam, 

3.–6.iii.2000, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Firmihin, 12.474N, 54.015E, 530 m 

a.s.l., x.2000, 5 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Haghier, 12.575N, 54.022E, 1502 m 

a.s.l., 4.–8.x.2000, 6 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Diksam, camp, 12°31,401′N, 

53°57,204′E, 26.–27.x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Hadiboh, near Suq, 12°26′N, 54°01′E, 

28.x.2000, 2 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Homhil, 12°34′13″N, 54°18′32″E, 29.x.2000, 1 spec., 

lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Wadi Danegan, 12°36′59″N, 54°03′48″E, 60 m a.s.l., 30.x.2000, lgt. H. Pohl, 

det. M. Persohn (HLMN); Ayhaft, 3.xi.2000, 7 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); 

Lahas, 12.646N, 54.091E, 69 m a.s.l., 17.–18.xi.2000, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, 

CULS); Homhil, 12.587N, 54.302E, 330 m a.s.l., 20.–21.xi.2000, 7 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač 

(JFCP, CULS); Wadi Faar, 3.xii.2002, 5 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Qalansiyah 

environment, Khayrha mountains, N slopes, 12°38′50″N, 53°27′45″E, 85–592 m a.s.l., 9.–10.xii.2003, 25 spec., 

lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS, OHCP); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°48′49″E, 190 m a.s.l., 24.–26.xi.2003, 

12 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Wadi Ireeh, Noged Plain, 12°23′11″N, 53°59′47″E, 95 m


a.s.l., 6.–7.xii.2003, 6 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Firmihin area, Dixam plateau, 12°47′40″N, 54°01′53″E, 

428 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); the same data, 2 spec., lgt. J. Farkač; Wadi 

Esgego, Dixam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); 

Qualansiah environment, Ditwah (lagoon), 12°41′42″N, 53°30′08″E, 23 m a.s.l., 9.–10.xii.2003; 1 spec., lgt. & det. 

J. Farkač (JFCP); Wadi Deneghen, 12°36′55″N, 54°03′49″E, 85 m a.s.l., 27.xi.2003, 3 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač 

(JFCP); Ayheft valley, 22.xi.2008, 3 spec., lgt. Saldaitiene & Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Ayhaft, 

camp, 12°36′58.7″N, 53°59′30.6″E, 22.ii.2009, at light, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Hadiboh plain, 

12°39′14.97″N,54°03′02.68″E, 23.ix.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 

54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, at light, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); guesthouse Hadiboh, 12°38′55.79″N, 

54°00′46.79″E, 21.ii.2009, at light, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); near Hadiboh, 11.i.2010, 1 spec., 

lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Ayheft valley, 12.i.2010, 2 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); 

Wadi Kam, 13.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Difarroh, south side, 15.i.2010, 1 

spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); top of Ayheft valley, 17.i.2010, 2 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (IRSB); sand dunes near Irisseyl loc., 18.i.2010, 2 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Adhoh di 

Melhoh, 12°34′19.9″N, 54°02′49.0″E, 31.x.2010, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 265 m a.s.l., 

12°36′21.7″N, 53°59′33.9″E, 26.x.2010, 5 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Mômi plateau, 12°32′40.7″N, 

54°21′27.0″E, 505 m a.s.l., 2.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°36′55.58″N, 

54°03′48.28″E, 25.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Mômi (Nit), 12°27.414′N, 53°17.487′E, 

600 m a.s.l., 29/30.i.2001, 1 spec., lgt. V. Neumann, det. D.W. Wrase (DWCB). 

Diagnosis. Body length 12.5–13.0 mm. Head and pronotum black, shiny, sparsely and fi nely 

punctured. Lateral margins of pronotum and elytra with weak violet lustre. Elytra black, 

dull. Intervals on both sides along striae with irregular rows of punctures and pubescence. 

Antennomere I red underneath, rest of antennae black. Legs black. 

Comments on classifi cation. The species was described by GAHAN (1903) as Chlaenius 

melancholicus, preoccupied by Chlaenius melancholicus Laferté-Sénectère, 1851. CSIKI 

(1931) proposed a new substitute name C. sokotranus. 

Collection circumstances. In 2010, this species was very common everywhere. The specimens 

at Mômi (Nit) were collected in a highland on rocky soil free of vegetation. Several 

specimens were collected at light in various habitats. 


Chlaenius (Chlaeniostenodes) cherensis Kirschenhofer, 1999 

(Fig. 5) 

Material examined (113 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Diksam plateau (light), 12°32′N, 53°59′E, 1020 m 

a.s.l., 22.–24.ii.1999, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. E. Kirschenhofer (as Chlaenius canariensis seminitidus) (HLMD); 

Diksam plateau, Diksam lake, 12°31′23″N, 53°57′12″E, 1000 m a.s.l., 12.v.2004, 1 spec., A. Reiter lgt., det. J. 

Farkač (JFCP); Dixam plateau, Wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 750 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. D. 

Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi Ireeh, Noged Plain, 12°23′11″N, 53°59′47″E, 95 m a.s.l., 6.–7.xii.2003, 

48 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS, OHCP); same data, 4 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); 

Qalansiyah env., Khayrha mts., N slopes, 12°38′50″N, 53°27′45″E, 85–592 m a.s.l., 9.–10.xii.2003, 12 spec., lgt. 

& det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 364 m a.s.l., 28.–29.xi.2003, 1 spec., 

lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°48′49″E, 190 m a.s.l., 24.–26.xi.2003, 3 spec., lgt. P. 

Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Dixam plateau, Firmihin area, 12°47′40″N, 54°01′53″E, 428 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 2 

spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Wadi Esgego, Dixam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m 

a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); same data, 6 spec., J. Farkač lgt.; same 

data, 2 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix; Ayheft valley, 22.xi.2008, 10 spec., lgt. Saldaitiene & Saldaitis, det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Zerik, Diksam, 12°30′09.1″N, 53°59′24.2″E, 21.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L.

84 


Felix (RFBE); Wadi Mathif, 12°27′28.38″N, 54°18′22.32″E, 20.vi.2009, 1 spec., lgt. V. Hula, det. Kirschenhofer 

(as C. canariensis seminitidus) (NMPC); Wadi Zerik, Diksam, 12°29′28.4″N, 53°59′25.5″E, 641m a.s.l., 6.xi.2010, 

5 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Deiqub cave, 10.vi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. V. Hula & J. Niedobová, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (NMPC); Wadi Diforrha, north side, 19.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Ayhaft, 

12°36′37.1″N, 53°58′44.8″E, 26.x.2010, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE).; Al Haghier Mts., Wadi Madar, 

12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E, 1180–1230m, 12.–14.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Jiří Hájek, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi Ayhaft, 

12°38.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l., 7.–8.xi.2010, 2 spec., lgt. P. Hlaváč, det. R. F. F. L. Felix, (NMPC); same data, 

1 spec., lgt. J. Bezdĕk; same data, 4 spec., lgt. Jiří Hájek, all det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 12.0–14.0 mm. Head and pronotum metallic green. Pronotum rather 

scarcely punctured, lateral margins sinuate, posterior angles shortly rounded. Elytra bluish 

black, rather densely, but coarsely punctured, with yellow pubescence. Legs and antennomeres 

I–III yellow, rest of antennae dark. 

Comments on classifi cation. KIRSCHENHOFER (1999) described this taxon as a subspecies 

of Chlaenius (Nectochlaenius) canariensis Dejean, 1831. Subsequently, KIRSCHENHOFER 

(2008) synonymized Nectochlaenius Antoine, 1961 with Chlaeniostenodes Basilewsky 1950 

and raised Ch. cherensis to the rank of a species, however without his motivation to do so. 

Specimens from Socotra exactly fi t the description of KIRSCHENHOFER (1999). Elytral intervals 

are more convex than in Chlaenius (Chlaeniostenoides) canariensis seminitidus (Dejean, 

1831) (Figs. 4–5), known also from mainland Yemen. However, KIRSCHENHOFER (2008) also 

published C. c. seminitidus from Socotra. We have studied two specimens identifi ed as C. c. 

seminitidus by Kirschenhofer, but they agree in all characteristics with C. cherensis. As we 

are not aware of any specimen of true C. c. seminitidus from Socotra, we exlude this taxon 

from the list of Socotran Carabidae. 

Collection circumstances. Associated with streams and riverbeds. Frequently found under 

stones or running on riverbanks at night. Some specimens were collected in and near the 

entrance of a little cave in Wadi Zerik, between stones near the water. 

Distribution. KIRSCHENHOFER (1999) described this taxon as a subspecies of C. canariensis 

Dejean, 1831 from Eritrea and Sudan. Mentioned from Socotra Island by WRANIK (2003). 

Cyclosomini 

Masoreus orientalis orientalis Dejean, 1828 

Material examined (3 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Homhil plateau, 12°34′N, 54°18′E, 540 m a.s.l., 8.ii.1999, 

1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Dixam plateau, Firmihin area, 12°47′40″N, 54°01′53″E, 428 m a.s.l., 

3.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. D. W. Wrase (DWCB, JFCP). 

Diagnosis. Body length 7.0–8.0 mm. Uniformly piceous black. Protibiae with longitudinal 

furrow. Elytral striae superfi cial, but distinct. The genus Masoreus Dejean, 1821 differs from 

the genus Anaulacus Macleay, 1825 (with subgenus Aephnidius Macleay, 1825) in missing 

the long spine on the outer side of meta- and mesotibiae. 

Collection circumstances. The specimen from Homhil was collected in the hilly pastures 

east of the plateau. 

Distribution. Egypt, Middle East, India; also mentioned from Morocco and Nepal (D.W. 

Wrase, pers. comm. 2012). First record from Socotra Island.


Figs. 1–5. 1 – Abacetus (Astigis) quadrisignatus Chaudoir, 1876 (Socotra, Hadiboh env); 2 – Chlaenius (Chlaeniellus) 

laeviplaga laeviplaga Chaudoir, 1856 (Socotra, Wadi Mathif), elytra with extended yellow apex; 3 – Ch. (Chlaeniellus) 

obscurus Klug, 1832 (Yemen, Wadi Maytam), elytra narrowly yellow bordered; 4 – Ch. (Chlaeniostenus) 

canariensis seminitidus (Dejean, 1831) (Yemen, Beni Mansour env); elytra dull, with fl at intervals, fi nely punctured; 

5 – Ch. (Chlaeniostenus) cherensis Kirschenhofer, 1999 (Socotra, Wadi Ayhaft), elytra shiny, intervals convex, more 

coarsely punctured. Photos: 1, 4–5 Tim Faasen; 2–3 Ron F.F.L. Felix.

86 


Figs. 6–9. 6 – Harpalus (Cryptophonus) agnatus Reiche, 1849 (Socotra, Homhil), apex of median lobe more convex 

and internal sac with two spines; 7 – H. (C.) tenebrosus Dejean, 1820 (France, Alpes, Col des Léques), median lobe 

of aedeagus parallel-sided and internal sac with one spine; 8 – Glycia spencei (Gistel, 1838) (Turkmenistan, Mary); 

9 – Glycia cf. spencei (Socotra, Qaareh waterfall). Drawings: Ron F.F.L. Felix. Photos: Tim Faasen.


Tetragonoderus fl avovittatus Waterhouse, 1881 

Material examined (86 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Homhil plateau, 12°34′N, 54°19′E, 540 m a.s.l., 

9.ii.1999, 7 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. W. Lorenz (HLMD); Kilisan, 12°29.136′N, 54°19.715′E, 12.ii.1999, 2 spec., 

lgt. K. van Damme, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); S Socotra, 6.–24.ix.1999, 6 spec., lgt.V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. 

J. Farkač (CULS, DWCB); Ayhaft, 12.ii.2000, 3 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (CULS); Noged, 

12.318N, 53.678E, 250 m a.s.l., 27.ii.–1.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); 

Shuab, 10.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (CULS); Noged, Farmihin, 12°24′41″N, 

54°13′35″E, 0 m a.s.l., 24.–25.x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Noged, Farmihin, Steroh, 

wadi, 12°24′26″N, 54°08′40″E, 24.x.2000, 5 spec., lgt. A. van Harten, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Noged, 12.318N, 

53.678E, 250 m a.s.l., 12.–13.xi.2000, 3 spec., lgt.V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (CULS); Qaariah vill. env., 

12°38′05″N, 54°12′39″E, 11 m a.s.l., 28.xi.2003, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Hadiboh, 10–100 m 

a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 3 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); the same data, 1 spec., lgt. J. Farkač 

(JFCP); Dixam plateau, Firmihin area, 12°47′40″N, 54°01′53″E, 428 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 6 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač 

(JFCP, CULS); the same data, 3 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek; Wadi Esgego, Dixam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 

m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 

364 m a.s.l., 28.–29.xi.2003, 3 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Qaareh (waterfall), Noged plain, 12°20′10″N, 

53°37′56″E, 57 m a.s.l., 5.–6.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°48′49′E, 

190 m a.s.l., 24.–26.xi.2003, 3 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); east of Hadiboh, near Suq, approximately 

12°26′N, 54°01′E, 28.x. 2000, 1 spec., lgt. & det. H. Pohl (HLMD); Hadiboh, village and environment, 12°36′57″N, 

54°01′01″E, 20.x.–1.xi.2000, 11 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Wadi Di-Negehen, 12°38′33.0″N, 

54°03′18.5″E, 20.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Lagoon Qaryah, 12°32′22.7″N, 54°17′38.5″E, 

24.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Hadiboh plaine, 12°39′14.97″N, 54°03′02.68″E, 23.ii.2009, 

4 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Deyup cave environment, 16.vi.2009, 1 spec., lgt. V. Hula, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (NMPC); Wadi Difarroha, south side, 15.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Ayeft, 

20.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′21.7″N, 53°59′33.9″E, 265 m a.s.l., 

26.x.2010, 6 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Mômi plateau, 12°32′40.7″N, 54°21′27.0″E, 505 m a.s.l., 

2.xi.2010, 4 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Fa’rhoh, Nogid, 250 m a.s.l., 12°26.464′N, 54°09.327′E, 

15/16.ii.2001, 4 spec., lgt. V. Neumann, det. D.W. Wrase (DWCB). 

Diagnosis. Body length 7.3–8.3 mm. Dorsal surface black, smooth and shiny. Elytra with 

yellow markings consisting of two divided patches on each elytron. Antennae and legs pale 

with darker femora. 

Comments on classifi cation. Tetragonoderus fl avovittatus is similar to T. quadrum (Fabricius, 

1792) from Yemen mainland which has a narrower pronotum. In T. fl avovittatus the aedeagus 

has four large internal spines while in T. quadrum there are six much smaller spines. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens from Wadi Fa’rhoh, Nogid, collected by V. 

Neumann were found in dry shrub land. In 2009 and 2010 the species was found in similar 

environments on plains (near Hadiboh, Wadi Ayhaft, and other places), in the day underneath 

stones and at night running on the soil. 


Harpalini 

Amblystomus orpheus (Laferté-Sénectère, 1853) 

Material examined (199 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Adho Dimelho, 12°34′N, 54°02′E, 940 m a.s.l., 

3.ii.1999, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. W. Lorenz (HLMD); Homhil, 12°34′N, 54°19′E, 540 m a.s.l., 9.ii.1999, 

1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. W. Lorenz (HLMD); E Socotra, 6.–24.iv.1999, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, 

det. S. Facchini (JFCP); Dixam, 3.–6.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Ayhaft,

88 


15.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Noged, 12.318N, 53.678E, 250 m a.s.l., 

27.ii.–1.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Shuab, 10.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. 

Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Firmihin, 12.474N, 54.015E, 530 m a.s.l., x.2000, 3 spec., lgt. V. 

Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Diksam, camp, 12°31.401′N, 53°57.204′E, 26.–27.x.2000, 3 

spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); same data, 2 spec., lgt. A. van Harten, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); 

Homhil, 12°34′13″N, 54°18′32″E, 29.x.2000, 3 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Hadiboh, near 

Suq, 12°26′N, 54°01′E, 28.x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Hadibo, village and environment, 

12°36′57″N, 54°01′01″E, 20.x.–1.xi.2000, 12 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Shibon, 

12°46′79″N, 54°00′23″E, 16.xi.2000, 4 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Noghed 

Moghar, 31.iii.2001, 4 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Zerik, 25.–27.iii.2001, 

3 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); Diksam plateau, Diksam lake, 12°31′23″N, 

53°57′12″E, 1000 m a.s.l., 12.v.2004, 4 spec., lgt. A. Reiter, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, NMPC); Marshim cave, 

Diksam plateau, 12°30′32″N, 53°56′19″E, 970 m a.s.l., 9.v.2004, 2 spec., lgt. A. Reiter, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); 

Wadi Esgego, Dixam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 45 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač 

(JFCP, CULS); Hadiboh environment, 12°65′02′N [sic!], 54°02′04′E, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 17 spec., 

lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); same data, 2 spec., det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, OHCP); Qalansiyah 

environment, Khayrha mountains, N slopes, 12°38′50″N, 53°27′45″E, 85–592 m a.s.l., 9.–10.xii.2003, 5 spec., 

lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); same data, 1 spec., det. O. Hovorka (CULS); same data, 14 spec., 

J. Farkač lgt. (CULS); Dixam plateau, Firmihin area, 12°47′40″N, 54°01′53″E, 428 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 4 spec., 

lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); same data, 1 spec., det. O. Hovorka (CULS); Qaareh (waterfall), 

Noged plain, 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 57 m a.s.l., 5.–6.xii.2003, 3 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP, CULS); 

same data, 2 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek; Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 364 m a.s.l., 28.–29.xi.2003, 

1 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); same data, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek; Hadiboh env., 12°65′ 02″N [sic!], 

54°02′04″E, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Wadi Esgego, 

Dixam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Wadi 

Ayhaft, 24.–26.xi.2003, 12°36′38″N, 53°48′49″E, 190 m a.s.l., 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. J. Farkač (JFCP); 

same data, 4 spec., lgt. J. Farkač (JFCP); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°58′49″E, 190 m a.s.l., 24.–26.xi.2003, 1 

spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08″N, 53°39′09″E, 750 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 

1 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Noged plaine, Qaareh (waterfall), 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 75 

m a.s.l., 5.–6.xii.2003, 3 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); plain south of airport, 12°35′32.6″N, 

53°49′07.8″E, 21.ii.2009, 25 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Homhil, 23.–24.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. P. Lo 

Cascio & F. Gritta, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (PLFG); cenote Ghubbah, 12°39′44.5″N, 53°38′21.2″E, 28.ii.2009, 9 spec., 

lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayeft, 28.ii.–1.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. P. Lo Cascio & F. Gritta, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (PLFG); Firmihin, 400–500 m a.s.l., 12°28′27″N, 54°00′54″E, 6.–7.ii.2010, 1 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. 

Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Homhil area, 400–510 m a.s.l., 9.–10.ii.2010, 1 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. 

Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′21.7″N, 53°59′33.9″E, 265 m a.s.l., 26.x.2010, 1 spec., 

lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); on the way from Wadi di-Negehen to Adhoh di Melhoh, 31.x.2010, 2 spec., 

lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Rokeeb environment, 12°35.154′N, 54°09.358′E, 600 m a.s.l., 6.–8.ii.2001, 

lgt., V. Neumann, 2 spec., det. D.W. Wrase (DWCB). 

Diagnosis. Body length 3.5–4.5 mm. Dorsum lustrous, black, with distinct isodiametric 

microsculpture and sharply delimited pale lyra-shaped marking on elytra. Only three inner 

striae distinct. The specimens from Socotra are very similar to those from mainland Yemen 

and United Arab Emirates, but differ in the following aspects: 

– Little variation in form of the lyre-shaped marking in the Socotran specimens. In almost 

all cases the longitudinal part of the marking is slender, only 1 interval wide (the 4th ), in a few 

cases somewhat wider with part of the 3rd and part of the 5th interval. In specimens from the 

mainland the variation is much greater: mostly 1.5 interval (4th with parts of 5th and 3rd ), in 

many cases 2 intervals (3rd and 4th ) and sometimes even 3 intervals (5th , 4th and 3rd interval).


– The specimens from Socotra are shinier having a more superfi cial microsculpture. This 

characteristic is only obvious when the specimens from both populations are compared 

together. 

Collection circumstances. In 2009, this species was very abundant on the northern coastal 

plain, underneath stones in a rather dry habitat. 

Distribution. From West and East Africa and Arabia. First record from Socotra Island. 

Amblystomus somalicus Basilewsky, 1948 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadiboh environment, 12°36′57″N, 54°01′01″E, 20.x.– 

1.xi.2000, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Diksam plateau, 12°31′24″N, 53°58′29″E, 5.ii.2010, 1 

spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.5–3.0 mm. Head and pronotum rather shiny black, elytra more 

reddish-brown. Legs reddish with blackish femora. Antennae brown with antennomeres I–II 

lighter. 

Comments on classifi cation. Amblystomus somalicus resembles A. aeneolus Chaudoir, 1876, 

known from Somalia, Yemen, Kenya and Madagascar. Amblystomus aeneolus is mostly larger, 

posterior pronotal angles are more broadly rounded, elytral striae are fi ne and clearly incised, 

antennomeres I–II are dark. 

Distribution. Known from Somalia. First record from Socotra Island. 

Crasodactylus punctatus Guérin-Ménéville, 1847 

Material examined (22 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Firmihin, 12.474N, 54.015E, 530 m a.s.l., 23.–24.ii.2000, 

5 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. D. W. Wrase (JFCP , DWCB); Firmihin, 12.474N, 54.015E, 530 m a.s.l., 

x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. D. W. Wrase (CULS); Zerik, 25.–27.iii.2001, 3 spec., lgt. V. Bejček 

& K. Šťastný, det. D. W. Wrase (JFCP, DWCB); east of Hadiboh, near Suq, approximately 12°26′N, 54°01′E, 

28.x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Diksam, Skant, 12°28′31.6″N, 54°00′04.7″E, 26.ii.2009, 

1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Mathif, 12°27′28.38″N, 54°18′22.32″E, 20.vi.2009, 1 spec., lgt. 

V. Hula, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Skant area, 12°34′33″N, 54°01′31″E, 1300–1500 m a.s.l., 31.i.–1.ii.2010, 3 

spec., lgt. L. Purchart, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Al Haghier Mountains, Skant Mountain environment, 12°34.6′N, 

54°01.5′E, 1450 m a.s.l., 12.–13.xi.2010, 3 spec., lgt. J. Hájek, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Diksam, 12°30.492′N, 

54°00.29′E, 20.i.2001, 4 spec., lgt. V. Neumann, det. D.W. Wrase (DWCB). 

Diagnosis. Body length 9.2–10.0 mm. Black, femora brown, tibiae and antennae red. Head 

and pronotum coarsely and scarcely punctured. Pronotum transverse with completely rounded 

posterior angles. Borders of intervals on both sides with dense row of punctures and 

pubescence. 

Collection circumstance. The specimens from Diksam were collected in plant material 

on granite covered with Dracaena cinnabari Balf. f. (Asparagaceae). Others, from Skant, 

were found under stones or running on a grassy clearing surrounded by montane evergreen 

woodland. 

Distribution. Known from Algeria to India, Kenya, Uganda, Somalia. First record from 

Socotra Island.

90 


Harpalus (Cryptophonus) agnatus Reiche, 1849 

(Fig. 6) 

Material examined (45 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Path up to Homhil, 12°35.450′N, 54°18.815′E, 7.ii.1999, 1 

spec., lgt. K. van Damme, det. D. W. Wrase (as Harpalus (H.) asphaltinus Roth, 1851) (HLMD); Wadi Zeweef, Homhil 

plateau, 12°35′N, 54°18′E, 320–640 m a.s.l., 7.–8.ii.1999, 6 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (as H. asphaltinus) 

(HLMD); Homhil, plateau, 12°34′N, 54°19′E, 540 m a.s.l., 9.ii.1999, 10 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. Ludewig & M. Persohn 

(as H. asphalitnus) (HLMD); Kilisan, 12°29.136′N, 54°19.715′E, 12.ii.1999, 4 spec., lgt. K. van Damme, det. M. 

Persohn (as H. asphaltinus); Ayhaft, 3.xi.2000, 2 spec., det. D. W. Wrase (as Harpalus tenebrosus) (JFCP); Diksam 

plateau, Diksam lake, 12°31′23″N, 53°57′12″E, 1000 m a.s.l., 12.v.2004, 1 spec., A. Reiter lgt., det. D. W. Wrase (as H. 

tenebrosus) (JFCP); Hadiboh environment, 12°65′02″N [sic!], 54°02′04″E, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 spec., 

lgt. J. Farkač, det. D. W. Wrase (as H. tenebrosus) (CULS); Dixam plateau, Wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 750 

m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 4 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Homhil area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 400–510 

m a.s.l., 28.–29.ii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. David Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Homhil, 23.–24.ii.2009, 3 spec., lgt. P. 

Lo Cascio & F. Grita, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Hoq cave, 12°35′15.83″N, 54°21′16.26″E, 4.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & 

det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Diksam plateau, Bidehor, Digeila cave environment, 12°30′31″N, 53°56′18″E, 920 m a.s.l., 

8.ii.2010, 3 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Homhil area, 12°34′25″N, 54°18′53″E, 

400–510 m a.s.l., 9.–10.ii.2010, 2 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). Hill/meadow E. Homhil 

plaine, 12°34′N, 54°19′E, 540m a.s.l., 9.ii.1999, lgt. H. Pohl, 2 spec., det. D.W. Wrase (DWCB); Rokeeb environment, 

12°35.154′N, 54°09.358′E, 600 m a.s.l., 6.–8.ii.2001, lgt. V. Neumann, 4 spec., det. D.W. Wrase (DWCB). 

Diagnosis. Body length 9.0–11.5 mm. Black, antennomere I yellow, antennomere II reddish, 

rest of antenna dark. Femora black, meso- and metatibiae and tarsi red. Pronotum almost 

quadrate, lateral margins curved, posterior angles shortly rounded, base fi nely punctured. 

Third stria of elytra with subapical pore; scutellar pores present. Abdominal sternites without 

additional setae or pubescence. 

Comments on classifi cation. David Wrase originally identifi ed some specimens as H. tenebrosus 

Dejean, 1829, but after investigating the internal sac of the aedeagus, he informed us 

that these identifi cations were incorrect and should be H. agnatus. It is extremely diffi cult to 

separate H. agnatus from H. tenebrosus based on external morphological characteristics. The 

apex of the aedeagus is much shorter and less parallel in H. agnatus compared to H. tenebrosus. 

Moreover, H. agnatus has two large teeth in the internal sac, while H. tenebrosus has only one 

(Figs. 6, 7). Harpalus tenebrosus should have a bluish lustre, but according to ANTOINE (1957) 

this does not apply to Moroccan specimens. The lateral margins of the pronotum should be 

straighter towards the posterior angles in H. tenebrosus, but it is often diffi cult to recognize 

this character. Because all males from Socotra have a shorter and less parallel apex of the 

aedeagus and two spines in the internal sac, we assigned them to H. agnatus. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens from the environments of Rokeeb were found in 

dry, stony shrubland. 

Distribution. Known from Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia and Yemen mainland. First record 

from Socotra Island. 

Perigonini 

Perigona (Trechicus) nigriceps (Dejean, 1831) 

Material examined (17 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Ayhaft, camp, 12°36′58.7″N, 53°59′30.6″E, 

22.ii.2009, at light, 7 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′21.7″N, 53°59′33.9″E, 265 m 

a.s.l., 26.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009,


1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 28.ii.–1.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita, det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (PLFG); Zemhon area, 12°30′38″N, 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 3.–4.ii.2010, 3 spec., lgt. L. 

Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Firmihin, 12°28′27″N, 54°00′54″E, 400–500 m a.s.l., at light, 

6.–7.ii.2010, 2 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena 

forest), 12°28.8′N, 54°01.1′E, 15.–16.xi.2010, 2 spec., lgt. J. Bezdĕk, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.4–3.2 mm. Brownish yellow, apex of elytra and suture darker, 

head black. Head, labrum and anterior part of pronotum with very fi ne isodiametric sculpture. 

Antennae short, antennomeres pearl necklace-like. Pronotum transverse, with strongly 

rounded edges. Elytra with very fi nely golden-yellow pilosity, but glabrous in middle, striae 

very fi ne. 

Distribution. Cosmopolitan. Known from many countries in Europe, Africa, North America 

and Asia. First record from Socotra Island. 

Lebiini 

Platytarus faminii faminii (Dejean, 1826) 

Material examined (1 ex.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Gubbah di-Net, 12°28′52″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 

28.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 7.0–8.0 mm. Brown, head with longitudinally furrowed frons. Elytra 

more or less parallel-sided, with shoulder keel. 

Collection circumstances. The specimen was collected at light in a saltmarsh. 

Distribution. Mediterranean region, the Middle East and Africa. First record from Socotra 

Island. 

Glycia cf. spencei (Gistel, 1838) 

(Fig. 9) 

Material examined (159 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadibo, village and environment, 12°39′N, 54°01′E, 

2.–26.ii.1999, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (as Lipostratia cf. laeviceps) (HLMD); Noged, Farmihin, near 

beach, 12°24′41″N, 54°13′35″E, 0 m a.s.l., 33 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (4 spec.) & M. Persohn (29 spec.) 

(as L. cf. laeviceps) (HLMD, RFBE); S Socotra, 6.–24.ix.1999, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka 

(JFCP); Firmihin, 12.474N, 54.015E, 530 m a.s.l., 23.–24.ii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka 

(JFCP); Hadibo, village and environment, 12°36′57″N, 54°01′01″E, 20.x.–1.xi.2000, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. 

M. Persohn (as L. cf. laeviceps) (HLMD); Firmihin, 12.474N, 50.015E, 530 m a.s.l., x.2000, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & 

K. Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); Noged, 12.318N, 53.678E, 250 m a.s.l., 27.ii.–1.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček 

& K. Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); Wadi Faar, 12.433N, 54.195E, 69 m a.s.l., 1.iv.2001, 7 spec., lgt. V. Bejček 

& K. Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, OHCP); Hadiboh, 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. O. Hovorka 

(JFCP); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°48′49″E, 190 m a.s.l., 24.–26.xi.2003, 9 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. O. Hovorka 

(CULS, JFCP); Wadi Ireeh, Noged plain, 12°23′11″N, 53°59′47″E, 95 m a.s.l., 6.–7.xii.2003, 5 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. 

O. Hovorka (JFCP); same data, 1 spec., lgt. D. Král (JFCP); Qualansiyah environment, Khayrha mountains, N slopes, 

12°38′50″N, 53°27′45″E, 85–592 m a.s.l., 9.–10.xii.2003, 3 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, CULS); 

same data, 3 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek (JFCP, CULS); same data, 1 spec., lgt. D. Král (JFCP, CULS); Qalansiyah, Ditwah 

(lagoon), 12°41′42″N, 53°30′08″E, 23 m a.s.l., 9.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); 1 spec., 

Hadiboh environment, 12°65′02″N [sic!], 54°02′04″E, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, 

det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, CULS); same data, 2 spec., lgt. D. Král (JFCP, CULS); Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 

54°18′32″E, 364 m a.s.l., 28.–29.xi.2003, 1 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 

12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 57 m a.s.l., 5.–6.xii.2003, 21 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, CULS, OHCP);

92 


same data, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek (JFCP); Nogged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 57 m a.s.l., 5.–6.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. D. 

Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Qalansiyah environment, 12°41′N, 53°29′E, 22.ii.2008, 6 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); hills near Hadiboh, 29.ii.2008, 2 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Ayheft, 

28.ii.–1.iii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (PLFG); 30 km E from Qalansyia, 6.iii.2008, 

1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Ayheft valley, 20.xi.2008, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitiene & Saldaitis, det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); guesthouse Hadiboh, 12°38′55.79″N, 54°00′46.79″E, 21.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Momi, 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Shuab 

location coast line, mangroves, 24.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); near Hadiboh, 11.i.2010, 

1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Difarhoa, south side, 15.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Firmihin plateau, 400–500 m a.s.l., 12°28′46″N, 54°00′89″E, 2 spec., lgt. V. Hula & Niedobová 

J., det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Noged, Farmihin, near beach, 0 m a.s.l., 12°24′41″N, 54°13′35″E, 24.–25.x.2010, 1 

spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (HLMD); Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 57 m a.s.l., 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 

10.–11.xi.2010, 15 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. O. Hovorka (NMPC); Hadiboh, Tai Socotra hotel, 16.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. 

J. Bezdĕk, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). ABD EL KURI: Towanie village, 12°10′N, 52°13′E, 23.–27.ii.2008, 23 spec., 

lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB). 

Diagnosis. Body length 7.5–10.0 mm. Head, pronotum, legs and antennomeres I–III red, 

rest of antennae, apex of tibiae and tarsomeres a little darker, elytra blue green, fi rst interval 

red to elytral midlength and then darker to apex. Head and pronotum superfi cially and fi nely 

punctured. Tarsomere IV of fore and middle legs not strongly dilated. 

Comments on classifi cation. Some of the specimens were erroneously identifi ed as Lipostratia 

cf. laeviceps Basilewsky, 1864. According to KIRSCHENHOFER (1994), Lipostratia Chaudoir, 1872 

has a strongly incised protarsomere IV, while Glycia Chaudoir, 1842 has these tarsomeres far 

less incised. We studied a paratype of Lipostratia laeviceps, which has far less incised tarsomere 

IV as in other Lipostratia. Both in Glycia cf. spencei and the paratype of Lipostratia laeviceps, 

the head and pronotum are scarcely and fi nely punctured, while in Lipostratia distinguenda 

(Fairmaire, 1886) and Lipostratia dichroa (Chaudoir, 1848), the head and pronotum are coarsely 

and more densely punctured. However, there are some clear differences between the paratype of 

Lipostratia laeviceps and Glycia cf. spencei: the fi rst has no reddish suture and the fi rst intervals 

are fl at, while the latter has reddish suture and the fi rst intervals are convex. 

Although this species looks like G. spencei, there are some differences: G. spencei has 2 or 

3 intervals red, very rarely only 1 interval is red (KIRSCHENHOFER 1994), while all specimens 

from Socotra have the basal half of the fi rst interval reddish only, the posterior half being darker. 

Moreover in G. spencei head and pronotum are more coarsely and densely punctured (Figs. 8, 

9). However, the aedeagus is similar in both taxa, including the sclerotized structures in the inner 

sac. The Socotran population may represent a separate (sub)species. The Callida spec. mentioned 

by WRANIK (2003) probably refers to Glycia cf. spencei or Lipostratia distinguenda. 

Collecting circumstances. All specimens were collected at light 

Distribution. Mediterranean region and from the Middle East to Pakistan. First record from 

Socotra Island. 

Lipostratia distinguenda (Fairmaire, 1886) 

Material examined (89 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Deneghen, 12.617N 54.084E, 108 m a.s.l., 19.–20.ii.2000, 

1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); Ayhaft, 22.ii.2000, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, CULS); Goeeh, 12°32′25″N, 54°10′22″E, 240 m a.sl., 23.x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. A. van 

Harten, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (as Lipostratia dichroa (Chaudoir, 1848)) (HLMD); Homhil, 12°34′13″N, 54°18′32″E,


29.x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (as L. cf. dichroa); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°48′49″E, 190 m 

a.s.l., 24.–26.xi.2003, 23 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, CULS, OHCP); same data, 1 spec., lgt. 

J. Farkač (JFCP); Qalansiyah environment, Khayrha mountains, N slopes, 12°38′50″N, 53°27′45″E, 85–592 m a.s.l., 

9.–10.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); same data, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek (JFCP); Hadiboh, 

10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 3 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, CULS); Qaareh (waterfall), 

Noged plain, 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 57 m a.s.l., 5.–6.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); 

W Socotra, 6.–24.ix.1999, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); Wadi Ireeh, Noged plain, 

12°23′11″N, 53°59′47″E, 95 m a.s.l., 6.–7.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); Qaariah village 

environment, 12°38′05″N, 54°12′39″E, 11 m a.s.l., 28.xi.2003, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); 

Ayheft valley, 11.xi.2008, 14 spec., lgt. Saldaitiene & Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Ayhaft, camp, 

12°36′58.7″N, 53°59′30.6″E, at light, 22.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); guesthouse Hadiboh, 

12°38′55.79″N, 54°00′46.79″E, at light, 27.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Haghier Mts., Ayheft 

valley, 20.iii.2009, 3 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Shuab location coast line, mangroves, 24.iii.2009, 

1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); near Hadiboh, 11.i.2010, 11 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(IRSB); Ayheft valley, 12.i.2010, 2 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Wadi Kam, 13.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. 

Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); top of Ayheft valley, 17.i.2010, 2 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); 

Wadi Difarroha, north side, 19.i.2010, 4 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Zemhon area, 12°30′58″N, 

54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 3.–4.ii.2010, 4 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Dgisvu 

valley, 12°28.444′N 54°08.596′E, 2.vi.2010, 2 spec., lgt. V. Hula & Niedobová J., det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); 

Zemhon area, 12°20′58″N, 54°08′39″E, 270–300 m a.s.l., 3 spec., lgt. V. Hula, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 8.5–9.5 mm. Head, pronotum, legs and antennomeres I–III red, rest 

of antennae, apex of tibiae and tarsomeres slightly darker, elytra bluish violet. Head and 

pronotum with deep and sharp punctures. Epipleura from humerus coloured reddish to black 

or bluish black on apex. Pro- and mesotarsomere IV strongly dilated. 

Comments on classifi cation. Some specimens were initially identifi ed as Lipostratia cf. 

dichroa (Chaudoir, 1848). It is very diffi cult to distinguish L. distinguenda from L. dichroa, 

known from Senegal and Somalia. According to BASILEWSKY (1960), the pronotum of L. 

dichroa is laterally more regularly rounded, epipleura red and knees less obviously darker. 

We studied specimens of both L. dichroa and L. distinguenda and compared them with the 

types by Basilewsky. In L. distinguenda, the epipleura are red in the basal two thirds, turning 

black rather suddenly in the apical third. The fi rst two ventrites are red, growing darker towards 

the end to dark red brown or black. In L. dichroa, the epipleura are totally red, the fi rst two 

ventrites are red, becoming dark reddish brown towards the apex, but with vague light lateral 

spots. In both specimens the knees and tarsi were very slightly darker than the tibiae. BRITTON 

(1948) mentioned L. dichroa also from Yemen (Aden) and Socotra, but BASILEWSKY (1960) 

did not examine the respective specimens and questioned these records. 

Collecting circumstances. All specimens were collected at light. 

Distribution. South and East Africa. First record from Socotra Island. 

Lebia farkaci Kirschenhofer, 2010 

Material examined (15 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadiboh, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 5 spec., lgt. 

& det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Hadiboh env., 12°65′02″N [sic!], 54°02′04″E, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 spec., 

lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Ayheft valley, 12.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); 

Zemhon area, 12°20′58″N, 54°08′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 7 spec., lgt. V. Hula, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi 

Ayaft, 12°36′21.7″N, 53°59′33.9″E, 265 m a.s.l., 26.x.2010, at light, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE).

94 


Diagnosis. Body length 6.5–7.5 mm. Head and pronotum yellow, elytra yellow, with large 

black spot near scutellum, via fi rst interval connected with black posterior half of elytra and 

small vague subapical pale spot; appendages yellow. Head coarsely punctured, pronotum 

heavily wrinkled. 


Trichis pallida Klug, 1832 

Material examined (17 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Neet, 8.–9.iii.2000, 2 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, 

det. D. W. Wrase (JFCP, DWCB); same data, 4 spec., det. O. Hovorka (JFCP, OHCP); Neet, x.2000, 1 spec., lgt. 

V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. O. Hovorka (JFCP); Shuab location coast line, mangroves, 24.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. 

Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Gubbah di-Net, 12°28′52.9″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 28.x.2010, at light, 9 

spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 6.0–8.0 mm. Head and pronotum brown, base testaceous, elytra 

yellow, in posterior half with two brown transverse zigzag bands, elytra parallel-sided. Head, 

pronotum and elytra covered with short, yellow, erect pubescence; appendages yellow. 

Distribution. Egypt, Israel and United Arab Emirates. First record from Socotra Island. 

SCARITINAE 

Dyschiriini 

Dyschirius (Dyschiriodes) auriculatus (Wollaston, 1867) 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Gubbah di-Net, 12°28′52.9″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 

28.x.2010, at light, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (revid. by P. Bulirsch) (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 3.9–5.0 mm. Almost black, shiny. Pronotum longer than wide, 

elytra parallel-sided. Frontoclypeal suture V-shaped. Two apical and three humeral pores 

on elytra. 

Comments on classifi cation. According to FEDORENKO (1996) the specimens from Socotra 

belong to the subspecies Dyschirius auriculatus smithi Kult, 1954, described from Erytrea, with 

the pronotum and elytra slightly shorter than in the nominate form. According to P. Bulirsch 

(pers. comm., 2012), the subspecies is probably a synonym of the nominate subspecies. 

Collection circumstances. Both specimens were collected at light in a saltmarsh. 

Distribution. Known from Africa, Saudi Arabia and mainland Yemen. First record from 


Dyschirius (Dyschiriodes) hessei Kult, 1954 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: dune Hayft (Nogget), 22.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. P. Lo Cascio 

& F. Grita, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (revid. by P. Bulirsch) (PLFG). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.9 mm. Yellowish brown, dull, covered with strong microsculpture. 

Frontoclypeal suture V-shaped. Frons with three keels. Pronotum longer than wide, with 

entire lateral border. 

Collection circumstances. Only a single specimen was collected at light in an open sand 

dune area covered with shrubs at 250–300 m a.s.l. 

Distribution. Ethiopia and mainland Yemen. First record from Socotra Island.


Dyschirius (Dyschiriodes) zanzibaricus Chaudoir, 1878 

Material examined (31 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Faar, 12.433N, 54.195E, 69 m a.s.l., 1.iv.2001, 1 spec., 

lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. P. Bulirsch (PBCP); Zeeriq, Dixam plateau, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 3.xii.2003, 1 spec., 

lgt. P. Kabátek, det. P. Bulirsch (JFCP); NW Qalansiya, inside village, wadi, 1403969N, 769884E, 5 m a.s.l., 21.ii.2008, 

4 spec., lgt. I. Brunk, det. Bulirsch (IBCD, PBCP); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, 11 spec., 

lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayheft, 28.ii.–1.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita, det. P. Bulirsch 

(PLFG); Wadi Zerik, 12°29′28.4″N, 53°59′25.5″E, 641 m a.s.l., 5.xi.2010, 5 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); 

Gubbah di-Net, 12°28′52,9″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 28.x.2010, 8 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.9–3.5 mm. Shiny black with a faint greenish lustre. Antennae 

reddish brown, legs brown. 

Collection circumstances. Found on the banks of wadis in gravel. 

Distribution. From Cape Verde and Senegal to Eastern Africa, known also from mainland 

Yemen and Saudi Arabia. First record from Socotra Island. 

Scaritini 

Distichus (Distichus) pachycerus Chaudoir, 1880 

Material examined (4 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Neet, 8.–9.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. 

P. Bulirsch, (PBCP); Lagoon Deham, 12°36′57″N, 53°51′21″E, 21.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); 

Gubbah di-Net, 12°28′52.9″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 28.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 11.5–12.0 mm. Black, shiny. Base of antennae reddish, darker towards 

end. Legs black, tarsomeres red. Forehead smooth, basal part of head and basal half 

of pronotum punctured. Three setae in third stria, additional one seta in apical part of fourth 

interval. 

Collection circumstances. Both specimens collected in 2009 were found underneath small 

stones between marine vegetation on clayish substrate. One specimen was found dead. The 

specimen in Gubbah di-Net was found walking on open patch in mangrove bushes in a 

saltmarsh. 

Distribution. Known from Africa and Saudi Arabia. First record from Socotra Island. 

Scarites (Parallelomorphus) terricola aethiopicus Bänninger, 1933 

Material examined (67 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: W Socotra, 6.–24.ix.1999, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný, det. P. Bulirsch (JFCP); Calanthia, 29.–30.iii.2001, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. P. Bulirsch 

(JFCP); Wadi Faar, 12.433N, 54.195E, 69 m a.s.l., 1.iv.2001, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. P. Bulirsch 

(PBCP); Qalansiyah environment, Khayrha mountains, N slopes, 12°38′50″N, 53°27′45″E, 85–592 m a.s.l., 

9.–10.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. P. Bulirsch (JFCP); Kam village, 10 km E Hadibo, 60 m a.s.l., 12°33′42″N, 

54°07′05″E, 5.v.2004, 3 spec., lgt. A. Reiter, det. P. Bulirsch (JFCP, NMPC, PBCP); Qalansiyah environment, Ditwah 

(lagoon), 12°41′42″N, 53°30′08″E, 23 m a.s.l., 9.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); NW 

Qalansiya, inside village, wadi, 1403969N, 769884E, 5 m a.s.l., 21.ii.2008, 41 spec., lgt. & det. I. Brunk (revid. by 

Wrase) (IBCD, PBCP, DWCB); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Shiliyin (Mômi), 12°32′10.5″N, 54°14′44.0″E, 25.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(RFBE); Lagoon Sirhin, 12°40′09.4″N, 54°02′07.7″E, 27.ii.2009, 3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Qalansiyah, 

12°41′47.5″N, 53°29′02.8″E, 28.ii.2009, 6 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Qaysah near Qalansiyah, 

south bank of the wadi at the skirt of the forest, 12°40′13.7″N, 53°28′02.0″E, 28.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Mômi plateau, Wadi Teida, 12°31′36.5″N, 54°14′42.8″E, 297 m a.s.l., 2.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Haghier Mountains., Ayheft valley, 20.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(IRSB); Wadi Difarroha, south side, 15.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB).

96 


Diagnosis. Body length 15.0–19.0 mm. Black. Third interval of elytra with fi rst puncture 

sometimes lacking. Striae towards apex weaker, more or less vanishing. Head smooth in 

middle, wrinkled along eyes. Pronotum strongly transverse, lateral margins weakly rounded. 

Outer furrow of mandible almost always with one or two longitudinal keels, or smooth in 

basal part (BÄNNINGER 1938). 

Collection circumstances. In Ridah (Mômi) the specimens were collected in a pasture 

alongside the wadi, north of the road. Rather abundant at sandy sites. 

Distribution. This subspecies is known from Sardinia (Italy), Algeria, Egypt, Sinai, Israel, Saudi 

Arabia, Yemen, the United Arab Emirates and Oman. First record from Socotra Island. 

TRECHINAE 

Bembidiini 

Bembidion (Ocydromus) atlanticum megaspilum (Walker, 1871) 

Material examined (92 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hoq, path to the cave in dense vegetation, 12°36′N, 

54°21′E, 50–320 m a.s.l., 5.–6.ii.1999, 3 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. G. Müller-Motzfeld (HLMD, ZSMD); Road along 

the coast, valley with wadi, grown over with Ficus, Adenium and Croton, 12°38′N, 54°09′E, 2 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, 

det. G. Müller-Motzfeld (HLMD, ZSMD); Ayhaft, 12.ii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. L. Toledano 

(JFCP); Shuab, 10.iii.2000, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. L. Toledano (CULS); Ayhaft, 15.iii.2000, 3 spec., 

lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. L. Toledano (JFCP, LTCV); Homhil protected area, 28.–29.xi.2003, 12°34′27″N, 

54°18′32″E, 364 m a.s.l., 1 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); same data, 2 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(NMPC); Hadiboh, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. & det. J. Farkač (JFCP); Wadi Esgego, Diksam 

plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); same 

data, 1 spec., lgt. Kabátek (NMPC); Wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08″N, 53°39′09″E, 750 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. D. 

Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°38′33.0″N, 54°03′18.5″E, 20.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Zerik, Diksam, 12°30′09.1″N, 53°59′24.2″E, 21.ii.2009, 23 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayhaft, camp, 12°36′58.7″N, 53°59′30.6″E, 22.ii.2009, at light, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(RFBE); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, 9 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); coastal 

dunes NE, 25.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (PLFG); Dejub cave, 12°23′05.73″N, 

54°00′56.46″E, 2.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Irih, 12°27′05.5″N, 54°09′16.6″E, 

3.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Zemhon area, 12°20′58″N, 54°08′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 

3.–4.ii.2010, 3 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Firmihin, 12°28′27″N, 54°00′54″E, 

400–500 m a.s.l., 6.–7.ii.2010, 5 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Zemhon area, 

12°20′58′N, 54°08′39″E, 270–300 m a.s.l., 16.–17.vi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. V. Hula & Niedobová J., det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(NMPC); same data but at light, 16 spec.; Wadi di-Negehen, 12°36′55.58″N, 54°03′48.28″E, 25.x.2010, 6 spec., 

lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′41.1″N, 53°58′05.9″E, 171 m a.s.l., 26.x.2010, 4 spec., lgt. & 

det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′21.7″N, 53°59′33.9″E, 265 m a.s.l., 26.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Firmihin, Dracaena forest, 12°28′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 490 m a.s.l., 15.–16.xi.2010, 1 spec., 

lgt. J. Hájek, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length (4.6)5.5–6.0 mm. Head with short temples, punctured, eyes strongly 

protruding. Apex of elytra pale. Striae not reaching elytral apex. Pronotum almost without 

microsculpture. In B. a. atlanticum Wollaston, 1854, dark cross-like pattern of elytra distinct, 

antennae apically darker. 

Comments on classifi cation. The subspecies B. a. megaspilum differs from B. a. atlanticum 

in having the antennae totally light or only very weakly infuscate. All Socotran specimens 

have a dark appearance with black cross-like elytral pattern and dark red humeral spots; 

antennae weakly infuscate from antennomere IV or V. The length is usually 5.5–6.0 mm,


but one specimen from Wadi di-Negehen is very small (4.6 mm) with almost impunctate 

head and very distinctly darkened antennae. According to L. Toledano (pers. comm. 2011) it 

nevertheless belongs to B. a. megaspilum. 

Collection circumstances. The species was only very abundant in Wadi Zerik, in gravel bank 

in the middle of the wadi, near a cave, about 200 m south of the road. The specimen found 

in the Dejub cave was found at the entrance in the dusk in a humid place. 

Distribution. Bembidion atlanticum s.l. is mentioned from Eastern Europe, the Sahara region, 

the Middle East, basin of the Black Sea to Central Asia. The subspecies B. a. megaspilum is 

known from the southern and eastern Mediterranean, northern Sahara and the Middle East. 

First record from Socotra Island. 

Polyderis gilvus (Schaum, 1863) 

Material examined (27 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Ayhaft, camp, 12°36′58.7″N, 53°59′30.6″E, 

22.ii.2009, at light, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Adhoh di-Melhoh, 12°34′19.9″N, 54°02′49.0″E, 

31.x.2010, at light, 26 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). Some of these specimens were re-identifi ed by 

Jacques Coulon. 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.0–2.5 mm. Uniformly yellow. Pronotum transverse, lateral margins 

strongly sinuate, posterior angles sharp. Each elytron with two distinct striae, third stria vague, 

remaining striae invisible. 

Distribution. Known from Yemen, eastern Africa and Madagascar. First record from 


Paratachys quadrillum Schaum, 1860 

Material examined (11 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: NW Qalansiyah, Shouab, coast, mangroves, dry grass, 

1391759N, 760830E, 21.ii.2008, 1 spec., lgt. I. Brunk, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IBCD); NW Qalansiyah, inside village, 

wadi, mostly dry grass, 1403969N, 769884E, 21.ii.2008, 1 spec., lgt. I. Brunk, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IBCD); Gubbah 

di-Net, 12°28′52.9″N, 53°27′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 28.x.2010, at light, 9 spec., lgt. R.Felix, det. J. Coulon (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.6–2.8 mm. Black, with two reddish spots on each elytron: basal spot 

rather large and elongate, apical spot more rounded. Pronotum subconvex, sides somewhat 

oblique, posterior angles obtuse and rounded. Elytra with stria I reaching apex, stria II moderately 

impressed, stria III slightly impressed, stria IV visible, striae V–VII obsolete, stria VIII 

deeply impressed but widely interrupted in middle. 

Comments on classifi cation. SCIAKY & VIGNA TAGLIANTI (2003) consider Paratachys Casey, 

1918 a valid genus based on differences in the recurrent stria and the eighth stria, with 

Polyderus Motschulsky, 1862 and Tachys Dejean, 1821. 

Distribution. Known from Iran, North Korea, Thailand, China, Africa and Oriental Region. 


Sphaerotachys conspicuus (Schaum, 1863) 

Material examined (4 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Esgego, Dixam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 

300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 2 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Zemhon area, 12°20.58′N, 54°08.39′E, 

270–250m a.s.l., at light, 16.–17.vi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. V. Hula, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Aloove area, Hassan village 

environment, 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m a.s.l., 10.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. P. Hlaváč, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC).

98 


Diagnosis. Body length 3.3–3.6 mm. Pale reddish-brown, sides of elytra paler than the disc, 

appendages testaceous. Pronotum and elytra without microsculpture. Elytra with only three 

visible striae: fi rst impressed throughout its length; second impressed, reaching neither base 

nor apex; third faintly impressed between two setiferous punctures on third interval. Striae I 

and II faintly punctured in basal half. 

Comments on classifi cation. BRUNEAU DE MIRÉ (1963) synonymized Tachyphanes sudanensis 

Schatzmayr & Koch 1934 with T. conspicuus Schaum 1863. SCIAKY & VIGNA TAGLIANTI 

(2003) treated Sphaerotachys Müller, 1926, Tachyphanes Jeannel, 1946 and Nototachys Alluaud, 

1930, as a single genus Sphaerotachys, based on the constant position and structure 

of the eighth stria, although they are heterogeneous in other characteristics. Further study is 

needed and both Tachyphanes and Nototachys might become valid subgenera. 

Distribution. Sphaerotachys conspicuus is a species with a vast distribution in Africa and 

the Arabian Peninsula. First record from Socotra Island. 

Sphaerotachys lucasii (Jacquelin du Val, 1852) 

Material examined (126 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Diksam plateau (pitfall), 12°32′N, 53°59′E, 1020 

m a.s.l., 24.ii.1999, 9 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. Lorenz (1 spec. R.F.F.L. Felix revid) (HLMD); Diksam plateau 

(light), same data, 6 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. Lorenz (1 spec. R.F.F.L. Felix revid) (HLMD; Dixam plateau, Sirhin 

area, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 812 m a.s.l., 1.–2.xii.2003, 37 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP, TKHK, 

CULS); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°38′33.0″N, 54°03′18.5″E, 20.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi 

Zerik, Diksam, 12°30′09.1″N, 53°59′24.2″E, 21.ii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Lagoon Sirhin, 

12°40′09.4″N, 54°02′07.7″E, 27.ii.2009, 11 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°36′55.58″N, 

54°03′48.28″E, 25.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Adhoh di Melhoh, 12°34′31.2″N, 54°02′53.8″E, 

903 m a.s.l., 31.x.2010, 51 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Zerik, 12°29′28.4″N, 53°59′25.5″E, 641 

m a.s.l., 5.xi.2010, 6 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Al Haghier Mt.s, Wadi Madar, 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E, 

12.–14.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. L. Purchart, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); same data, 1 spec., lgt. J. Bezdĕk (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.0–2.8 mm. Shiny black. Elytra with two round subapical spots, with 

three striae, remaining striae indistinct. Pronotum shortly sinuate, posterior angles rectangular, 

sharp, with carina. Legs and antennomere I yellow, rest of antennomeres black. The species 

is rather variable in colour: four specimens from Sirhin Lagoon have more or less reduced 

humeral spots. Three specimens from Adhoh di Melhoh have no spots. 

Comments on classifi cation. Sphaerotachys lucasii (former Tachyura (T.) lucasi) is very 

similar to S. germanus (Chaudoir 1876) (former T. (T.) germanus), which is larger and rounder 

and has no subapical spots, and to S. emellen (Bruneau de Miré, 1990) from West Africa, 

which has no microsculpture and apices of its antennae are almost white. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens from Adhoh di Melhoh were found near a spring 

in a boggy pasture near a small wadi. In Diksam (1999) they were collected in a dense Juncus-fi 

eld. Others were collected at light or by pitfall trap. 

Distribution. Distributed in intertropical Africa from the southern Meditterranean to the Cape, 

and from western Africa to Arabia and Iraq. First record from Socotra Island. 

Sphaerotachys pseudocomptus (G. Müller, 1942) 

Material examined (31 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Homhil, hills and pasture east of plateau, 12°34′N, 

54°19′E, 540 m a.s.l., 9.ii.1999, 2 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. Lorenz (HLMD); Diksam, camp, 12°31.401′N, 53°57.204′E,


26.–27.x.2000, 10 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Wadi Danegan, 12°36′59″N, 54°03′48″E, 90 m a.s.l., 

30.x.2000, 3 spec., lgt. A. van Harten, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Wadi Danegan, same data, pitfall, 1 spec., lgt. A. van 

Harten & H. Pohl, det. M. Persohn, (HLMD); Hadibo, village and environment, 12°36′57″N, 54°01′01″E, 1.xi.2000, 

2 spec., lgt. A. van Harten, det. M. Persohn (HLMD); Homhil, 12.587N, 54.302E, 330 m a.s.l., 20.–21.xi.2000, 1 

spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Firmihin, 12.474N, 50.015E, 530 m a.s.l., x.2000, 1 spec., 

lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 364 m a.s.l., 

28.–29.xi.2003, 2 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°48′49″E, 190 m a.s.l., 

24.–26.xi.2003, 1 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Dixam plateau, Sirhin area, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 

812 m a.s.l., 1.–2.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); same data, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek (JFCP); 

Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°58′49″E, 190 m a.s.l., 24.–26.xi.2003, 1 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); 

Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 364 m a.s.l., 28.–29.xi.2003, 1 spec., lgt. Kabátek, det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(NMPC); Hadiboh env., 12°65′02″N [sic!], 54°02′04″E, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. Kabátek, det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); plain south of airport, 12°35′32.6″N, 53°49′07.8″E, 21.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′39.1″N, 53°58′44.8″E, 26.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.5–2.8 mm. Black, with two testaceous spots on each elytron; shiny, 

without any microsculpture. Elytra with one dorsal stria each. Sides of pronotum very oblique, 

posterior angles dentiform and prominent. 

Comments on classifi cation. Sphaerotachys pseudocomptus (former Tachyura (Nototachys) 

pseudocompta) is very similar to S. comptus (Andrewes, 1935) (former Tachyura (Nototachys) 

compta). Although BASILEWSKY (1948) synonymized both taxa, BRUNEAU DE MIRÉ (1963) 

separated them again. The specimens from Socotra are identical with a specimen compared by 

Basilewsky with the type of S. pseudocomptus from Somalia deposited in MRAC. Basilewsky 

re-identifi ed this specimen again as S. pseudocomptus. Sphaerotachys comptus is an Asian species 

and differs from S. pseudocomptus in having simple frontal furrows instead of double ones, 

head narrower, eyes less protruding, pronotum less contracted and elytral spots different. 

Distribution. Kenya, Somalia. First record from Socotra Island. 

Sphaerotachys tetraspilis variabilis (Chaudoir, 1876) 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Nogged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma village, 

12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 10.–11.xi.2010, 2 spec., lgt. J. Bezděk. det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.5–3.2 mm. Elytra with four pale spots, sometimes united in longitudinal 

band extending from third to eighth interval, but not reaching apex. Antennae yellowish, 

with basal antennomeres paler. Legs yellow. Elytra with three impunctured striae, stria VIII 

complete. Head with distinct transverse stria separating clypeus from frons, surface without 

microsculpture, frontal furrows superfi cial and parallel. Basal impressions on pronotum 

without small deep punctures. 

Comments on classifi cation. Sphaerotachys tetraspilus variabilis is the former Elaphropus 

(Tachyura) tetraspilus variabilis, or Tachyura (T.) tetraspila variabilis. BRUNEAU DE MIRÉ 

(1952) treated T. variabilis as a species closely related to T. tetraspilus (Solsky, 1874) from 

Turkestan, but the latter can be distinguished by smaller eyes, wider base of pronotum, and 

lateral margins of pronotum not sinuate before posterior angles. Later, BRUNEAU DE MIRÉ 

(1990) doubted the validity of Elaphropus (Tachyura) variabilis because it is diffi cult to 

separate it from E. (T.) tetraspilus. The paratype of T. variabilis deposited in MRAC, was 

studied.

100 


Distribution. Distributed in semidesert areas of tropical and intertropical Africa and Asia, 

eastwards to India and Pakistan. According to SCHATZMAYR (1936) not found in Egypt, although 

it occurs in Syria. First record from Socotra Island. 

Tachys torretassoi Schatzmayr & Koch, 1934 

Material examined (37 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Gubbah di Net, 12°28′52.9″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 

28.x.2010, 36 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Adhoh di Melhoh, 12°34′19.9″N, 54°02′49.0″E, 31.x.2010, 

1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). Some of these specimens were re-identifi ed by Jacques Coulon. 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.3–3.0 mm. Yellow, head, pronotum and elytra with large transverse 

dark spot in middle, scutellum and apex reddish. Eyes large and rather convex. Lateral margins 

of pronotum slightly sinuate towards base, posterior margin straight, posterior angles right 

and pointed. Elytra parallel-sided. 

Collection circumstances. All specimens were collected at light 

Distribution. Egypt and United Arab Emirates. First record from Socotra Island. 

Tachyura (Amaurotachys) nigrolimbata nigrolimbata (Péringuey, 1908) 

Material examined (67 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Kesso, 1.iv.2001, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Dixam plateau, Sirhin area, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 812 m a.s.l., 1.–2.xii.2003, 

6 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Wadi Esgego, Dixam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 

2.–3.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Ayheft valley, 20.i.2003, 1 spec., lgt. D. Král, det, 

R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi Daerhu, east of Diksam plateau, fresh water, 1383855N, 175060E, 20.ii.2008, 1 spec., 

lgt. I. Brunk, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IBCD); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°38′33.0″N, 54°03′18.5″E, 20.ii.2009, 9 spec., lgt. 

& det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Ridah (Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, 8 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Mahaba, 12°38′53.2″N, 54°08′56.3″E, 25.ii.2009, 14 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); 

Qalansiyah, 12°41′47.5″N, 53°29′02.8″E, 28.ii.2009, 25 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Ayeft valley, 

20.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB). 

Diagnosis. Body length 1.8–2.0 mm. Head black, pronotum dark brown, elytra dull brownish 

yellow with indistinct brownish borders and more indistinct brownish marking halfway 

along elytra. Frontal furrows shallow. Elytra with three shallow striae, remaining striae 

almost invisible. 

Comments on classifi cation. Rather similar to T. grandicollis (Chaudoir, 1846) which is 

known from Caucasus, the Middle East, Arabia and North Africa, with elytra of same colour 

as pronotum. According to BRUNEAU DE MIRÉ (1963) T. nigrolimbata is smaller and shorter 

than T. grandicollis, with paler elytra, and with frontal furrows shallower. 

Collection circumstances. In 2009 all specimens were collected on the banks of the wadis, 

near the water. 

Distribution. Known from Africa south of the Sahara, Madagascar, Morocco and Egypt. 


Tachyura (Tachyura) biblis (Britton, 1948) 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: NW Qalansiya, inside village, wadi, 1403969N, 769884E, 

5 m a.s.l., 21.ii.2008, 1 spec., lgt. I. Brunk, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IBCD); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°38′33.0″N, 54°03′18.5″E, 

20.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE).


Diagnosis. Body length 1.9–2.4 mm. Completely yellow. Eyes large. Pronotum and elytra 

convex. Sides of pronotum almost straight, hardly sinuate near posterior angles, which are 

obtuse but sharp. Elytra with four distinct punctured striae; striae V and VI indistinct. 

Comments on classifi cation. Although KOPECKÝ (2003) treated T. biblis as a synonym of 

T. emeritus (Péringuey, 1898), BRUNEAU DE MIRÉ (1964, 1990) considered this synonymy 

incorrect due to the fact that BRITTON (1948) has mixed both species among the type series 

of T. biblis. This is confi rmed by examination of two paratypes of T. biblis from ‘Western 

Aden Protectorate’. One paratype refers to the true T. biblis and the second to T. emeritus. 

Tachyura biblis is larger than T. emeritus, almost always more than 2 mm (1.9–2.4 mm), with 

large prominent eyes; diameter of eye larger than length of clypeus. Temples almost absent. 

Pronotum transverse, hardly narrowing backwards. Elytral striae superfi cial, outer striae 

indistinct, intervals almost fl at. 

Collection circumstances. The specimen from Qalansyia was found under a stone in dry 

grassland. 

Distribution. This species has a vast subdesertic distribution in Africa. Known also from the 

United Arab Emirates. First record from Socotra Island. 

Tachyura (Tachyura) ferrugata (Reitter, 1895) 

Material examined (218 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hoq, from coast till cave entrance, 12°36′N, 54°21′E, 

50–350 m a.sl., 5.–6.ii.1999, 1 spec., lgt. H. Pohl, det. T. Kopecký (HLMD); Ayhaft, 15.iii.2000, 6 spec., lgt. V. Bejček 

& K. Šťastný, det. J. Farkač (JFCP, TKHK); Wadi Faar, 12.333N, 54.195E, 69 m a.s.l., 1.iv.2001, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček 

& K. Šťastný, det. T. Kopecký (as T. ceylanica); Noghed Moghar, 31.iii.2001, 1 spec., lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný, det. 

T. Kopecký (JFCP); Dixam plateau, Sirhin area, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 812 m a.s.l., 1.–2.xii.2003, 21 spec., lgt. J. 

Farkač, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP, TKHK, CULS, OHCP); Qaareh (waterfall), Noged plain, 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 

57 m a.s.l., 5.–6.xii.2003, 10 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP, TKHK, CULS); same data, 2 spec., lgt. P. 

Kabátek, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 364 m a.s.l., 28.–29.xi.2003, 2 

spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); Wadi Esgego, Dixam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 

2.–3.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. J. Farkač, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); same data, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. T. Kopecký 

(JFCP); Zeeriq, Dixam plateau, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 3.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. T. Kopecký (JFCP); 

Wadi Esgego, Diksam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 1 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (NMPC); Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 57 m a.s.l., 5.–6.xii.2003, 7 spec., lgt. D. 

Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); hills near Hadiboh, 23.ii.2008, 2 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); 

Wadi Zerik, Diksam, 12°30′09.1″N, 53°59′24.2″E, 21.ii.2009, 7 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi 

Ayhaft, camp, 12°36′58.7″N, 53°59′30.6″E, at light, 22.ii.09, 45 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Irih, 

12°27′05.5″N, 54°09′16.6″E, 3.iii.2009, 1spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayeft, 28.ii.–1.iii.2009, 

3 spec., lgt. P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (PLFG); Hoq cave, 12°35′15.83″N, 54°21′16.26″E, 

4.iii.2009, 62 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Zemhon area, 12°30′38″N, 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 

at light, 3.–4.ii.2010, 18 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi Irih, 12°27′05.5″N, 

54°09′16.6″E, 3.iii.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′41.1″N, 53°58′05.9″E, 171 

m a.s.l., 26.x.2010, 3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′39.1″N, 53°58′44.8″E, 26.x.2010, 

7 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Adhoh di-Melhoh, 12°34′31.2″N, 54°02′53.8″E, 903 m a.s.l., 31.x.2010, 

1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); path from Wadi di-Negehen to Adhoh di-Melhoh, 31.x.2010, 1 spec., 

lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m a.s.l., 15.–16.xi.2010, 

2 spec., lgt. J. Hájek, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); same data, 1 spec., lgt. P. Hlaváč, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); 

same data, 2 spec., lgt. J. Bezděk, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); same data, 6 spec., lgt. L Purchart, det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(NMPC); Aloove aerea, Hassan village environment, 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m a.s.l., 9.–10.xi.2010, 2 spec., lgt. 

J. Bezdĕk, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC).

102 


Diagnosis. Body length 2.2–2.8 mm. Head and pronotum shiny yellow-red. Elytra yellow, 

with more or less diamond-shaped brown spot reaching lateral margins, and with fi ve punctured 

striae – striae VI and VII hardly visible. Antennae and legs yellow. Colour variability: 

apical spots very light and yellow in some specimens, while humeral spots are darker and 

more reddish; dark pattern can be reduced or almost indistinct. In some specimens stria VI, 

although much weaker, clearly visible; or striae much weaker from stria V onwards. 

Comments on classifi cation. One specimen was erroneously identifi ed as T. ceylanica, which 

is smaller, with different shape of pronotum, and elytra with only three distinctly visible striae, 

the remaining striae obsolete (T. Kopecký, pers. comm. 2012). 

Collection circumstances. The specimens collected in Hoq cave were found at dusk at the 

entrance in gravel at moist places. Others were collected at light. 

Distribution. Mentioned from Greece, Turkey and Syria. Recorded from Socotra by KOPECKÝ 

(2009). 

Pogonini 

Sirdenus (Syrdenopsis) grayii (Wollaston, 1862) 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Ba’a village env., 12°32′19″N, 54°10′41″E, 5.xii.2003, 

234 m a.s.l., lgt. P. Kabátek, det. D. W. Wrase (JFCP); Gubbah di-Net, 12°28′52.9″N, 53°23′07.4″E, 2 m a.s.l., 

28.x.2010, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE). 

Diagnosis. Body length 4.5–5.5 mm. Body parallel-sided, fl at. Head, pronotum and elytral 

suture brownish yellow, elytra yellow, parallel. Appendices yellow. Head including eyes 

distinctly narrower than pronotum. Frontal furrows not reaching anterior supraorbital puncture. 

Base of pronotum coarsely punctured and distinctly narrower than base of elytra. 

Collection circumstances. Collected at light in a saltmarsh. 

Distribution. Italy, Spain, Cyprus, Iraq, Turkmenistan, Turkey, Africa. First record from 


Trechini 

Perileptus (Perileptus) stierlini Putzeys, 1870 

Material examined (17 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Goeeh, 12°32′25″N, 54°10′22″E, 240 m. a.s.l., 23.x.2000, 

6 spec., lgt. A. van Harten, det. M. Baehr (HLMD); Wadi Esgego, Diksam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m 

a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 3 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi Di-Negehen, 12°38′33.0″N, 54°03′18.5″E, 

20.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Zerik, Diksam, 12°30′09.1″N, 53°49′27.8″E, 21.ii.2009, 

2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Mahaba, 12°38′53.2″N, 54°08′56.3″E, 25.ii.2009, 4 spec., lgt. & 

det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Qalansiyah, 12°41′47.5″N, 53°29′02.8″E, 28.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(RFBE); Hoq cave, 12°35′15.83″N, 54°21′16.26″E, 4.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Zemhon 

area, 12°30′58″N, 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 3.–4.ii.2010, 1 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (NMPC); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′39.1″N, 53°58′44.8″E, 26.x.2010, 3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi 

Ayaft, 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l., 7.–8.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Jiří Hájek, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.3–2.7 mm. Head and pronotum reddish yellow, elytra more brownish 

yellow, slightly darker towards apex. Tooth on labrum indistinct or lacking. Antennomeres I–III 

yellow, rest of antennae somewhat darker, short. Elytra covered with setae in rows, obviously


scarcer than in P. testaceus Putzeys, 1870. Elytral stria deep, with large punctures. 

Comments on classifi cation. Perileptus stierlini is a very small, completely testaceus species. 

It is similar to Perileptus rutilus Schaum, 1886, which has larger eyes (fi ve times as long as 

the temples; in P. stierlini only three times as long as the temples) and elytral punctures much 

more vague and superfi cial. 

Collection circumstances. The specimen from Hoq cave was found among P. cf. testaceus 

and Tachyura ferrugata at dusk, at the entrance under gravel. Those from Wadi Ayhaft were 

collected at light. 

Distribution. Known from Egypt, Sinai, Israel and Yemen. First record from Socotra 

Island. 

Perileptus (Pyrrotachys) cf. testaceus Putzeys, 1870 

Material examined (124 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Esgego, Diksam plateau, 12°28′09″N, 

54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, 5 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi Zeeriq, 

12°31′08″N, 53°39′09″E, 750 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, 3 spec., lgt. D. Král, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Arher, 

NE-coast, dunes, fresh water, 1388419N, ~224191E, 50 m a.s.l., 18.–19.ii.2008, 1 spec., lgt. & det. I. Brunk 

(not collected); Wadi Daerhu, east of Diksam plateau, 13838N, ~175060E, ~300 m a.s.l., 20.ii.2008, 2 spec., 

lgt. & det. I. Brunk (IBCD); Ayheft valley, 22.xi.2008, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitiene & Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix 

(IRSB); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°38′33.0″N, 54°03′18.5″E, 20.ii.2009, 6 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); 

Wadi Zerik, Diksam, 12°30′09.1″N, 53°59′24.2″E, 21.ii.2009, 4 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi 

Ayhaft, camp, 12°36′58.7″N, 53°59′30.6″E, 22.ii.2009, at light, 42 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); 

Wadi Ayhaft, river, 12°36′49.1″N, 53°59′26.4″E, 22.ii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Ridah 

(Mômi), 12°32′40.3″N, 54°17′41.1″E, 24.ii.2009, at light, 19 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Wadi Irih, 

12°27′05.5″N, 54°09′16.6″E, 3.iii.2009, 12 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Hoq cave, 12°35′15.83″N, 

54°21′16.26″E, 4.iii.2009, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); Diksam canyon, 23.iii.2009, 1 spec., lgt. 

Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); Ayeft valley, 20.i.2010, 1 spec., lgt. Saldaitis, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (IRSB); 

Zemhon area, 12°30′38″N, 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 3.–4.ii.2010, 12 spec., lgt. L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, det. 

R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); Wadi di-Negehen, 12°36′55.58″N, 54°03′48.28″E, 25.x.2010, 3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′41.1″N, 53°58′05.9″E, 171 m a.s.l., 26.x.2010, 3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′21.7″N, 53°59′33.9″E, 265 m a.s.l., 26.x.2010, 3 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. 

Felix (RFBE); Wadi Ayaft, 12°36′39.1″N, 53°58′44.8″E, 26.x.2010, 2 spec., lgt. & det. R.F.F.L. Felix (RFBE); 

Wadi Ayaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l., 7.–8.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. J. Hájek, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC); 

Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m a.s.l., 15.–16.xi.2010, 1 spec., lgt. L. 

Purchart, det. R.F.F.L. Felix (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body length 2.8–3.9 mm. Completely testaceous. Frontal furrows shallower than 

in Perileptus areolatus (Creuzer, 1799). Median tooth on labrum obvious. Pronotum shorter, 

at base less sinuate, lateral margins of pronotum rounded before posterior angles, surface with 

more distinct microsculpture. Elytral striae visible. Antennae and legs rather long. 

Comments on classifi cation. A species very variable in length. It is possible that the material 

consists of more than one species. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens from Hoq cave were collected among Tachyura 

ferrugata under gravel at dusk at the entrance. Those from Wadi Ayhaft were collected at light 

and those from Wadi di Negehen and Wadi Zerik were found in the gravel of the river bank. 

Distribution. Known from Oman, Yemen, the United Arab Emirates and North and East 

Africa. First record from Socotra Island.

104 


Discussion 

Up till now, the Socotran fauna of Carabidae contains one endemic genus Socotrana, and 

at least four endemic species: Socotrana labroturrita, Tetragonoderus fl avovittatus, Lebia 

farkaci and Chlaenius (Pachydinodes) sokotranus. This number will probably be increased 

after identifying all the material. 

Apart from the species still to be identifi ed, further 30 taxa are new to Socotra since WRANIK 

(2003): Abacetus (Astigis) cf. quadrisignatus, Chlaenius (Chlaeniellus) laeviplaga laeviplaga, 

Masoreus orientalis orientalis, Amblystomus orpheus, A. somalicus, Crasodactylus punctatus, 

Harpalus agnatus, Perigona (Trechicus) nigriceps, Platytarus faminii faminii, Glycia cf. 

spencei, Lipostratia distinguenda, Trichis pallida, Dyschirius (Dyschiriodes) auriculatus, 

D. (Dyschiriodes) hessei, D. (Dyschiriodes) zanzibaricus, Distichus pachycerus, Scarites 

(Parallelomorphus) terricola aethiopicus, Bembidion (Ocydromus) atlanticum megaspilum, 

Polyderus gilvus, Paratachys quadrillum, Tachys torretassoi, Tachyura (Amaurotachys) 

nigrolimbata nigrolimbata, T. (Tachyura) biblis, Sphaerotachys conspicuus, S. lucasii, S. 

pseudocomptus, S. tetraspilus variabilis, Sirdenus (Syrdenopsis) grayi, Perileptus (P.) stierlini 

and P. (Pyrrotachys) cf. testaceus. 

The only two species mentioned and pictured by WRANIK (2003), which were not collected 

during the expeditions from 2000 till 2010, are Zuphium sp. and Pogonistes sp. 

The taxa Calleida sp. (GAHAN 1903) and Callida sp. (WRANIK 2003) probably belong to 

Lipostratia distinguenda and/or Glycia cf. spencei. 

The Pogonini and Pterostichini (the latter depicted in WRANIK (2003) as ‘Orthomus sp.’) are 

not yet identifi ed at the genus level. They are probably new to science and thus also endemic 

to Socotra. These species are not discussed in this paper and will be dealt with later. 

We have not yet been able to identify the members of genera Tachys Dejean, 1821 (one 

species), Apristus Chaudoir, 1846 (one species), Lebia Latreille, 1802 (one species), Metadromius 

Bedel, 1907 (one species) and Microlestes Schmidt-Göbel, 1846 (two species) at the 

species level and they are not discussed in this paper. The Lebia species is probably new to 

science. 

Some species dealt with in the present study were identifi ed with some doubts and their status 

is unclear: Abacetus cf. quadrisignatus, Glycia cf. spencei and Perileptus cf. testaceus. 


We would like to thank the members of the Dutch expeditions Rob Felix, Jaap Bouwman 

and Robert Ketelaar, for their help in collecting the beetles, their inspiring company and 

advice, and all the co-workers of the Environmental Protection Authority Socotra Island, 

both on the mainland in Sana’a and in Socotra that helped us, and the Uyttenbogaart-Eliasen 

Foundation from the Netherlands, who sponsored the Dutch expeditions (SUB.2008.12.02, 

SUB.2010.05.09). We also thank David W. Wrase (Berlin, Germany), Petr Bulirsch (Prague, 

Czech Republic), Jacques Coulon (Lyon, France), Jan Hrdlička (Říčany, Czech Republic), 

Tomáš Kopecký (Hradec Králové, Czech Republic), Oldřich Hovorka (Prague, Czech Republic) 

and Erich Kirschenhofer (Perchtoldsdorf, Austria) for their information, advice and


help in identifying the material, Mark De Meyer (MRAC), Fred van Assen and Ben Brugge 

(both from Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden, The Netherlands) and Beulah Garner 

(The Natural History Museum, London, UK) for their hospitality and support in using their 

collections, Alain Drumont (IRSB), Manfred Persohn (Herxheimweiher, Germany), Pietro 

Lo Cascio (Lipari, Italy), Ingo Brunk (Dresden, Germany), Sabine Wamser (HLMD) and 

Jiří Hájek (NMPC) for lending their material and sharing data. Our thanks are extended to 

Jan Bezdĕk, Jiří Hájek, Oldřich Hovorka, David W. Wrase and Rob Felix for their critical 

reviews of the manuscript, Herman de Jong (Leiden, The Netherlands), Beulah Garner and 

Miloslav Rakovič (Dobřichovice, Czech Republic) for their linguistic comments and Tim 

Faasen (Eindhoven, The Netherlands) for making the images. 

And last but not least we wish to thank all the friendly people in Socotra, such as the drivers, 

the guides, the owner of the guesthouse, the people at the restaurant and all the others 

for their hospitality and kindness. 

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The Hydrophiloid beetles of Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Georissidae, Hydrophilidae) 

Martin FIKÁČEK 1,2) , Juan A. DELGADO 3) & Elio GENTILI 4) 

1) Department of Entomology, National Museum, Kunratice 1, CZ-148 00 Praha 4, Czech Republic; 

e-mail: mfi kacek@gmail.com 

2) Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Viničná 7, CZ-128 44 Praha 2, 

Czech Republic 

3) Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain; 

e-mail: jdelgado@um.es 

4) Via San Gottardo 37, I-21030 Varese-Rasa, Italy; e-mail: elio.gentili.32@alice.it 

Abstract. The hydrophiloid beetles (Georissidae, Hydrophilidae) of Socotra Island 

(Yemen) are reviewed based mainly on the material collected during the Czech 

expeditions undertaken between 2000 and 2012. A total of 16 species are recorded, 

three of which are newly described herein: Georissus (Neogeorissus) maritimus 

sp. nov., G. (N.) nemo sp. nov. (Georissidae) and Hemisphaera socotrana sp. nov. 

(Hydrophilidae). Seven species are recorded from Socotra Island for the fi rst time: 

Georissus (Neogeorissus) sp., Berosus corrugatus Régimbart, 1906, Laccobius 

eximius Kuwert, 1890, L. minor (Wollaston, 1867), L. praecipuus Kuwert, 1890, 

Enochrus nitidulus (Kuwert, 1888), and Sternolophus unicolor Laporte de Castelnau, 

1840. The previously published Socotran record of Sternolophus decens 

Zaitzev, 1909 is considered as misidentifi cation. The Socotran hydrophiloid fauna 

is found to consist mostly of widely distributed African, Arabian/Near Eastern, 

Oriental and cosmopolitan species. The three newly described species may be 

considered as endemic to Socotra, but two of them seem to have close relatives in 

Africa and southern India. Notes on the remaining described species of the genus 

Hemisphaera Pandellé, 1876 are also included. 

Key words. Hydrophiloidea, Hydrophilidae, Georissidae, Georissus, Hemisphaera, 

new species, new records, Socotra, Yemen 

Introduction 

The fauna of hydrophiloid beetles of the Arabian Peninsula was studied in detail within 

the last two decades (e.g., HEBAUER 1994, 1997; GENTILI 1989; FIKÁČEK 2009a,b; FIKÁČEK 

& TRÁVNÍČEK 2009; FIKÁČEK et al. 2010). In spite of that, the fauna of the island of Socotra 



108 

FIKÁČEK et al.: Hydrophiloid beetles of Socotra Island 

(Yemen) remained virtually unknown until now, even though the island is known for its high 

proportion of endemic taxa of plants and animals (including insects), and its geological and 

climatic history makes it an interesting place for studies on biogeography and evolution (see 

BATELKA (2012) for a summary of the geological history, climate and biodiversity of Socotra 

archipelago). The only published records are those mentioned by GAHAN (1903) and WRANIK 

(2003), reporting in total eight species of the family Hydrophilidae (including a representative 

of Laccobius Erichson, 1837 not identifi ed to species). Possibly, the absence of any other 

studies was caused by the scarcity of material available from the island or by the island’s 

geographic position as it is in fact situated closer to Africa than to the Arabian Peninsula. 

The recent series of expeditions of Czech entomologists to Socotra Island undertaken 

between 2000–2012 have yielded rather numerous material of hydrophiloid beetles, including 

three species of the family Georissidae not previously recorded from the island, and 13 

species of Hydrophilidae including one endemic species new to science. Results of the study 

of this material are summarized in this contribution. 


The holotypes and a number of other specimens were dissected; male genitalia were 

mounted either in alcohol-soluble Euparal resin (on small pieces of glass attached below the 

specimen) or in water-soluble dimethyl hydantoin resin (on transparent plastic labels attached 

below the specimen). Genitalia were examined using an Olympus BX41 compound microscope 

which was also used for taking the photographs. SEM micrographs of the paratypes 

of all new species were taken using a Hitachi S-3700N environmental electron microscope 

at the Department of Paleontology, National Museum in Prague. Habitus photographs were 

taken using a Canon MP-E 65 mm macro lens attached to a Canon EOS 550D camera and 

stacked from multiple layers using Helicon Focus 5.1 Pro software. Drawings were traced 

from photographs or drawn using a drawing tube attached to the above compound microscope. 

Satellite views (Figs. 20, 22) were downloaded from GoogleEarth web application. 

Morphological terminology follows KOMAREK (2004) and LAWRENCE et al. (2010), with an 

exception of using ‘trichobothria’ instead of ‘systematic punctures’ sensu HANSEN (1991) (see 

FIKÁČEK et al. (2012) for detailed discussion). Taxonomy and nomenclature follows HANSEN 

(1999) and SHORT & FIKÁČEK (2011). The specimens examined for this study are deposited 

in the following collections: 

BMNH Natural History Museum, London, UK (M. Barclay); 

CDMS University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain (J. Delgado); 

CULS Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (J. 

Farkač); 

IRSNB Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles, Bruxelles, Belgium (P. Limbourg, A. Drumont); 

JBCP Jan Batelka private collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 

KSEM Natural History Museum, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA (A. Short); 

MSNV Museo Civico di Storia Naturale, Verona, Italy (L. Latella); 

NHMW Naturhistorisches Museum,Wien, Austria (A. Komarek, M. A. Jäch); 

NMPC National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic (M. Fikáček, J. Hájek); 

PLCL Pietro Lo Cascio private collection, Lipari (Messina), Italy.


Taxonomy 

GEORISSIDAE 

Georissus (Neogeorissus) maritimus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–7, 15–16, 19–20) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, ca. 3 km NE of Shuab, 12°34.1′N 53°23.9′E, 3 m a.s.l. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC): ‘YEMEN: Socotra island / ca. 3 km NE of Shuab / mangrove, Avicennia 

marina / 12°34.1′N 53°23.9′E; 3 m a.s.l. / saline, 20-21.vi.2012 // Socotra Expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, 

V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’. PARATYPES: 4 ��, 1 �, 41 spec. (BMNH, 

IRSNB, NHMW, NMPC, KSEM, 5 spec. in DNA grade kept in NMPC): same label data as the holotype. 

Description. Body narrowly elongate, weakly convex in lateral view. Body length 1.20– 

1.60 mm (holotype 1.40 mm), width of head 0.30–0.40 mm (holotype 0.35 mm), maximum 

width of pronotum 0.45–0.60 mm (holotype 0.55 mm), maximum width of elytra 0.65–0.85 

mm (holotype 0.75 mm). Coloration of elytra brown to piceous, pronotum dark brown with 

paler anterior portion, head piceous to black. 

Head (Fig. 2). Clypeus weakly convex, with few weakly developed granules anteromedially, 

anterior margin with elevated bead without distinct granules; each side of clypeus with 

deep pit anterolaterally; lateral portion of clypeus posteriorly divided from mesal portion by 

high ridge without granules, ridges bent laterad and bearing more or less distinct granules 

more anteriorly. Frons elevated above clypeus, bearing large elongate rhomboid plate mesally 

reaching to posterior part of frons; laterally of mesal plate with high and wide ridge on each 

side; posterior part of median rhomboid and longitudinal ridges connected by group or large 

and low granules posteriorly; frons with two pairs of deep pits, one situated anteromesally, 

second laterally. Clypeus and median portion of frons with weak mesh-like microsculpture. 

Antennal club with three antennomeres. 

Prothorax (Figs. 3–4). Pronotum 1.15× as wide as long, with maximum width at midlength; 

lateral portions rounded, without distinct projections. Median portion with two closely situated 

submedian ridges throughout, delimiting shallow median groove; each lateral lobe divided 

from mesal portion by longitudinal ridge falling into separate granules posteriorly. Anterior 

half of pronotum without granules, only bearing small pits intermixed with sparsely arranged 

punctures. Posterior half of pronotum without distinct bulges, with sparsely arranged large 

but low granules throughout the surface. Pronotum with two pairs of deep pits, one anteriorly 

and the other posteriorly of lateral lobe. Whole surface between granules with weak meashlike 

microsculpture. Ventral portion of prothorax with extremelly large antennal grooves, 

otherwise corresponding with G. crenulatus (Rossi, 1794). 

Mesothorax. Elytra (Figs. 1, 5) combined 1.25× as long as wide, 1.75× as long as pronotum; 

base of elytra ca. as wide as maximum width of pronotum, maximum width of elytra 

in anterior third, then weakly narrowing posteriad to posterior fi fth, apex strongly narrowed. 

Elytra completely devoid of granules, interstices without microsculpture. Elytral suture and 

intervals 1–7 evently convex, interval 8 reduced, interval 9 slightly elevated; lateral portion 

with suboval depression at anterior third across intervals 8–9; all intervals more convex posteriorly 

than anteriorly. Elytral series 1–11 regular, serial punctures small but sharply impressed.

110 


Figs. 1–6. Georissus maritimus sp. nov. (paratypes). 1 – pronotum and elytra in dorsal view; 2 – head, dorsal view; 

3–4 – detail of pronotum (3 – dorsal view; 4 – dorsolateral view); 5 – elytron, dorsolateral view; 6 – abdomen.


Figs. 7–8. Genitalia of Socotran endemic Georissus species. 7 – G. maritimus sp. nov. (a, b: two different ventral 

views of the same aedeagus; c: lateral view); 8 – G. nemo sp. nov., ventral view. 

Lateral-most portion of elytron declined, hence elytra laterally without clear projections. 

Median pentagonal protuberance of mesoventrite fl at, with distinct pits. 

Metathorax. Metaventrite ca. 1.2× as long as mesoventrite, fl at, with few scattered indistinct 

granules along posterior margin and four deep pits along anterior margin; lateral portions 

divided from mesal part by longitudinal ridges. Metathoracic wings absent in specimens 

examined for this character (n=5). 

Abdomen (Fig. 6) gradually narrowing posteriad. Ventrite 1 fl at mesally, with lateral portion 

declines and divided by ridge; median portion with sparsely arranged punctures, without 

granules; posterior margin of ventrite 1 with pair of large tubercles facing enlarged granules 

of ventrite 2. Ventrites 3–4 with weakly developed granules along anterior margin. 

Male genitalia (Fig. 7). Aedeagus 0.35–0.45 mm long. Parameres 1.6× as long as phallobase, 

their combined width narrower than maximum width of phallobase; parameres nearly 

parallel-sided throughout except subbasally, subbasally slightly constricted; apex rounded 

at outer margin, bluntly pointed mesally; apex with numerous large pores, ventral portion

112 


of paramere with numerous sparsely arranged micropores. Median lobe 0.70× length of 

parameres, narrowly triangular apically, apex sharp, gonopore situated subapically, struts 

ca. 0.25× as long as apical portion of median lobe. Phallobase widening posteriad, without 

large posterior opening. 

Differential diagnosis. Based on the evenly convex elytral intervals, Georissus maritimus 

sp. nov. may be easily diagnosed from the species of the G. costatus and G. caelatus species 

groups sensu DELÈVE (1967a,b). It may be easily distinguished from the majority of the species 

with equally elevated elytral intervals by the absence of a median rhomboid impression 

on the pronotum, which it shares with the African species G. sordidus Grouvelle, 1915 and 

G. bicolor Grouvelle, 1909. The latter two species may be however immediately distinguished 

from G. maritimus sp. nov. by much larger and wider pale-coloured body, morphology of male 

genitalia and the sculpture of the abdomen (see DELÈVE 1967a), as well as by the sculpture 

of the pronotum which lacks any bulges in the posterior half in G. maritimus sp. nov. In fact, 

Georissus maritimus sp. nov. seems to be unique among all described species of the genus 

by its pronotal sculpture, i.e. the combination of the absence of a median rhomboid depression, 

absence of granules in anterior half of the pronotum and absence of elevated granulate 

bulges posteriorly. By the extremely long and narrow parameres and posteriorly widening 

phallobase, The new species resembles G. alticosta Grouvelle, 1909 (which has costate even 

elytral intervals), G. alluaudi Delève, 1967 (which has the pronotum with a rhomboid central 

depression), G. acutecostatus Fairmaire, 1898 and G. biroi Delève, 1969 (both with costate 

even elytral intervals). 

Etymology. The species name refers to the type locality of this species, which is on the bank 

of a brackish lagoon situated at the estuary of a temporary stream to the Arabian Sea. 

Collection circumstances. The type series was collected at night on a sandbar between the 

sea and a brackish lake in an estuary of a temporary stream (Figs. 19–20). The specimens were 

collected on places without vegetation which were wet due to the seepage of the subsurface water. 

The surrounding vegetation (which usually began within ca. 2 meters of the sites with Georissus 

maritimus sp. nov.) consisted of the low succulent shrubs of Arthrocnemum macrostachyum 

(Moric.) Moris (Amaranthaceae), Limonium socotranum (Vierh.) Radcl.-Sm. (Plumbaginaceae) 

and isolated groups of mangrove trees Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. (Avicenniaceae). No 

specimen of Georissus maritimus sp. nov. bore the substrate layer on the body dorsum. 

Distribution. Known only from the type locality. 

Note. The unique morphology of G. maritimus sp. nov. makes it impossible to assign this 

species to any of the species groups proposed by DELÈVE (1967a,b) and it seems to be rather 

isolated from the known species of the genus. Further studies are thus necessary to understand 

the geographic origin of the species. 

Georissus (Neogeorissus) nemo sp. nov. 

(Figs. 8, 9–14, 17–18) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Hallah Arhar, 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 15 m a.s.l. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC): ‘YEMEN: Socotra Isl. / Hallah Arhar (spring) / 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 15 m 

/ 11.xi.2010, leg. J. Hájek’. PARATYPES: 1 �, 6 spec. (NMPC, KSEM, NHMW, IRSNB): same label data as the holotype; 

62 spec. (BMNH; NMPC, KSEM, 10 spec. in DNA grade in coll. NMPC): ‘YEMEN: Socotra island / Halla


area, Arher; freshwater / spring in sand dune / 9.-10.+15.vi.2012 / 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 5 m // Socotra Expedition 

2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart’; 1 spec. (NMPC): 

‘YEMEN: Socotra Island / ca. 3 km NE of Shuab / Avicennia marina mangrove; / sand dunes, 20.-21.vi.2012 / 

12°34.1′N 53°23.9′E, 3 m // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, 

/ J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’. 

Description. Body weakly elongate, lowly convex in lateral view. Body length 1.3–1.5 mm 

(holotype 1.4 mm), width of head 0.35–0.45 mm (holotype 0.37 mm), maximum width of 

pronotum 0.5–0.6 mm (holotype 0.5 mm), maximum width of elytra 0.75–0.95 mm (holotype 

0.80 mm). Coloration elytra and pronotum reddish brown to brown with olive refl ections, 

head dark brown. 

Head (Fig. 10). Clypeus weakly convex, with scattered sparsely arranged granules, anterior 

margin with marginal row of densely arranged granules; each posterolateral portion of clypeus 

anteriorly to eye declined, divided from mesal portion by ridge arising from frons, ridge high 

and sharp posteriorly, but more weakly defi ned anteriorly before joining with marginal clypeal 

row of granules. Frons with central elongate depression surrounded by elevated ridges each 

bearing several weakly pronounced granules; anterior portion of frons with sharp sublateral 

ridge without granules at midlength between central depression and inner margin of each eye 

(this ridges continues to clypeus more anteriorly); submesal portion with transverse blunt 

ridge connecting midlength of central ridge with posterior portion of sublateral ridge. Eyes 

large, oval in lateral view. 

Prothorax (Figs. 11–12). Pronotum 1.1× as wide as long, with maximum width at posterior 

0.4; lateral portions very small, slightly projecting laterad as blunt elongate lobes only. Anterior 

portion with two closely situated submedian ridges delimiting shallow median groove, each 

side laterally of ridges weakly convex, with scattered granules. Central portion of pronotum 

with large but rather shallow rhomboid depression delimited by wide granuliferous ridges 

anteriorly and narrow ones posteriorly, posterior ridges not joining but converging to posterior 

margin; posterolaterally of central depression with pair of large but shallow impressions 

delimited laterally by small granuliferous bulge; posterolateral portion of pronotum each with 

high granuliferous protuberance. Posterolateral pits absent. Ventral morphology of prothorax 

corresponding with G. crenulatus. 

Mesothorax. Elytra (Figs. 9, 13) combined 1.2× as long as wide, 2.2× as long as pronotum; 

base of elytra ca. as wide as maximum width of pronotum, maximum width of elytra between 

anterior 0.1–0.5, elytra gradually narrowing in posterior 0.5–0.2, apex strongly narrowed. 

Elytral suture and intervals 2, 4 and 6 elevated into high narrow ridges, ridge on interval 6 

arising from large humeral protuberance; lateral portion with Y-shaped structure formed by 

highly elevate interval 8 and anterior portion of interval 9; odd intervals (1, 3, 5) fl at, not 

elevate, interval 7 fl at anteriorly and becoming slightly elevate posteriorly. All ridges and 

humeral protuberance with very weak and low granules only, hence the elytral ridges nearly 

smooth; odd elytral intervals only with scattered and extremely low granules, hence appearing 

nearly totally fl at. Elytral series regular, serial punctures small but sharply impressed. 

Lateral-most portion of elytron declined, hence elytral laterally without clear projections. 

Median pentagonal protuberance of mesoventrite fl at, without distinct pits. 

Metathorax. Metaventrite ca. 2× as long as mesoventrite, fl at, only with few scattered

114 


Figs. 9–14. Georissus nemo sp. nov. (9–13 – paratype; 14 – holotype). 9 – pronotum and elytra in dorsal view; 10 

– head, dorsal view; 11–12 – detail of pronotum (11 – dorsal view; 12 – dorsolateral view); 13 – elytron, dorsolateral 

view; 14 – abdomen.


indistinct granules, without distinct median discrimen. Metathoracic wings present in specimens 

examined for this character (n=2). 

Abdomen (Fig. 14) gradually narrowing posteriad. Ventrites 1 fl at, only with sparsely 

arranged indistinct granules especially in posterior third (anterior portion of some specimens 

totally bare), ventrites 2–4 without granules, ventrite 5 fl at with few indistinct granules along 

posterior margin. 

Male genitalia (Fig. 8). Aedeagus 0.4 mm long (measured in holotype only). Parameres 

0.85× as long as phallobase, their combined width slightly narrower than maximum width 

of phallobase; lateral margins of parameres very slightly convergent in basal 0.6, arcuately 

bent inward apically; apex widely obtusely pointed; inner margins straight, well sclerotized. 

Median lobe 0.75× length of parameres, narrowly triangular apically, apex sharp, gonopore 

situated subapical, struts ca. 0.4× as long as apical portion of median lobe. Phallobase slightly 

widening posteriad, with wide but indistinct latero-posterior band along margins, without 

posterior opening. 

Differential diagnosis. Based on the general sculpture of the pronotum (i.e., rhomboid central 

depression and low submedian and higher lateral tubercles, Fig. 11, 17) and elytra (i.e., odd 

intervals more elevated than even ones), Georissus nemo sp. nov. belongs to the G. costatus 

species group sensu DELÈVE (1967a,b). It may be distinguished from other species of the group 

by the combination of the following characters: elytral ridges highly elevated, very weakly 

denticulate in lateral view; intervals 2, 4 and 6 nearly completely fl at with very few indistinct 

granules; lateral portions of pronotum not projecting into acute lobes; abdomen with very 

indistinct granules on ventrites 1 and 5 only; phallobase slightly longer than parameres, only 

indistinctly widened posteriad; parameres widely arcuate apically. By elytral morphology, 

G. nemo sp. nov. especially resembles the African species G. alticosta Grouvelle, 1909 and 

G. decorsei Paulian & Legros, 1943, and G. decoratus Delève, 1972 from Sri Lanka, all of 

which may be easily distinguished by the morphology of the aedeagus which is much narrower 

in both African species (DELÈVE 1967a, Fig. 8) and much wider in G. decoratus (DELÈVE 1972, 

Fig. 16). Georisus nemo sp. nov. also differs from both African species by the indistinctly 

denticulate elytral costae (costae are totally smooth in G. alticosta and G. decorsei) and from 

G. decoratus by fl at elytral intervals 2 and 4 (slightly convex in the latter species). 

Georissus nemo sp. nov. may be easily distinguished from the following unidentifi ed 

species from Socotra Island by its smaller body size (the other species is 1.8–2.0 mm long), 

elytral costae with very indistinct denticulation (strongly denticulate in the other species), 

elytral intervals 2 and 4 fl at (convex and bearing many distinct granules in the other species), 

abdominal ventrites with extremely indistinct granulation (with very distict granulation on 

whole ventrites 1 and 5 in the other species), and by the weakly metallic coloration (head and 

pronotum strongly and elytra moderately metallic in the other species). From the third Socotran 

species of Georissus, G. maritimus sp. nov., it differs by its costate odd elytral intervals. 

Etymology. The species name refers to Captain Nemo, a fi ctional character of two novels by 

Jules Verne, who lived underseas (in a submarine Nautilus), hence in an environment unusual 

for a human. This resembles specimens of Georissus nemo sp. nov. collected in 2010 which 

were found underwater, in an environment unusual for this genus.

116 


Collection circumstances. The vast majority of specimens in the type series were collected 

in Arhar along the permanent stream rising below the sand dunes on the base of rock cliffs of 

the Socotra Plateau falling to the sea coast. The specimens inhabited the sandy waterlogged 

surroundings of the stream partly overgrown by short-grazed lawn of few undetermined 

Poaceae and Cyperaceae and surrounded by shrubs of Tamarix nilotica (Ehrenb.) Bunge 

(Tamaricaceae). The majority of the specimens were collected at night, creeping on the bare 

wet sand, while a portion of the specimens were attracted at light trap installed close to the 

stream. In 2010, when the locality was only shortly visited in the daytime, few specimens 

were found on the submerged underside of the stones directly in the stream. One specimen 

was also found among a large number of G. maritimus sp. nov. from the type locality of the 

latter species (see above). 

Distribution. Known from two distant localities on Socotra Island, indicating that the species 

may be widely distributed on suitable habitats of the island. 

Notes. Although the relationships between the species of Georissus Latreille, 1809 are poorly 

known and the species groups defi ned by the pronotal and elytral sculpture may be easily 

polyphyletic, the strong resemblance of G. nemo sp. nov. to some African and Sri Lankan 

species (see Differential diagnosis) is rather striking. Moreover, there is a long series of an 

undescribed Georissus species in NMPC which was collected in southern India (Tamil Nadu 

state, S of Tuticorin) in salt marshes at the Támbrapathi river estuary, hence in a habitat 

somewhat resembling that of G. nemo sp. nov. The Indian species is very similar to G. nemo 

sp. nov. by dorsal sculpture, male genitalia and highly reduced abdominal granulation, although 

it shows some weak differences from G. nemo sp. nov. (elytral intervals 2 and 4 slightly convex, 

body coloration strongly metallic) and therefore seems to represent a separate species. 

Even though further studies of the Indian specimens are needed to completely understand 

their identity, the strong resemblance between both taxa suggests that G. nemo may possibly 

represent a South Indian element of Socotran fauna. 

Georissus (Neogeorissus) sp. 

Material examined. SOCOTRA: 1 � (NMPC): Dixiam plateau, wadi Esgego, 12°28′09″N 54°00′36″E, 300 m 

a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, lgt. P. Kabátek; 1 � (CULS): same locality and date, lgt. J. Farkač; 1 � (NMPC): Zemhon 

area, 12°30′58″N 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., at light, 3.–4.ii.2010, lgt. J. Purchart & J. Vybíral. MAINLAND YE- 

MEN: 1 � (NMPC): Lahj gov., vadi Am Rija, W of Lahj Al Hutah by road, 13°01′57″N 44°33′30″E, 297 m a.s.l., 

25.–26.x.2007. lgt. A. Reiter; 1 spec. (NMPC): wadi Anis 60 km SW of Sana’a, 15°00′N 44°09′E, 1522 m a.s.l., 

7.x.2005, lgt. S. Kadlec. 

Comments. The species belongs to the G. costatus species group sensu DELÈVE (1967a,b) 

based on the pronotal sculpture, even elytral intervals higher than odd ones, and the coloration 

at least partly metallic (strongly so on the head and pronotum, weaker metallic tint is present 

on elytra which are otherwise paler than rest of the body, reddish to dark reddish brown 

with dark base and darker spots at midlength of intervals 1–2 and in basal third of intervals 

5–6). Three females from Socotra Island agree in external morphology and coloration to the 

specimens from southern mainland Yemen with which they may be conspecifi c. All six examined 

specimens belong to the African complex of rather large species with very distinctly 

elevated even elytral intervals, represented in Africa by fi ve species: G. intermedius Paulian 

& Legros, 1943 (Chad), G. fairmairei Alluaud, 1902 (Democratic Republic of the Congo), G.


Figs. 15–22. Socotran endemic Georissus species and their habitats. 15–16 – G. maritimus sp. nov. (15 – dorsal view; 

16 – lateral view). 17–18 – G. nemo sp. nov. (17 – dorsal view; 18 – lateral view). 19–20 – the sand tongue 3 km 

NE of Shuab, type locality of G. maritimus sp. nov. (19 – general view of the habitat; 20 – satellite view showing 

the position of the locality); 21–22 – the stream at Arhar, type locality of G. nemo sp. nov. (21 – general view of the 

habitat; 22 – satellite view showing the position of the locality).

118 


Figs. 23–25. Hemisphaera socotrana sp. nov. 23–24 – general habitus (23 – dorsal view, 24 – lateral view); 25 

– type locality (stream in wadi Ayhaft).


marlieri Delève, 1967 (Namibia, Zaire), G. renaudi Delève, 1967 (Chad) and G. metallicus 

Paulian & Legros, 1943 (Chad, Guinea) (see DELÈVE 1967b). The aedeagus of the male from 

mainland Yemen differs from all these species except G. marlieri by narrow and elongate 

phallobase, but is slightly smaller (0.41 mm versus 0.46 mm in the types of G. marlieri), and 

the Yemeni specimens also slightly differ from G. marlieri in the basally narrower elytra. 

Without the comparison of longer series from Socotra and mainland Yemen (not currently 

available) with those from Africa, we are not able to assign the male from continental Yemen 

to G. marlieri reliably, and the identity of the Socotran specimens remains unclear as well, 

pending the collecting of males. However, the Yemeni and Socotran specimens clearly differ 

from G. chameleo Fikáček & Trávníček, 2009 from the United Arab Emirates (which also 

belongs to G. costatus species group, see FIKÁČEK & TRÁVNÍČEK (2009)) by the morphology of 

male genitalia as well as the body size and form, and the above specimens therefore represent 

the second species of the genus Georissus from the Arabian Peninsula. 

HYDROPHILIDAE 

Berosini 

Berosus (Berosus) corrugatus Régimbart, 1906 

Material examined. 4 �� (CULS, NMPC): Dixiam plateau, Sirhin area, 12°31′08″N 53°59′09″E, 812 m a.s.l., 

J. Farkač lgt.; 1 �, 1 � (CULS, NMPC): Noged plain, wadi Ireeh, 12°23′11″N 53°59′47″E, 95 m a.s.l., J. Farkač 

lgt.; 1 � (NMPC): same data, but D. Král lgt.; 1 � (CULS): Qalansiyah env., N slopes of Khayrha Mts., 12°38′50″N 

53°27′45″E, 85–592 m a.s.l., J. Farkač lgt. 

Distribution. African species widely distributed in sub-Saharan Africa (not in Madagascar) 

and reaching the southern Palaearctic along the Nile river (SCHÖDL 1995). It is the only member 

of the B. rubiginosus species group occurring in Socotra Island. It is absent from the Arabian 

Peninsula where it is replaced by B. rubiginosus Kuwert, 1890 (SCHÖDL 1995, HEBAUER 1997, 

FIKÁČEK et al. 2010). First record from Socotra Island. 

Berosus (Berosus) nigriceps (Fabricius, 1801) 

Material examined. 1 �, 3 spec. (NMPC): Noged plain, sand dunes, Sharet Halma env., 12°21.9′N 54°05.3′E, 20 m 

a.s.l., at light, 10.–11.xi.2010, J. Bezděk lgt.; 2 spec. (IRSNB): W Socotra, Shuab, mangroves, coast line, 23.xi.2010, M. 

Butkevičius lgt.; 1 spec. (NMPC): Qadub, 12°38.3′N 53°57.3′E, saline, 14.vi.2012, Socotra Expedition 2012 lgt. 

Distribution. This is a common species widely distributed over the whole of Africa and 

reaching through the Near East and the Arabian Peninsula to southwest Asia and the Indian 

Peninsula (SCHÖDL 1994, HEBAUER 1997, HANSEN 1999). Previously recorded from Socotra 

Island by WRANIK (2003). 

Chaetarthriini 

Hemisphaera socotrana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 23–24, 26–36) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC): ‘YEMEN: Socotra Isl. / wadi Ayhaft, 200m / 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E / 

7.–8.xi.2010 lgt. J. Hájek’. PARATYPES: 10 spec. (CDMS, IRSBN, KSEM, NHMW, NMPC): same label data as the 

holotype.

120 


Description. Body widely elongate oval, moderately convex (male very slightly more convex 

than females), 1.2–1.5 mm long (holotype 1.3 mm), 0.6–0.8 mm wide (holotype 0.7 mm). 

Coloration piceous brown to black, lateral margins of pronotum and elytral apex narrowly 

reddish, border between reddish and dark parts vaguely defi ned; body venter dark brown; 

antenna yellowish, maxillary palpus reddish to dark reddish, with palpomere 4 darker, legs 

reddish. 

Head transverse; clypeus slightly convex on anterior margin, bearing sparse and fi ne punctation, 

median portion with few trichobothria, interstices fi nely microsculptured; frons with 

fi ne and sparse punctation, bearing many trichobothria at inner margin of each eye; eyes rather 

Figs. 26–33. Hemisphaera socotrana sp. nov. 26 – head, ventral view; 27 – detail of mentum; 28 – meso- and metaventrite; 

29 – antenna; 30 – prosternum; 31 – head, dorsal view; 32 – lateral portion of pronotum; 33 – abdomen.


small, divided by 3.8× width of each eye. Labrum well sclerotized, but inclined to ventral 

part of head, bearing densely arranged long setae on its surface, anterior margin with few fi ne 

spines. Mentum transverse, 2× wider than long, bearing fi ne mesh-like microsculpture and 

few setae. Maxilla with trichobothria only on basistipes, maxillary palpus rather short and 

stout. Antenna with eight antennomeres, pedicel and cupula enlarged, antennal club loose. 

Gula wide, tentorial pits weakly developed and widely isolated. 

Prothorax. Pronotum transverse, with rounded antero- and posterolateral corners, lateral 

margin weakly convex, fi nely rimmed; surface with fi ne and sparse punctation, punctures in 

shape of two extremely fi ne pits with very short seta inbetween; trichobothria distinct, large, 

forming rows in along anterior margin and at midlength. Hypomeron with wide bare portion, 

mesal sparsely pubescent portion not divided from lateral part by ridge; prosternum very short 

anterior to procoxae, slightly expanded at midwidth anteriorly and posteriorly, bearing blunt 

median longitudinal carina, prosternal process not developed. Procoxal cavities contiguous, 

procoxal fi ssure open, notopleural suture extremely short. 

Mesothorax. Scutellar shield rather large, triangular. Elytra nearly parallel-sided at midlength, 

with deep sutural striae distinct in apical half; each elytron bearing 10 irregular series 

of fi ne punctures, scutellary stria present; each interval with few isolated punctures of size of 

serial punctation, alternate intervals with trichobothria; epipleuron narrow, reaching posterior 

margin of metaventrite only. Mesoventrite very short, bearing transverse elevation posteriorly. 

Mesocoxae transverse, very narrowly isolated by mesoventral and metaventral processes. 

Metathorax. Metaventrite ca. twice as long as mesoventrite, sparsely pubescent laterally, 

bare mesally; postcoxal ridge bent posteriad sublaterally; posterior metaventral process deeply 

bifi d. Posterior wings present, well developed. 

Abdomen with fi ve sparsely pubescent ventrites, ventrite 1 ecarinate, bearing dense row 

of long setae on each side; ventrite 5 weakly concave at posterior margin. 

Male genitalia. Phallobase of aedeagus long, ca. 2× longer than parameres, widest subanteriorly, 

slightly narrowing basad. Parameres widely subtriangular, apically membranous. 

Median lobe with apical portion ca. as long as basal struts, apicomedian sclerite slightly 

narrowing from base to narrowly rounded apex, median lobe surrounded by membranous 

structure subapically. Sternite 9 wide, with moderately long lateral projections, very shallow 

emargination on posterior margin and wide and very low median process. 

Differential diagnosis. The new species may be easily distinguished from all other west 

Palaearctic species as well as from the African H. lima Orchymont, 1941 by the morphology 

of its aedeagus and the shape of sternite 9 (compare Figs. 34–36 with Figs. 37–43). When 

compared to the Mediterranean species, H. socotrana sp. nov. resembles H. guignoti Schaefer, 

1975 and H. miltiadis Sahlberg, 1908 by moderately convex body and narrow, vaguely defi - 

ned pale coloration of sides of the pronotum and at elytral apex; its sutural stria reaches ca. 

midlength of elytra as in H. seriatopunctata (Perris, 1874) and H. miltiadis, and its maxillary 

palpus is pale with darkened palpomere 4 as in H. miltiadis. In contrast to H. socotrana sp. 

nov., Hemisphaera lima is much more convex in lateral view, its coloration is completely black 

without paler areas on sides of pronotum and at elytral apices, and it bears dark brown maxillary 

palpi. We were not able to compare the Socotran species with the types of H. liliputana 

(Régimbart, 1903), but the single female from Madagascar present in NMPC largely differs

122 


Figs. 34–36. Male genitalia of the holotype of Hemisphaera socotrana sp. nov. 34–35 – aedeagus (34 – general view; 

35 – detail of parameres and median lobe); 36 – sternite 9. 

from H. socotrana by much more depressed body, large and clearly defi ned yellow apical spot 

in apical fi fth of elytra, and even elytral series consisting of much denser punctation than odd 

ones (in H. socotrana sp. nov., the density of punctures in all series is similar). 

Etymology. The species name refers to the presence of the species in the island of Socotra. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens were found in wet gravel on the side of a stony 

stream together with Limnebius dioscoridus Jäch & Delgado, 2012. The stones were submerged 

in water and overgrown by a thin layer of algae (J. Hájek, pers. comm.). 

Notes on the taxonomy of the genus Hemisphaera. The genus Hemisphaera Pandellé, 1876 

currently contains fi ve species, of which three (H. seriatopunctata, H. miltiadis and H. guignoti) 

occur in the Mediterranean and two are African (H. lima is known from Tanzania and 

H. liliputana from Madagascar). Additional potentially undescribed taxa are known from 

Africa, Europe and southern India (M. Fikáček & J. Delgado, unpubl. data). For this study 

we have examined the type and additional material of four described species, which were 

found to slightly differ in the convexity of elytra, extent of pale coloration of pronotum and 

elytral apices and the coloration of maxillary palpi and in the character of elytral series. They 

also exhibit large differences in the morphology of the aedeagus and the shape of sternite 9 

(Figs. 36, 38, 41, 43). The genitalia and sternite 9 of H. seriatopunctata are not illustrated


Figs. 37–43. Male genitalia of the Hemisphaera species (37, 39–40, 42 – aedeagus; 38, 41, 43 – sternite 9). 37–38 

– H. guignoti Schaefer, 1975 (Algeria, ‘Philippeville’ [= Skikda], coll. NMPC); 39–41 – H. miltiadis Sahlberg, 

1908 (39 – paratype, Lesbos, coll. IRSNB; 40–41 – Turkey, Izmir, coll. IRSNB); 41–43 – H. lima Orchymont, 1941 

(paratype, Tanzania, Ukerewe, Victoria Nyanza, coll. IRSNB). 

here (see CASTRO & DELGADO (1997) for aedeagus illustration), but are extremely similar to 

those of H. miltiadis (including the presence of the X-shaped thickening on the median lobe 

and long median projection of sternite 9) and the status of both latter species hence requires 

revisional study.

124 


Laccobiini 

Laccobius (Microlaccobius) eximius Kuwert, 1890 

Material examined. 6 ��, 8 �� (NMPC, MSNV): Haghier Mts., Wadi Madar, 12°33.2′ N, 54°00.4′E, 1180–1230 

m, 12–14.xi.2010, lgt. Jiří Hájek. 

Distribution. The distribution of the species is unclear due to changes of its taxonomic position 

by various authors until it was confi rmed as a separate species by FIKÁČEK et al. (2010) (see p. 

147 in the latter paper for history of the taxonomic concepts of the species). The species was 

described from ‘Hejaz’ and since then recorded from various parts of the Arabian Peninsula 

(HEBAUER 1997, as L. praecipuus) and Egypt (KUWERT 1890), but most these records require 

confi rmation as they may concern the widespread L. praecipuus. So far, the only specimens 

examined by us reliably belonging to L. eximius were all collected in western Saudi Arabia 

at high altitudes (ca. 2000 m a.s.l.) of the mountain range along the Red Sea. First record 


Note. Laccobius eximius was found at a single locality at high altitude in Socotra Island. 

This corresponds to its distribution on the Arabian Peninsula, where the species inhabits the 

mountains in the western part of Saudi Arabia where it replaces the common lowland species 

L. praecipuus. The dorsal coloration of the Socotran specimens is paler than in the majority 

of the Saudi Arabian specimens which are nearly completely dark (see FIKÁČEK et al. 2010, 

Fig. 11). Pale specimens of L. eximius easily differ from L. praecipuus by darker pronotum 

(uniformly black on a larger surface) and elytral longitudinal puncture rows uniformly darkened 

(sometimes these rows join one another forming a nearly black elytral surface). The 

morphology of the aedeagus of the Socotran specimens agrees in all details with those from 

the Arabian Peninsula (see FIKÁČEK et al. 2010, Figs. 7–9) and L. eximius is therefore easily 

distinguished from L. praecipuus by genital morphology. Socotran specimens of L. eximius 

are generally smaller than those from the Arabian Peninsula. 

Laccobius (Microlaccobius) minor (Wollaston, 1867) 

Material examined. 1 �, 1 � (NMPC): Qadub, 12°38.3′N 53°57.3′E, saline, 14.vi.2012, Socotra Expedition 2012 

lgt. 

Distribution. Laccobius minor is a species widespread in savannah and semidesert areas of 

Africa, reaching northwards to Yemen, southern Saudi Arabia, Israel and Lebanon (GENTILI 

1981, 1988, 1989; HEBAUER 1994). First record from Socotra Island. 

Note. The Socotran specimens were collected in shallow exposed pools in the salt marsh ca. 

20 m of the seacoast. 

Laccobius (Microlaccobius) praecipuus Kuwert, 1890 

Material examined. 16 ��, 10 ��, 1 spec. (NMPC, MSNV): Hallah Arhar (spring), 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 15 m, 

11.xi.2010, lgt. J. Bezdĕk; 8 spec. (NMPC): Halla area, Arhar, freshwater spring in sand dune, 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 

15 m a.s.l., 9.–10.+15.vi.2012, Socotra Expedition 2012 lgt.; 5 ��, 5 �� (NMPC): wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N, 

53°58.9′E, 200 m, 7–8.xi.2010, Jiří Hájek lgt.; 1 � (NMPC): same label data, J. Bezdĕk lgt., 3 ��, 1 � (CULS): 

Dixiam Plateau, Wadi Esgego, 12°28′09″N 54°00′36″E, 300 m, 2–3.xii.2003, Jan Farkač lgt.; 1 �, 2 �� (NMPC): 

same label data, David Král lgt.; 1 �, 1 � (NMPC): same label data, Petr Kabátek lgt.; 2 �� (NMPC): Dixam


plateau, Wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08″N 53°50′09″E, 750 m, 3.xii.2003, lgt. David Král; 2 spec. (NMPC): Dixam plateau, 

Firmihin, Dracaena woodland, 12°28.6′N 54°01.1′E, 490 m a.s.l., 14.–15.vi.2012, Socotra Expedition 2012 lgt.; 1 

� (NMPC): Ba’a village env., 12°32′19″N 54°10′41″E, 234 m, 5.xii.2003, lgt. P. Kabátek; 2 �� (NMPC): Homhil 

protected area, 12°34′27″N 54°18′32″E, 364 m, 28.–29.xi.2003, lgt. P. Kabátek; 1 � (NMPC): Aloove area, Hassan 

village env., 25°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 221 m, 8.–10.xi.2010, lgt. J. Bezdĕk; 1 �, 1 � (NMPC): Qualentiah env., slopes 

5 km SE from Quaysoh, 12°39.69′N 53°26.658′E, 4–5.vi.2010, lgt. V. Hula & J. Niedobová; 1 � (NMPC): Zemhon 

area, 12°20′58″N 54°06′30″E, 270–300 m, 16.–17.vi.2010, lgt. V. Hula. 

Distribution. Laccobius praecipuus is a common species of the lowland regions of Socotra 

(ca. below 800 m a.s.l.). It is the commonest species of the genus in the Arabian Peninsula 

and is also widely distributed in the Afrotropical region as well as northern Africa (GENTILI 

1981, 1988, 1989, 1991). First record from Socotra Island. 

Hydrophilini 

Sternolophus (Sternolophus) unicolor Laporte de Castelnau, 1840 

Material examined. 1 � (CULS): wadi Far, 1.iv.2001, lgt. J. Farkač; 1 � (NMPC): Firmin, x.2000, lgt. V. Bejček 

& K. Šťastný; 2 spec. (CULS, NMPC): Calanthia, 29.–30.iii.2001, lgt. J. Farkač; 2 ��, 1 spec. (CULS): Ayhaft, 

15.iii.2000, lgt. J. Farkač; 1 spec. (NMPC): wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l., 7.–8.xi.2010, lgt. J. Hájek; 

1 spec. (NMPC): same locality and date, lgt. P. Hlaváč; 3 spec. (NMPC): Firmihin plateau, 12°28′46″N 54°01′E, 

400–500 m a.s.l., 18.–19.vi.2010, lgt. V. Hula & J. Niedobová; 1 spec. (IRSNB): hills near Hadibu, 29.ii.2008, G. 

31.496, lgt. A. Saldaitis; 8 spec. (CULS, NMPC): wadi Faar, 12.433°N 54.195°E, 69 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2000, lgt. V. 

Bejček & K. Šťastný. 

Distribution. African species widely distributed in Madagascar and east Africa. First record 


Note. WRANIK (2003) lists the Near East/Arabian species S. decens Zaitzev, 1909 for the 

Socotran fauna, but this record seems to be based on the misidentifi cation. The taxonomy 

of the genus Sternolophus Solier, 1834 is still not properly resolved and no modern revision 

exists for the Old World species of the genus. The Socotran specimens clearly differ from 

S. decens by the diagnostic characters given in the identifi cation key by ZAITZEV (1909): they 

are generally wider than the Arabian specimens of S. decens and bear a longer and stouter 

metaventral spine. They agree well with the specimens of S. unicolor from Madagascar 

present in the collection of NMPC. Few Sternolophus specimens with a wider general body 

form from southern Yemen are present in the collection of NMPC, but they clearly differ 

from the Socotran specimens by a shortened and apically blunt metaventral spine and may be 

conspecifi c with the Yemeni specimens which BALFOUR-BROWNE (1951) identifi ed as possibly 

belonging to S. solieri Laporte de Castelnau, 1840. 

Hydrophilus (Temnopterus) aculeatus (Solier, 1834) 

Material examined. 1 spec. (CULS): Hadibo, 6.–24.ix.1999, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný lgt.; 3 spec. (IRSNB): Ayhaft valley, 

22.xi.2008, A. A. Saldaitis lgt.; 1 spec. (IRSNB): Haghier Mt., Ayhaft valley, 20.iii.2009, A. A. Saldaitis lgt. 

Distribution. Widely distributed African species reaching northwards to Egypt and the Near 

East (but absent from the Arabian Peninsula) (HANSEN 1999). Previously recorded from Socotra 

Island by GAHAN (1903) and WRANIK (2003).

126 


Acidocerini 

Enochrus (Methydrus) nitidulus (Kuwert, 1888) 

Material examined. 1 �, 1 � (NMPC): Hamadero, 20.–21.xi.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný lgt., det. S. Schödl 2002; 

1 spec. (NMPC): Calanthia, 29.–30.iii.2001, lgt. J. Farkač, det. S. Schödl 2002; 1 spec. (NMPC): Dixam plateau, 

wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08″N 53°59′09″E, 750 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003, lgt. D. Král; 3 spec. (NMPC, CULS): Dixam plateau, 

wadi Esgego, 12°28′09″N 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, lgt. D. Král; 2 spec. (NMPC): same locality, 

lgt. P. Kabátek; 1 �, 3 spec. (NMPC): wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l., 7.–8.xi.2010, lgt. J. Hájek; 

1 �, 2 spec. (NMPC): Al Haghier Mts., wadi Madar, 12°33.2′N 54°00.4′E, 1180–1230 m a.s.l., 12.–14.xi.2010, 

lgt. J. Bezděk; 1 spec. (NMPC): Aloove area, Hassan env., 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 221 m a.s.l., 9.–10.xi.2010, lgt. 

J. Hájek; 1 spec. (NMPC): Hallah Arhar (spring), 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 15 m a.s.l., 11.xi.2010, lgt. J. Bezděk; 5 

spec. (NMPC): Halla area, Arhar, freshwater spring in sand dune, 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 15 m a.s.l., 9.–10.+15. 

vi.2012, Socotra Expedition 2012 lgt.; Firmihin plateau, 12°28′46″N 54°01′E, 400–500 m a.s.l., 18.–19.vi.2010, 

lgt. 18.–19.vi.2010, lgt. V. Hula & J. Niedobová lgt.; 4 spec. (IRSNB): top of Dixam valley, 22.ii.2009, lgt. A. A. 

Saldaitis; 1 spec. (NMPC): Homhil, 12.587′N 54.302′N, 330 m a.s.l., 20.–21.xi.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný; 

1 spec. (NMPC): Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N 54°18′32″E, 364 m a.s.l., 28.–29.xi.2003, lgt. P. Kabátek; 1 

spec. (NMPC): 12°30′58″N 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 3.–4.ii.2010, lgt. Purchart & Vybíral; 1 spec. (NMPC): 

Hadiboh env., 12°65′02″N 54°02′04″E, 10–100 m a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, lgt. P. Kabátek; 1 spec. (CULS): wadi 

Faar, 12.433°N 54.195°E, 69 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný; 1 spec. (NMPC): Qadub, 12°38.3′N 

53°57.3′E, saline, 14.vi.2012, Socotra Expedition 2012 lgt. 

Distribution. Based on current knowledge, this species is distributed in the Near East and 

Arabian Peninsula, reaching northwards to Azerbaijan (HANSEN 1999). First record from 


Note. The identifi cation of the above specimens is based on three specimens from Socotra 

Island identifi ed as E. nitidulus in 2002 by the late colleague Stefan Schödl who was working 

on the revision of the subgenus Methydrus at the time (the revision was never fi nished 

and published due to his sudden death in 2005). All additional specimens available to us are 

conspecifi c and agree with those identifi ed by S. Schödl in all aspects including the male 

genitalia. 

Helochares (Helochares) dilutus (Erichson, 1843) 

Material examined. 2 ��, 1 � (NMPC, CULS): Calanthia, 29.–30.iii.2001, J. Farkač lgt.; 1 � (NMPC): wadi 

Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l., 7.–8.xi.2010, J. Bezděk lgt.; 3 spec. (NMPC): Qadub, 12°38.3′N 53°57.3′E, 

saline, 14.vi.2012, Socotra Expedition 2012 lgt. 

Distribution. This species is widely distributed in sub-Saharan Africa (but not reaching 

northern Africa). Previously recorded from Socotra Island by WRANIK (2003). 

Coelostomatini 

Coelostoma (Holocoelostoma) stultum (Walker, 1858) 

Material examined. 1 �, 2 spec. (NMPC): Firmihin, 12°28′27″N 54°00′54″E, 400–500 m a.s.l., 6.–7.ii.2010, at light, 

L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.; 1 �, 11 spec. (JBCP, NMPC): Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N 

54°01.1′E, 490 m a.s.l., 15.–16.xi.2010, J. Batelka lgt.; 1 � (NMPC): wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l., 

7.–8.xi.2010, J. Hájek lgt.; 1 � (NMPC): Dixam plateau, wadi Esgego, 12°28′09″N 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., D. 

Král lgt.; 1 � (NMPC): Zemhon area, 12°30′58″N 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 3.–4.ii.2010. at light, L. Purchart


& J. Vybíral lgt.; 4 �� (CULS, NMPC): wadi Faar, 12.433°N 54.195°E, 69 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2000, lgt. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný; 1 spec. (NMPC): Qadub, 12°38.3′N 53°57.3′E, saline, 14.vi.2012, Socotra Expedition 2012 lgt. 

Distribution. Widely distributed Oriental species reaching eastwards to the Arabian Peninsula. 

Previously recorded from Socotra Island by WRANIK (2003). 

Dactylosternum abdominale (Fabricius, 1792) 

Material examined. 1 �, 3 spec. (NMPC): Dixiam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N 54°01.1′E, 490 m 

a.s.l., 15.–16.xi.2010, L. Purchart lgt.; 1 spec. (NMPC): Zemhon area, 12°30′58″N 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., at 

light, 3.–4.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt. 

Distribution. Dactylosternum abdominale is widely distributed throughout the tropics and 

subtropics all over the world and rarely also reaches the adjacent temperate areas (SMETANA 

1978, HANSEN 1999). Previously recorded from Socotra Island by WRANIK (2003). 

Megasternini 

Cercyon (Cercyon) nigriceps (Marsham, 1802) 

Material examined. 1 �, 1 �, 5 spec. (NMPC): Al Haghier Mts., wadi Madar, 12°33.2′N 54°00.4′, 1180–1230 m 

a.s.l., 12.–14.xi.2010, J. Hájek lgt.; 2 spec. (NMPC): Al Hagier Mts., W slopes, Skant area, 12°35′52″N 54°00′01″, 

1240 m a.s.l., 2.xii.2003, D. Král lgt.; 1 spec. (NMPC): Hadiboh env., 12°65′02″N 54°02′04″E, ca. 10–100 m 

a.s.l., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, D. Král lgt.; 1 spec. (NMPC): Zemhon area, 12°30′58″N 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m a.s.l., 

3.–4.ii.2010, Purchart & Vybíral lgt.; 2 spec. (CULS): Dixam plateau, Sirhin area, 12°31′08″N 53°59′09″E, 812 m 

a.s.l., 1.–2.xii.2003, J. Farkač lgt.; 1 spec. (NMPC): same label data, but P. Kabátek lgt.; 4 spec. (NMPC): Dixam 

plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N 54°01.1′E, 490 m a.s.l., 15.–16.xi.2010, J. Bezděk lgt; 1 spec. 

(PLCL): wadi Ayhaft, 28.ii.–1.iii.2009, P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita lgt.; 6 spec. (NMPC): Dixiam plateau, wadi Esgego, 

12°28′09″N 54°00′36″E, 300 m a.s.l., 2.–3.xii.2003, lgt. D. Král. 

Distribution. Originally most probably Oriental (S. Ryndevich, pers. comm.), this species 

was introduced during or prior to the 19th century to tropical and subtropical areas all over 

the world, and occurs rarely in adjacent temperate regions. Previously recorded from Socotra 

Island by WRANIK (2003). 

Discussion 

Based on our study, the hydrophiloid fauna of Socotra Island contains 16 species (three 

species of Georissidae, and 13 of Hydrophilidae), most of which are widely distributed aquatic 

species (ten species) or cosmopolitan terrestrial species introduced throughout the world 

(two species: Dactylosternum abdominale and Cercyon nigriceps). Of the ten widely distributed 

aquatic taxa, seven are widely distributed in sub-Saharan Africa (Berosus corrugatus, 

B. nigriceps, Laccobius minor, L. praecipuus, Sternolophus unicolor, Hydrophilus aculeatus 

and Helochares dilutus) even through some of them also reach the Arabian Peninsula and 

the Near East (Berosus nigriceps, Laccobius minor, L. praecipuus, Hydrophilus aculeatus). 

Only three of the widely distributed aquatic species do not occur in Africa: two are endemic 

to Arabian Peninsula and Near East (Laccobius eximius and Enochrus nitidulus), and

128 


Coelostoma stultum is an Oriental species reaching and widespread in Arabian Peninsula. 

The unidentifi ed species of Georissus (Neogeorissus) may represent either of these groups, 

as it belongs to the African species group but may possibly represent an undescribed species 

known also from southern Yemen. 

Only three species, all newly described in this contribution, are supposedly endemic to 

Socotra Island. Two of them inhabit running waters (Georissus nemo sp. nov. and Hemisphaera 

socotrana sp. nov.), while one was collected on seepages of sea and brackish water 

in mangroves (Georissus maritimus sp. nov.). The genus Hemisphaera is known from Africa, 

the Mediterranean area and southern India; species similar to Georissus nemo sp. nov. are 

known from Africa and southern India, and the mangrove-inhabiting Georissus maritimus 

sp. nov. is morphologically and ecologically unique among known Georissus species and 

its position within the genus cannot be therefore estimated at present. Unfortunately, the 

taxonomy of both Georissus and Hemisphaera is only poorly known and further studies are 

therefore needed to understand the biogeographic relations of all three endemic Socotran 

species. However, the possible relationship of Socotran species to the south Indian fauna is 

rather surprising as a similar pattern is only known in two species of Socotran Heteroptera, 

Onychotrechus rhexenor Kirkaldy, 1903 (Gerridae) and Leptocoris bahram Kirkaldy, 1899 

(Rhopalidae) (ANDERSEN 1980, GROSS 1960, GÖLLNER-SCHEIDING 1983). Of the non-endemic 

species, the occurrence of Laccobius eximius in Socotra may be of some biogeographic 

signifi cance as the species seems to be otherwise restricted only to the mountains along the 

western coast of Arabian Peninsula. 

The recent study of the fauna of New Caledonia recognized that the aquatic species are 

mostly represented by widely distributed species and the endemic taxa are those inhabiting 

margins of streams and rivers (GENTILI 2010; JÄCH 2010; KOMAREK 2010a,b; NASSERZADEH 

2010, SHORT 2010a,b; FIKÁČEK 2010). Terrestrial taxa were represented by a number of 

endemic species plus Dactylosternum abdominale and Cercyon nigriceps (FIKÁČEK 2010). 

This general pattern corresponds well with the fauna of Socotra Island: two of three endemic 

Socotran species inhabit stream margins (but note that the non-endemic Laccobius species 

also inhabit this habitat) and terrestrial taxa are only represented by the same two introduced 

species as in New Caledonia. The arid character of Socotra Island clearly does not provide 

a suitable environment for leaf-litter inhabiting hydrophilid taxa (hence terrestrial endemic 

species are absent), and seems to be limiting also for the aquatic species, preventing any island 

radiation. This is well illustrated by the georissid fauna of Socotra which clearly originates 

from independent dispersals (three Socotran Georissus species are not related to each other, 

but each belongs to a different species group) rather than from an island radiation. 


We are indebted to Jan Batelka (Prague) and Jan Farkač (Prague) for allowing us to examine 

the specimens deposited in their collections, to Pol Limbourg (IRSNB) for the possibility to 

study the type specimens deposited in the Orchymont collection, to Kamil Zagoršek (Department 

of Paleontology, National Museum, Prague) for his help with taking the SEM micrographs, 

to Jiří Hájek and Petr Kment (both NMPC) for providing us with detailed collecting 

circumstances and locality photographs of both new species, to J. Batelka and J. Hájek for


general discussions concerning the Socotran fauna, and to M. Gimmel (KSEM) for proofreading 

of the English text. The preparation of this contribution was partly supported by the 

grant of the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic no. DF12P01OVV021. Examination 

of the specimens using scanning electron microscope Hitachi S-3700N was possible due to 

the Barrande I project partially supported by the European Union. 

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(eds.): Water Beetles of New Caledonia, volume 1. Monographs of Coleoptera 3: 1–449. 

SHORT A. E. Z. & FIKÁČEK M. 2011: World catalogue of the Hydrophiloidea (Coleoptera): additions and corrections 

II (2006–2010). Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae 51: 83–122. 

SMETANA A. 1978. Revision of the subfamily Sphaeridiinae of America north of Mexico (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae). 

Memoirs of the Entomological Society of Canada 105: 1–292. 

WRANIK W. 2003: Fauna of the Socotra Archipelago. Field guide. Universität Rostock, Rostock, 542 pp. 

ZAITZEV F. A. 1909: Analytische Uebersicht der mir bekannten Arten der Gattung Sternolophus Solier nebst 

Bemerkungen über die anderen Arten dieser Gattung (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae). Russkoe Entomologicheskoe 

Obozrenie 8(1908): 228–233.



Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov. from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Hydraenidae) 

Manfred A. JÄCH 1) & Juan A. DELGADO 2) 

1) Naturhistorisches Museum, Burgring 7, A-1010 Wien, Austria; e-mail: manfred.jaech@nhm-wien.ac.at 

2) Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, 

Spain; e-mail: jdelgado@um.es 

Abstract. Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov. (Hydraenidae) is described from Socotra 

Island (Yemen). It is the only hydraenid species known from Socotra. 

Key words. Hydraenidae, Limnebius, new species, Socotra, Yemen, Indian 

Ocean 

Introduction 

So far, not a single species of Hydraenidae had been recorded from Socotra Island in the 

Indian Ocean (Gulf of Aden). Below we describe the fi rst representative of this family from 

Socotra. It belongs to the almost cosmopolitan genus Limnebius Leach, 1815. 


The specimens are deposited in the following collections: 

MNCN Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Madrid, Spain; 

NMPC Národní Museum, Prague, Czech Republic; 

NHMW Naturhistorisches Museum Wien, Vienna, Austria. 

Taxonomy 

Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–3, 6–10) 

Type locality. Permanent river in mountain valley with granite and limestone slopes, Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 

53°58.9′E, 200 m a.s.l., Hagier (= Hagghir) Mts., northern Socotra Island, Yemen (see also FIKÁČEK et al. 2012: 

Fig. 7). 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, Socotra Island wadi Ayhaft 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m Jiří 

Hájek leg. 7-8.xi.2010’. PARATYPES: 26 specimens (MNCN, NMPC, NHMW), same locality label as holotype [three 

of four MNCN paratypes presently remain in absolute ethanol, with locality label inside and the reference number 



132 

JÄCH & DELGADO: Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov. from Socotra Island (Hydraenidae) 

‘RA728’ written outside with a permanent marker. The fourth specimen, a female, was extracted, mounted dry on a 

white label and pinned, with one wing removed and mounted in a separate permanent preparation. Both the pinned 

specimen and the wing have an additional label ‘DNA ex., IBE-RA728’]; 3 specimens (NMPC): ‘YEMEN: Socotra 

Isl. Hallah Arhar (spring) 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 15m 11.xi.2010, leg. J. Bezděk’. 

Diagnosis. Habitus as in Fig. 1. Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov. is a member of the L. atomus 

species group (sensu JÄCH 1993). It is very similar and very closely related to L. ara- 

Figs. 1–6. Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov. 1 – habitus; 2–3 – aedeagus (2 – ventral view, 3 – dorso-lateral view); 

4–6 – aedeagal apex in ventral view (4 – Limnebius arabicus Balfour-Browne, 1951, 5 – L. pararabicus Jäch & 

Delgado, 2010, 6 – L. dioscoridus sp. nov.). Scale bars to Figs. 2–6: 0.05 mm


bicus Balfour-Browne, 1951 (Yemen and Israel) and L. pararabicus Jäch & Delgado, 2010 

(UAE). 

Externally, it agrees with these species in general appearance incl. body length: 0.80–1.05 

mm. Surface of pronotum smooth and glabrous, very sparsely and superfi cially micropunctate. 

Elytral margins gently rounded, less parallel than in L. myrmidon Rey, 1883. Elytral surface 

smooth or very faintly microreticulate anteriorly, more or less distinctly microreticulate 

posteriorly. 

Figs. 7–10. Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov.: 7 – gonocoxite, 8 – female tergite X, 9–10 – spermatheca. Scale: 

0.05 mm.

134 

JÄCH & DELGADO: Limnebius dioscoridus sp. nov. from Socotra Island (Hydraenidae) 

Aedeagus (Figs. 2–4): Very similar to L. arabicus (Fig. 5, see also JÄCH & DELGADO 2010: 

Figs. 9–10) and L. pararabicus (Fig. 6, see also JÄCH & DELGADO 2010: Figs. 11–12). Excision 

on right margin (lateral view) of main piece more distal than in the compared species, apex 

of main piece (dorso-lateral view) less strongly widened than in L. arabicus (ventral view); 

in dorso-lateral view right apical corner of main piece wider than in L. pararabicus, excision 

not as distinct as in L. arabicus; ejaculatory duct very slightly projecting apically. Distal lobe 

longer than in L. arabicus, slightly wider than in L. pararabicus. 

Gonocoxite (Fig. 7) more or less as in L. pararabicus (see JÄCH & DELGADO 2010: Fig. 

14); left apophysis of inner plate not projecting; cavea slightly smaller than in L. pararabicus. 

Tergite X (Fig. 8): basal apophyses larger than in L. pararabicus; apex with one pair of very 

long setae, longer than tergite. Spermatheca as in Figs. 9–10. 

Etymology. Dioscoridus (proper noun in apposition) is the Latin name for Socotra Island. 

Distribution. So far known from two localities on Socotra Island, Yemen. 


We are obliged to Jiří Hájek and Martin Fikáček (NMPC) for the opportunity to work on 

the material. Thanks are due to Ignacio Ribera (MNCN) for sequencing some genes of the 

new species. 

References 

FIKÁČEK M., DELGADO J. A. & GENTILI E. 2012: The Hydrophiloid beetles of Socotra Island (Coleoptera: 

Georissidae, Hydrophilidae). Pp. 107–130. In: HÁJEK J. & BEZDĚK J. (eds.): Insect biodiversity of the Socotra 


JÄCH M. A. 1993: Taxonomic revision of the Palearctic species of the genus Limnebius Leach, 1815 (Coleoptera: 

Hydraenidae). Koleopterologische Rundschau 63: 99–187. 

JÄCH M. A. & DELGADO J. A. 2010: Order Coleoptera, family Hydraenidae. Pp. 173–194. In: HARTEN A. VAN 

(ed.): Arthropod fauna of the UAE, Volume 3. Multiply Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 700 pp.



New species of Euconnus, subgen. Euconophron 

(Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae) 

from Socotra Island 

Peter HLAVÁČ 

Czech University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, 

Department of Forest Protection and Game Management, Kamýcká 1176, CZ-165 21 Praha 6-Suchdol, 

Czech Republic; e-mail: phlavac@stonline.sk 

Abstract. The fi rst record of the Scydmaeninae from the Socotra Island (Yemen) is 

given. Euconnus (Euconophron) socotranus sp. nov. is described and another, still 

undescribed species, is also recorded. Geographical distribution of the subgenus 

Euconophron Reitter, 1909 is briefl y commented. 

Key words. Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae, Euconnus, Euconophron, new species, 

Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Euconophron Reitter, 1909 is a large subgenus of the very large genus Euconnus Thomson, 

1859 of the subfamily Scydmaeninae (Staphylinidae). The subgenus contains 270 currently 

valid species-group taxa (A. NEWTON, pers. comm.); the majority of species were named by 

the late Herbert Franz (213 available names). 

Euconophron is widely distributed in the Old World, Australia and Oceania as follows: 

Palaearctic Region, from the Canary Islands (La Gomera) (1 species) through Spain (2), 

France (Corse) and Italy (1), northern Africa (6), the Arabian Peninsula (6) and Caucasus (1) 

to Japan (4) and China (1); Africa (78), Madagascar (30), Comoros (1); the Oriental Region 

from Nepal (23), Bhutan (1), India (3) to Thailand (1) and Malaysia (1); Australia (95), Lord 

Howe Island (2), New Caledonia (9), New Guinea (3) and the Marquesas and Tonga Islands 

(1). Although not investigated for the purpose of this paper, there is only a little chance that 

Euconophron in its present composition represents a monophyletic taxon (see also VÍT 2005: 

190). It is highly likely that some species (especially tropical) will not remain in Euconophron 

when a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of the genus Euconnus is carried out. On the 

other hand, Euconophron seems to be well defi ned within the West Palaearctic Region where 



136 

HLAVÁČ: A new Euconnus (Euconophron) from Socotra Island (Scydmaeninae) 

it has been represented so far by 17 described species, although many others await description 

(H. MEYBOHM, in litt.). 

West Palaearctic species of Euconophron seem to be dominant amongst Palaearctic 

Euconnus in dry areas. The subgenus is best represented in northern Africa (12 species of 

Euconnus: 6 species of Euconophron) and in the Arabian Peninsula (13 : 6); the subgenus 

is very poorly represented in Europe (130 : 3) and only in its southern part, as well as in the 

Caucasus region (12 : 1). It is therefore not a surprise that the fi rst two species of Euconnus 

found on such an island as Socotra also belong to the subgenus Euconophron. 

No ant-like stone beetle has been known from the Socotra Island so far. However, the island 

is very diverse with many kinds of habitats suitable for terrestrial beetles, so the discovery 

of the Scydmaeninae was only a matter of time. The aim of this paper is to describe the fi rst 

representative of the subfamily belonging to the large genus Euconnus. 

Materials and methods 

The material used in this study is deposited in the National Museum of Natural History, 

Prague (NMPC) and in the private collection of the author (PHCK). Dissections were done 

using standard techniques; genitalia and other small structures were mounted in euparal on 

acetate labels pinned together with specimens. Leica S8APO and ZEISS microscopes were 

used for the study. Body length is a sum of head + pronotum + elytra measured separately in 

dorsal view. Width of heads is measured across eyes. 

Taxonomy 

Euconophron Reitter, 1909 

Euconophron REITTER, 1909: 226 (original description as the subgenus of Euconnus); type species: Euconnus promptus 

Coquerel, 1860, designated by Franz in NEWTON & FRANZ 1998: 145. 

Euconophron: FRANZ 1957: 245 (characteristic of the subgenus, key to southwest Mediterrean species); VÍT 2005 

(discussion of the status of the subgenus, morphology of the aedeagus). 

Diagnosis. Euconophron can be recognized amongst the subgenera of Euconnus by the 

following combination of external characters: 1) temples long, temples and posterior part 

of vertex with dense, stiff, bristly setae; 2) humeri well-defi ned, basal width of elytra wider 

than basal width of pronotum; 3) pronotum widest in middle, more or less rounded, narrowed 

to anterior margin; 4) antebasal pronotal foveae present; 5) pronotum lacking basal carina; 

6) antennal club four-segmented; 7) antennomeres VIII and IX in male simple, unmodifi 

ed. The subgenus is well defi ned by the structure of the aedeagus (VÍT 2005): 8) ventral 

lamina with apex deeply bifi dous; 9) endophallus with well-developed pair of sclerotized 

structure; 10) parameres much shorter than median lobe, hardly reaching half of median 

lobe, furnished with two unequal apical setae; 11) basal capsule strongly sclerotized with 

small dorsal orifi ce.


Euconnus (Euconophron) socotranus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–2) 

Material examined. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, Soqotra Is., 2003, 5-6/xii., Noget plain, QAAREH (waterfall), 

57m, N12°20′10″ E53°37′56″ [GPS], David Král lgt. [printed]’, ‘YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 Expedition; Jan 

Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David Král [printed]’, ‘HOLOTYPE Euconnus (Euconophron) socotranus n. sp., P. Hlaváč 

det., 2011 [red label, printed]’. 

Description. Body length about 1.6 mm, maximum width of elytra 0.7 mm, shiny, light 

yellowish-brown, head and pronotum slightly darker, maxillary palpi, antennae and legs as 

light yellowish-brown as elytra. 

Head with temples strongly convergent posteriorly, about 1.15 times as wide as long, temples 

with dense, stiff, bristly setae; vertex with large, shallow depression and sparse setation; 

eyes strongly protuberant; frons triangular, pointed; labrum short, not visible in dorsal view, 

with long, erect setae, separated from clypeus; antennal tubercles well-defi ned; maxillary 

palpi with palpomere I very small comparing to II which is thin, only very slightly widened 

to apex, III pedunculate at base, swollen at apex, IV robust, pointed. Antennae short, about 

0.75 mm long, all antennomeres with long setae, antennal club tetramerous, scape cylindrical, 

about 1.4 times as long as wide, pedicel slightly widened towards apex, slightly longer than 

scape, antennomere III quadrate, smallest, about 0.8 times shorter than IV, V and VI which are 

equal in length and width and slightly elongate, antennomere VII about 1.5 times as long as 

VI and about 0.66 times shorter than VIII, antennomeres VIII–X quadrate, subequal, terminal 

antennomere relatively short, only about 1.2 times as long as X. 

Figs. 1–2. Euconnus (Euconophron) socotranus sp. nov.: 1 – aedeagus in dorsal aspect; 2 – aedeagus in lateral aspect, 

parameres omitted. Scale bar = 0.1 mm.

138 

HLAVÁČ: A new Euconnus (Euconophron) from Socotra Island (Scydmaeninae) 

Pronotum 1.05 times wider than long and 1.26 times as long as head, sides of pronotum 

with dense bristly setae, widest in middle, from middle parallel-sided to base and convergent 

anteriorly, with three antebasal foveae, central fovea much larger, and with two well-defi ned 

lateral foveae. 

Elytra relatively short, widest in middle, with two basal foveae, about 1.25 times as long 

as wide and about 2.5 times as long as pronotum, humeri well-defi ned, basal width of elytra 

slightly wider than basal width of pronotum, apex of elytra roundly terminated, sides of elytra 

with longer setae, disc of elytra lacking setae. 

Legs long, femora thin at base, clavate, tibiae enlarged distally, pro- and mesotibiae with 

dense brush-like setae at apex, apex of metatibiae lacking this setation. 

Aedeagus (Figs. 1, 2) decently sclerotized, symmetrical in dorsal view, elongated, about 

0.2 mm long, dorsal opening small, circular, apex deeply bilobed, parameres short, reaching 

three fourth of aedeagus length, furnished with two strongly unequal apical setae. 

Sexual dimorphism: female unknown. 

Differential diagnosis. Euconnus socotranus sp. nov. can be undoubtedly recognised by the 

shape and structure of aedeagus. Due to the similar structure of aedeagus, the new species 

strongly resembles to E. specusus Vít, 2004 from La Gomera (Canary Islands) (VÍT & OROMÍ 

2004). However, aedeagi of both species are different especially in shape of apical lobe which 

is laterally broadly curved in E. specusus and pointed in E. socotranus (cf. VÍT 2005: 189, 

Figs. 1–2); both species can also be readily separated by the presence of well-developed eyes 

in E. socotranus sp. nov., whereas E. specusus is anophthalmous. 

Etymology. Locotypic, derived from the name of the island of Socotra. 

Distribution. So far known only from the type locality on the Socotra Island. 

Euconnus (Euconophron) sp. 

Material examined: 2 ��: YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Al Haghier Mts. [sifting], Scant Mt. env., 1450 m, 12°34.6′N, 

54°01.5′E, 12.–13.xi.2010, P. Hlaváč leg. (PHCK). 

Notes. This species differs from E. socotranus sp. nov. by entirely reddish colour and temples 

only slightly convergent posteriorly, slightly round, three antebasal foveae present but 

central one equal to or even smaller than lateral ones. However, as diagnostic characters in 

Euconnus are mainly based on male genitalia, I refrain from describing this new species until 

the discovery of a male. 

Checklist of Euconophron of the Western Palaearctic Region: 

1. E. argodi Croissandeau, 1893: lxxvii Lebanon, ‘Syria’ 

2. E. fauveli Croissandeau, 1893: lxxvi Lebanon, ‘Syria’ 

3. E. ganglbaueri Reitter, 1882: 336 Israel, Lebanon, ‘Syria’ 

4. E. guillebeaui Croissandeau, 1893: lxxvii Syria 

5. E. hispanicus Franz, 1957: 254 Spain 

6. E. hospes (Saulcy, 1870): 92 Spain 

7. E. koziorowiczi Croissandeau, 1893: 113 France (Corse), Italy


8. E. leveillei Croissandeau, 1893: lxxv Syria 

9. E. lederi Franz, 1957: 257 Georgia 

10. E. mauretanicus Franz, 1962: 1045 Mauretania 

11. E. nebulosus Reitter, 1885: 91 Morocco 

12. E. otini Peyerimhoff, 1949: 259 Morocco 

= E. pseudopromptus Franz, 1957: 252 

13. E. promptus (Coquerel, 1860): 148 Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia 

14. E. prolixus Reitter, 1885: 90 Israel, ‘Syria’ 

15. E. specusus Vít in Vít & Oromí, 2004: 322 Canary Is. (La Gomera) 

16. E. socotranus sp. nov. Yemen (Socotra) 

17. E. spissicornis (Coquerel, 1860): 147 Morocco 

18. E. viator Peyerimhoff, 1917: 128 Algeria 


I am obliged to Jonathan Cooter (Hereford, UK) for reading and commenting on the 

manuscript and correcting the English. I thank to my friends Jiří Hájek, Jan Batelka (Prague, 

Czech Republic), Jan Bezděk, Josef Suchomel and Luboš Purchart (Brno, Czech Republic) 

for their excellent company during our trip to Socotra Island in 2010. Luboš is especially 

acknowledged for the organization of this trip, which was kind of challenge but perfectly 

managed. Last but not least I would like to thank to Pawel Jałoszyński (Wrocław, Poland) 

and Stanislav Vít (Genève, Switzerland) for their critical reviewing of the paper. 

References 

FRANZ H. 1957: Monographie der westmediterranen Arten der Gattung Euconnus Thoms. (Coleopt. Scydmaen.). 

Eos, Revista Española de Entomología 33: 177–262. 

NEWTON A. F. & FRANZ H. 1998: World catalog of the genera of Scydmaenidae (Coleoptera). Koleopterologische 

Rundschau 68: 137–165. 

REITTER E. 1909: Fauna Germanica. Die Käfer des Deutschen Reiches. II Band. K. G. Lutz, Stuttgart, 392 pp, 

pls. 41–80. 

VÍT S. 2005: Addenda to the scydmaenid fauna of the Canary Islands (La Gomera, Gran Canaria) with emphasis 

on Euconophron (Coleoptera: Scydmaenidae, Cyrtoscydmini). Vieraea 33: 185–192. 

VÍT S. & OROMÍ P. 2004: Contribution to the scydmaenid fauna of la Gomera (Canary Islands) (Coleoptera: Scydmaenidae). 

Revista de la Academia Canaria de Ciencias 15 (3–4): 321–328.

140 




Baeocera socotrana sp. nov., the fi rst species 

of Scaphidiinae (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) 

reported from Socotra Island 

Ivan LÖBL 

Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Route de Malagnou 1, 1208 Geneva, Switzerland; 

e-mail: ivan.lobl@bluewin.ch 

Abstract. Baeocera socotrana sp. nov. is described from Socotra Island, Yemen. 

The new species is a member of the B. lenta group. It has reduced metathoracic 

wings, shortened elytral sutural striae, and in dorsal view abdomen almost completely 

covered by the elytra. 

Key words. Staphylinidae, Scaphidiinae, Baeocera, new species, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The rove-beetle subfamily Scaphidiinae is one of the groups unknown from Socotra until 

now. A species of Baeocera Erichson, 1845 found to occur there is quite unexpected. The genus 

Baeocera comprises worldwide 258 species currently recognized as valid (see LÖBL 1997 and 

subsequent descriptions). According to available information, they are myxomycetophagous 

and mycetophagous, and found in moist habitats (LÖBL 1992, LESCHEN & LÖBL 2005). The genus 

is species-rich in the subtropics and tropics of Asia and New World but appears depauperate 

in Africa and the adjacent islands and archipelagos. Baeocera has not yet been reported from 

the Arabian Peninsula, Somalia or any of the East African areas north of Kenya. Therefore, 

the recent discovery of a species of this genus in Socotra is an event. 


The material studied is housed in the collections of the Entomological Department of the 

National Museum in Prague, Czech Republic (NMPC) and in the Muséum d’histoire naturelle, 

Geneva, Switzerland (MHNG). The body length is measured from the anterior pronotal margin 

to the inner apical angle of the elytra. The fi rst abdominal ventrite refers to the fi rst exposed 

one, and the sides of the aedeagus refer to their morphological sides, rotated to 90°. 



142 

LÖBL: First record of Scaphidiinae from Socotra Island 

Taxonomy 

Baeocera socotrana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–8) 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC): ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt. env., 12°34.6′N, 

54°01.5′E, 1450m, J. Bezdĕk leg., 12-13.xi.2010’. PARATYPES: 1 �, 3 ��, and 4 unsexed specimens, with the same 

data as the holotype; 16 unsexed specimens, with the same data but ‘Jiří Hájek leg.’ (NMPC, MHNG); 2 ��, 5 ��, 

and 15 unsexed specimens, with the same data but: ‘P. Hlaváč leg.’ (NMPC, MHNG); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra, wadi 

Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200m, 7-8.xi.2010, P. Hlaváč leg.’ (NMPC). 

Description. Length 1.05–1.31 mm, width 0.69–0.84 mm. Head and body black, apex of 

abdomen dark brown to blackish. Femora and antennomeres V to XI brown. Tibiae, tarsi, 

maxillary palpi and antennomeres I to IV lighter, ochraceous. 

Labral brush well developed (Fig. 1). Antennae comparatively short, length ratio of 

antennomeres as III 6: IV 6: V 9: VI 6: VII 10: VIII 8: IX 10: X 10: XI 11. Segments III and 

IV even, each 3 times as long as wide; segments V and VI slightly wider than segment IV, 

segment V about 4 times as long as wide, VI almost 3 times as long as wide; segment VII 

about 2.5 times as long as wide; segment VIII about 3 times as long as wide; segment X 

2times as long as wide, distinctly wider than segment VII; segment X and XI each about 1.5 

times as long as wide. 

Lateral contours of pronotum and elytra continuously or almost continuously rounded. 

Pronotum not microsculptured, with sparse and very fi ne punctation, hardly visible at 50x 

magnifi cation, setation well visible at 50x magnifi cation. Lateral margins of pronotum strongly 

convex, anterior pronotal margin narrow, basal lobe wide and very short, inconspicuous. 

Exposed tip of scutellum minute. 

Elytra lacking microsculpture, strongly narrowed apically, covering entirely or almost 

entirely tip of abdomen, with lateral margin keels concealed in dorsal view, sutural striae shortened, 

starting beyond basal fi fth of sutural length, adsutural areas fl at. Elytral punctation near 

1 2 

Figs. 1–2. Baeocera socotrana sp. nov. 1 – mouth-parts; 2 – prothoracic corbiculum.


Figs 3–8. Baeocera socotrana sp. nov. 3, 4 – aedeagus in dorsal and lateral view, scale bar = 0.1 mm; 5, 6 – internal sac 

in dorsal and lateral view, scale bar = 0.05 mm; 7, 8 – paramere in dorsal and lateral view, scale bar = 0.05 mm.

144 

LÖBL: First record of Scaphidiinae from Socotra Island 

base and along lateral stria similar to that on pronotum; punctation on most of discal surface 

much coarser than that on pronotum, consisting of punctures well delimited and separated by 

intervals about two to three times as large as puncture diameters. Lateral and epipleural striae 

impunctate. Prothoracic corbiculum containing setae-like structures (Fig. 2). Metathoracic 

wings strongly reduced, present as very narrow rudiments and obviously not functional. 

Hypomera impunctate. Mesepimeron small, hardly 1.5 to 1.8 times as long as interval to 

mesocoxa. Metaventrite in middle very weakly convex, lacking impression, with punctation 

coarse and dense; punctures slightly elongate, about as large as their intervals. Lateral parts 

of metaventrite with punctures somewhat larger than those in middle, distinctly elongate and 

fairly irregular. Submesocoxal area about 0.03 mm long, shortest interval between submesocoxal 

line and metacoxa about 0.10–0.12 mm. Metepisternum parallel-sided, with inner suture 

indicated by row of punctures. Punctation on middle of abdominal ventrite I fairly coarse and 

dense, consisting of round punctures mostly smaller than their intervals. Punctation on lateral 

parts of abdominal ventrite I coarse and dense, near base clearly elongate, partly confl uent 

and separated by elongate ridges, becoming fi ner apically, near apical margin consisting of 

round punctures smaller or about as large as their intervals. Protibiae straight, meso- and 

metatibiae hardly curved. Following ventrite fi nely, distinctly punctate. 

Male characters. Protarsomeres hardly widened. Aedeagus (Figs. 3–8) 0.34–0.36 mm 

long, weakly sclerotized. Median lobe with basal bulb longer than apical process. Apical 

process infl exed ventrally, blunt at tip. Articular process weakly developed. Parameres long 

and narrow, in dorsal view slightly sinuate, almost evenly wide, except at base; parameres in 

lateral view distinctly sinuate, near base narrower that in apical half. Internal sac with fl agellar 

guide-sclerite gradually narrowed and sinuate, accessory sclerite present, base of fl agellum 

very narrow, scale-like or denticulate structures absent from membranes. 

Differential diagnosis. This new species is a member of the B. lenta-group defi ned by symmetrical 

median lobe and parameres of the aedeagus, weakly sclerotized dorsal valves of the 

median lobe, and permanently extruded, very long ejaculatory duct forming circles above the 

median lobe. The group is species-rich in Asia but includes only two Afrotropical species, 

B. umtalica Löbl, 1987 and B. africana Löbl, 1987 (see LÖBL 1987). These African species 

may be easily distinguished from B. socotrana sp. nov. by having sutural striae starting at 

elytral base and by their conspicuous elytral punctation. Besides, their aedeagal characters 

are distinctive. In particular, B. umtalica has much longer apical process of the median lobe 

compared to the basal bulb, and B. africana has parameres straight and notched. Baeocera 

socotrana sp. nov. resembles and is possibly closer allied to B. schreyeri Löbl, 1990 and B. 

crinita Löbl, 1992 known from Thailand and the Himalayas, respectively. Baeocera schreyeri 

may be distinguished from B. socotrana sp. nov. by distinctly longer antennae, with the 

ultimate segment about 2.5 times as long as wide, and has fi nely denticulate membranes and 

distinctive shape of the sclerotized pieces of the internal sac of the aedeagus. Baeocera crinita 

has sutural striae of elytra much shorter, starting beyond the basal third, and the elytra and 

lateral parts of the abdominal ventrite I with much fi ner punctation. 

Etymology. The new species is named after Socotra Island (Yemen), where it occurs. 

Collection circumstances. Sifted from leafs and other debris accumulated under shrubs and 

trees in the summit area of the Hagher mountains, and in a wadi at low altitude.


Distribution. So far known only from two close localities on Socotra Island. The wadi Ayhaft, 

where a single specimen of this species was found, is below the Al Haghier range. Thus the 

presence of the species that cannot fl y at both the highest elevation of the island and in that 

wadi suggests fl ood dispersal. 

Acknowledgments 

My thanks are due to Jiří Hájek (NMPC) for the kind loan of the material. 

References 

LESCHEN R.A.B. & LÖBL I. 2005: Phylogeny and classifi cation of Scaphisomatini (Staphylinidae: Scaphidiinae) 

with notes on mycophagy, termitophily and functional morphology. Coleopterists Society Monographs, Patricia 

Vaurie Series 3: 1–63. 

LÖBL I. 1987: Contribution à la connaissance des Baeocera d’Afrique et de Madagascar (Coleoptera, Scaphidiidae). 

Revue Suisse de Zoologie 94: 841–860. 

LÖBL I. 1992: The Scaphidiidae of the Nepal Himalaya. Revue Suisse de Zoologie 99: 471–627. 

LÖBL I. 1997: Catalogue of the Scaphidiinae (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae). Instrumenta Biodiversitatis 1: i–xii + 

1–190.

146 




Afromorgus reiterorum sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Trogidae) 


David KRÁL 1) & Vítězslav KUBÁŇ 2) 


Czech Republic; e-mail: kral@natur.cuni.cz 


e-mail: vkuban@volny.cz 

Abstract. Afromorgus reiterorum sp. nov. from Socotra Island, Yemen is described 

and its diagnostic characters are illustrated. The new species is compared with 

similar and probably closely related species A. squalidus (Olivier, 1789), A. frater 

(Pittino, 2005), A. saturoi (Kawai, 2006) and species of the A. melancholicus 

(Fåhraeus, 1858) group. The differential diagnosis is based mainly on different 

structure of the pronotum and elytron, and on the shape of aedeagus. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea, Trogidae, Afromorgus, taxonomy, new 

species, description, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Recently, the authors had an opportunity to study material of Scarabaeoidea collected 

during several Czech biological expeditions to Socotra, including a new peculiar Afromorgus 

Scholtz, 1986 species described below. 

SCHOLTZ (1986) erected Afromorgus with the type species A. squalidus (Olivier, 1789) 

as a subgenus of the trogide genus Omorgus Erichson, 1847, based predominantly on the 

characteristic shape of the male genitalia and the Old World type of distribution. Later, 

Afromorgus was elevated to generic rank by PITTINO (2006a). The genus includes, according 

to present knowledge, about 30 species (HAAF 1954; SCHOLTZ 1980b, 1986; KAWAI 

2005; PITTINO 2005, 2006a,b, 2011). The Afromorgus species are distributed throughout the 

Afrotropical and the Oriental regions, but the vast majority (more than 20 species) penetrates 

into peripheral areas of the Palaearctics (e.g., BARAUD 1985, PAULIAN 1948, PITTINO 

2006b, SCHOLTZ 1980a,b). 



148 

KRÁL & KUBÁŇ: Afromorgus reiterorum sp. nov. from Socotra Island (Trogidae) 


Specimens were examined with an Olympus SZ61 stereomicroscope, measurements were 

taken with an ocular graticule. The habitus photographs were taken using a Canon MP-E 

65/2.8 MACRO lens with 5:1 optical magnifi cation. Partially focused images of specimens 

were combined using Helicon Focus 3.20.2Pro software. 

Specimens of the newly described species are provided with one printed red label: 

‘Afromorgus reiterorum sp. nov., HOLOTYPUS [or ALLOTYPUS or PARATYPUS No. x, 

respectively], sex symbol, David Král & Vítězslav Kubáň det. 2012’. Exact label data are 

cited for the type material, individual labels are indicated by a double slash (//), individual 

lines of every label line by a single slash (/). Authors’ remarks and additional comments are 

found in square brackets. Morphological terminology follows SCHOLTZ (1980b). All material 

is deposited in the collection of the National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic. For details 

and comments on individual localities visited, including the prevailing spelling, see BEZDĚK 

et al. (2012). 

Taxonomy 

Afromorgus reiterorum sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–8) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil protected area, 364 m a.s.l., 12°34′27″N E 54°18′32″. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is. / HOMHIL protected area /, 28-29/xi.2003, 364m / N12°34′27″ 

E54°18′32″ / [GPS], David Král lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David 

Král [printed]’. ALLOTYPE: �, same data but ‘Jan Farkač lgt.’. PARATYPE No. 1: not sexed spec., ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is. / 

24-26/xi.2003 / WADI AYHAFT, 190m / N12°36′38″ E53°58′49″ / [GPS], David Král lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 

2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král [printed]’. PARATYPES Nos. 2–4: (2 ��, 1 not sexed spec. 

lacking head), ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is. / WADI DENEGHEN /, 27.xi.2003, 85m / N12°36′55″ E54°03′49″ / [GPS], David 

Král lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král [printed]’. PARATYPE 

No. 5: �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA island / wadi ES GEGO / 300 m a.s.l. / 12°28′18″N; 54°00′34″ / 13.V.2004 lgt. 

A. Reiter [printed]’. PARATYPE No. 6: �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Island E / Kesa env., 220-300 m / N 12°39′37″ E 53°26′42″ 

/ 28.-29. i. 2010, L. Purchart lgt. [printed]’. 

Description of holotype. Total body length 15.0 mm; maximum width (at posterior third of 

elytron) 7.5 mm; blackish, surface alutaceous, with fulvous or greyish tomentose coating, 

elytral intervals with fl at shiny tubercles; macrosetation pale (Fig. 1). 

Clypeus obtusely triangular, with moderately upturned anterior margin and two impunctate, 

deep, shiny pits anterolaterally on either side; genae rectangular, pointed; frons distinctly 

bituberculate; punctures coarse, dense, regularly distributed, separated by approximately their 

diameter; antennal scape elongate, stout, arcuate, pointed, more than twice as long as wide, 

covered with dense, long macrosetae, fl agellomeres dark reddish brown. 

Pronotum (Fig. 1) attenuated anteriorly, sides broadly explanate, lateral margins regularly 

rounded, fi nely indistinctly wavy over anterior two thirds, then obtusely rounded and obliquely 

converging backwards, slightly sinuate basally; anterior and posterior angles obtuse, weakly 

produced; marginal macrosetae sparse, short; base distinctly sinuate and fi nely margined on 

either side near visibly produced posteromedian lobe; discal area elevated, smooth, fl at, with 

moderately developed ridges and depressions, basal medial tubercles large, elongate, poorly


Figs. 1–7. 1, 2, 4, 6 – Afromorgus reiterorum sp. nov., male. 3, 5, 7 – A. squalidus (Olivier, 1789); Namibia, Windhoek, 

male. 1 – holotype habitus, dorsal aspect; 2–3 – left elytron, dorsolateral aspect; 4–7 – parameres; 4–5 – dorsal 

oblique aspect; 6–7 – frontal oblique aspect.

150 

Table 1. Characters separating Afromorgus frater (Pittino, 2005), A. reiterorum sp. nov., A. satorui (Kawai, 2006) and A. squalidus (Olivier, 1789) from one another, 

and the known distribution of these taxa. 


Afromorgus squalidus 

(Olivier, 1789) 

weakly bisinuate (e.g. PITTINO 

2005: Fig. 17) 

moderately convex; with oval 

tubercles; tomentose patches 

oval (Fig. 3) 

strongly convex; with oval 

tubercles, and tomentose 

patches (Fig. 3) 

almost straight externally; 

weakly bisinuate internally 

(Fig. 5; PITTINO 2005: Fig. 5) 

Afromorgus reiterorum Afromorgus satorui 

sp. nov. 

(Kawai, 2006) 

broadly rounded (Fig. 1) broadly rounded 

(KAWAI 2006: Figs. 1, 2) 

fl at; with irregular, fl at- fl at; with irregular, fl attish, 

tish, blackish, shiny areas; blackish, shiny areas; to- 

tomentose patches narrowly mentose patches oval (KAWAI 

elongate (Figs. 1, 2) 2006: Figs. 1, 2) 

fl at; only with very sparse, fl at; only with very sparse, 

fl at, blackish, shiny areas fl at, blackish, shiny areas 

(Figs. 1, 2) 

(KAWAI 2006: Figs. 1, 2) 

broadly rounded externally; broadly rounded externally; 

weakly bisinuate internally distinctly bisinuate internally 

(Fig. 4) 

(KAWAI 2006: Fig. 3) 

more sclerotized (Figs. 5, 7) 

obviously elevate, complete, 

sharply pointed apically 

(Figs. 5, 7) 

almost whole Sub-Saharan 

Africa north to Mauritania, 

Algeria, Chad, Somalia, 

Ethiopia and Egypt, ?Arabia 

(BARAUD 1985; HAAF 1954; 

weakly sclerotized (Figs. 4, 6) more sclerotized (KAWAI 

2006: Figs. 3, 5) 

weakly elevate, missing in elevate, complete, rounded 

basal half, rounded apically apically (KAWAI 2006: Figs 

(Figs. 4, 6) 

3, 4) 

Socotra Island Republic of South Africa: 

Cape, Ivory Coast (KAWAI 

2006, 2009) 

Character Afromorgus frater 

(Pittino, 2005) 

outline of pronotal lateral margin broadly rounded (PITTINO 

2005: Figs. 15, 16) 

even elytral intervals (II, IV, VI, fl at; with irregular, fl attish, 

VIII) 

blackish, shiny areas; tomentose 

patches oval (PITTINO 

2005: Figs. 15, 16) 

odd elytral intervals (III, V, VII) fl at; only with very sparse, 

fl at, blackish, shiny areas 

(PITTINO 2005: Figs. 15, 16) 

dorsal outline of lateral lobes of broadly rounded with obtuse 

aedeagus 

angle in distal third externally; 

slightly emarginate 

internally (PITTINO 2005: 

Fig. 3) 

lateral lobes of aedeagus apically weakly sclerotized (PITTINO 

2005: Figs. 3, 4) 

dorsal laminae of medial lobe elevate, complete, pointed 

apically (PITTINO 2005: Figs. 

3, 7) 

distribution India: Karnataka, Pakistan: 

Punjab, Sri Lanka (PITTINO 

2005) 

PITTINO 2006a; SCHOLZ 

1980a,b)


elevated, joining discal area; surface laterally moderately convex from base to apex, lacking 

ridges and tubercles, weakly impressed near sides and over short extent medially near base, 

punctures rather sparse and fi ne discally, denser and coarser laterally. 

Scutellar shield hastate (Figs. 1, 2). 

Elytra (Figs. 1, 2) broadly elongate, strongly convex, almost parallel, widest in posterior 

third; humeral umbones prominent, humeral angles obtuse, moderately produced; epipleurae 

broad, fl at, scarcely declivous, with central row of close small tomentose patches, each bearing 

single inconspicuous macroseta; external margins smooth, with narrow continuous tomentose 

rim bearing short, erect macrosetae; sutural interval narrow, moderately convex, other intervals 

almost fl at; even intervals wider than odd ones; even intervals (especially II, IV, VI, VIII) fl at, 

covered with large, irregularly angular, blackish, shiny areas with elongate tomentose patches 

between; odd intervals (especially III, V, VII) covered with small, very sparsely distributed, 

black, shiny areas and elongate tomentose patches; each tomentose patch bearing several short, 

erect macrosetae; striae distinctly impressed, each with deep, coarse, regularly distributed 

row of punctures. Prosternal apophysis moderately produced, rounded apically. 

Protibiae moderately dilated proximad, bidentate apically, dilated apical portion bent 

moderately ventrad, broadly rounded externally, acutely pointed medially, slightly sinuate 

in between; external edge with weak denticle approximately at middle and slightly crenate 

basal third; apical spur robust, regularly curved, pointed, longer than protarsomeres I–IV 

combined; mesotibiae with smooth external edge. 

Male genitalia (Figs. 4, 6). Aedeagus symmetrical; pars basalis sclerotized, fused dorsally; 

lateral lobes slender, broadly rounded externally, subapical tooth triangular, weakly sclerotized; 

dorsal laminae of medial lobe weakly elevate, missing in basal half, rounded apically. 

Additional external sexual dimorphism not visible. 

Variability. Body length 15.0–15.5 mm; all paratypes of both sexes moderately shiny, more 

or less lacking tomentose patches and macrosetation, all this due to excessive wear on. 

Differential diagnosis. The new species belongs to the genus Afromorgus sharing the following 

set of diagnostic characters: clypeus refl exed, antennal scape elongate, pedicel attached 

subapically, pronotal length less than half elytral length, scutellar shield hastate, aedeagus 

with complex medial lobe, and pars basalis well sclerotized, fused dorsally. It is related to 

A. squalidus (Olivier, 1789) and allies, namely A. frater (Pittino, 2005), and A. satorui (Kawai, 

2006), in having smoothly rounded both lateral pronotal and elytral margins, discal area of 

pronotum with tubercles and ridges, and elytral tubercles moderately prominent. Due to the 

very similar male genitalia, A. satorui, known from the Republic of South Africa (KAWAI 

2006) and Ivory Coast (KAWAI 2009), seems to be the closest relative to the new species, 

which is allied, though to a lesser degree, also to the species of A. melancholicus (Fåhraeus, 

1858) group sensu PITTINO (2011). Afromorgus reiterorum sp. nov., several populations of 

A. squalidus which inhabit arid areas, and the members of A. melancholicus species group all 

exhibit irregularly spaced black shiny areas on elytra. The new species can be separated from 

them mainly by dorsal laminae of median lobe of the aedeagus which are simple, only weakly 

elevated (not complicatedly prolonged – see PITTINO 2011). For detailed differentiation of 

A. frater, A. reitterorum sp. nov., A. saturoi and A. squalidus from each other see Table 1. 

Collecting circumstances. Specimens of the type series were captured at light (Homhil and 

Wadi Esgego), from under a stone (Wadi Ayhaft) and from soil under remains of chickens

152 


(mainly dry bones and feathers) in dump on the outskirts of the village (Wadi Deneghen). 

Etymology. Patronymic; named in honour of the Reiter’s family, long-time friends of DK and 

renowned biologists, spouses Lenka and Antonín and their three daughters (Daniela, Hana 

and Lucie). Additionally, Antonín is one of the collectors of the new species. 

Distribution. Endemic to the Socotra Island. 


We are grateful to the following persons: Dirk Ahrens (Alexander Koenig Museum, Bonn) 

and Jiří Hájek (NMPC) obtained some inaccessible literature; Vladimír Bejček, Jan Farkač, 

Petr Kabátek and Karel Šťastný (all Prague) were excellent companions during the Socotra 

expedition 2003 (DK). Special thanks are due to Riccardo Pittino (Milano) for stimulating 

comments on the text. The study was supported by institutional resources of the Ministry of 

Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic for the support of science and research 

(DK) and by the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic DF12P01OVV021 (VK). 

References 

BARAUD J. 1985: Coléoptères Scarabaeoidea. Faune du Nord de l’Afrique du Maroc au Sinaï. Encyclopédie 

Entomologique – XLVI. Editions Lechevalier, Paris, 651 pp. 

BEZDĚK J., PURCHART L., KRÁL K. & HULA V. 2012: List of local Socotran geographical names used in entomological 

literature. Pp. 27–67. In: HÁJEK J. & BEZDĚK J. (eds.): Insect biodiversity of the Socotra Archipelago. 


HAAF E. 1954: Die afrikanischen und orientalischen Arten der Gattung Trox (Col. Scarab.). Entomologische Arbeiten 

aus dem Museum Georg Frey 5: 326–393. 

KAWAI S. 2006: A new species of the genus Omorgus Erichson, 1847 (Coleoptera Trogidae) from South Africa. 

Kogane 7: 1–5. 

KAWAI S. 2009: First record of Afromorgus satorui (Kawai, 2006) from Cote d’Ivoire (Coleoptera Trogidae). 

Kogane 10: 72. 

PAULIAN R. 1948: Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae: Trogidae, Geotrupinae, Dynamopinae, Hybosorinae, Coprinae, 

Aphodiinae. Expedition to South–West Arabia 1937–8 1(12): 141–155. 

PITTINO R. 2005: Four new Asian species of the genus Omorgus Erichson, 1847 (Coloeptera [sic !], Scarabaeoidea, 

Trogidae). Kogane 6: 71–79. 

PITTINO R. 2006a: New nomenclatorial and taxonomic acts, and comments. Trogidae. Pp. 26–28. In: LÖBL I. & 

SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 3. Scarabaeoidea – Scirtoidea – Dasciloidea 

– Buprestoidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 690 pp. 

PITTINO R. 2006b: Family Trogidae MacLeay, 1819. Pp. 79–81. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue 

of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 3. Scarabaeoidea – Scirtoidea – Dasciloidea – Buprestoidea. Apollo Books, 


PITTINO R. 2011: The Afrotropical species of the genus Afromorgus Scholtz, 1986. 1st note: A. melancholicus (Fahraeus, 

1857) and its closest relatives (Coleoptera Trogidae). Giornale Italiano di Entomologia 12: 395–412. 

SCHOLTZ C. H. 1980a: Insects of Saudi Arabia. Scarabaeoidea: Coleoptera: Fam. Trogidae (Genus Trox). Fauna 

of Saudi Arabia 2: 137–140. 

SCHOLTZ C. H. 1980b: Monograph of the genus Trox F. (Coleoptera: Trogidae) of Subsaharan Africa. Cimbebasia 

4: 7–104. 

SCHOLTZ C. H. 1986: Phylogeny and systematics of the Trogidae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea). Systematic Entomology 

11: 355–363.



Tanyproctini (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) 

of Socotra Island 

David KRÁL 1) , Richard SEHNAL 2) & Aleš BEZDĚK 3) 


Czech Republic; e-mail: kral@natur.cuni.cz 

2) Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, 

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 21 Praha 6, Czech Republic; 

e-mail: richard.sehnal@seznam.cz 

3) Biology Centre ASCR, Institute of Entomology, Branišovská 31, CZ-370 05 České Budějovice, 

Czech Republic; e-mail: bezdek@entu.cas.cz 

Abstract. A review of the Socotran species of the melolonthine tribe Tanyproctini 

is provided. In addition to three species previously known from this island, fi ve 

more including one new genus are described: Canudema homhil sp. nov. is closely 

related to C. socotrae Lacroix, 1994; both species differ mainly in the shape of 

antennomeres and external male genitalia. Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) keithi sp. 

nov., T. (T.) lacroixi sp. nov. and T. (T.) wraniki sp. nov. are considered morphologically 

similar to T. (T.) canui Lacroix, 1999 and T. (T.) puncticeps (Waterhouse, 

1881). Socotraproctus haghier gen. et sp. nov. can be characterized mainly by 

having considerably small eyes and elytra with longitudinal strips of scale-like 

shaped, whitish macrosetae. A key to Socotran Tanyproctini species is given along 

with their diagnostic characters including illustrations of copulatory organs and 

external morphology. The daily activity pattern of the taxa is discussed. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea, Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae, Tanyproctini, 

taxonomy, new genus, new species, key, distribution, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The melolonthine tribe Tanyproctini (formerly Pachydemini, see BOUCHARD et al. (2011) for 

the explanation), is a species-rich taxon with a world-wide distribution. A recently published 

catalogue of this group (LACROIX 2007) listed altogether 564 valid species, with the majority 

of taxa being distributed in the Palaearctic and Afrotropical regions. 

Socotran fauna of Tanyproctini is known rather insuffi ciently. For a long time, only Tanyproctus 

puncticeps (Waterhouse, 1881) was recorded from this island (e.g. GAHAN 1903). 



154 

KRÁL et al.: Tanyproctini of Socotra Island (Scarabaeidae) 

Additional species were discovered as late as the end of 20 th century by LACROIX (1994, 1999), 

who described a new genus Canudema Lacroix, 1994 with the type species C. socotrae Lacroix, 

1994, and a new species Tanyproctus canui Lacroix, 1999, both based on a very low 

number of specimens. 

Recently, the authors had the opportunity to study rich material of Tanyproctini collected 

during several Czech biological expeditions to Socotra, as well as a few specimens found 

by the German herpetologist Wolfgang Wranik and Lithuanian entomologist Aidas Saldaitis. 

Examination of this material allowed us to describe four new species and improve our 

knowledge about the geographic distribution of the previously known species. 


The following acronyms identify the collections housing the material examined (curators’ 

names are in parentheses): 

ABCC Aleš Bezděk collection, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; 

BMNH The Natural History Museum [former British Museum (Natural History)], London, United Kingdom, 

(Maxwell V. L. Barclay); 

DKCC Denis Keith collection, Chartres, France; 

GSCA Guido Sabatinelli collection, Amman, Jordan; 

IBUR Institut für Biowissenschaften, Lehrstuhl der allgemeine und spezielle Zoologie, Universität Rostock, 

Rostock, Germany (Ragnar Kinzelbach); 

ISNB Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique, Brussels, Belgium (Alain Drumont); 

JBCP Jan Batelka collection, Praha, Czech Republic; 

MLCP Marc Lacroix collection, Paris, France; 

MNHN Muséum National d’Histoire naturelle, Paris, France (Antoine Mantilleri, Olivier Montreuil); 

NMPC Národní muzeum, Praha, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek); 

RSCV Richard Sehnal collection, Velenice, Czech Republic; 

ZFMK Zoologisches Forschungsmuseum Alexander Koenig, Bonn, Germany (Dirk Ahrens). 

Altogether 183 specimens (see material below) were studied. Genitalia of at least three 

males of each species, if available, were dissected for examination. Specimens were examined 

with an Olympus SZ61 stereomicroscope; measurements were taken with an ocular 

grid. The habitus photographs were taken using a Canon MP-E 65mm/2.8 1-5x Macro on 

bellows attached to a Canon EOS 550D camera. Partially focused images of each specimen 

were combined using the Helicon Focus 3.20.2 Pro software. Specimens of the newly 

described species are provided with one printed red label: ‘[name of the taxon] sp. n., HO- 

LOTYPUS, [or PARATYPUS with type number], sex symbol, David Král, Richard Sehnal 

& Aleš Bezděk det. 2011 [or 2012]’. Exact label data are cited for the material examined. 

Separate labels are indicated by double slash ‘//’, lines within each label are separated by 

a slash ‘/’. Information in quotation marks indicates the original spelling. Authors’ remarks 

and additional comments are placed in square brackets: [p] – preceding data (within quotation 

marks) are printed; [h] – the same but handwritten. HT – holotype, LT – lectotype, PT 

– paratype. For details and comments on individual localities visited, including the prevailing 

spelling, see BEZDĚK et al. (2012).


Systematics 

Genus Canudema Lacroix, 1994 

(Figs. 1–4, 24, 25, 32, 33) 

Canudema Lacroix, 1994: 154, Figs. 1, 2, 5, 8, 12, 14 (description); LACROIX (2002): 410, Figs. 44–52 (review); 

KRÁL & SMETANA (2006): 199 (catalogue); LACROIX (2007): 47, Figs. 279–288 (review, key). 

Canaudema [sic!; incorrrect subsequent spelling]: SABATINELLI & PONTUALE (1998): 130 (key). 

Type species. Canudema socotrae Lacroix, 1994, by original designation. 

Diagnosis. Medium sized, elongate, colour black, extremities and elytra dark brownish; 

dorsal surface alutaceous, pronotum and elytra fi nely whitish tomentose. Labrum small, 

bilobed; lobes rounded. Outline of clypeus almost trapezoidal or bilobed. Genae narrow, 

rounded. Frontoclypeal suture broadly arcuate, distinctly impressed. Eyes large, exceeding 

genae externally in dorsal aspect. Antennae decamerous, club hexa- or heptamerous, regularly 

arcuate, considerably long, twice as long as antennal shaft (antennomeres 1–4 combined). 

Terminal maxillary palpomeres elongate, with oval alutaceous fl at area subbasally. Pronotum 

approximately hexagonal, with subobsolete longitudinal midline, excepting basal margin all 

around bordered; surface coarsely, almost regularly punctate. Elytra moderately convex, only 

very slightly dilated posteriad, sutural corner angular; sutural interval moderately convex, 

other intervals fl at, even intervals (2, 4, 6, 8, 10) considerably wider than odd (3, 5, 7, 9) ones, 

Macropterous. Protibiae bidentate, subapical calcar stout, long, inserting against basal tooth; 

meso- and metatibiae moderately expanded apicad, with one oblique carina externally, apical 

edge with row of short, stout, equal macrosetae; terminal calcars stout, long, acute apically, 

lower calcar little shorter than upper; pro- and mesotarsomeres 2–4 not considerably widened 

(Figs. 32, 33), with patches of short, dense macrosetae; claws deeply cleft, both portions acute 

apically. Aedeagus symmetrical, parameres slender, relatively long, dorsoapical third densely 

covered with whitish microsetae. 

Comparisons. Refer to the identifi cation key below. 

Geographical distribution. Genus endemic to Socotra Island. 

Canudema homhil sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1, 2, 24, 32) 

Type locality. Yemen, Soqotra Island, Homhil protected area, 364 m a.s.l., 12˚34′27″N 54˚18′27″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, labelled: ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., HOMHIL protected area / 28–29/xi.2003, 364m / 

N12˚34′27″E54˚18′32″ / [GPS], David Král lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr 

Kabátek & David Král [p]’; paratypes Nos. 1–7 (��), same data. 

Type depositories. HT and PT Nos. 1–3 in NMPC, PT No. 4 in RSVC, PT No. 5 in ABCC, PT No. 6 in MNHN, 

PT No. 7 in BMNH. 

Description of holotype (�). Body length 12.4 mm. Body elongate, almost parallel; colour 

black, extremities and elytra dark brownish; dorsal surface alutaceous, pronotum and elytra 

fi nely whitish tomentose, macrosetation whitish (Figs. 1, 2). 

Head. Labrum small, bilobed; lobes rounded, coarsely, regularly punctate. Outline of clypeus 

almost trapezoidal, with considerably upturned margin, surface depressed, anterior margin 

shallowly emarginate, anterior angles rounded, sides weakly rounded, divergent posteriad.

156 


Genae narrow, rounded. Frontoclypeal suture broadly arcuate, distinctly impressed. Eyes large, 

exceeding genae externally in dorsal aspect; distance between eyes in ventral aspect shorter 

than diameter of eye. Punctation of clypeus considerably coarse and dense, almost regularly 

distributed, punctures separated by less than their diameter, each puncture bearing short, fi ne, 

recumbent macroseta. Vertex and occiput distinctly rugo-punctate, punctures separated by 

less than their diameter to confl uent, each puncture bearing long, fi ne, recumbent macroseta. 

Genae rugo-punctate, with group of long, robust setae. Antennae decamerous, antennomere 

2 short, approximately as long as wide, antennomeres 3, 4 elongate; club hexamerous (Fig. 

2), regularly arcuate, considerably long, twice as long as antennal shaft (antennomeres 1–4 

combined); antennomeres 1–4 with sparse, long macrosetae, club inconspicuously macrosetaceous. 

Terminal maxillary palpomeres elongate, rounded apically, with oval alutaceous 

fl at area subbasally, approximately of same length as palpomeres 2 and 3 combined. 

Pronotum weakly convex, approximately hexagonal, broadest approximately in middle, 

with subobsolete longitudinal midline, excepting basal margin all around bordered; anterior 

bead fl at, narrow, distinctly widened medially, irregularly coarsely punctate, macrosetation 

long, recumbent, directed posteriad; lateral margin considerably coarsely crenate, with row of 

long, erect macrosetae; basal margin with row of fi ne, almost regularly distributed punctures 

bearing mainly in posterior angles short, recumbent macrosetae directed anteriad. Anterior 

angles prominent, projecting over anterior margin, acute-angular with rounded apex; sides 

in approximately anterior half almost straight, divergent posteriad, then almost straight, 

convergent to very broadly obtuse posterior angles; basal margin broadly rounded. Surface 

coarsely, almost regularly punctate, punctures separated by their 1–2 diameters, most punctures 

bearing very short, fi ne, recumbent macrosetae, macrosetation becoming considerably 

longer and more robust anterolaterally and along anterior margin. 

Scutellar shield approximately as wide as long, triangular; sides broadly arcuate, apex acute 

with several punctures, along lateral margin inconspicuously macrosetaceous. 

Elytra moderately convex, only very slightly dilated posteriad, sutural corner angular; 

striae distinctly impressed, with rows of coarse, dense, almost regularly distributed punctures, 

punctures separated approximately by more than twice their diameters; sutural interval 

moderately convex, other intervals fl at, even intervals (2, 4, 6, 8, 10) considerably wider than 

odd (3, 5, 7, 9) ones, all coarsely, sparsely, almost regularly punctate, punctures separated by 

more than twice their diameter; lateral margin and sutural corner with row of robust, short, 

regularly distributed macrosetae, surface almost nude. 

Macropterous. 

Legs. All femora shiny, irregularly coarsely punctate, macrosetae considerably long; protibiae 

bidentate, coarsely punctate dorsally, subapical calcar stout, long, inserted against basal 

tooth; meso- and metatibiae moderately expanded apicad, with one oblique carina externally, 

apical edge with row of short, stout, equal macrosetae; terminal calcars stout, long, acute 

apically, lower calcar little shorter than upper; pro- and mesotarsomeres 2–4 not considerably 

widened, with patches of short, dense macrosetae; claws deeply cleft, both portions acute 

apically (Fig. 32). 

Ventrites clothed with dense recumbent macrosetation; propygidium irregularly rugopunctate 

and shortly recumbently macrosetaceous; pygidium all along bordered, shallowly,


Figs. 1–5. 1, 2 – Canudema homhil sp. nov., paratype No. 4, male: 1 – habitus; 2 – right antenna. 3–5 – C. socotrae 

Lacroix, 1994, holotype, male: 3 – habitus; 4 – right antenna; 5 – labels. Not in scale.

158 


Table 1. Differential characters of Canudema homhil sp. nov. and C. socotrae Lacroix, 1994 

Canudema homhil sp. nov. Canudema socotrae Lacroix 

shape of clypeus almost trapezoidal almost bilobed 

punctation of clypeus coarser a little fi ner 

antennal club hexamerous (antennomeres 5–10) heptamerous (antennomeres 4–10) 

shape of antennomere 4 elongate, lamelle absent prolonged basally in lamelle (club 

antennomere 1), reaching to two thirds 

of antennomere 5 

shape of terminal maxillary 

palpomeres 

elongate to subacute truncate apically 

shape of parameres distal part not dilated in dorsal aspect distal part slightly dilated in dorsal 

aspect 

distribution E Socotra (Homhil basin) C Socotra (Hagher massif) 

irregularly rugo-punctate to rugose, surface becoming smother basally and shiny apicad, 

excepting few macrosetae on apical margin nude. 

Male genitalia (Fig. 24). Aedeagus symmetrical, parameres slender, relatively long, only 

slightly shorter than phallobasis, distal part not dilated in dorsal aspect, dorsoapical third 

densely covered with whitish microsetae. 

Variability in males. Paratypes somewhat variable in body length (11.7–15.3 mm), colour 

of dorsal surface and length and distribution of macrosetae. 

Female. Unknown. 

Differential diagnosis. The new species is closely related to C. socotrae Lacroix, 1994. For 

differentiation see the complex of diagnostic characters in the identifi cation key below and 

Table 1. 

Etymology. Derived from the area of origin of the new species, the Homhil basin; noun in 

apposition. 

Collecting circumstances. Probably diurnal species; all type specimens were captured climbing 

on vegetation (lower Croton L. and Jatropha L. (Euphorbiaceae) shrubs) during a sunny 

day late in the afternoon. 

Geographical distribution. Species endemic to Socotra Island; the whole type series originates 

from the Homhil basin in NE part of Socotra (Fig. 41). 

Canudema socotrae Lacroix, 1994 

(Figs. 3–5, 25, 33) 

Canudema socotrae Lacroix, 1994: 155, Figs. 1, 2, 5, 8, 12, 14 (description); LACROIX (1999): 95; LACROIX (2002): 

411, Figs. 44–52 (review); KRÁL & SMETANA (2006): 199 (catalogue); LACROIX (2007): 48, Figs. 279–288 (catalogue). 

Canaudema [sic!] socotrae: SABATINELLI & PONTUALE (1998: 130) (review) [incorrrect subsequent spelling]. 

Type locality. ‘Socotra, Mont Haggier, 600 m’. 

Type material examined. HOLOTYPE: �, labelled: ‘Socotra – 15.XI.1993 / Mont Haggier – 600m / sur fl eur jaune 

– diurne / J.-G. CANU legit. [p] // HOLOTYPE [p, red label] // Canudema socotrae / n.gen., n.sp. / HOLOTYPE / 

M. Lacroix det., X-1994 [p]’ in MNHN.


Additional material examined. YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: ‘G. of ADEN: / Socotra / No further / data [p] // Oxford 

Exped. / B.M. 1957-25 [p] // Melolonthidae / gen. nr. / Pachydemocera [h] / R.D. Pope det. 1969 [p] // Tanyproctus 

/ sp. [h] / DET. A.V. EVANS [p] ’87 [h]’, 1 � in BMNH. 

Diagnostic characters (��). Body length 14.2–14.8 mm. Body elongate, almost parallel; 

colour black, extremities and elytra dark brownish; dorsal surface alutaceous, pronotum and 

elytra fi nely whitish tomentose, macrosetation whitish (Fig. 3). 

Head. Outline of clypeus almost trapezoidal, with considerably upturned margin, surface 

depressed, anterior margin shallowly emarginate, anterior angles rounded, sides weakly 

rounded, divergent posteriad. Genae narrow, rounded. Frontoclypeal suture broadly arcuate, 

distinctly impressed. Eyes large, exceeding genae externally in dorsal aspect. Punctation of 

clypeus coarse and dense, each puncture bearing short, fi ne, recumbent macroseta. Vertex 

and occiput distinctly rugo-punctate, each puncture bearing long, fi ne, recumbent macroseta. 

Antennae decamerous, antennomere 2 short, approximately as long as wide, antennomere 3 

elongate; club heptamerous (Fig. 4), regularly arcuate, considerably long, twice as long as 

antennal shaft (antennomeres 1–3 combined), antennomere 4 prolonged basally in lamelle 

(club antennomere 1), reaching to two thirds of antennomere 5. Terminal maxillary palpomeres 

slightly truncate, with oval alutaceous fl at area subbasally. 

Pronotum weakly convex, approximately hexagonal, broadest approximately in middle, 

with subobsolete longitudinal midline, excepting basal margin all around bordered; anterior 

bead fl at, narrow, distinctly widened medially, irregularly coarsely punctate, macrosetation 

long, recumbent, directed posteriad; lateral margin considerably coarsely crenate, with row of 

long, erect macrosetae; basal margin with row of fi ne, almost regularly distributed punctures 

bearing mainly in posterior angles short, recumbent macrosetae directed anteriad. Anterior 

angles prominent, projecting over anterior margin, acute-angular, with rounded apex; sides 

in approximately anterior half almost straight, divergent posteriad, than almost straight 

convergent to very broadly obtuse posterior angles; basal margin broadly rounded. Surface 

coarsely, almost regularly punctuate. 

Scutellar shield approximately as wide as long, triangular; sides broadly arcuate, apex 

acute, surface with several punctures. 

Elytra moderately convex, only very slightly dilated posteriad; striae distinctly impressed, 

with rows of coarse, dense, almost regularly distributed punctures; sutural interval moderately 

convex, other intervals fl at, even intervals (2, 4, 6, 8, 10) considerably wider than odd (3, 5, 

7, 9) ones, all coarsely, sparsely, almost regularly punctate; lateral margin and sutural corner 

with row of robust, short, regularly distributed macrosetae, surface almost nude. 

Macropterous. 

Legs. Protibiae bidentate, coarsely punctate dorsally, subapical calcar stout, long, inserting 

against basal tooth; pro- and mesotarsomeres 2–4 not considerably widened, with patches of 

short, dense macrosetae (Fig. 33). 

Ventrites clothed with dense recumbent macrosetation; propygidium irregularly rugo-punctate 

and shortly recumbently macrosetaceous; pygidium shallowly, irregularly rugo-punctate 

to rugose, surface becoming smother basally and shiny apicad, excepting few macrosetae on 

apical margin nude.

160 



slightly shorter than phallobasis, distal part slightly dilated in dorsal aspect, dorsoapical third 

densely covered with whitish microsetae. 

Variability in males. Both specimens examined vary only slightly in body length (14.2– 

14.8 mm). Non-type specimen from BMNH is abraded, macrosetation on elytra is almost 

missing. 


Differential diagnosis. Refer to the identifi cation key below and Table 1. 

Collecting circumstances. Probably diurnal species; holotype was collected from a yellow 

fl ower (see holotype label). 

Geographical distribution. Species endemic to Socotra Island, so far known only from the 

Haghier massif situated in central part of Socotra. 

Genus Socotraproctus gen. nov. 

(Figs. 6–9, 26, 34) 

Type species. Socotraproctus haghier sp. nov., by original designation. 

Diagnosis. Male. Medium sized, elongate, colour black; dorsal surface moderately shiny 

(Fig. 6). Labrum small, bilobed; lobes rounded. Outline of clypeus almost trapezoidal, with 

considerably upturned margin, surface depressed (Fig. 7). Genae narrow. Frontoclypeal suture 

feebly bisinuate. Eyes relatively small, not extending beyond genae externally in dorsal 

aspect; distance between both eyes in ventral aspect exceeding remarkably diameter of eye. 

Antennae decamerous, antennomere 2 short, approximately as long as wide, antennomeres 

3–5 elongate; club pentamerous, straight, shorter than antennal shaft (antennomeres 1–5 

combined). Terminal maxillary palpomeres elongate, rounded apically, with oval alutaceous 

fl at area subbasally. Pronotum moderately convex, transversal, broadest approximately in 

middle, with narrow, impunctate, medial longitudinal strip, excepting basal margin all around 

bordered; surface coarsely, almost regularly punctate. Elytra moderately convex, only very 

slightly dilated posteriad; striae distinctly impressed, with rows of coarse, dense, almost 

regularly distributed punctures, each puncture bearing minute, recumbent macroseta; sutural 

interval moderately convex, other intervals fl at, even intervals (2, 4, 6, 8, 10) considerably 

wider than odd (3, 5, 7, 9) ones, all coarsely, densely, almost regularly punctate; odd intervals 

(mainly interval 3) covered with narrowly scale-like shaped, recumbent macrosetae, forming 

irregular, longitudinal, whitish strips. Protibiae tridentate, with only very weakly indicated 

basal teeth, subapical calcar inserted against medial tooth; meso- and metatibiae moderately 

expanded apicad, with two oblique carinae externally, apical edge with row of short, stout, 

equal macrosetae; terminal calcars stout, long, acute apically, lower calcar little shorter than 

upper; pro- and mesotarsomeres 2–4 not considerably widened, with patches of short, dense 

macrosetae; claws deeply cleft, both portions acute apically (Fig. 34). 

Male genitalia (Fig. 26). Aedeagus symmetrical, parameres long, slender, remarkably shorter 

than phallobasis, with longitudinal elevated carina dorsally, apical half opaque, densely 

covered with whitish microsetae in dorsal aspect. 

Female. Remarkably robust, moderately dilated posteriad (Fig. 8); outline of clypeus 

semicircular; eyes considerably small; elytra coalescent, fi nely pointed subapically, without


scale-like shaped macrosetae; brachypterous; protibiae bidentate; meso- and metatibiae 

strongly expanded apicad; pro- and mesotarsomeres simply shaped. 

Comparisons. Refer to the identifi cation key below. 

Etymology. Denotes the geographical distribution (Socotra Island) and relevance to the genus 

Tanyproctus Ménétriès, 1832. Masculine gender. 

Geographical distribution. Genus endemic to Socotra Island. 

Socotraproctus haghier sp. nov. 

(Figs. 6–9, 26, 34) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Haghier Mountains, Skant, 12˚34.557′N 54˚01.514′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, labelled: ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Hagher Mts., Skant / N 12˚34,557′, E 054˚01,514′ / 

7.-8.vi.2010 / V. Hula & J. Niedobová let. [p]’; paratypes Nos. 1–5 (��), same data; paratypes Nos. 6–12 (1 � and 

6 ��): ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Hagher Mts., SCAND Mt. env. / montane evergreen woodland / 16.–18.vi.2012 / 

12˚34.6′N, 54˚01.5′E, 1450 m [p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský 

/ J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [p]’. 

Type depositories. HT and PT Nos. 1, 6–10 in NMPC, PT Nos. 2, 11 in RSCV, PT Nos. 3, 12 in ABCC, PT No. 4 

in BMNH, PT No. 5 MNHN. 

Description of holotype (�). Body length 14.6 mm. Body elongate; colour black; dorsal 

surface moderately shiny, macrosetation pale to whitish (Fig. 6). 

Head. Labrum small, bilobed; lobes rounded, coarsely, regularly punctate. Outline of 

clypeus almost trapezoidal, with considerably upturned margin, surface depressed, anterior 

margin almost straight, anterior angles rounded, sides almost straight, divergent posteriad (Fig. 

7). Genae narrow, rounded. Frontoclypeal suture feebly bisinuate, distinctly impressed. Eyes 

relatively small, not extending beyond genae externally in dorsal aspect; distance between eyes 

in ventral aspect exceeding remarkably diameter of eye. Punctation of clypeus considerably 

coarse and dense, almost regularly distributed, punctures separated by less than their diameter, 

each puncture bearing short, fi ne, recumbent macroseta. Vertex and occiput distinctly rugopunctate, 

punctures separated by less than their diameter to confl uent, macrosetation absent. 

Genae rugo-punctate, with tuft of long, robust setae. Antennae decamerous, antennomere 2 

short, approximately as long as wide, antennomeres 3–5 elongate; club pentamerous, straight, 

shorter than antennal shaft (antennomeres 1–5 combined); antennomeres 1–5 with sparse, long 

macrosetae, club sparsely shortly macrosetaceous. Terminal maxillary palpomeres elongate, 

rounded apically, with oval alutaceous fl at area subbasally, approximately of same length as 

palpomeres 2 and 3 combined. 

Pronotum moderately convex, transversal, broadest approximately at middle, with narrow, 

impunctate, medial longitudinal strip, excepting basal margin all around bordered; anterior 

bead fl at, narrow, distinctly widened medially, irregularly coarsely punctate; lateral margin 

considerably coarsely crenate, with row of long, erect macrosetae; basal margin except medial 

area with row of fi ne, almost regularly distributed punctures bearing mainly in posterior angles 

short, recumbent macrosetae. Anterior angles prominent, projecting over anterior margin, 

acute-angular with rounded apex; sides in approximately anterior half almost straight, divergent 

posteriad to very broadly obtuse posterior angles; basal margin broadly rounded. Surface 

coarsely, almost regularly punctate, punctures separated by their 1–2 diameters, punctation

162 


Figs. 6–9. Socotraproctus haghier gen. nov. et sp. nov. 6–7 – male, paratype No. 1, body length 16.8 mm; 8–9 – female, 

paratype No. 7, body length 21.7 mm. 6, 8 – habitus; 7, 9 – head. Not to scale.


becoming denser and coarser discally (excepting longitudinal medial strip) and anterolaterally; 

most punctures bearing very short, fi ne, recumbent macrosetae, macrosetation becoming 

considerably longer and more robust anterolaterally and along anterior margin. 

Scutellar shield approximately as wide as long, triangular; sides broadly arcuate, apex 

acute, surface with several punctures basally. 

Elytra moderately convex, only very slightly dilated posteriad, sutural corner angular; 

striae distinctly impressed, with rows of coarse, dense, almost regularly distributed punctures, 

punctures separated approximately by their two diameters, each puncture bearing 

minute, recumbent macroseta; sutural interval moderately convex, other intervals fl at, even 

intervals (2, 4, 6, 8, 10) considerably wider than odd (3, 5, 7, 9) ones, all coarsely, densely, 

almost regularly punctate, punctures separated approximately by more than their diameter; 

odd intervals (mainly interval 3) covered with narrowly scale-shaped, recumbent macrosetae 

forming irregular, longitudinal whitish strips; lateral margin and sutural corner with row of 

stout, long, regularly distributed macrosetae. 

Macropterous. 

Legs. All femora shiny, irregularly coarsely punctate, row of long, recumbent macrosetae, 

medially; protibiae tridentate, with only very weakly indicated basal teeth, coarsely punctate 

dorsally, subapical calcar stout, long, inserted against medial tooth; meso- and metatibiae 

moderately expanded apicad, with two oblique carinae externally, apical edge with row of 

short, stout, equal macrosetae; terminal calcars stout, long, acute apically, lower calcar little 

shorter than upper; pro- and mesotarsomeres 2–4 not considerably widened, with patches of 

short, dense macrosetae; claws deeply cleft, both portions acute apically (Fig. 34). 

Ventrites clothed with dense, recumbent macrosetation; propygidium irregularly rugopunctate 

and shortly, recumbently macrosetaceous; pygidium all along bordered, shallowly, 

irregularly rugo-punctate to rugose, surface becoming smother basally and shiny apicad, 

excepting few macrosetae on apical margin nude. 

Male genitalia (Fig. 26). Aedeagus symmetrical, parameres long, slender, remarkably 

shorter than phallobasis, dorsally with longitudinal elevated carina, apical half opaque, densely 

covered with whitish microsetae in dorsal aspect. 

Variability in males. Paratypes only slightly variable in body length (14.5–16.8 mm), 

punctation of dorsal surface, length and distribution of macrosetae including scale-like shaped 

setae forming longitudinal elytral strips. 

Female. Body length 18.6–21.7 mm, differs from male in the following characters: body size 

larger, considerably robust, convex, moderately dilated posteriad, macrosetation pale (Fig. 8); 

outline of clypeus almost semicircular, sides more divergent posteriad (Fig. 9); eyes distinctly 

smaller; surface of clypeus bare, without macrosetation; antennal club considerably shorter; 

pronotum strongly convex, sides shallowly emarginate in posterior third, macrosetation much 

sparser, restricted aproximately only to anterior angles; scutellar shield impunctate; elytra coalescent, 

strongly convex, moderately dilated posteriad, fi nely pointed subapically (prolonged 

stria 3), surface shinier, striae indistinctly impressed, sutural interval strongly convex, macrosetation 

much sparser, odd intervals covered only with very sparsely and irregularly distributed, 

recumbent, long macrosetae; macrosetae of lateral margin distinctly longer and recumbent, 

macrosetae of sutural corner considerably dense, erect; brachypterous, metathoracic wings little

164 


longer than length of elytron; meso- and metafemora more robust; protibiae bidentate, subapical 

calcar shorter, slender, sharply pointed apically; meso- and metatibiae strongly expanded apicad; 

pro- and mesotarsomeres slender, not widened; pygidium shallowly concave subapically. 

Differential diagnosis. Refer to the identifi cation key below. 

Etymology. Derived from the area of origin of the new species, the Haghier massif, Socotra; 

noun in appositon. 

Collecting circumstances. Probably nocturnal species; all males collected in 2010 were 

picked at light (V. Hula, pers. comm); specimens collected in 2012 were found dead at ecotone 

of clearings surrounded predominantly with Leucas hagghierensis Al-Gifri & Cortés-Burns 

(Lamiaceae) and Hypericum scopulorum Balf. f. (Hypericaceae) shrubs in the montane evergreen 

woodland (J. Hájek, pers. comm.). 


from the Haghier massif situated in central part of the Socotra (Fig. 42). 

Genus Tanyproctus Ménétriès, 1832 

(Figs. 10–23, 27–31, 35–39) 

Tanyproctus Ménétriès, 1832: 185 (description); SABATINELLI & PONTUALE (1998): 131 (review); LACROIX (2002): 406, 

Figs. 26–43 (review); LACROIX (2004): 157, Figs. 3, 6, 9, 13, 15 (key); KRÁL & SMETANA (2006): 205 (catalogue); 

LACROIX (1999): 92, Figs. 28–43; LACROIX (2007): 166, Figs. 880–956 (catalogue, review). Only references dealing 

with the Socotran fauna are listed, for extensive bibliography, see LACROIX (2007). 

Type species. Tanyproctus persicus Ménétriès, 1832, by monotypy. 

Diagnosis. Body convex, more or less parallel, rarely dilated posteriad; clypeus transversal, 

anterior angles rounded, with more or less developed emargination; antennae decamerous, 

antennomere 2 remarkably prolonged, antennal club pentamerous (tetramerous in subgenus 

Tetraproctus Iablokoff-Khnzorian, 1953), all club antennomeres (6–10) of same length; anterior 

margin of pronotum bordered; protarsomeres 2–4 in males more or less strongly dilated, 

with patches of short macrosetae ventrally. 

Geographical distribution. Widely distributed genus, known from south-eastern Europe 

(Greece and Transcaucasia), northern Africa, Turkey, Near East including Sinai, Middle Asia, 

Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq to SW China and Laos, Myanmar and Thailand (see, e.g., KRÁL & 

SMETANA 2006, LACROIX 2007, KEITH 2009). 

Taxonomic remarks. Relatively large genus with 94 decribed species (LACROIX 2007, KEITH 

2009), recently divided into three subgenera (LACROIX 2007). They are Tanyproctocera Reitter, 

1902, Tanyproctus Ménétriès, 1832 and Tetraproctus Iablokoff-Khnzorian, 1953. All so far 

known Tanyproctus species from Socotra (including species described in this paper) could 

be classifi ed into the nominotypical subgenus due to the following diagnostic characters: 

antennal club pentamerous (tetramerous in Tetraproctus) and outline of clypeus trapezoidal 

with straight or emarginate anterior margin (semicircular in Tanyproctocera). 

Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) canui Lacroix, 1999 

(Figs. 21–23, 27, 36) 

Tanyprocus canui Lacroix, 1999: 92, Figs. 28–43 (description); LACROIX (2002): 408, Figs. 35–43 (review); WRANIK 

(2003): 360, Pl. 173 (note, photo of � and �); LACROIX (2007): 172, Figs. 881–896 (catalogue). 

Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) canui: KRÁL & SMETANA (2006): 206 (catalogue).


Type locality. ‘Île de Socotra, intérieur’. 

Type material examined. HOLOTYPE: �, labelled: ‘Ile de Socotra / Intérieur – XI – 1997 / Canu leg. [p] // HOLOTYPE 

[p, red label] // Tanyproctus / canui n.sp. [h] / M. LACROIX det. 19 [p] 99 [h]’ in MNHN. 

Additional material examined. YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is. / 21.xi.-12.xii.2003 / HADIBOH 

env., ca 10-100m / N12˚65′02″ E54˚02′04″ / [GPS], David Král lgt. [p] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; 

Jan Farkač / Petr Kabátek & David Král [p]’, 7 �� in NMPC; ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is. / 24-26/xi.2003 / WADI 

AYHAFT, 190m / N12˚36′38″ E53˚58′49″ / [GPS], David Král lgt. [p] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; 

Jan Farkač / Petr Kabátek & David Král [p]’, 9 �� and 1 � in NMPC; ‘Yemen: Soqotra Is. / 24-26.xi.2003 / WADI 

AYHAFT / N12˚36′38″ E53˚58′49″ / 190 m [GPS]; Jan Farkač lgt. [p] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; 

Jan Farkač / Petr Kabátek & David Král [p]’, 2 �� in NMPC; ‘Yemen: Soqotra Is. / 28-29.xi. / HOMHIL protected 

area, 2003 / N12˚34′27″ E54˚18′32″ / 364 m [GPS]; Jan Farkač lgt. [p] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; 

Jan Farkač / Petr Kabátek & David Král [p]’, 1 � in NMPC; ‘E SOCOTRA / sand dunes near / Irisseyl, 18.1.2010 

/ Saldaitis leg. [p] // Coll. I.R.Sc.N.B. / Material purchased / from Aidas SALDAITIS / I.G.: 32.084 [p]’, 3 �� in 

ISNB; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / wadi Ayhaft / 12˚36.5′N, 53˚58.9′E, 200m / Jiří Hájek leg., 7.-8.xi.2010 [p]’, 1 � 

and 2 �� in NMPC; ‘SOCOTRA Is. (YE) wadi Ayhaft / 12˚36.5′N, 53˚58.9′E, 200m / Jan Batelka leg., 7.-8.xi.2010 

[p]’, 5 �� and 2 �� in JBCP; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / wadi Ayhaft / 12˚36.5′N, 53˚58.9′E, 200m / J. Bezděk 

leg., 7.-8.xi.2010 [p]’, 5 �� in ABCC; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / wadi Ayhaft / 12˚36.5′N, 53˚58.9′E, 200m / 7.- 

8.xi.2010, L. Purchart lgt. [p]’, 1 � in ABCC. 

Diagnostic characters (��). Body length 11.8–17.2 mm. Body elongate; excepting dark 

brown to blackish head whole body light brownish; dorsal surface shiny, macrosetation pale 

(Fig. 21). 

Head. Labrum small, bilobed; lobes rounded, coarsely, irregularly punctate. Outline of clypeus 

almost trapezoidal, with considerably upturned margin, only distinctly depressed along margin 

and centrally, anterior margin almost straight, anterior angles rounded, sides broadly arcuate (Fig. 

22). Genae narrow, rounded. Frontoclypeal suture feebly arcuate, considerably impressed. Eyes 

relatively small, distinctly extending beyond genae externally in dorsal aspect; distance between 

eyes in ventral aspect exceeding remarkably diameter of eye. Punctation of clypeus coarse and 

dense, almost regularly distributed, punctures separated by approximately their diameter, each 

puncture bearing short, semierect macroseta. Vertex rather rugo-punctate, punctures separated 

by less than their diameter to confl uent, each puncture bearing very short, erect macroseta. 

Antennae decamerous, antennomere 2 short, approximately as long as wide, antennomeres 3–5 

elongate; club pentamerous, straight, shorter than antennal shaft (antennomeres 1–5 combined); 

antennomeres 1–5 with sparse, long macrosetae, club sparsely shortly macrosetaceous. Terminal 

maxillary palpomeres elongate, rounded apically, absent from depression, approximately of 

same length as palpomeres 2 and 3 combined. 

Pronotum moderately convex, transversal, broadest approximately at middle, with very fi nely 

impressed medial line, excepting broad basal interruption all around bordered; anterior bead fl at, 

narrow, distinctly widened medially, irregularly punctate; lateral margin considerably coarsely 

crenate, with row of long macrosetae; basal margin with row of fi nely and irregularly distributed 

punctures bearing mainly in posterior angles recumbent macrosetae. Anterior angles prominent, 

projecting over anterior margin, acute-angled, with rounded apex; sides in approximately anterior 

half almost straight, divergent posteriad to very broadly obtuse posterior angles; posterior margin 

broadly rounded. Surface bare, microsculptured and fi nely, densely, almost regularly punctate, 

punctures separated by their 2–4 diameters, area along medial longitudinal line smooth. 

Scutellar shield approximately as wide as long, triangulate, sides broadly arcuate, apex 

acute, surface with several punctures basally.

166 


Elytra convex, slightly dilated posteriad, sutural angle rounded; striae excepting sutural 

stria missing or only very feebly indicated; distinctly microsculptured and discally feebly 

transversally wrinkled, punctation coarse, dense, almost regular, punctures separated by their 

1–2 diameters, each puncture bearing very short, erect seta, sutural interval very slightly 

convex; sutural stria with row of irregularly distributed punctures; lateral margin distinctly 

bordered, with row of long erect setae. 

Macropterous. 

Legs. Femora moderately shiny, very sparsely irregularly punctate, punctures bearing long, 

recumbent macrosetae. Protibia tridentate, basal tooth considerably weak, terminal calcar long, 

sharp, slightly curved externally, acute apically, inserted against emargination between basal 

and medial teeth. Meso- and metatibia slightly expanded apicad, with two setiferous transversal 

carinae. Mesotibial terminal calcars equal in length, fl attened, acute apically. Metatibial 

terminal calcars equal in length, considerably fl attened, acute apically. Protarsomeres 2–4 

dilated (Fig. 36), mesotarsomeres 2–4 more slightly dilated that those of mesotibiae; pro- and 

mesotarsomeres 1–4 with remarkably shortly and densely macrosetaceous pads ventrally, 

metatarsomeres covered with long sparse macrosetae ventrally. Claws bifi d. 

Ventral surface of thorax with dense, long and recumbent macrosetation. 

Propygidium microsculptured, coarsely, sparsely and irregularly punctate; pygidium fi nely 

microsculptured, all around bordered, coarsely and irregularly punctate. 

Ventrites almost bare, remarkably coarsely and irregularly punctate. 


slightly shorter than phallobasis, distal part not dilated in dorsal aspect. 

Female. Body length 13.2–17.3 mm, differs from male as follows: clypeus prolonged, 

anterior margin rounded; eye canthus remarkably short; eyes smaller; punctation of clypeus 

rugo-punctate; antennal club short; pronotum more transverse, anterior angles more prominent, 

sides more coarsely crenate, with considerably long macrosetation; elytra plump, distinctly 

convex, strongly dilated in anterior third; striae more distinct; pygidium wider than long; 

femora and tibiae more expanded; apical teeth of protibia more robust, distinctly prominent; 

pro- and mesotarsomeres simple, without patches of macrosetae ventrally. 

Differential diagnosis. The species is closely related to the other known Socotran Tanyproctus 

species. For differentiation see the complex of diagnostic characters in the identifi cation 

key below. 

Collecting circumstances. Probably nocturnal species; all specimens originating from the 

Socotra expedition 2003 and 2010 (J. Hájek, pers. comm.) were collected at light. 

Geographical distribution. Species endemic to Socotra Island; so far recorded from the 

vicinity of Hadiboh, Wadi Ayhaft (Fig. 40), Homhil (Fig. 41) and Irisseyl. 

Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) keithi sp. nov. 

(Figs. 10–13, 28, 37) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin plateau, 400–500 m a.s.l., 12˚28′46″N 54˚00′89″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, labelled: ‘Republic of Yemen, Socotra Isl. / Firmihin plato – Dracena tree forest / 

N12˚28′465″, E54˚00′89830″ / V. Hula lgt. 22.-25.6.2009 [p]’; paratypes Nos. 1–8 (��): ‘Republic of Yemen, 

Socotra Isl. / Firmihin plato – Dracena tree forest / N12˚28′465″, E54˚00′89830″ / V. Hula lgt. 22.-25.6.2009 [p]’;


Figs. 10–13. Tanyproctus (T.) keithi sp. nov.: 10–11 – male, holotype, body length 16.1 mm; 12–13 – female, paratype 

No. 18, body length 15.4 mm. 10, 12 – habitus; 11, 13 – head. Not to scale.

168 


Figs. 14–18. 14–15 – Tanyproctus (T.) lacroixi sp. nov., male, paratype No. 20, body length 13.2 mm; 16–18 – T. (T.) 

puncticeps (Waterhouse, 1881), male, lectotype, body length 22.0 mm. 14, 16 – habitus; 15, 17 – head, 18 – labels. 

Not to scale.


Figs. 19–23. 19–20 – Tanyproctus (T.) wraniki sp. nov., male, holotype, body length 6.8 mm; 21–23 – T. (T.) canui 

Lacroix, 1999: (21, 23 – male, holotype, body length 13.1 mm; 22 – specimen from Hadiboh). 19, 21 – habitus; 20, 

22 – head; 23 – labels. Not to scale.

170 


paratype No. 9 (�): ‘ZOOLOGISCHE EXKURSION [p] / Diksam [centroid ca. 12˚31′N 53˚58′E] / Soc. / 28. 9. 

[h] 199 [p] 8 [h] / leg. [p] Wranik [h] // SOKOTRA / Coll. Wranik / Zoologisches Institut / der Universität Roskock 

[p] // Tanyproctus / n. sp. 2 from Socotra / det. G. Sabatinelli 2008 [p, white label with black frame]’; paratypes 

Nos. 10-11 (��): ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / MARSHIM cave, DIKSAM / plateau; 970 m a.s.l. / 12˚30′32″N 

53˚58′19″E / 9. V. 2004 lgt. A. REITTER [p]’; paratype No. 12 (�): ‘Repulic of Yemen / Socotra Isl., Shibhon / 

N12˚28′8807″, E053˚59′57520″ / 18.vi.2009, L. Purchart leg. [p]’; paratypes Nos. 13–14 (��): ‘Republic of Yemen 

/ Socotra Isl., 490-520 m / N12˚26′434″ E053˚59′124″ / V. Nerad lgt. 13.6.2009 [p]’; paratype No. 15 (�): ‘YEMEN, 

Socotra Isl. / Firmihin plato, 400-500 m / N12˚28′46″, E54˚00′89″ / 18.-19.vi.2010 / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. 

[p]’; paratypes Nos. 16–17 (��): ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Wadi Zirik, 12.vi.2010 / N12˚29,584′, E053˚59,475′ / 

V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [p]’; paratype No. 18 (�): ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Deiqub cave env. / 10.vi.2010 / V. 

Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [p]’; paratypes Nos. 19–51 (��): ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Shibhon plateau / ESERHE, 

13.vi.2012 / Croton socotranus shrubland / 12˚25.2′N, 53˚56.6′E, 547 m [p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. 

Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [p]’; paratypes 52–63 (9 

��, 1 �): ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Dixam plateau, wadi ZERIG / pools, Juncus marsh; Dracaena / trees; cave 

13.-14.vi.2012 / 12˚29.6′N, 53˚59.5′E, 655 m [p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. 

Kment, I. Malenovský / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [p]’. 

Type depositories. HT and PT Nos. 10–12, 19–45, 52–56, 61 in NMPC, PT Nos. 1–2, 5, 16, 48–49, 57 in RSCV, 

PT Nos. 3–4, 13, 15, 17–18, 50–51, 58–60 in ABCC, PT No. 6 in DKCC, PT No. 7 in MLCP, PT No. 8 in BMNH, 

PT No. 9 in IBUR, PT No. 14 in MNHN, PT No. 46 in GSCA, PT No. 47 in ISNB, PT Nos. 62–63 in ZFMK. 

Description of holotype (�). Body length 16.1 mm. Body elongate; excepting blackish head 

whole body castaneous; dorsal surface moderately shiny, macrosetation pale (Fig. 10). 

Head. Labrum small, bilobed; lobes rounded, coarsely, irregularly punctate. Outline of 

clypeus almost trapezoidal, with considerably upturned margin, only distinctly depressed along 

margin and centrally, anterior margin almost straight, anterior angles rounded, sides broadly 

arcuate (Fig. 11). Genae narrow, rounded. Frontoclypeal suture feebly arcuate, considerably 

impressed. Eyes relatively small, distinctly extending beyond genae externally in dorsal aspect; 

distance between eyes in ventral aspect exceeding remarkably diameter of eye. Punctation of 

clypeus coarse and dense, almost regularly distributed, punctures separated by approximately 

their diameter, each puncture bearing short, semierect macroseta. Vertex rather rugo-punctate, 

punctures separated by less than their diameter to confl uent, each puncture bearing very 

short, erect macroseta. Antennae decamerous, antennomere 2 short, approximately as long 

as wide, antennomeres 3–5 elongate; club pentamerous, straight, shorter than antennal shaft 

(antennomeres 1–5 combined); antennomeres 1–5 with sparse, long macrosetae, club sparsely 

shortly macrosetaceous. Terminal maxillary palpomeres elongate, rounded apically, absent 

from depression, approximately of same length as palpomeres 2 and 3 combined. 

Pronotum moderately convex, transversal, broadest approximately in middle, with very fi nely 

impressed medial line, excepting broad basal interruption all around bordered; anterior bead fl at, 

narrow, distinctly widened medially, irregularly punctate; lateral margin considerably coarsely 

crenate, with row of long macrosetae; basal margin with row of fi nely and irregularly distributed 

punctures bearing mainly in posterior angles recumbent macrosetae. Anterior angles prominent, 

projecting over anterior margin, acute-angled, with rounded apex; sides in approximately anterior 

half almost straight, divergent posteriad to very broadly obtuse posterior angles; posterior margin 

broadly rounded. Surface bare, microsculptured and fi nely, densely, almost regularly punctate, 

punctures separated by their 2–4 diameters, area along medial longitudinal line smooth. 


acute; with several punctures basally.








Macropterous. 







dilated (Fig. 37), mesotarsomeres 2–4 dilated more slightly that those of mesotibiae; pro- and 









Variability in males. Paratypes somewhat variable in body length (12.2–16.8 mm), slightly 

variable in punctation density of dorsal surface, length and distribution of macrosetae, and 

colour of elytron being from light to dark brown. 

Female. Body length 15.4–17.3 mm, differs from male as follows: clypeus prolonged, 

anterior margin rounded; eye canthus remarkably short; eyes smaller; punctation of clypeus 

rugo-punctate; antennal club short (Fig. 13); pronotum more transverse, anterior angles more 

prominent, sides more coarsely crenate, with considerably long macrosetation; elytra plump, 

distinctly convex, strongly dilated in anterior third; striae more distinct (Fig. 12); pygidium 

wider than long; femora and tibiae more expanded; apical teeth of protibia more robust, 

distinctly prominent; pro- and mesotarsomeres simple, without patches of macrosetae. 

Differential diagnosis. The new species is closely related to the other known Socotran 

Tanyproctus species. For differentiation see the complex of diagnostic characters in the 

identifi cation key below. 

Etymology. Patronymic; named in honour of our friend Denis Keith (Chartres, France), an 

excellent student of scarab beetles. 

Collecting circumstances. Probably crepuscular or nocturnal species; specimens from Eserhe 

were collected at fl ight over Croton shrubland between 4–5 p.m. (i.e. 2–1 hour(s) before 

sunset) with majority of specimens around 5 p.m. (J. Hájek, pers. comm.), other specimens 

of the type series were collected at light (V. Hula & L. Purchart, pers. comm.). 

Geographical distribution. Species endemic to Socotra Island; so far recorded from central 

areas.

172 


Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) lacroixi sp. nov. 

(Figs. 14, 15, 30, 38) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin plateau, 400–500 m a.s.l., 12˚28′46″N 54˚00′89″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, labelled: ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Firmihin plato, 400-500 m / N12˚28′46″, E54˚00′89″ 

/ 18.-19.vi.2010 / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [p]’; paratypes Nos. 1–14 (��): ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Firmihin 

plato, 400-500 m / N12˚28′46″, E54˚00′89″ / 18.-19.vi.2010 / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [p]’; paratypes Nos. 15–22 

(��): ‘Republic of Yemen, Socotra Isl. / Firmihin plato – Dracena tree forest / N12˚28′465″, E54˚00′89830″ / V. Hula 

lgt. 22.-25.6.2009 [p]’; paratype No. 23 (�): ‘Republic of Yemen / Socotra Isl., Firmihin plato / Dracena tree forest / 

N12˚28′465″, E54˚00′89830″ / 22.-25.6.2009, L. Purchart leg. [p]’; paratypes Nos. 24–52 (��): ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA 

Island / Dixam plateau 14.-15.vi.2012 / FIRMIHIN, Dracaena woodland / 12˚28.6′N, 54˚01.1′, 490 m [p] // SOCOTRA 

expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [p]’. 

Type depositories. HT and PT Nos. 1–5, 24–31 in NMPC, PT Nos. 6–10, 47–50 in RSCV, PT Nos. 11–18, 23, 

32–44 in ABCC, PT No. 19 in MLCP, PT No. 20 in DKCC, PT No. 21 in MNHN, PT No. 22 in BMNH, PT No. 45 

in GSCA, PT No. 46 in ISNB, PT Nos. 51–52 ZFMK. 


whole body light brownish; dorsal surface moderately shiny, macrosetation pale (Fig. 14). 


clypeus semielliptic, with distinctly upturned margin, only weakly depressed along margin 

and centrally, medial emargination almost absolete, anterior angles rounded, sides broadly 

arcuate (Fig. 15). Genae narrow, rounded. Frontoclypeal suture feebly arcuate, distinctly impressed. 

Eyes relatively small, distinctly extending beyond genae externally in dorsal aspect; 










Pronotum moderately convex, transversal, broadest approximately in middle, with very 

fi nely impressed medial line, excepting broad basal interruption all around bordered; anterior 

bead fl at, narrow, distinctly widened medially, irregularly punctate; lateral margin considerably 

coarsely crenate, with row of long macrosetae; basal margin with row of fi nely and 

irregularly distributed punctures bearing mainly in posterior angles recumbent macrosetae. 

Anterior angles prominent, projecting over anterior margin, acute-angled, with rounded apex; 

sides in approximately anterior half almost straight, divergent posteriad to very broadly obtuse 

posterior angles; posterior margin broadly rounded. Surface bare, microsculptured and fi nely, 

densely, almost regularly punctate, punctures separated by their 2–4 diameters, area along 

medial longitudinal line smooth. 




stria missing or only very feebly indicated; distinctly microsculptured and discally feebly


transversally wrinkled, punctation coarse, dense, almost regular, punctures separated by 1–2 

their diameters, each puncture bearing very short, erect seta, sutural interval very slightly 



Macropterous. 

Legs. Femora moderately shiny, very sparsely, irregularly punctate, punctures bearing long, 















Variability in males. Paratypes somewhat variable in body length (11.1–16.0 mm), slightly 

variable in punctation density of dorsal surface and length and distribution of macrosetae. 


Differential diagnosis. The new species is closely related to the other known Socotran 

Tanyproctus species. For differentiation see the complex of diagnostic characters in the 

identifi cation key below. 

Etymology. Patronymic; named in honour of our colleague Marc Lacroix (Paris, France), an 

excellent specialist on Melolonthinae, especially Tanyproctini. 

Collecting circumstances. Probably nocturnal species; all specimens of the type series were 

collected at light (V. Hula & L. Purchart, pers. comm.). 


from the Firmihin plateau (central part of the island) (Fig. 43). 

Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) puncticeps (Waterhouse, 1881) 

(Figs. 16–18, 29, 35) 

Pachydema puncticeps Waterhouse, 1881: 471; GAHAN (1903): 268; DALLA TORRE (1913): 301 (catalogue). 

Tanyproctus puncticeps: LACROIX (1994): 157, Figs. 3, 6, 9, 13, 15; SABATINELLI & PONTUALE (1998): 130; LACROIX 

(1999): 92; LACROIX (2002): 406, Figs. 26–34 (review); LACROIX (2007): 183 (catalogue). 

Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) puncticeps: KRÁL & SMETANA (2006): 207 (catalogue). 

Type locality. ‘Socotra’. 

Type material examined. LECTOTYPE: � (designated by LACROIX 1999), labelled: ‘Type [p, round label, red frame] 

// Lecto- / type [p, round label, violet frame] // Socotra / 81.51 [h] // Pachydema / puncticeps / (Type) Waterh. [h] // 

Pachydema puncticeps Waterh. / LECTOTYPE désigné par / M. Lacroix – 1994 [p]’ in BMNH.

174 


Figs. 24–27. Aedeagus in lateral (left) and dorsal (right) aspect: 24 – Canudema homhil sp. nov., holotype; 25 – C. 

socotrae Lacroix, 1994, holotype; 26 – Socotraproctus haghier gen. nov. et sp. nov., holotype; 27 – Tanyproctus 

(T.) canui Lacroix, 1999, specimen from Hadiboh. Scale bar: 1.0 mm.


Figs. 28–31. Aedeagus in lateral (left) and dorsal (right) view: 28 – Tanyproctus (T.) keithi sp. nov., holotype; 29 

– T. (T.) puncticeps (Waterhouse, 1881), lectotype; 30 – T. (T.) lacroixi sp. nov., holotype; 31 – T. (T.) wraniki sp. 

nov., holotype. Scale bar: 1.0 mm.

176 


Figs. 32–39. Male right protarsus in dorsal aspect: 32 – Canudema homhil sp. nov., holotype; 33 – C. socotrae Lacroix, 

1994, holotype; 34 – Socotraproctus haghier gen. nov. et sp. nov., paratype No. 2; 35 – Tanyprotus (T.) puncticeps 

(Waterhouse, 1881), lectotype; 36 – T. (T.) canui Lacroix, 1999, specimen from Hadiboh; 37 – T. (T.) keithi sp. nov., 

holotype; 38 – T. (T.) lacroixi sp. nov., paratype No. 2; 39 – T. (T.) wraniki sp. nov., holotype. Scale bar: 3.0 mm.


Description of lectotype (�). Body length 22.0 mm. Body elongate; excepting blackish head 





















Anterior angles prominent, projecting over anterior margin, acute-angled, with rounded apex; 













Macropterous. 









metatarsomeres covered with long sparse macrosetae ventrally. Claws bifi d.

178 











key below. 

Collecting circumstances. Unknown. 

Geographical distribution. Species endemic to Socotra Island. 

Remark. LACROIX (1999) reported the type specimen as a female, nevertheless the dissection 

proved it was a male. 

Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) wraniki sp. nov. 

(Figs. 19, 20, 31, 39) 

Type locality. Socotra, Diksam plateau, centroid ca. 12˚31′N 53˚58′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, labelled: ‘ZOOLOGISCHE EXKURSION [p] / Diksam / Nov. [h] 199 [p] 8 [h] / leg. 

[p] Wranik [h] // SOKOTRA / Coll. Wranik / Zoologisches Institut / der Universität Roskock [p] // Tanyproctus / n. 

sp. 1 from Socotra / det. G. Sabatinelli 2008 [p, white label with black frame]’ in IBUR. 






















Anterior angles prominent, projecting over anterior margin, acute-angled, with rounded apex;


Figs. 40–43. Habitats of Tanyproctini in Socotra: 40 – Typical habitat of Tanyproctus (T.) canui Lacroix, 1999, Wadi 

Ayhaft, November 2003 (photo by DK); 41 – Type locality of Canudema homhil sp. nov. and habitat of T. (T.) canui 

Lacroix, 1999, Homhil massif, November 2003 (photo by DK); 42 – Type locality of Socotraproctus haghier gen. 

nov. et sp. nov., Haghier Mountains, Skant, November 2010 (photo by J. Hájek); 43 – Type locality of T. (T.) keithi 

sp. nov. and T. (T.) lacroixi sp. nov., Dixam plateau, Firmihin, November 2010 (photo by J. Hájek). 













Macropterous.

180 


Legs. Femora moderately shiny, very sparsely, irregularly punctate, punctures bearing 

long, recumbent macrosetae setae. Protibia tridentate, basal tooth considerably weak, terminal 

calcar long, sharp, slightly curved externally, acute apically, inserted against emargination 

between basal and medial teeth. Meso- and metatibia slightly expanded apicad, with 

two setiferous transversal carinae. Mesotibial terminal calcars equal in length, fl attened, 

acute apically. Metatibial terminal calcars equal in length, considerably fl attened, acute 

apically. Protarsomeres 2–4 dilated, mesotarsomeres 2–4 more slightly dilated that those 

of mesotibiae; pro- and mesotarsomeres 1–4 with remarkably shortly and densely macrosetaceous 

pads ventrally (Fig. 39), metatarsomeres covered with long sparse macrosetae 

ventrally. Claws bifi d. 










key below. 

Etymology. Patronymic; named in honour of Wolfgang Wranik (Rostock, Germany), a great 

connoisseur of the Socotran nature and the collector of the new species. 

Collecting circumstances. Unknown. 

Geographical distribution. Species endemic to Socotra Island; a single known specimen so 

far originates from the Diksam plateau. 

Tanyproctus (Tanyproctus) sp. 

Material examined. �, labelled: ‘ZOOLOGISCHE EXKURSION [p] / Homil / Soc. / 3. 10. [h] 199 [p] 8 [h] / leg. 

[p] Wranik [h] // SOKOTRA / Coll. Wranik / Zoologisches Institut / der Universität Roskock [p] // Tanyproctus / n. 

sp. 3 from Socotra / det. G. Sabatinelli 2008 [p, white label with black frame]’ in IBUR. 

Remark. This specimen seems to be almost identical with T. canui in general assemblance 

including shape of aedeagus. But its metatarsomeres are more slender and almost lacking 

short macrosetae ventrally. Because there are no additional specimens at our disposal, we are 

not able to decide on its taxonomic status at the moment. 

Identifi cation key for males of Tanyproctini known from Socotra 

1 (4) Antennal club hexa- or heptamerous; protibia bidentate; pro- and mesotarsomeres 

2–4 elongate; dorsal surface of pronotum and elytra with fi ne whitish toment in fresh 

specimens. ...................................................................... Canudema Lacroix, 1994 

2 (3) Antennal club hexamerous (Fig. 2). ........................................... C. homhil sp. nov. 

3 (2) Antenal club heptamerous (Fig. 4). ................................ C. socotrae Lacroix, 1994


4 (1) Antenal club pentamerous; protibia tridentate (in Socotraproctus gen. nov. basal tooth 

only weakly indicated); pro- and mesotarsomeres 2–4 elongate or strongly dilated; 

whitish toment of dorsal surface absent. 

5 (6) Dorsal surface moderately shiny; punctation considerably coarse; elytron covered 

with distinctly narowly scale-like shaped, recumbent, whitish macrosetae arranged 

in longitudinal strips (Fig. 6); pro- and mesotarsomeres 2–4 elongate; eyes small, 

not exceeding lateral outline of genae in dorsal aspect (Fig. 7). ............................... 

.................................................................. Socotraproctus haghier gen. et sp. nov. 

6 (5) Dorsal surface shiny; punctation (except of head) more or less fi ne; elytron glabrous 

or covered with not scale-like shaped macrosetae arranged in longitudinal strips; pro- 

and mesotarsomeres 2–4 strongly dilated; eyes large, distinctly protruding, exceeding 

lateral outline of genae in dorsal aspect. ................... Tanyproctus Ménétriès, 1832 

7 (8) Protarsomeres 2–4 more dilated than those of mesotarsomeres (Fig. 39); considerably 

small in size – 6.8 mm. ........................................................ T. (T.) wraniki sp. nov. 

8 (7) Pro- and mesotarsomeres 2–4 equally dilated; larger in size (11.8–22.0 mm). 

9 (10) Pronotal lateral margin shallowly emarginate in posterior half; punctation of pronotum 

and elytra fi ne, sparse; considerably large in size – 22.0 mm. .................................. 

..................................................................... T. (T.) puncticeps (Waterhouse, 1881) 

10 (9) Pronotal lateral margin broadly rounded or straight in posterior half; punctation of 

pronotum coarser and denser; medium sized – 11.1–17.2 mm. 

11 (12) Unicoloured; slender in body shape; clypeus almost trapezoidal, distinctly emarginate 

anteriorly; occiput fl at, coarsely, more or less densely punctate; propygidium simply, 

sparsely punctate. ......................................................... T. (T.) canui Lacroix, 1999 

12 (11) Unicoloured or bicoloured; more robust in shape; clypeus almost bilobed, shallowly 

emarginate to straight anteriorly; occiput fl at to gibbous, punctate to impunctate; 

propygidium rugo-punctate in about basal half. 

13 (14) Unicoloured; eyes large, remarkably prominent; occiput never gibbous, only slightly 

elevate in maximum sized specimens. ............................... T. (T.) lacroixi sp. nov. 

14 (13) Unicoloured or bicoloured; eyes smaller, less prominent; occiput remarkably gibbous 

in maximum sized specimens. ................................................ T. (T.) keithi sp. nov. 


We are very grateful to Maxwell V. L. Barclay (BMNH), Antoine Mantilleri (MNHN) and 

Jiří Hájek (NMPC) for the opportunity to study the material in their care. Guido Sabatinelli 

(Amman, Jordan) kindly provided us with the specimens collected by Wolfgang Wranik, 

Zuzana Čadová (Liberec, Czech Republic) executed all line-drawings and Vladimír Bejček, 

Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek and Karel Šťastný (all Prague) were excellent companions during 

the Socotra expedition 2003 (DK). We also thank Dirk Ahrens (ZFMK) and Guido Sabatinelli 

for helpful comments on the manuscript. This study was supported by the grant No. 

LA10036/MSMT ‘Participation of young scientists of MZLU Brno to the research activities 

of IUFRO - The Global Network for Forest Science Cooperation’ - fi nanced by the Ministry

182 


of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic; David Král was also supported by the 

institutional resources of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic 

for the support of science and research. 

References 

BEZDĚK J., PURCHART L., KRÁL K. & HULA V. 2012: List of local Socotran geographical names used in entomological 

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names in Coleoptera (Insecta). ZooKeys 88: 1–972. 

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& SCHENKLING S. (eds.): Coleopterorum Catalogus. Volumen XX. W. Junk, Berlin, 450 pp. 

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Melolonthidae). Fauna of Saudi Arabia 17: 107–146. 




Homothyrea inornatipennis (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: 

Cetoniinae: Leucocelina): immature stages and distribution 

Petr ŠÍPEK*, Tomáš VENDL & David KRÁL 

Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Viničná 7, CZ-128 43 

Praha 2, Czech Republic 

* corresponding author: e-mail: sipekpetr80@gmail.com 

Abstract. Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903 is the only known Cetoniinae 

from the Socotra Island (Yemen). Recently collected adults were kept in laboratory 

conditions and reared. All immature stages (larval instars and pupa) are described in 

detail and compared with the known larvae of the subtribe Leucocelina. Available 

data on distribution of this rose chafer are presented. 

Key words. Scarabaeoidea, Cetoniini, Homothyrea, immature stages, description, 

distribution, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Recently, the authors had the opportunity to study the Scarabaeoidea collected during several 

Czech expeditions to the Socotra Island. Among this material, a collection of the rose chafer 

Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903, originating from several localities throughout the 

island was found. Part of the material was imported alive to Prague, reared, and it became 

the basis for the description of immature stages presented below. 

Rose chafers of the genus Homothyrea Kolbe, 1895 are confi ned to the Afrotropical region. 

Seven species-group taxa have been described so far from the eastern and north-eastern part 

of Sub-Saharan Africa and from the Arabian Peninsula including the Socotra Island (MIKŠIĆ 

1982; ANTOINE 1993, 2001; KRAJČÍK 1998; SMETANA 2006). According to KRIKKEN 1984 the 

genus Homothyrea is included in the Cetoniini subtribe Leucocelina, which contains approximately 

190 species in 26 genera. Including the herein described species, immature stages 

of only 11 Leucocelina species are known so far (ŠÍPEK & KRÁL 2012). 


The terminology for larval description follows HAYES (1929), BÖVING (1936) and RITCHER 

(1966). Antennomeres I–IV were labelled with the respective abbreviations (an I–an IV) in the 



184 

ŠÍPEK et al.: Homothyrea inornatipennis (Scarabaeidae): immature stages and distribution 

descriptions. In order to give the most accurate information on chaetotaxy hair-like setae of 

the cranium and other structures were classifi ed by their relative size into two groups: medium 

to long (80–300 μm) and minute or small (5–40 μm or less) setae. For a detailed schematic 

fi gure, refer to ŠÍPEK et al. (2008). Morphological analyses and measurements were carried out 

using Olympus SZX9 and Olympus BX 40 light microscopes, both equipped with an Olympus 

Camedia 5060 digital camera. Mouthparts were dissected and, whenever necessary, mounted 

on slides in Liquide de Swan (e.g., ŠVÁCHA & DANILEVSKY 1986). Photographs were taken 

using a Canon 550D digital camera, equipped with a Canon MP-E 65/2.8 MACRO lens with 

5:1 optical magnifi cation. Partially focused images of each specimen were combined using 

Zerene photo stacker software (Zerene systems LLC, Richland, USA). Structures examined 

with the JEOL 6380 scanning electron microscope were cleaned in 10% lactic acid for 24 hours, 

dried with critical point drying and mounted on aluminium plates. All pictures were digitally 

enhanced using Adobe Photoshop CS4. Exact label data are cited for the material examined. 

The authors’ remarks and additional comments are found in square brackets. Information in 

(‘parentheses’) indicates the original spelling in the original description. 

Adults were kept in standard laboratory conditions in a 10 litre transparent bucket, fi lled 

with a 20 cm layer of rearing substrate, composed of decaying leaf litter (beech, oak), soft 

rotten wood and sand (2:1:2 ratio). Adults were provided with ripe banana ad libitum and the 

bucket was sprayed with water every 2–3 days. 

The specimens included in this study are deposited in the following institutional and 

private collections: 

BMNH The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdon (Maxwell V. L. Barclay); 

CNCI Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematods, Ottawa, Canada (Owen Lonsdale); 

CULS Faculty of Forestry, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (Jan Farkač); 

CUPC Department of Zoology, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic (Petr Šípek); 

JBCP Jan Batelka collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 

NMPC National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic (Martin Fikáček, Jiří Hájek). 

Results 

Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903 

(Figs. 1–5) 

Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903: 269. Type locality: ‘Sokotra: Hadibu plain’. 

Published record. Sokotra, 10.16 Dec. [18]98, Hadibu plain, W.R.O.Grant, Lectotype, BMNH (ANTOINE 1993). 

Material examined (112 adult specimens). Yemen, Soqotra Is., 22.xi.2003, ca 20–170m, Suq, E env. – sand dune, 

N12°40′02′′E54°03′45′′ (GPS), David Král lgt., Yemen – Soqotra 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David 

Král, 2 spec. in NMPC; Yemen, Soqotra Is., 5.–6.xii. 2003, Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 57 m, N12°20′10′′E 

53°37′56′′ (GPS), David Král lgt., Yemen – Soqotra 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David Král, 

3 spec. in NMPC; same data but Jan Farkač lgt., 1 spec. in NMPC; Yemen, Soqotra Is., 5.–6.xii. 2003, Noged plain 

(sand dunes), 11 m, N12°21′09′′E54°01′47′′ (GPS), David Král lgt., Yemen – Soqotra 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, 

Petr Kabátek & David Král, 18 spec. in NMPC; same data but Jan Farkač lgt., 26 spec. in CULS, 23 spec. in 

NMPC; same data but Petr Kabátek lgt., 18 spec. in NMPC; Yemen, Soqotra Is., 6.–7.xii.2003, Noged plain, Wadi 

Ireeh, 95 m, N12°23′11′′ E53°59′47′′ (GPS), David Král lgt., Yemen – Soqotra 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr 

Kabátek & David Král, 9 spec. in NMPC; Yemen, Soqotra Is., 9.xii.2003, Qalansiyah env., Ditwah (lagoon), 23m, 

N12°41′42′′ E 53°30′08′′ (GPS), David Král lgt., Yemen – Soqotra 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek &


Fig. 1. Sketch map of the Socotra Island with known distribution of Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903, empty 

dot represents the type locality. 

David Král, 5 spec. in NMPC; Yemen, Socotra Island, 10.–11.xi.2010, Noged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma 

vill. env., 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 20 m, Jan Batelka leg., 26 spec. in JBCP; same data but Jan Bezděk leg., 2 spec. in 

NMPC; same data but Jiří Hájek leg., 7 spec. in NMPC. 

Natural history. This species is probably associated with sandy habitats, including sand dunes. 

The above material was taken predominantly from fl owers of Asteraceae, trees and shrubs 

of Adenium Roemer & Schultes, Tamarix Linnaeus and Mimosoideae (formerly referred to 

as genus Acacia Miller). 

Distribution. Endemic to the Socotra Island, see map on Fig. 1. 

Remark. Old records of Homothyrea helenae from the Socotra Island (WATERHOUSE 1881, 

TASCHENBERG 1883) are most likely related to H. inornatipennis. These records come from 

the time when H. inornatipennis had not yet been described and more recent records (MIKŠIĆ 

1982, SMETANA 2006) only seem to repeat the older sources. 

Immature stages of Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903 

(Figs. 2B–K, 3–5) 

Material examined. Eight fi rst-instar larvae; 13 second-instar larvae, 60 third-instar larvae, and one pupa. All material 

was reared from adults collected by David Král in Yemen, Soqotra Island 5.–6. xii. 2003, Noged plain Qaareh 

(waterfall), 57 m, N12°20′10′′ E53°37′56′′. The material is deposited at CNCI, CUPC, and NMPC. 

Third-instar larva (Figs. 2B, 2E–K, 3A–G, 5A–E). Larva scarabaeiform, maximum length 

23.0–32.5 mm, cranium pale brown to reddish-brown, body whitish. Abdominal segments 

IX and X fused dorsally, ventrally separated by an incomplete groove. 

Head capsule (Fig. 2G). Maximum width 2.4–2.6 mm. Surface of cranium with weak 

microsculpture, pale brown to red-brown; antennifer, postclypeus and labrum brown; area 

around frontoclypeal suture and apices of mandibles black. Cranial chaetotaxy summarized in 

Table 1. Frontal sutures bisinuate. Epicranial insertions of antennal muscles feebly developed 

(visible as only small depressions near the middle of frontal sutures).

186 


Table 1. Cranial chaetotaxy of the larva of Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903. 

Abbreviations. AAS = setae on anterior frontal angle; ACS = anterior clypeal setae; AES = anterior epicranial setae; 

AFS = anterior frontal setae; DES = dorsoepicranial setae; ECS = exterior clypeal setae; EES = exterior epicranial 

setae; EFS = exterior frontal setae; ELS = exterior labral setae; LLS = setae on lateral labral lobe; PES = posterior 

epicranial setae; PFS = posterior frontal setae; PLS = posterior labral setae; PMS = paramedial labral setae. SMLL 

= setae on the median labral lobe. Numbers in brackets indicate a rarely occurring state. For explanation of length 

categories of setae see Materials and methods. 

Epicranium Frons Clypeus Labrum 

Group of setae 

L3 

DES PES AES EES PFS EFS AFS AAS ACS ECS PLS PMS ELS LLS SMLL 

Long and medium 1(2) 0(1) 1 2 1 – – 1 1 1(2) 1–6 1 2 5–6 6–8 

setae 

(1–3) 

Minute setae 3–4 2–4 – 2–6 – 1 1 – 0(1) 1(0) 0(1) 0 – – – 

L2 

(2–7) (1) 

Long and medium 

setae 

1 – 1 2 1 – – 1 1 1 3 1 2 4–6 8 

Minute setae 

L1 

1–3 0–3 – 1– 

4(6) 

– 0–1 0–1 – – (0)1 – – – – – 

Long and medium 

setae 

1 – 1 2 1 – – 1 1 1 3 1 2 5–6 6–8 

Minute setae 2–6 1(4) – 0–2 – 0–1 0–1 – – 1 – – – – – 

Anterior and exterior frontal setae minute. Clypeus subrectangular, anteclypeal part 

membranous represents about 1/3 of entire clypeal area. Postclypeus strongly sclerotized with 

one anterior and a pair of exterior clypeal setae (of which one might be heavily reduced). 

Frontoclypeal suture distinct. Stemmata absent. 

Antennae (Figs. 2E–G). Tetramerous (an I–IV), relative length of antennomeres: an I > 

an IV > an II > an III); fi rst antennomere (an I) about the length of an II and an III combined. 

Antennomere III with ventral, apical projection exhibiting single sensory spot. Ultimate 

antennomere (an IV) with two dorsal and three ventral sensory spots and a single round 

apical sensoric fi eld. 

Labrum. Symmetrical, anterior margin trilobed with numerous setae. Clithra present. Dorsal 

surface with two transverse rows of setae. Posterior row with about two to six setae on each 

side, anterior row with one prominent paramedian and one lateral seta on each side. 

Epipharynx (Fig. 2I). Haptomerum: Zygum convex, with arcuate row of 10–14 stout setae 

and medial transverse row of another four to six stout slightly prolonged setae. Typically eight 

sensilla of zygum organized in arched row distal to row of stout setae. Haptomeral process 

and proplegmata absent. Acroparia: External margin of medial labral lobe with three to four 

long setae on ventral side and three to four setae on dorsal side. Lateral labral lobes with fi ve 

to six long setae. Acanthoparia with four to seven small conical setae. Plegmata absent. 

Chaetoparia asymmetric, right half exhibiting fi ve to six, left four to fi ve irregular rows of 

setae. Medial rows with stout, spine-like setae. Right side of chaetoparia with approximately 

50, left with approximately 40 setae. Dexiotorma, robust, straight, right pternotorma present. 

Laeotorma reduced, left pternotorma triangular, large. Haptolachus: Sense cone (left nesium)


Fig. 2. Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903. A – adult male. B–D – habitus of larva. B – third-instar, length 

32 mm; C – second-instar; D – fi rst-instar. E–K – third-instar larva. E – antenna, ventral view; F – antenna, dorsal 

view; G – cranium; H – metathoracic leg; I – epipharynx; J – maxillo-labial complex; K – last abdominal segment, 

raster. Scale bars: C–K = 1 mm.

188 


Fig. 3. Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903, third-instar larva. A–C – right mandible. A – dorsal, B – medial, 

C – ventral view; D–F – left mandible. D – ventral, E – medial, F – dorsal view; G – thoracic spiracle. Scale bars: 

A–E = 1mm, G = 100 μm. 

with four pores, sclerotized plate (right nesium) absent. Plate-shaped sclerite present medially 

to sense cone. Anterior part of haptolachus with several slender hair-like setae, posterolateral 

part with group of two pore-like setae on each side. Phoba and crepis absent. 

Mandibles (Figs. 3A–F, 5A). Asymmetrical, scrobis with four to fi ve setae, longitudinal 

furrow absent. Anterolateral portion of dorsal mandibular surface with row of two prominent 

setae and medial pore, another pore found near centre of dorsal mandibular face. Patches of two 

to four dorsomolar setae concealed in single rim present on both mandibles. Ventral surface 

with fi ve to eight ventromolar setae in single rim and additional single seta. Stridulatory area 

present, with about 16–19 transversal ridges (Fig. 5A). Left mandible with four scissorial 

teeth. Right mandible with two prominent scissorial teeth and a third scissorial tooth indicated 

only as slight convexity on scissorial margin. Molar lobes of both mandibles with sharp projections. 

Posterior margin of right mandibular calyx bilobed (in medial aspect) with dorsal 

lobe about twice larger than ventral. Calyx of left mandible fl attened with convex posterior 

margin. Brustia with three to fi ve or 10–12 setae on right and left mandible, respectively. 

Maxilla (Figs. 2J, 5B–D). Dorsal surface of cardo and labacoparia with two to four or 14–20 

setae respectively. Dorsomedial surface of stipes with around 15 slender hair-like setae and 

oblique row of four to fi ve well sclerotized spine-like stimulatory teeth and anterior truncate 

process (blunt tubercle, Fig. 5C). Another four to fi ve prominent setae located in distal part 

of stipes. Ventral face of stipes with few setae. Galea and lacina entirely fused forming mala, 

galeo-lacinial suture indistinct, entirely absent on ventral face. Galear portion of mala with


Fig. 4. Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903, immature stages. A – fi rst-instar larva, cranium; B – second-instar 

larva, raster; C – fi rst-instar larva, raster; D – fi rst-instar larva, thoracic spiracle; E – second-instar larva, cranium; 

F – second-instar larva, epipharynx; G – second-instar larva; spiraculum; H – pupa, ventral view (total length 13 mm); 

I – pupa, dorsal view; J – pupa, lateral view; K – second-instar larva, maxillo-labial complex (left maxilla removed). 

Scale bars: A–C = 200 μm; D, G = 50 μm; E, F, K = 0.5 mm. 

single falcate uncus and several long and stout hair-like setae in longitudinal rows; lacinia with 

one large and one small uncus fused at their base (Fig. 5D); dorsomedial side with numerous 

very long hair-like setae. Ventral surface of mala with row of three to fi ve stout setae and few 

long setae. Maxillary palpi tetramerous, penultimate palpomere usually with two setae. 

Hypopharyngeal sclerome (Figs. 2J, 5E). Asymmetrical with strong protruding and pointed 

truncate process. Tufts of tegumentary expansions (= phoba, sensu BÖVING 1936) present 

on left lateral lobe and on mesolateral margin of hypopharyngeal sclerome below truncate 

process. Both lateral lobes only feebly sclerotized.

190 


Fig. 5. Homothyrea inornatipennis Gahan, 1903, immature stages. A–E – third-instar larva. A – left mandible, 

stridulatory area; B – maxillo-labial complex; C – maxillary stridulatory teeth; D – left maxilla, detail with unci; 

E – hypopharyngeal sclerome; F – fi rst-instar larva, egg-burster. 

Ligula (Figs. 2J, 5E). Dorsal surface with a group of approximately 15 long hair-like setae 

on each side; paramedial longitudinal row of three stout setae; proximal transverse row of 

nine to 12 campaniform sensilla interrupted by paramedial pair of conical setae. Labial palpi 

bimerous. 

Thorax (Figs. 2B, 2H, 3G). Prothorax with single dorsal lobe, meso- and metathorax 

with three well developed lobes. Each dorsal sublobe of thoracic segments with two or three 

rows of setae, anterior row(s) short (approx. 50 μm), setae of posterior row about two to 

three times as long as previous and interspersed with very long setae (400 μm). Prothoracic 

sclerite covering almost whole lateral portion of prothorax. Mesothoracic spiracle (Fig. 3G) 

with C-shaped respiratory plate; distance between lobes of respiratory plate about two times 

of maximum diameter of respiratory plate. Respiratory plate with eight to ten holes across 

diameter. All pairs of legs (Figs. 2B, 2H) subequal. Pretarsi cylindrical with eight setae, claws 

absent (Fig. 2H). 

Abdomen (Figs. 2B, 2K). Nine-segmented. Dorsa of abdominal segments I–VI with three 

sublobes, segments VII and VIII with only two. Each sublobe bearing four to six rows of setae. 

Similarly to thorax, setae in anterior rows short, posterior row distinctly longer setae. 

Abdominal spiracles similar to mesothoracic spiracle, all spiracles subequal in size. 

Abdominal spiracle VI–VIII more or less circular. Dorsum of ultimate abdominal segment 

(fused segments IX and X) with numerous (semi) hamate setae interspersed with several 

long hair-like setae. 

Raster (Fig. 2K). Palidium monostichous (however, a few irregular pali may be scattered 

around main row), composed of approximately 25–30 pali arranged in single semi-elliptical 

or horseshoe-shaped row. Septula opened posteriorly, almost as wide as long. Tegilla fused


composed of numerous short to medium long setae, covering almost whole ventral surface 

of abdominal segment X. Ventral anal lip with numerous setae, medial portion with approximately 

20 medium long to long setae. Chaetotaxy of dorsal anal lobe similar to ventral lobe; 

however, long setae more numerous. 

Second-instar larva (Figs. 2C, 4B, 4E–G, 4K). Larva similar to third-instar larva with the 

exception of the following: maximum body length 12–20 mm, maximum width of the head 

capsule 1.55–1.66 mm. Cranial chaetotaxy summarized in Table 1. Laeotorma more developed 

(Fig. 4F). Spiracles (Fig. 4G): bula without spiracular slit (ecdysial scar), distance between 

lobes of respiratory plate nearly same as maximum diameter of respiratory plate. Raster (Fig. 

4B): Pali feebly developed, much shorter than setae of tegilla. 

First-instar larva (Figs. 2D, 4A, 4C, D, 5F). Larva similar to third-instar larva with the 

exception of the following: maximum body length 11.0–12.5 mm, maximum width of the 

head capsule between 0.9 and 1.0 mm. Cranial chaetotaxy summarized in Table 1. Metathorax 

with peg-like egg-burster (Fig. 5F). Spiracles (Fig. 4D): respiratory plate elliptical, bula very 

small, ecdysial scar absent. Raster without pali, tegilla feebly developed. 

Pupa (Figs. 4H–J). Length 13 mm, maximum width 6 mm. Exarate, testaceous, surface 

glabrous. Head bent ventrally. Mouthparts and antenna well-separated. Labrum tumid, clypeus 

slightly concave. Maxilla elongated and conical. Compound eyes distinct. Thorax: pronotal 

disc convex. Lateral margins of pronotal disc distinct. Meso- and metanota differentiated. 

Mesonotum with triangular posterior projection. Pterothecae free, closely compressed around 

body and almost equal in length. Spines and spurs on tibiae poorly developed, tarsomeres 

well defi ned. Abdomen: Dorsal surface with nine visible, progressively narrowing segments, 

penultimate segment semicircular, large; last segment narrow (about 1/4 of the previous 

segment). Gin traps (dioneiform organs sensu COSTA et al. 1988) absent. Terga of abdominal 

segments II–V with coarse medial tubercle (Figs. 4I, J). Spiracles of abdominal segments I–IV 

functional, feebly sclerotized, fi rst spiracular pair almost covered by pterothecae. Spiracles 

of abdominal segments V–VIII non-functional and rudimentary. Urogomphi absent. Genital 

ampulla of male pupa spherical and prominent. 

Discussion 

Besides the above described larvae of Homothyrea inornatipennis, larvae of another 

ten Leucocelina species are known (ŠÍPEK & KRÁL 2012). DONALDSON (1987) described the 

larvae of Leucocelis amethystina (MacLeay, 1838), L. haemorrhoidalis (Fabricius, 1775), 

L. rubra (Gory & Percheron, 1833), Leptothyrea perroudi (Schaum, 1844), Mausolepis 

amabilis (Schaum, 1844), and Phoxomela umbrosa (Gory & Percheron, 1833). The larvae 

of Grammopyga cincticollis (Hope, 1842) have been described by JERATH & UNNY (1965). 

The larvae of three Oxythyrea Mulsant, 1842 species are known so far: O. cinctella (Schaum, 

1841) – MEDVEDEV (1952); O. funesta (Poda, 1761) – MICÓ & GALANTE (2003), and O. pantherina 

(Gory & Percheron, 1833) – ŠÍPEK (2005). According to DONALDSON (1987) and MICÓ 

& GALANTE (2003), third-instar larvae of the subtribe Leucocelina are characterized by a 

horseshoe-shaped palidium, which also applies to the larvae of Homothyrea inornatipennis.

192 


However, this character does not correspond to the description of Grammopyga cincticollis 

by JERATH & UNNY (1965) and Phoxomela umbrosa by DONALDSON (1987). Unfortunately, 

a more detailed comparison of the H. inornatipennis larval morphology with the species 

described by DONALDSON (1987) is impossible due to the descriptions which are too concise. 

The descriptions of Oxythyrea funesta and O. pantherina are far more complete and allow 

to conclude that larvae of both genera are very similar in their morphology, differing only 

in minute details. Species in the genus Oxythyrea have a higher number of pretarsal setae 

(nine to ten or 12–14 in O. funesta and O. pantherina respectively versus eight in H. inornatipennis) 

and a higher number of respiratory holes in the respiratory plates (10–14 and 

13–16 respectively versus 8–10). Third-instar larvae of O. funesta also differ from those of H. 

inornatipennis in the mandibular stridulatory area being composed of approximately ten and 

15–20 ridges respectively. Additionally, the distance between the ridges is almost the same in 

the entire stridulatory area of H. inornatipennis, while the distance between the distal ridges 

is approximately double the distance between the proximal stridulatory ridges in O. funesta. 

Besides an overall morphological similarity, larvae of both genera also have similar rearing 

requirements under laboratory conditions (for more details on captive breeding of O. funesta 

refer to MICÓ & GALANTE 2003). The only, but quite signifi cant, difference is that larvae of 

the genus Oxythyrea exhibit a more seasonal pattern of reproduction, which is not present in 

Homothyrea, suggesting that the species may occur throughout the year. The developmental 

period took from 3–5 months. 


We are grateful to the following persons: Dirk Ahrens (Alexander Koenig Museum, Bonn) 

and Jiří Hájek (NMPC) obtained some inaccessible literature; Vladimír Bejček, Jan Farkač, 

Petr Kabátek and Karel Šťastný (all Prague) were excellent companions during the Socotra 

expedition in 2003 (DK). The study has been fi nancially supported by institutional resources 

of Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic for the support of science 

and research and of the Charles University Grant Agency (grant #GAUK 416411). The work 

was supported by the grant SVV-2012-256 206. 

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194 




Polycestinae (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) of Socotra Island 

Mark G. VOLKOVITSH 

Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Universitetskaya nab. 1, R-199034 Saint Petersburg, 

Russia; e-mail: polycest@zin.ru 

Abstract. Five polycestine species are reported from Socotra Island including 

three new species: Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) kabateki sp. nov.; A. (A.) hadiboe 

sp. nov.; and A. (A.) socotraensis sp. nov. Svatacesta Zabransky, 2004, syn. nov., 

described originally as a subgenus of the genus Strigoptera Dejean, 1833 is considered 

a junior synonym of the genus Pseudocastalia Kraatz, 1896, and a new 

combination, Pseudocastalia socotra (Zabransky, 2004) comb. nov., is proposed. 

Illustrations of each species are provided, and a key is given for the identifi cation 

of Socotran species of Acmaeodera Eschscholtz, 1829. Host plants for three 

Acmaeodera species are recorded for the fi rst time. All Socotran Polycestinae are 

endemic for the island and demonstrate Afrotropical relations. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Buprestidae, Polycestinae, Pseudocastalia, Strigoptera, 

Acmaeodera, taxonomy, new species, new synonym, new combination, new host 

plants, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The Buprestidae of Socotra Island are still poorly known. Only a few buprestid species have 

been reported from this island so far: Julodis clouei Buquet, 1893 (Julodinae), Strigoptera (Svatacesta) 

socotra Zabransky, 2004 (Polycestinae: Polycestini), Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) 

holmi Levey & Volkovish, 1996 (Polycestinae: Acmaeoderini), Anthaxia (Haplanthaxia) 

angulinota Bílý, 1984, A. (H.) crotonivora Bílý, 2005, A. (H.) socotrensis Bílý, 1984 and 

Chalcogenia nana Bílý, 2012 (Buprestinae: Anthaxiini) (LEVEY & VOLKOVITSH 1996; ZABRAN- 

SKY 2004; BÍLÝ 2005, 2006, 2012; KUBÁŇ & VOLKOVITSH 2006; VOLKOVITSH 2006; BELLAMY 

2008). All the above mentioned species are endemic to Socotra Island. On the other hand, 

none of the polycestine species recorded from mainland Yemen (cf. VOLKOVITSH 2006) have 

been found on Socotra Island. Three new species of Acmaeodera, subgenus Acmaeotethya 

Volkovitsh, 1979 from Socotra Island are described below. 



196 

VOLKOVITSH: Polycestinae of Socotra Island (Buprestidae) 


Genitalia were extracted from moistened specimens, placed in hot 10 % KOH aqueous 

solution for 10 minutes, rinsed in water; aedeagus (penis extracted from tegmen) or ovipositor 

were separated from postabdominal segments and then mounted in glycerine jelly mountant 

medium (Brunel Microscopes Ltd., Chippenham, UK) on the slides for observation and illustration. 

Habitus and some genital images were taken using an Olympus SZ-CTV dissecting 

microscope mounted with a Olympus-Camedia 3030 Zoom camera or Leica MZ-9.5 microscope 

mounted with a Leica DFC-290 camera. Genitalia images of Acmaeodera species were 

taken using a Bresser-Biolux light microscope with integrated imaging system. 

Codens of collections used throughout the text: 

BMNH The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom; 

GMCC Gianluca Magnani collection, Cesena, Italy; 

MGCR Maurizio Gigli collection, Rome, Italy; 

NMPC National Museum, Praha, Czech Republic; 

PZCW Petr Zabransky collection, Wien, Austria; 

VKCB Vítězslav Kubáň collection, Brno, Czech Republic (deposited in NMPC); 

ZIN Zoological Institute RAS, Saint-Petersburg, Russia. 

Label data in the type material sections are given verbatim; separate labels are divided by 

double slash (//). 

Taxonomy 

Subfamily Polycestinae Lacordaire, 1857 

Tribe Polycestini Lacordaire, 1857 

Subtribe Polycestina Lacordaire, 1857 

Genus Pseudocastalia Kraatz, 1896 

Pseudocastalia Kraatz, 1896: 84. Type species: Pseudocastalia bennigseni Kraatz, 1896, by subsequent designation 

of COBOS (1981: 43). 

Svatacesta Zabransky, 2004: 119 (as subgenus of Strigoptera Dejean, 1833), syn. nov. Type species: Strigoptera 

socotra Zabransky, 2004, by original designation. 

Pseudocastalia socotra (Zabransky, 2004) comb. nov. 

(Figs. 1–10, 18, 19) 

Strigoptera (Svatacesta) socotra Zabransky, 2004: 119 (original description). 

Strigoptera (Svatacesta) socotra: BELLAMY (2008): 382 (catalogue). 

Type material. PARATYPES (2 �� 2 ��, NMPC, PZCW): Yemen-Socotra Isl., 1993, ex larva, Petr Zabranky leg. // 

coll. P. Zabransky // Paratypus Strigoptera (Svatacesta subgen. n.) socotra sp. n., det. Petr Zabransky, 2004. 

Notes. ZABRANSKY (2004) placed the species from Socotra into the newly described subgenus 

Svatacesta Zabransky, 2004 within the mainly Oriental genus Strigoptera Dejean, 1833 [nine 

species in the Oriental region and a single Afrotropical species S. bettoni (Waterhouse, 1904) 

from coastal East Africa]. P. Zabransky (pers. comm.) based this decision on a “broad” concept 

of the taxonomic composition of the genus Strigoptera (sensu lato). However, the study of


Figs. 1–13. Pseudocastalia and Strigoptera spp. 1–10 – Pseudocastalia socotra (Zabransky, 2004), paratypes: 1 

– dorsal view, male (12.2 mm); 2 – dorsal view, female (18.2 mm); 3, 4 – lateral view, male; 5 – frontal view, male; 

6 – pronotum, male, dorsal view; 7 – left antenna, male, ventral view; 8 – hind tarsus, male, dorsal view; 9 – hind 

tarsus, male, ventral view; 10 – apical part of male abdomen. 11 – Strigoptera bimaculata (Linnaeus, 1758), apical 

part of male abdomen. 12 – Pseudocastalia penrithae Holm, 1982, holotype, wing. 13 – Strigoptera obsoleta 

Chevrolat, 1841, wing.

198 


Figs. 14–17. Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya), dorsal view. 14 – A. holmi Levey & Volkovitsh, 1996 (8.8 mm); 15 – A. 

kabateki sp. nov., holotype (5.4 mm); 16 – A. hadiboe sp. nov., holotype (3.4 mm); 17 – A. socotraensis sp. nov., 

paratype (6.2 mm). 

the paratypes of S. (Svatacesta) socotra has shown that this species actually belongs to the 

Afrotropical genus Pseudocastalia Kraatz, 1896. 

The principal diagnostic character of Pseudocastalia is the laterally deeply emarginated 

pronotal and elytral bases (Figs. 1–4, 6) and the opening the apical part of the mesepisterna 

appearing like teeth from above (COBOS 1980, HOLM 1982); in Strigoptera the pronotal and 

elytral sides are contiguous or shallowly emarginated. Another important character is the presence 

of a short rudiment of AA3a’ vein on the wings (Fig. 12) (terminology follows FEDORENKO 

2009), while in Strigoptera this rudiment is lacking (Fig. 13). Another reliable character to 

distinguish these genera is a lateral serration of the penis, well marked in Strigoptera (Fig. 21) 

and completely lacking in Pseudocastalia (Fig. 19). Finally, the shape of apical abdominal 

ventrite in males of Pseudocastalia (Fig. 10) differs from that in Strigoptera (Fig. 11). In 

accordance with this character set, S. socotra is transferred to the genus Pseudocastalia and 

the genus level name Svatacesta is treated as a junior subjective synonym of Pseudocastalia. 

The placement of this species into a separate subgenus is unwarranted. 

Although all the specimens of P. socotra have been reared from wood, its host plant is 

still unknown.


Tribe Acmaeoderini Kerremans, 1893 

Subtribe Acmaeoderina Kerremans, 1893 

Genus Acmaeodera Eschscholtz, 1829 

Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) holmi Levey & Volkovitsh, 1996 

(Figs. 14, 22, 23) 

Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) holmi Levey & Volkovitsh, 1996: 144, Figs. 3, 9, 10 (original description). 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (BMNH), [YEMEN] Socotra, Hadibo Plain, Ras H.M., Foothills 400 m, 30.iv.1967, 

K. Guichard // B.M. 1967-455. PARATYPES (3 ��): Socotra, Hadibo Plain, Kalansiya S.L., 25.iii.1967, K. Guichard 

(2 �� BMNH); same label, 0–500’, 30.iv.1967, K. Guichard (1 � BMNH). 

Additional material examined (n = 25). YEMEN: Socotra Island: Ayhaft, 15.iii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný 

leg. (1 spec. VKCB; 1 � microslide # 1731 ZIN); [Wadi] Ayhaft, 200 m, 12°36.5′ N, 53°58.9′ E, 7–8.xi.2010, L. 

Purchart leg. (1 � NMPC); Calanthia, 29–30.iii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (1 spec. VKCB); Es Gedo (wadi), 

24.ii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (1 spec. VKCB); Firmihin, 400–500 m, 12°28′27″ N, 54°0′54″ E, 6–7.ii.2010, 

yellow traps, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (1 � NMPC); Hadiboh env., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 12°65′02″ N, 54°02′04″ 

E, 10–100 m (GPS), P. Kabátek leg., ex larve // Croton socotranus // Yemen, Soqotra, 2003 expedition J. Farkač, 

P. Kabátek & D. Král (1 � NMPC; 2 spec. ZIN); Noged, 12°318′ N, 53°678′ E (GPS), 250 m, 27.ii.–1.iii.2000, V. 

Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (7 spec. VKCB; 5 spec. ZIN); Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE from Quaysoh, 12°39′691′′ 

N, 053°26′658′′ E, 4–5.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (1 � NMPC); Qalansiyah env., N slopes Khayrha mts. 

9–10.xii.2003, 12°38′50″ N, 53°27′45″ E, 85–592 m (GPS), P. Kabátek leg., ex larve // Croton socotranus // Yemen, 

Soqotra, 2003 expedition J. Farkač, P. Kabátek & D. Král (1 spec. NMPC); Wadi Daneghan, 4.x.1999, A. v. Harten 

(1 spec. GMCC); Zerik, 25–27.iii.2001, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (1 spec. VKCB). 

Host plant. Croton socotranus Balf.f. (Euphorbiales, Euphorbiaceae) (fi rst record). 

Distribution. Yemen: Socotra Island. 

Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) kabateki sp. nov. 

(Figs. 15, 24, 25, 30) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Wadi Deneghen, 12°36′55″ N, 54°03′49″ E, 85 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), YEMEN, Soqotra Is., Wadi Deneghen, 27.xi.2003, 12°36′55″ N, 54°03′49″ 

E, 85 m [GPS], leg. P. Kabátek, ex larve // Croton socotranus // YEMEN, SOQOTRA, 2003, Expedition: Jan 

Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David Král, 2003. PARATYPES (6 ��, 1 �): same data (1 � NMPC; 1 � microslide # 1876 

ZIN); YEMEN, Soqotra Is., Suq, E env. – sand dunes, 22.xi.2003, 12°40′02″ N, 54°03′45″ E, 20–170 m [GPS], leg. 

P. Kabátek, ex larve // Acacia pennivenia // YEMEN, SOQOTRA, 2003, Expedition: Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek & 

David Král, 2003 (1 � NMPC); YEMEN, Soqotra Is., Hadiboh env., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, N 12°65′02″, E 54°02′04″, 

10–100 m (GPS), leg. P. Kabátek, ex larve // Zizyphus spina-christi // YEMEN, SOQOTRA, 2003, Expedition: 

Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David Král, 2003 (1 � MGCR; 1 � microslide # 1830 ZIN); YEMEN, Socotra island, 

Firmihin, 400–500 m, N 12°28′27″, E 54°0′54″, 6–7.ii.2010, yellow traps, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral, lgt. (1 � NMPC); 

YEMEN, Socotra island, Firmihin, 400–500 m, N 12°28′46″, E 54°00′89″, 18–19.vi.2010” V. Hula & J. Niedobová 

leg. (1 � microslide # 1877 ZIN). 

Description. Total length 5.6 (5.1–6.2) mm, width 1.6 (1.5–1.8) mm. Body (Fig. 15) small, 

elongate, 3.43 (3.29–3.60; n = 8) times as long as pronotum at base, slightly convex, without 

dorsal curvature; blackish-bronze with feeble copper or violet sheen, occasionally pronotal 

disc with bluish sheen; pronotal sides with large basal and smaller anterior yellow or orange 

maculae, the latter occasionally prolonged along anterior margin, disc usually with “V”-shaped 

prescutellar macula frequently broken into three small isolated spots; elytra black and brown

200 


with yellow ochre or orange markings, without metallic sheen; elytral markings extremely 

variable, formed by irregular longitudinal and oblique stripes and confl uent maculae; body 

dorsally covered with short, recumbent and semierect, white and brownish setae, ventrally 

with longer semierect white setae. 

Head broad, fl attened, vertex slightly depressed medially when seen from above; frons 

fl attened, without medial line or depression, with weakly curved, markedly diverging sides. 

Vertex 1.92 (1.82–2.00) times as wide as transverse diameter of eye and 1.13 (1.10–1.17) 

times as wide as frons above antennal sockets. Clypeus rather narrow, with broad, shallow, 

arcuate medial emargination anteriorly. Frons with reticulate, occasionally changing to 

ocellate sculpture of small, round, umbilicate punctures with distinct semilunar inner granules 

and relatively large eccentric micropunctures; intervals about half the diameter of puncture, 

smooth; covered with short, semierect and recumbent white and brownish setae. Antennae 

expanded from antennomere 4 in both sexes; in male very long, 2.37 (1.97–2.69), in female 

1.61 times as long as vertical diameter of eye; antennomere 2 elongate-oval, slightly swollen; 

antennomere 3 elongate, slender, feebly expanded towards apex; antennomere 4 abruptly 

expanded, triangular, slightly longer than wide; antennomeres 5–10 bluntly triangular, slightly 

longer than wide; antennomere 11 strongly elongate, oval; antennae of female similar but 

antennomeres less expanded. 

Pronotum moderately convex, relatively long, 1.29 (1.19–1.33) times as wide at base as 

long, widest at midlength, occasionally just behind midlength or at posterior third; sides 

regularly arcuate. Аnterior margin feebly bisinuate, slightly produced at centre, basal margin 

straight. Lateral carina fi ne, usually not reaching anterior corners, interrupted. Pronotal surface 

regularly convex, without medial depression or line; prescutellar fossa poorly marked, lateral 

fossae punctiform, sometimes inconspicuous. Pronotal sides with regular reticulate changing 

to pseudoalveolate (consisting of large, dense, deep punctures) sculpture of round umbilicate 

punctures with inconspicuous inner structure (central grains and micropunctures), not forming 

concentric rugosities toward disc; disc with pseudoalveolate sculpture of large deep simple 

punctures. Pronotum laterally with short, recumbent, white setae; disc with semierect white 

and brownish setae; laterally with large basal and smaller anterior yellow to orange maculae, 

anterior macula occasionally prolonged along anterior margin; disc with “V”-shaped prescutellar 

macula (Fig. 15) occasionally broken into three small spots or completely reduced. 

Anterior prosternal margin weakly emarginated, bordered with poorly marked groove; prosternum 

weakly convex, covered with punctate to pseudoalveolate sculpture of small, deep 

punctures; meso- and metaventrites with same sculpture. Pronotal hypomeron bearing ocellate 

sculpture of larger umbilicate punctures with distinct inner structure. 

Elytra (Fig. 15) elongate, 2.49 (2.44–2.53) times as long as wide at base, slightly convex; 

sides weakly expanded at humeri, subparallel toward posterior 1/3, then arcuately converging 

to narrowly rounded apices. Subhumeral excision shallow but distinct; epipleural serrations 

poorly marked at posterior fourth, apical teeth saw-like. Strial punctures very big, 

deep, round, separate; discal striae visible up to base, wider than intervals forming punctate 

sculpture. Intervals very narrow, subequal except for wider lateral ones, at disc about half 

the diameter of strial punctures; 9 th interval often elevated; intervals with fi ne, uniseriate or


confused biseriate punctures; background with delicate transverse rugosities. Elytra black and 

brown with yellow ocher or orange markings of Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) cisti Wollaston, 

1862 or A. (Palaeotethya) rubromaculata Lucas, 1844 type, extremely variable, formed by 

irregular longitudinal and oblique stripes and confl uent maculae; sometimes light elements 

dominating; covered with short (less than wide of interval), semierect, uni- and confused 

biseriate, white, occasionally mixed with brownish setae. 

Legs black or blackish brown, occasionally with bronzy sheen; metacoxal plates with 

posterior margin nearly straight or slightly emarginate, without lateral tooth. Tibiae slender, 

feebly widened toward apices; metatibiae bearing comb of brownish setae externally. Tarsomeres 

subequal, short; tarsomere 5 slender; tarsal pads poorly developed on tarsomeres 1–3, 

each larger toward distal end. Tarsal claws long, curved, with internal tooth reaching apical 

third in male; in female, shorter, reaching about midlength. 

Abdomen blackish-bronze with coppery sheen; covered with uniform pseudoalveolate 

sculpture of big, dense, simple punctures and semierect white setae. Anal ventrite in male 

short, regularly rounded apically, that in female longer and bordered with a groove. 

Male: Aedeagus as in Figs. 24, 25. Penis elongate, nearly parallel-sided; lamina (see VOL- 

KOVITSH 1979, Figs. 33, 48) long, narrow, stripe-like; apical apodeme narrow. 

Female: Ovipositor (Fig. 30) of typical tubular type, long, approximately 3.5 times as long 

as expanded apical part, with emarginated apex. 

Differential diagnosis. Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) kabateki sp. nov., A. (A.) hadiboe sp. 

nov. and A. (A.) socotraensis sp. nov. described below belong to the Afrotropical A. (A.) 

signata species-group (VOLKOVITSH 1979) and comes close to A. (A.) puberula Solier, 1833 

and A. (A.) alcmeone Thomson, 1878 from South Africa and Namibia, particularly in the 

big strial punctures which are wider than in African species. Based on the elytral markings, 

some specimens are externally similar to A. (A.) vanharteni Volkovitsh, 2011 (A. (A.) cisti 

species-group) from the Arabian Peninsula, but can be distinguished easily by the wide striae, 

extensive pronotal markings and male genitalia structure. A. (A.) kabateki sp. nov. differs from 

A. (A.) hadiboe sp. nov. and A. (A.) socotraensis sp. nov. by the elongate body (3.43 times as 

long as pronotum at base), wider striae, pronotal markings, and, particularly, male genitalia 

structure (Figs. 24–29). Additionally, it differs from A. (A.) hadiboe sp. nov. by darker and 

more contrasting elytral markings, reticulate sculpture of head, pronotal sides and pronotal 

hypomeron, composed of umbilicate punctures, unicolorous tibiae and tarsi; from A. (A.) 

socotraensis sp. nov. – by lighter coloration with metallic sheen, lack of dorsal curvature, 

frontal sides less strongly diverging to vertex, longer antennae of male, regularly rounded 

pronotal margins, extensive pronotal markings, indistinct elytral serration, and predominantly 

semierect pilosity. 

Etymology. The species name is dedicated to Petr Kabátek (Praha, Czech Republic), the fi rst 

collector of this species. 

Host plants. All specimens collected by P. Kabátek have been reared from the host plants: 

Croton socotranus Balf.f. (Euphorbiales: Euphorbiaceae), Acacia pennivenia Schweinf. 

(Fabales: Fabaceae), Zizyphus spina-christi (L.) Dest. (Rhamnales: Rhamnaceae). 

Distribution. Yemen: Socotra Island.

202 


Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) hadiboe sp. nov. 

(Figs. 16, 26, 27) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island: Hadiboh, Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE from Quaysoh, 12°39,691′ N 

053°26,658′ E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), YEMEN, Socotra isl., Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE from Quaysoh, N 

12°39,691′, E 053°26,658′, 4–5.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. PARATYPES (1 �, 1 �): YEMEN, Soqotra Is., 

Hadiboh env., 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, N 12°65′02′′, E 54°02′04′′, 10–100 m (GPS), leg. P. Kabátek, ex larve // Zizyphus 

spina-christi // YEMEN, SOQOTRA, 2003, Expedition: Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David Král, 2003 (1 �, 

microslide # 1879, ZIN); YEMEN, Socotra isl., found dead in rent car, 11.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.” 

(1 � NMPC, strongly damaged). 


relatively short, 3.13 (3.00–3.29; n = 3) times as long as pronotum at base, fl attened, without 

dorsal curvature; coppery-bronze with copper or violet sheen; pronotal sides with large basal 

and smaller anterior yellow maculae; elytra mainly yellow with brown markings, without 

metallic sheen; elytral markings variable, more or less reticulate; tibiae and tarsi yellowish; 

body dorsally covered with short, recumbent and semierect, white and brownish setae, ventrally 

with longer recumbent white setae. 

Head broad, fl attened when seen from above; frons slightly convex, without medial line 

or depression, with weakly curved or nearly straight, markedly diverging sides. Vertex 1.95 

(1.91–2.00) times as wide as transverse diameter of eye and 1.15 (1.10–1.20) times as wide 

as frons above antennal sockets. Clypeus rather narrow, with broad, shallow, arcuate medial 

emargination anteriorly. Frons with pseudoalveolate sculpture of big, deep simple punctures 

without inner structures; intervals about half the diameter of puncture, smooth; covered with 

short, semierect and recumbent white and brownish setae. Antennae expanded from antennomere 

4 in both sexes; in male long, 2.30, in female 1.77 times as long as vertical diameter 

of eye; in male antennomere 2 elongate-oval, slightly swollen; antennomere 3 elongate, 

slender, thin, slightly longer than 2nd; antennomere 4 abruptly expanded, triangular, slightly 

longer than wide; distal antennomeres 4–10 triangular, nearly 1.5 times longer then wide; 

antennomere 11 missing; in female antennomere 3 slightly expanded apically; antennomere 

4 triangular, slightly longer than wide; antennomeres 5–10 triangular, slightly longer than 

wide; antennomere 11 shortly oval. 

Pronotum (Fig. 16) moderately convex, 1.36 (1.31–1.40) times as wide at base as long, 

widest at posterior third; anterior of widest point sides longer, converging toward anterior 

angles, posterior of widest point sides shorter, converging towards posterior angles. Аnterior 

margin feebly bisinuate, slightly produced at middle, basal margin straight. Lateral carina 

fi ne, usually not reaching anterior corners, interrupted or lacking. Pronotal surface regularly 

convex, without medial depression or line; prescutellar fossa poorly marked or absent, lateral 

fossae punctiform, inconspicuous. Pronotum with uniform pseudoalveolate sculpture of 

deep simple punctures without inner structure, not forming concentric rugosities toward disc; 

covered with short, recumbent and semierect white and brownish setae. Pronotal sides with 

yellow to orange, bigger basal macula, sometimes reaching midlength, and smaller anterior 

macula. Anterior prosternal margin weakly emarginated, bordered with poorly marked groove; 

prosternum regularly convex, covered with punctate sculpture of small, deep punctures;


meso- and metaventrites with same sculpture. Pronotal hypomeron bearing pseudoalveolate 

sculpture of simple punctures without inner structure. 

Elytra (Fig. 16) relatively short, 2.22 (2.06–2.31) times as long as wide at base, fl attened; 

sides weakly expanded at humeri, slightly diverging or subparallel toward posterior third, 

then arcuately converging to regularly rounded apices. Subhumeral excision very shallow, 

poorly defi ned; epipleural serrations poorly marked, saw-like at posterior 1/3, apical teeth 

claw-like. Strial punctures big, deep, round, separate; discal striae visible up to base. Intervals 

narrow, nearly as wide as striae, except for wider lateral ones; 9 th interval elevated; 

intervals fl at, with very small inconspicuous punctures; background fi nely shagreened, dull. 

Elytra mainly yellow with slightly contrasting brownish markings of reticulate Acmaeodera 

(Palaeotethya) rubromaculata type, formed by irregular longitudinal and oblique stripes and 

confl uent maculae, occasionally strongly reduced; covered with short, semierect, uni- and 

confused biseriate, white or white and brownish setae. 

Legs: Femora black and brown, tibiae and tarsi yellowish (Fig. 16); metacoxal plates with 

posterior margin feebly emarginated, without lateral tooth. Tibiae slender, not widened toward 

apices; metatibiae bearing comb of brownish setae externally. Tarsomeres subequal, short; 

tarsomere 5 slender; tarsal pads poorly developed on tarsomeres 1–3, each larger toward apex. 

Tarsal claws long, curved, with internal tooth at apical third in both sexes. 

Abdomen bronze with copper sheen; covered with uniform pseudoalveolate sculpture of 

big, dense, simple punctures and recumbent white setae. Anal ventrite in male short, transversely 

depressed, widely arcuate and slightly emarginate apically; in female widely arcuate 

and slightly defl ected apically. 

Male: Aedeagus as in Figs. 26, 27. Penis short, expanded medially; lamina short, triangular, 

widened toward base; apical apodeme wide. 

Female: Ovipositor not examined. 

Differential diagnosis. Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) hadiboe sp. nov. differs from A. (A.) 

kabateki sp. nov. and A. (A.) socotraensis sp. nov. by lighter coppery-bronze body and lighter 

elytra, uniformly pseudoalveolate sculpture of head, pronotum and pronotal hypomeron, 

shallow subhumeral excision of elytra, yellowish tibiae and tarsi, and, particularly, structure 

of the male genitalia (Figs. 24–29). Additionally, A. (A.) hadiboe sp. nov. differs from A. 

(A.) kabateki sp. nov. by a shorter body (3.13 times as long as pronotum at base), reduced 

pronotal markings, slightly contrasting and light elytral markings; from A. (A.) socotraensis 

sp. nov. it differs by its lighter metallic body coloration, lack of dorsal curvature, frontal sides 

diverging less toward vertex, antennae of male longer, pronotal margins without distinct 

lateral projections, elytral serrations poorly marked, and semierect pilosity of pronotal disc, 

elytra and abdomen. 

Etymology. The specifi c epithet derives from the name of the capital of Socotra Island, 

Hadibo. 

Host plant. Zizyphus spina-christi (L.) Dest. (Rhamnales: Rhamnaceae). One specimen has 

been reared by P. Kabátek from the same host plant at the same locality (Hadibo env.) as two 

paratypes of A. kabateki sp. nov. 


204 


Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) socotraensis sp. nov. 

(Figs. 17, 28, 29) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island: Kesa env., 12°39′37″N 53°26′42″E, 220–300 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), YEMEN, Socotra island E, Kesa env., 220–300 m, yellow traps, N 12°39′37′′, 

E 53°26′42′′, 28–29.i.2010, L. Purchart lgt. PARATYPES: (1 � NMPC; 1 � microslide # 1880, ZIN): same data. 


relatively short, 3.15 (3.05–3.31; n = 3) times as long as pronotum at base, convex, with slight 

dorsal curvature; black, occasionally with feeble bronzy or bluish sheen; pronotum strongly 

widened at posterior third, with small sub-basal yellow or orange macula; elytra black or black 

and brown with yellow ochre or orange markings consisted of irregular isolated and confl uent 

maculae sometimes forming interrupted transverse fascia, occasionally with sub-basal and 

pre-apical maculae; entire body covered with short, recumbent white and brownish setae. 

Head broad, fl attened when seen from above; frons fl attened, without medial line or 

depression, with weakly curved, strongly diverging sides. Vertex 1.91 (1.87–1.95) times as 

wide as transverse diameter of eye and 1.23 (1.19–1.27) times as wide as frons above antennal 

sockets. Clypeus rather wide, with relatively deep, arcuate medial emargination anteriorly. 

Frons with coarse, nearly alveolate sculpture of deep, irregular umbilicate alveolae with 

poorly defi ned inner granules and micropunctures; intervals less than half of diameter of 

alveola; covered with short, recumbent white setae. Antennae expanded from antennomere 

4 in both sexes; in male long, 1.95 (1.85–2.04) times, in female 1.58 times as long as vertical 

diameter of eye; antennomere 2 shortly oval, slightly swollen; antennomere 3 elongate, slender, 

feebly expanded toward apex; antennomere 4 triangular, nearly as long as wide; distal 

antennomeres 5–10 abruptly triangular, slightly wider than long; antennomere 11 irregularly 

oval, longer than wide, apically truncate or slightly emarginated; antennae of female similar 

but antennomeres less expanded, antennomere 4 distinctly narrower than antennomere 5, 

antennomere 11 rhomboidal. 

Pronotum (Fig. 17) slightly convex, transverse, 1.42 (1.35–1.46) times as wide at base as 

long, widest at posterior third, sides distinctly projecting laterally, anterior of widest point 

margins longer, converging to anterior angles, posterior of widest point margins shorter and 

almost rectilinearly converging to posterior angles. Аnterior margin feebly bisinuate, slightly 

produced at middle, basal margin straight. Lateral carina fi ne, not reaching anterior corners, 

interrupted or lacking. Pronotal surface convex, occasionally with a shallow medial depression; 

basal fossae rather deep, depressed. Pronotum laterally with coarse alveolate sculpture 

of deep alveolae with inconspicuous inner structure, not forming concentric rugosities towards 

the disc; disc with pseudoalveolate sculpture of large deep simple punctures. Entire pronotum 

with short, recumbent, white setae; sides with small orange sub-basal maculae. Anterior prosternal 

margin nearly straight, bordered with a distinct groove; prosternum convex, covered 

with pseudoalveolate sculpture; meso- and metaventrites with the same sculpture. Pronotal 

hypomeron bearing reticulate sculpture of large, round, umbilicate punctures, occasionally 

forming concentric series. 

Elytra (Fig. 17) relatively short, 2.22 (2.06–2.32) times as long as wide at base, moderately 

convex; sides widened at humeri, slightly diverging toward posterior 1/3, then shortly arcu-


ately converging to the narrowly rounded apices. Subhumeral excision shallow but distinct; 

epipleural serrations well marked at posterior third, apical teeth claw-like, easily seen from 

above. Strial punctures very large, deep, round, separated; discal striae wider than intervals, 

not visible at basal fourth becoming coalescent with the very coarse sculpture of the intervals. 

Intervals very narrow, subequal, except for the wider lateral ones, on the disc about half of 

diameter of the strial punctures; 9 th interval distinctly swollen at posterior third; covered with 

fi ne, uniseriate punctures; with transverse rugose sculpture, much coarser at base. Elytra black 

or black and brown with yellow ochre or orange markings consisting of irregular isolated 

and confl uent maculae sometimes forming interrupted transverse fascia, occasionally with 

sub-basal and pre-apical maculae; covered with short, recumbent, uniseriate, white setae. 

Legs blackish-brown, unicolourous; metacoxal plates with posterior margin nearly straight 

or slightly emarginate, without lateral tooth. Tibiae feebly widened toward apices; metatibiae 

bearing comb of white setae externally. Tarsomeres subequal, short; tarsomere 5 slightly swollen; 

tarsal pads developed on tarsomeres 1–4, each larger toward apex. Tarsal claws curved, 

with small internal tooth at midlength in both sexes. 

Abdomen black without or with a feeble copper sheen; covered with uniform pseudoalveolate 

sculpture of large, dense, simple punctures and short, recumbent white setae. Anal 

ventrite in male short, regularly rounded, bordered with a groove apically; that of female 

widely rounded and indistinctly bordered with a groove apically. 

Male: Aedeagus as in Figs. 28, 29. Penis elongate, expanded toward apex; lamina short, 

triangular, expanded toward base; apical apodeme wide. 

Female: Ovipositor not examined. 

Differential diagnosis. Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) socotraensis sp. nov. differs from A. 

(A.) kabateki sp. nov. and A. (A.) hadiboe sp. nov. by its black body, dorsal curvature, more 

strongly diverging frontal sides, coarse alveolate sculpture of head and lateral part of pronotum, 

shorter antennae in male, strongly projecting pronotal margins, elytral striae not reaching the 

base, entirely recumbent pilosity, distinct elytral serration, and, particularly, male genitalia 

structure (Figs. 24–29). Additionally, it differs from A. (A.) kabateki sp. nov. by shorter body 

and reduced pronotal and elytral markings; from A. (A.) hadiboe – by unicoloured tibiae and 

tarsi and much darker elytra. 

Etymology. The specifi c epithet derives from the name of Socotra Island. 

Host plant. Unknown. 


Key to the species of Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) of Socotra Island 

1. Lateral margins of pronotum entirely bordered with orange marginal bands; elytra with four 

regular, wide, transverse, orange fascia which do not reach the suture (Fig. 14). Clypeus 

broad, with very deep angular emargination anteriorly. 5.5–10.2 (8.1) mm. Aedeagus – Figs. 

22, 23. ............................................................... A. (A.) holmi Levey & Volkovitsh, 1996 

– Lateral margins of pronotum with isolated maculae at anterior and posterior corners, sometimes 

with additional maculae at prescutellar area and along anterior margin or without 

markings; elytra with irregular markings of isolated and confl uent maculae and bands,

206 


Figs. 18–30. Polycestinae, aedeagi and ovipositor, dorsal view. 18, 19 – Pseudocastalia socotra (Zabransky, 2004), 

paratype (18 – tegmen, 1.8 mm; 19 – penis, 1.4 mm); 20, 21 – Strigoptera bimaculata (Linnaeus, 1758) (20 – tegmen, 

3.2 mm; 21 – penis, 2.7 mm); 22, 23 – Acmaeodera (Acmaeotethya) holmi Levey & Volkovitsh, 1996 (microslide # 

1731) (22 – tegmen, 2.0 mm; 23 – penis, 1.5 mm); 24, 25 – A. (A.) kabateki sp. nov., paratype (microslide # 1876) (24 

– tegmen, 1.45 mm; 25 – penis, 1.2 mm); 26, 27 – A. (A.) hadiboe sp. nov., paratype (microslide # 1879) (26 – tegmen, 

1.4 mm; 27 – penis, 0.8 mm); 28, 29 – A. (A.) socotraensis sp. nov., paratype (microslide # 1880) (28 – tegmen, 1.7 

mm; 29 – penis, 1.3 mm); 30 – A. (A.) kabateki sp. nov., paratype (microslide # 1877), ovipositor (1.9 mm).


occasionally forming more or less regular longitudinal, transverse and oblique fascia (Figs. 

15–17). Clypeus narrow, with an arcuate emargination anteriorly. 3.4–6.4 (5.4) mm. ... 2 

2. Tibiae and tarsi yellowish; head, pronotum and hypomeron with psedoalveolate sculpture 

of simple punctures. Elytra pale with reticulate, little contrasting markings (Fig. 16). 

Aedeagus as in Figs. 26, 27. ....................................................... A. (A.) hadiboe sp. nov. 

– Tibiae and tarsi dark, unicoloured; head and hypomeron with reticulate sculpture of umbilicate 

punctures. ............................................................................................................... 3 

3. Longer, 3.43 (3.29–3.60) times as long as wide. Lateral margins of pronotum regularly 

rounded; body blackish-bronzy with a distinct metallic sheen; without dorsal curvature; 

distal antennomeres 4–10 longer than wide; pronotal markings extensive, usually with 

prescutellar maculae (Fig. 15); pilosity mainly semierect. Aedeagus as in Figs. 24, 25. ... 

.................................................................................................... A. (A.) kabateki sp. nov. 

– Shorter, 3.15 (3.05–3.31) times as long as wide. Lateral margins of pronotum angularly 

projecting; body black without a distinct metallic sheen; dorsal curvature present; distal 

antennomeres 4–10 wider than long; pronotal markings reduced to small maculae at 

posterior corners (Fig. 17) or lacking; entire pilosity recumbent. Aedeagus as in Figs. 28, 

29. ........................................................................................ A. (A.) socotraensis sp. nov. 

Discussion 

The Polycestinae from Socotra Island demonstrate exclusively African affi nities with no 

connection to Palaearctic groups. Pseudocastalia is an Afrotropical genus [4–5 African species, 

with only P. arabica (Gestro, 1877) reaching the Arabian Peninsula and possibly introduced 

into South-East Asia (HOLM 1982; BÍLÝ et al. 2011)]. All the Socotran Acmaeodera species 

belong to the Afrotropical A. (Acmaeotethya) signata species-group (VOLKOVITSH 1979) with 

closest relations to A. (A.) puberula and A. (A.) alcmeone in South Africa and Namibia. This 

most interesting disjunction may be explained as follows: before Socotra was separated from 

Dhofar region of the Southern Oman (SAMUEL et al. 1997) in the Miocene (15–25 mya) and 

drifted to its current position, the A. (A.) signata species-group has been widely distributed 

throughout the African continent and the Arabian Peninsula while currently its range is limited 

to South Africa (mainly Cape), Namibia and adjacent countries, as well as Socotra Island. An 

interesting feature of all Socotran Acmaeodera species is the extremely wide elytral striae, 

except for A. (A.) holmi, in which however the striae are also distinctly widened. Expanded 

striae occur in other insular species and subspecies of Acmaeoderini, for example, A. (Acmaeodera) 

fl avolineata cypricola Volkovitsh, 1983, A. (Palaeotethya) bipunctata guillebaui Abeille 

de Perrin, 1891 and Acmaeoderella (Liogastria) pseudovirgulata Volkovitsh & Bílý, 1979 

from Cyprus but in these forms intervals equal or are slightly wider than striae. 


I would like to thank Petr Zabransky (Wien, Austria), Svatopluk Bílý, Jiří Hájek and 

Vítězslav Kubáň (all NMPC), and Petr Kabátek (Praha, Czech Republic) for lending the material 

for this study; and Dr. Maria Lourdes Chamorro (United States Department of Agriculture,

208 


Agricultural Research Service, Systematic Entomology Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA) 

for language revision. The study was partly supported by Grant project no. 10-04-00539-а 

from the Russian Foundation for Basic Research and by project no. 16.518.11.7070 from the 

Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation. 

References 

BELLAMY C. L. 2008: A world catalogue and bibliography of the jewel beetles (Coleoptera: Buprestoidea). Volumes 

1–4. Pensoft Series Faunistica 76–79: 1–2684. 



BÍLÝ S. 2006: New nomenclatorial and taxonomic acts, and comments. Buprestidae: Anthaxiini. Pp. 58–60. Buprestidae: 

Chrysochroinae: Paratassini. P. 350. Buprestinae: Anthaxiini. Pp. 369–381. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. 

(eds.): Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 3. Scarabaeoidea – Scirtoidea – Dascilloidea – Buprestoidea 

– Byrrhoidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 690 pp. 

BÍLÝ S. 2012: A new species of the genus Chalcogenia from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Buprestinae: 

Anthaxiini). Pp. 209–212. In: HÁJEK J. & BEZDĚK J. (eds.): Insect biodiversity of the Socotra Archipelago. 


BÍLÝ S., KUBÁŇ V., VOLKOVITSH M. G. & KALASHIAN M. Yu. 2011: Order Coleoptera, Family Buprestidae. 

Pp. 168–223. In: HARTEN A. VAN (ed.): Arthropod Fauna of the United Arab Emirates. Volume 4. Multiply 

Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 832 pp. 

COBOS A. 1980: Ensayo sobre los géneros de la subfamilia Polycestinae (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) (Parte I). EOS, 

Revista Española de Entomologia 54 (1978): 15–94. 

COBOS A. 1981: Ensayo sobre los géneros de la subfamilia Policestinae (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) (Parte II). EOS, 

Revista Española de Entomologia 55–56 (1979–1980): 23–94. 

FEDORENKO D. N. 2009: Evolution of the beetle hind wing, with special reference to folding (Insecta, Coleoptera). 

Pensoft, Sofi a-Moscow, 336 pp. 

HOLM E. 1982: Revision of the Polycestini (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) of Africa. Entomology Memoir, Department 

of Agriculture Republic of South Africa 56: 1–29. 

KRAATZ G. 1896: Buprestiden aus dem Zanzibar-Gebiete und dem Hinterlande, gesammelt von Herrn v. Bennigsen. 

Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift 1: 81–87. 

KUBÁŇ V. & VOLKOVITSH M. G. 2006: Catalogue. Buprestidae: Julodinae. Pp. 325–330. In: LÖBL I. & 

SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 3. Scarabaeoidea – Scirtoidea – Dascilloidea 

– Buprestoidea – Byrrhoidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 690 pp. 

LEVEY B. & VOLKOVITSH M. G. 1996: Five new species of sub-Saharan and Arabian Acmaeodera (Coleoptera: 

Buprestidae). Zoosystematica Rossica 5: 139–148. 

SAMUEL M. A., HARBURY N., BOTT R., & THABET A.M. 1997: Field observations from the Socotran platform: 

their interpretation and correlation to Southern Oman. Marine and Petroleum Geology 14: 661–673. 

VOLKOVITSH M. G. 1979: Obzor palearkticheskikh grupp zlatok triby Acmaeoderini (Coleoptera, Buprestidae). (A 

review of Palaearctic groups of the tribe Acmaeoderini (Coleoptera, Buprestidae). Entomologicheskoe Obozrenie 

58: 333–354 (in Russian, English summary). 

VOLKOVITSH M. G. 2006: New nomenclatorial and taxonomic acts, and comments. Buprestidae: Polycestinae and 

Buprestinae. Pp. 56–58. Buprestidae: Polycestinae. Pp. 330–342. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue 

of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 3. Scarabaeoidea – Scirtoidea – Dascilloidea – Buprestoidea – Byrrhoidea. 


ZABRANSKY P. 2004: Ein neuer Prachtkäfer aus der Unterfamilie Polycestinae: Strigoptera (Svatacesta subgen. 

n.) socotra sp.n. (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Zeitschrift der Arbeitsgemeinschaft Österreichischer Entomologen 

56: 115–123.



A new species of the genus Chalcogenia from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Buprestinae: Anthaxiini) 

Svatopluk BÍLÝ 

Czech University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, 

Department of Forest Protection and Game Management, Kamýcká 1176, Praha 6 – Suchdol, 

CZ-165 21, Czech Republic; e-mail: svatopluk_bily@nm.cz 

Abstract. A new species of the genus Chalcogenia Saunders, 1871, Chalcogenia 

nana sp. nov., from Socotra Island, Yemen is described, illustrated, compared 

with the most similar species and attributed to the C. sulcipennis (Gory, 1841) 

species-group. In addition, sexual dimorphism of C. elongata Kerremans, 1912 

from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, known previously only from male 

specimens, is shortly described. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Buprestidae, Buprestinae, Anthaxiini, Chalcogenia, new 

species, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The genus Chalcogenia Saunders, 1871 was recently revised by BÍLÝ (2007). An additional 

species, C. margotana Novak, 2009, attributed to the C. plicata Bílý, 2007 species-group, 

was described by NOVAK (2009) from Ethiopia. At present, Chalcogenia comprises 38 species 

and 2 subspecies occurring in the Sub-Saharan Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and the 

Middle East. 

The single specimen collected recently by the Czech expedition on Socotra Island represents 

another, so far the smallest member, of the genus, and I describe it below. 


A Canon D-550 digital camera with attached Canon MP-E65mm f/2.8 1–5× macro lens 

was used to capture the colour images. 

Data from locality label of the type in the taxonomy part are cited ‘verbatim’. Double-slash 

‘//’ are used for separating data from different labels. 



210 

BÍLÝ: A new Chalcogenia from Socotra Island (Buprestidae) 

The following abbreviations are used in the text: 

NMPC Národní muzeum, Prague, Czech Republic; 

PLCF Philippe Léonard collection, Paris, France. 

Taxonomy 

Chalcogenia nana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–3) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil protected area, 12°34.5′N 54°18.5′E, 360–500 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil protected area, shrubland with Boswellia & Dracaena 

trees, 12°34.5′N 54°18.5′E, 360–500 m // SOCOTRA expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, 

I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ Holotype is deposited in NMPC. 

Description. Relatively small (8.4 mm), sphenoidal, lustrous (Fig. 1); entire body red-bronze, 

frons purple-bronze; head and pronotum asetose, elytra with extremely short, sparse, nearly 

indistinct white pubescence; ventral surface with short, sparse, recumbent white pubescence, 

lateral portions of abdominal ventrites with small patches of white tomentum; antennae and 

legs with short, semierect white pubescence, metatibiae with comb of short, rigid setae at 

distal half of outer margin. 

Head large, as wide as anterior pronotal margin; frontoclypeus transverse, shallowly 

emargined anteriorly, separated from frons by shallow, wide depression; frontoclypeal suture 

missing; frons fl at, slightly uneven; eyes large, reniform, slightly projecting beyond outline 

of head; antennae unicolorous, relatively long, reaching posterior third of lateral pronotal 

margins; scape four times as long as wide, slightly claviform, fi nely curved at distal half; 

pedicel 2.2 times as long as wide, slightly piriform; antennomere 3 twice as long as wide, 

slightly triangular; antennomeres 4–10 sharply triangular to trapezoidal, 1.0–1.2 times as long 

as wide; terminal antennomere rhomboid, twice as long as wide; sculpture of head consisting 

of wide, dense but shallow, rounded and polygonal cells with microsculptured bottoms. 

Pronotum 1.9 times as wide as long, regularly convex with quite indistinct lateroposterior 

depressions; anterior margin deeply biarcuate, medial lobe rounded but rather prominent; 

posterior margin very slightly biarcuate, lateral margins nearly regularly rounded, maximum 

pronotal width just anteriad midlength; pronotal sculpture consisting of fi ne, shallow, rounded 

to polygonal cells with distinct central granules at lateral portions of pronotum. Scutellum 

subcordiform, 1.3 times as wide as long, microsculptured. 

Elytra twice as long as wide, distinctly sphenoidal, tapering from humeri to apex, nearly 

regularly convex, without any traces of longitudinal keels; humeral swellings small but distinct, 

basal transverse depression deep, wide but short, not reaching scutellum; epipleura narrow, 

nearly reaching elytral apex; each elytron narrowly, separately rounded, apical third of elytral 

margins with sharp, fi ne serration; elytral sculpture consisting of small, very dense punctures 

which are somewhat transversely widened at humeri and along elytral margins. 

Ventral surface lustrous, with very dense punctation, punctures larger and rounded on 

sternal portion and smaller, less distinct on abdomen; prosternal process fl at, strongly widened 

posterior to procoxae, sharply pointed apically. Anal ventrite apically truncate with very 

fi ne lateral serration.


Figs. 1–3. Chalcogenia nana sp. nov., male holotype. 1 – habitus; 2 – aedeagus; 3 – left metatibia. Not in scale. 

Legs relatively long and slender, all femora normal, not swollen; protibiae slender, slightly 

curved, becoming wider distally; mesotibiae slender, nearly straight with slight, inner, preapical 

emargination; metatibiae (Fig. 3) straight, fl attened, with inner, preapical emargination 

which bears several small teeth; tarsi relatively long, tarsomeres becoming wider distally, 

tarsomeres 1–4 with ventral adhesive pads; tarsal claws very small, slender, hook-shaped, 

slightly enlarged at base. 

Aedeagus (Fig. 2) slender, nearly tubular, parameres very slightly enlarged preapically, 

narrowly pointed apically; median lobe sharply pointed apically, without lateral serration. 

Sexual dimorphism. Female unknown. 

Measurements. Length: 8.4 mm; width: 3.4 mm. 

Etymology. Specifi c epithet is derived from the Latin adjective nanus (= small) since Chalcogenia 

nana sp. nov. is the smallest species of the genus. 

Differential diagnosis. Chalcogenia nana sp. nov. resembles C. theryi Abeille, 1897 and C. 

halperini halperini Volkovitsh & Bílý, 1997 in its colouration and body shape but it differs

212 

BÍLÝ: A new Chalcogenia from Socotra Island (Buprestidae) 

strongly in the smooth elytra (elytra with longitudinal keels in C. theryi and C. halperini halperini) 

and in the shape of the male genitalia and metatibiae (see BÍLÝ 2007: Figs. 64, 75, 108, 

128). The only species with completely smooth elytra is C. impressicollis (Fåhraeus, 1851) 

which differs from C. nana sp. nov. (except for its distribution – South Africa) in the suboval 

body-shape (see BÍLÝ 2007: Fig. 35); long frontal pubescence; much fi ner pronotal sculpture 

and in the form of the male genitalia and metatibiae (see BÍLÝ, 2007: Figs. 77, 109). 

Comments to classifi cation. Chalcogenia nana sp. nov. can be attributed to the C. sulcipennis 

species-group based on the body-shape, sculpture, form of antennae and male metatibiae, 

lateral serration of anal ventrite, form of parameres and on the general shape of male genitalia. 

However, completely smooth elytra without any traces of keels and median lobe without 

lateral serration do not correspond to the principal characters of the group. 

Collection circumstances. The only specimen (holotype) was found sitting at about 11 a.m. 

on the bark of Boswellia elongata Balf. f. (Burseraceae) (J. Niedobová, pers. comm.), which 

could be the host plant of the species, although nearly all species of Chalcogenia develop in 

Acacia spp. (Fabaceae). 


Chalcogenia elongata Kerremans, 1912 

Chalcogenia elongata Kerremans, 1912: 6 (original description). 

Chalcogenia elongata: BÍLÝ (2007): 134, Figs. 30, 72, 105 (revision, key). 

Type locality. Democratic Republic of the Congo, Katanga prov., Bukama [ca. 09°12′S, 25°51′E]. 

Material examined. Democratic Republic of the Congo, Katanga prov., Lukafu [ca. 10°31′S, 27°33′E], 28.iv.– 

4.vi.2004, Th. Bouyer leg. (2 �� 1 �, NMPC; 1 �, PLCF). 

Remarks. Only the male sex was known for this species. Quite recently I have obtained four 

specimens for determination, including one female collected near of the type locality. The 

sexual dimorphism is represented only weakly: the female differs only in the straight, unmodifi 

ed meso- and metatibiae and in the slightly incised apical margin of the anal ventrite. 

Distribution. Democratic Republic of the Congo. 


I am very obliged to all participants of the Socotra expedition for the possibility to study the 

material of the family Buprestidae they collected. This contribution was partially supported 

by the project of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic QH 81136. 

References 

BÍLÝ S. 2007: A revision of the genus Chalcogenia (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Anthaxiini). Folia Heyrovskyana, 

Serie A 15: 115–186. 

KERREMANS C. 1912: Supplément au Catalogue des Buprestides du Congo Belge. Revue de Zoologie Africaine 

2: 1–4. 

NOVAK G. 2009: Chalcogenia margotana sp. n., eine neue Art aus Äthiopien (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Zeitschrift 

der Arbeitsgemeinschaft Österreichischer Entomologen 61: 101–103.



Description of Selasia socotrana sp. nov. 

(Elateridae: Agrypninae: Drilini) from Socotra Island, 

with notes on S. homhilia 

Robin KUNDRATA 

Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Palacký University, Tř. Svobody 26, CZ-771 46, Olomouc, 

Czech Republic; e-mail: robin.kundrata@upol.cz 

Abstract. Selasia socotrana sp. nov. is described from Socotra and compared 

with Selasia homhilia Geisthardt, 2003. Selasia homhilia is shown to differ in 

morphology of mandibles and aedeagus from all hitherto known representatives 

of Drilini. The diagnostic characters of both investigated species are fi gured and 

their relationships are briefl y discussed. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Elateroidea, Elateridae, Agrypninae, Drilini, Selasia, 

taxonomy, new species, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

A coleopteran fauna of Socotra Archipelago has been intensively studied recently and, 

therefore, many new Socotran species have been described in the last few years (e.g., HÁVA 

2007, LO CASCIO & GRITA 2011, PURCHART 2012, HÁJEK & BEZDĚK 2012). The soft-bodied 

elaterid Drilini (included in Agrypninae by KUNDRATA & BOCAK (2011)) had not been reported 

from Socotra until GEISTHARDT (2003) described Selasia homhilia. Selasia Laporte, 1836 is 

the most diverse genus of Drilini with about 50 species occurring in the Afrotropical Region 

(GEISTHARDT 2007). Eight species are distributed in the Indian subcontinent and the Himalayas 

(KUNDRATA 2012) and single species are known from Rhodes, Yemen and Socotra (GEISTHARDT 

2003). Here, I describe a new Selasia species endemic to Socotra Island and discuss the 

morphological peculiarities of S. homhilia. 


The morphology of male adults was examined. Male genitalia were dissected after short 

boiling in 10 percent aqueous solution of KOH and photographed in glycerol by a digital 



214 

KUNDRATA: Selasia socotrana sp. nov. from Socotra Island (Elateridae) 

camera attached to a stereoscopic microscope. The following measurements were taken using 

an eye-piece scale bar on a binocular microscope: 

BL body length, measured from the fore margin of head to the last abdominal segment; 

EL elytral length; 

PL pronotal length at midline; 

PW pronotal width at middle part; 

Ediam maximum eye diameter in lateral view; 

Edist minimum interocular distance in the frontal part of the head; 

WH elytral width at humeri. 

Exact label data are cited for the type material. A forward slash (/) separates different lines 

on a label and a double slash (//) different labels of data. The specimens included in this study 

are deposited in the following institutional collections: 


HLMD Hessisches Landesmuseum, Darmstadt, Germany; 

NMPC Národní muzeum, Prague, Czech Republic. 

Taxonomy 

Selasia socotrana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–2, 4, 8, 10) 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / Dixam plateau, TUDHEN / shrubland with Commiphora 

/ planifrons 18.–22.vi.2012 / 12°32.7′N, 53°59.9′E, 1135 m [printed] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, 

J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [printed] (NMPC). PARATYPE: �, 

SOCOTRA: / Kishin. / 700 m. / 18.iv.1967 / K. Guichard [printed] / B.M.1967–455 [handwritten] (BMNH). 

Description. Male. Body medium-sized, elongate, almost parallel-sided, 2.76–2.78 times 

as long as wide at humeri, moderately convex dorsally (Fig. 1). Head, prothorax and elytra 

brown, antennomeres 2–11, abdomen, meso- and metathorax black, legs brown to dark brown 

with apical parts of femora and basal parts of tibiae black, scapus and tarsomeres dark brown 

or black. Entire body covered by sparse, yellow pubescence. 

Head including eyes slightly wider than anterior margin of pronotum. Cranium punctured, 

with depression between conspicuous antennal sockets, dorsally with long, sparse, erected 

pubescence; clypeus with frontal margin widely concave. Eyes medium-sized, hemispherically 

prominent, their frontal distance 1.98–2.04 times eye diameter. Mandibles slender, 

long, shiny, considerably curved, incisor margin with small tooth in middle part (Fig. 8). 

Maxillary palpi tetramerous, apical palpomere longest, narrow, obliquely cut, fl attened 

apically. Labial palpi trimerous, tiny, apical palpomere pointed. Antennae robust, fl abellate, 

reaching one third of elytral length, with fl attened lamellae from antennomere 3; scapus 

long, robust, more than two times longer than pedicel; pedicel short, minute; antennomeres 

3–10 fl abellate, antennomere 3 longest; its lamella robust, almost half length of rest of 

lamellae, widely attached; base of lamella of antennomere 3 almost two times longer than 

base of lamella of antennomere 4, antennomeres 4–10 gradually shortened to apical part, 

with long, slender lamellae, apical antennomere long, simple, about same length as lamella 

of penultimate antennomere (Fig. 2).


Pronotum slightly convex, widest in 

middle part, 1.32–1.33 times wider than 

length at midline. Anterior margin slightly 

emarginate in middle part, lateral margins 

convex, posterior margin widely sinuate 

medially. Anterior angles obtuse, posterior 

angles prominent, acute; surface of disc 

fi nely punctured, with sparse, erected, long 

setae (Fig. 10). Prosternum transverse, prosternal 

process present, apically narrowed. 

Scutellum fl at, triangle-shaped. Mesoventrite 

narrow, with emarginate frontal margin; 

both mesanepisternum and mesepimeron in 

contact with coxal pit. Metaventrite large, 

punctured sparsely; pubescence sparse in 

middle part and denser around margins. 

Elytra almost parallel-sided, widest at 

humeri, 1.76–1.84 times longer than width 

at humeri, tapered apically, punctured, 

covered by sparse pubescence. 

Abdomen short, slender; ventrites with 

fi ne microstructure and sparse, long setae. 

Legs slender, slightly compressed, with 

sparse, long, erected setae, coxae long, 

robust, trochanters slender, obliquely attached 

to femora, tarsomeres 1–3 subequal 

Fig. 1. Selasia socotrana sp. nov., habitus of holotype. 

in length, tarsomere 4 shortest, apical tar- 

Scale bar = 2 mm. 

somere long, narrow, claws simple, slender, 

slightly curved. 

Male genitalia compact, with strong phallus; phallus longer than parameres, considerably 

curved, with hook in middle part; robust, wide parameres with membranous apical parts, with 

sparse setae apically; phallobase robust, longer than parameres (Fig. 4). 

Measurements. BL 5.80–6.55 mm, EL 3.70–4.35 mm, WH 2.10–2.35 mm, PL 1.21–1.50 

mm, PW 1.60–2.00 mm, Edist 0.81–0.94 mm, Ediam 0.41–0.46 mm. 

Differential diagnosis. Selasia socotrana sp. nov. and S. homhilia can be distinguished by 

the following characters – S. socotrana sp. nov. has the black meso- and metathorax, mandibular 

incisor margin with tooth in middle part (Fig. 8), antennomere 3 with triangular lamella 

(Fig. 2), pronotum widest in middle part (Fig. 10), short parameres, and phallus curved with 

median hook (Fig. 4), while S. homhilia has light brown meso- and metathorax, mandibular 

incisor margin simple, without tooth (Fig. 9), antennomere 3 with narrow lamella (Fig. 5), 

pronotum widest in posterior angles (Fig. 11), parameres long (Fig. 7), and phallus straight, 

simple (Fig. 6). Selasia arabica Geisthardt, 2003 from the Arabian Peninsula differs from

216 


S. socotrana sp. nov. by bicolor elytra, uniformly brown ventral body parts, more transverse 

pronotum and shorter parameres. 

Etymology. The species name socotrana is derived from the type locality. 

Figs. 2–11. 2, 4, 8, 10 – Selasia socotrana sp. nov.: 2 – antenna; 4 – aedeagus in ventral view; 8 – mandibular 

incisor margin; 10 – head and pronotum. 3, 5, 6–7, 9, 11 – S. homhilia Geisthardt, 2003: 3 – habitus of holotype; 5 

– antenna; 6 – phallus with paramere (no phallobase has been preserved in holotype); 7 – paramere; 9 – mandibular 

incisor margin; 11 – head and pronotum. Scale bars = 0.1 mm (Figs. 8–9), 0.25 mm (Figs. 4, 6–7), 1 mm (Figs. 2, 

5, 10–11), 2 mm (Fig. 3).


Biology and ecology. Larvae and females are unknown and no information about the lifehistory 

of S. socotrana sp. nov. is available. I suppose that larvae and neotenic females feed 

on land snails like other Selasia species (KUNDRATA & BOCAK 2007). Selasia socotrana sp. nov. 

lives in a limestone area of Dixam plateau so larvae and females may attack snails occurring 

in limestone rocks similarly to the Mediterranean drilines (SCHILTHUIZEN et al. 1994). 

Distribution. Selasia socotrana sp. nov. is so far known only from two localities at the base 

of Hagher Mts., central Socotra. 

Discussion 

Recently, only four genera have been included in Drilini (KUNDRATA & BOCAK 2011). Drilus 

Olivier, 1790, Malacogaster Bassi, 1833 and Selasia share mandibular incisor margin with 

tooth in middle part and trilobate aedeagus with median hook in considerably curved phallus. 

Selasia socotrana sp. nov. apparently belongs to this group of genera and with compact 

general appearance and strongly fl abellate antennae it is a morphologically typical representative 

of Selasia (Fig. 1). I have studied the holotype of S. homhilia and this species differs 

from other representatives of this genus in simple mandibular incisor (Fig. 9) and straight 

phallus without median hook (Fig. 6). These characters and rather ptilodactylid-like general 

appearance (Fig. 3) indicate that this species should not be included neither within Selasia 

nor Drilus and Malacogaster. Paradrilus Kiessenwetter, 1865 differs from S. homhilia by 

fi liform antennae, length ratio of basal antennomeres and shape of hind pronotal angles. As 

there is only one specimen available (deposited in HLMD) and I cannot dissect the holotype 

to investigate several phylogenetically important characters, I provisionally keep S. homhilia 

in the present position as proposed by the author of the species (GEISTHARDT 2003). 


I am very obliged to M. Barclay (BMNH), J. Köhler (HLMD) and J. Hájek (NMPC) who 

provided me with the material in their care. J. Hájek provided photograph of the holotype 

of S. socotrana sp. nov. and L. Kobieluszova (Palacky University, Olomouc) prepared some 

fi gures. This study was supported by internal grant (IGA) of the Faculty of Science, which 

is gratefully acknowledged. 

References 

GEISTHARDT M. 2003: Zwei neue Arten der Gattung Selasia Castelnau, 1836 aus dem Jemen (Coleoptera: Drilidae). 

Mitteilungen des Internationalen Entomologischen Vereins 28: 99–109. 

GEISTHARDT M. 2007: Neue und bekannte Selasia Laporte, 1836 Arten aus dem südliche Afrika (Coleoptera, 

Drilidae). Entomologica Basiliensia et Collectionis Frey 29: 31–40. 



HÁVA J. 2007: New species and new records of Dermestidae (Insecta: Coleoptera) from the Arabian Peninsula 

including Socotra Island. Fauna of Arabia 23: 309–317.

218 


KUNDRATA R. 2012: Taxonomic review of the Himalayan species of Selasia Laporte, 1836 (Coleoptera: Elateridae: 

Agrypninae: Drilini). Annales Zoologici (Warszawa) 62: 261–266. 

KUNDRATA R. & BOCAK L. 2007: A revision of Euanoma and Pseudeuanoma (Coleoptera: Drilidae). Annales 

Zoologici (Warszawa) 57: 427–441. 

KUNDRATA R. & BOCAK L. 2011: The phylogeny and limits of Elateridae (Insecta, Coleoptera): is there a common 

tendency of click beetles to soft-bodiedness and neoteny? Zoologica Scripta 40: 364–378. 





SCHILTHUIZEN M., KEMPERMAN T. C. M. & GITTENBERGER E. 1994: Parasites and predators in Albinaria 

(Gastropoda Pulmonata: Clausiliidae). Bios 2: 177–186.



Ptinus bertranpetiti, a new species of spider beetle 

from Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Ptinidae) 

Xavier BELLÉS 

Institute of Evolutionary Biology (CSIC-UPF), Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 37, 

08003 Barcelona, Spain; e-mail: xavier.belles@ibe.upf-csic.es 

Abstract. Ptinus bertranpetiti sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Ptinidae) is described from 

Socotra Island. The practical absence of secondary sexual dimorphism and the 

structure of the aedeagus, slender and subsymmetrical, suggest that the new species 

must be placed in the subgenus Gynopterus Mulsant & Rey, 1868. The most 

peculiar characteristics of P. bertranpetiti sp. nov. refer to the aedeagus and the 

elytral pubescence, both with features that are unparalleled in other species of the 

subgenus Gynopterus. 

Keywords. Coleoptera, Ptinidae, Ptinus, Gynopterus, new species, Yemen, 

Socotra. 

Introduction 

Little is known about the spider beetles from the Socotra Archipelago. In 2005, I described 

the species Silisoptinus inermicollis Bellés, 2005, from Calanthia, in the Socotra Island 

(BELLÉS 2005). Four years later, I published an overview of the Ptinidae family in the archipelago 

(BELLÉS 2009), reporting the description of two new species of Mezium Curtis, 1828 

and Sphaericus Wollaston, 1854, respectively, and a catalogue of the fi ve species placed 

in fi ve respective genera known at that time. The catalogue included a Ptinus sp. collected 

at Deksam Plateau, in the island of Socotra, at some 1000 m of altitude. Unfortunately, 

this Ptinus Linnaeus, 1767 was not identifi ed at species level because the only material 

available was a single female, although I noticed that it could belong to a new species 

(BELLÉS 2009). 

Recently, my colleague Jiří Hájek sent to me two additional specimens of this species, a 

male and a female collected at the Zemhon area, in Socotra Island, that were deposited in the 

collections of the National Museum of Prague. The new material allows a proper study of this 

species that, as expected, resulted to be new to science, and which is described herein. 



220 

BELLÉS: A new species of spider beetle from Socotra Island (Ptinidae) 


Two specimens of the new species were obtained from The National Museum, Prague 

(NMPC), and the third specimen was from the Hessisches Landesmuseum, Darmstadt 

(HLMD). Abundant reference material of Ptinus palliatus Perris, 1847 and other Ptinus species 

were mainly from the Ptinidae collection of the author (XBCB), and from the Maurice Pic 

collection, preserved at the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, Paris (MNHN). 

Habitus in dorsal view of type specimens were photographed with a Leica DFC 420 camera 

attached to a Leica M 80 binocular microscope, using the Combine ZP Image Stacking Software, 

by Alan Hadley (http://www.hadleyweb.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/CZP/News.htm). The 

aedeagus of the holotype was mounted in DMHF (dimethyl hydantoin formaldehyde resin) 

on a clear celluloid label pinned under the specimen. The aedeagus was drawn by hand with 

the help of a microscope Nikon Optiphot. 

Results 

Ptinus (Gynopterus) bertranpetiti sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–2) 

Ptinus sp.: BELLÉS 2009: 147. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN Socotra Island Zemhon area, 270-350 m N12º30’58’’ E54º06’39’’ 

3-4. ii.2010. L. Purchart & L. Vybíral lgt.’ PARATYPES: 1 �, same data as the holotype (XBCB); 1 �, ‘Soqotra, 

Deksam Plateau, Schwarzlicht, 1020 m. 12º32’N 53º59’E, 22-24.2.1999, leg.: H. Pohl, SOQ 37 (HMLD-Col- 

1285)’(HLMD). 

Description (Fig. 1). Body length: 2.5–3.3 mm; robust, parallel-sided; both sexes winged; 

cuticle in general brownish-piceous, head and pronotum piceous, antennae and legs brownish, 

and elytra brownish in basal, sutural and apical parts, and piceous in remaining, lateral parts. 

Head clothed with short, yellowish, soft and recumbent pubescence covering most of surface, 

and with short, golden, hard and erect setae scattered over surface; eyes convex, semispherical, 

with short, erect setae inserted between ommatidia, antennae relatively slender and moderately 

long, longer than half length of body. Pronotum somewhat longer than wide, with transverse 

constriction behind disc; sculpture of the anterior third formed by irregular excavations, and 

that of disc and posterior third formed by round, well delimited granulations; pubescence 

composed by long, golden setae, erect and scattered over all surface, and short, soft, recumbent 

pubescence covering most of surface. Scutellum subtriangular, covered by whitish soft 

and recumbent pubescence. Elytra long, 1.3 times longer than wide; sides subparallel, only 

slightly rounded; humeri obtuse; elytral punctures as broad as intervals, pubescence of three 

types: 1st) golden setae, semierect and inserted in intervals, longer than the length of three 

punctures; 2nd) yellowish setae, semierect and inserted in punctures, shorter than the length 

of three punctures; and 3rd) short and soft, recumbent pubescence practically covering entire 

elytra, densely aligned in rows. All fi ve abdominal sternites perfectly delimited, with suture 

lines well apparent. Aedeagus (Fig. 2) with median lobe somewhat shorter than parameres, 

which are subsymmetrical and slender, with apex blunt and showing scattered setae, especially 

at external sides.

Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae, 52(suppl. 2), 2012 221 

Figs. 1-2. Ptinus bertranpetiti sp. nov. 1 – habitus of the female; 2 – aedeagus. 

Sexual dimorphism. The female, compared to male, is somewhat more robust, with eyes 

less convex, antennae a bit shorter and elytral disc slightly more convex. 

Etymology. The new species is dedicated to my friend Jaume Bertranpetit, to commemorate 

(on 29 February 2012) his 60th birthday. 

Discussion 

The practical absence of secondary sexual dimorphism and the slender and subsymmetrical 

structure of the aedeagus, suggest that the new species must be placed in the subgenus 

Gynopterus Mulsant & Rey, 1868, which has a cosmopolitan distribution, although it 

predominates in the Palearctic Region (PIC 1912). The most peculiar characteristics of P. 

bertranpetiti sp. nov. are the aedeagus and the elytral pubescence, both with features that are 

unparalleled in other species of the subgenus Gynopterus. The elytral pubescence is similar 

to that showed by Ptinus palliatus, a species spread over the West Palearctic area (PIC 1912, 

IABLOKOFF-KHNZORIAN & KARAPETIAN 1991, BOROWSKI 2007), including the Iberian Peninsula 

(BELLÉS 1978). However, the pronotum of P. palliatus has a very different morphology, with 

a conspicuous double protuberance on the disc, as well as a very different structure of the

222 

BELLÉS: A new species of spider beetle from Socotra Island (Ptinidae) 

aedeagus, with the basal region much simpler than that of P. bertranpetiti sp. nov., as shown 

by IABLOKOFF-KHNZORIAN & KARAPETIAN (1991). Of note, these authors transferred P. palliatus 

from the subgenus Gynopterus to Bruchoptinus Reitter, 1884 (IABLOKOFF-KHNZORIAN & 

KARAPETIAN 1991), although the slight sexual dimorphism exhibited by P. palliatus, with the 

elytra subparallel and with the humeri distinctly protruding outwards in both sexes, suggests 

that it is more adequately placed in the subgenus Gynopterus, which possess these characteristics 

(MULSANT & REY 1968). Conversely, one of the most typical features of Bruchoptinus 

species is the dramatic sexual dimorphism, with males showing the elytra subparallel, with 

the humeri protruding outwards, whereas females have the elytra broadly oval, with effaced 

humeri (REITTER 1884). 


Thanks are due to Jiří Hájek (NMPC) for sending two specimens of the new species, to 

Robert Güsten (HLMD), for providing an additional specimen, and to Jéan Ménier (MNHN), 

for making me accessible the ptinid materials from the collection of Maurice Pic in many 

occasions. I also thank Txus Gómez-Zurita (CSIC-UPF) for taking the photograph of the new 

species, and Sabine Wamser (HLMD) for sending additional data on the HLMD specimen. 

References 

BELLÉS X. 1978: Ensayo sobre los representantes catalanes de la familia Ptinidae (Col.). Miscelánea Zoológica 

4: 87–123. 

BELLÉS X. 2005: A synopsis of the genus Silisoptinus (Pic, 1917) (Coleoptera, Ptinidae), with the description of 

a new species from Socotra Island. Elytron 19: 77–82. 


145–154. 

BOROWSKI J. 2007: Family Ptinidae Latreille, 1802. Pp. 328–339. In LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue 

of Palearctic Coleoptera. Volume 4. Elateroidea – Derodontoidea – Bostrichoidea – Lymexyloidea – Cleroidea 

- Cucujoidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 935 pp. 

IABLOKOFF-KHNZORIAN S. E. M. & KARAPETIAN A. P. 1991: Ptinus-Studien (Coleoptera, Ptinidae). Entomologische 

Blätter 87: 1–65. 

MULSANT E. & REY C. 1868: Histoire Naturelle des Coléoptères de France. Gibbicolles. Deyrolle, Paris, 226 

pp. 

PIC M. 1912: Pars 41: Ptinidae. In: SCHENKLING S. (ed.): Coleopterorum Catalogus. Volumen X. W. Junk, 

Berlin, 46 pp. 

REITTER E. 1884: Bestimmungs-Tabellen der Europäischen Coleopteren. XI. Bruchidae (Ptinidae). Verhandlungen 

des Naturforschenden Vereines in Brünn 22 (1883): 295–323.



New species of Oryzaephilus and Silvanolomus 


(Coleoptera: Silvanidae: Silvaninae) 

David G. H. HALSTEAD 

57 Meadow Way, Old Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 2NY, United Kingdom 

Abstract. Oryzaephilus socotraensis sp. nov. and Silvanolomus depressus sp. 

nov. from Socotra Island, Yemen are described, illustrated (habitus and male 

genitalia), and compared with similar known species. Oryzaephilus gibbosus 

Aitken, 1965 is also recorded from Socotra. Brief introductory notes on the two 

genera are given. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Silvanidae, Silvaninae, Oryzaephilus, Silvanolomus, new 

species, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

A small number of silvanid beetles sent to the author for identifi cation by Jiří Hájek 

(NMPC) included nine silvanines collected in Socotra Island in 2010. Six of these were found 

to represent a new species of Oryzaephilus Ganglbauer, 1899, one a species of this genus not 

previously recorded from Socotra, Oryzaephilus gibbosus Aitken, 1965, and the other two a 

new species of Silvanolomus Reitter, 1912. These beetles are described/recorded below, with 

two additional specimens, one of each of the Oryzaephilus species, which were fi rst examined 

by the author a decade ago in HLMD. 


Genitalia were dissected and mounted beneath a cover slip in Berlese Fluid, as described in 

HALSTEAD (1980). Illustrations were made from slide preparations using a monocular microscope 

with a squared graticule in the eye-piece and graph paper. The genitalia and associated 

parts were replaced on the card mounts in a drop of the water/alcohol soluble resin, dimethyl 

hydantoin formaldehyde. Line habitus illustrations were made by drawing a sketch of the 

specimen, recording measurements on it and re-drawing the image on graph paper. Colour 



224 

HALSTEAD: New species of Oryzaephilus and Silvanolomus from Socotra (Silvanidae) 

photographs were kindly prepared for the author by Jiří Hájek. A Canon EOS 550D digital 

camera with a Canon MP-E 65mm objective was used and images of the same specimen at 

different focal planes were combined using Helicon Focus 5.1.19 software. 

Data for types and other specimens have been cited verbatim. A single forward slash (/) 

indicates different lines on a label and a double slash (//) separates different labels. Type 

specimens have been labelled with the author’s determination labels on which their status 

has been indicated and in addition a small circular label with a red border and ‘HOLOTYPE’ 

or a yellow border and ‘PARATYPE’ has been added. 

The following acronyms have been used for depositories: 

BMNH Natural History Museum [formerly British Museum (Natural History)], London, United Kingdom (Maxwell 

V. L. Barclay); 

NMPC Národní muzeum, Praha, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek); 

HLMD Hessisches Landesmuseum, Darmstadt, Germany (Sabine Wamser). 

Taxonomy 

Oryzaephilus Ganglbauer, 1899 

Oryzaephilus is a relatively small genus containing 16 species including the new one 

described below. It is indigenous to the Old World and is well represented in Africa. All species 

have six lateral teeth on each side of the pronotum that are moderately to strongly developed. 

In males the tooth at the anterior angle is sometimes conspicuously more strongly developed 

than the others. In addition, the sides of the pronotal disc are raised to form lateral ridges (one 

at each side) and usually a median longitudinal ridge is also present. They have 5 tarsomeres, 

the 4th (penultimate) very small, and the 3rd apically slightly broader than previous tarsomeres 

and concave to receive the 4th . Two pest species, Oryzaephilus surinamensis (Linnaeus, 1758) 

(the Saw-toothed Grain Beetle) and Oryzaephilus mercator (Fauvel, 1889) (the Merchant 

Grain Beetle), are virtually cosmopolitan having been introduced to many parts of the world 

in association with grain and various other stored food products. Consequently, Oryzaephilus 

is a well-known genus throughout the greater part of the world. Although the two pest species 

have occasionally been collected under bark, trapping records for other fi eld species suggest 

that humus, fallen seeds and dead plant material in general may be more important as natural 

habitats for the genus. The most recent revision of Oryzaephilus is that of the author (HALSTEAD 

1980). Since then two additional species have been described (HALSTEAD 1997). 

Oryzaephilus socotraensis sp. nov. 

(Figs.1, 3–6) 

Oryzaephilus canus non Halstead, 1980: HALSTEAD (2011): 234 (misidentifi cation). 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Noged plain, Sharet Halma vill. env., 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 20 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: dissected �, (NMPC): ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island/ Noged plain (sand dunes) / SHARET 

HALMA vill. env. / 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 20m / J. Bezděk leg., 10-11.xi.2010’. PARATYPES: 4 �� 1 �, same data as 

holotype but �� collected by Jiří Hájek and � by Luboš Purchart (NMPC, 1 � BMNH). 

Additional material examined. 1 dissected �: ‘YEMEN, SOQOTRA-ARCHIPEL, SOQOTRA/ Noged. Farmihin, 

Nähe Strand, Om./ 12˚ 24′ 41″ N, 54˚ 13′ 35″ E, 24.-25.10.2000/ leg.: H. Pohl, SOQ 2000/04 // HLMD-Col-934’. 

Although this specimen has all the characters of the species and falls within the measurements given, it has not been 

included in the type series because it is badly damaged, particularly its pronotum, which is split down the middle.


Figs. 1–2. Habitus, dorsal view. 1 – Oryzaephilus socotraensis sp. nov. (paratype, male); 2 – Silvanolomus depressus 

sp. nov. (holotype, male). 

Description. Dark brown to blackish-brown, moderately depressed and elongate (as usual 

for the genus). Length 2.4–2.8 mm (holotype: 2.4 mm); length : maximum elytral breadth 

ratio, 32.4–38.3 : 10. Pubescence golden or greyish. Head and pronotum appearing dull, 

elytra more shining. 

Head. As long or slightly longer than breadth across temples; genae (sides of head in front 

of eyes) obviously raised forming conspicuous rim (as in many other Oryzaephilus), not 

sharply angled and without horns; small depressions above antennal insertions; eyes large, 

separated medially across head by about ×5–×7 breadth, separated from front of head by about 

×1.5 length; temple length: eye length ratio, 10 : 50–60; antennal length: body length ratio, 

males 10 : 31.5–33.2, female 10 : 35; head of usual size compared with pronotum (breadth 

across temples: pronotal maximum breadth, excluding anterior angles and other teeth, males 

10 : 11.3–11.5, female 10 : 12.3); puncturation strongly reticulate on vertex.

226 


Pronotum. Moderately elongate, length: maximum breadth (excluding anterior angles and 

other teeth) ratio, males 13.2–14.0 : 10, female 13.0 : 10 (probably tending to be less elongate 

in all females); lateral ridges well developed, somewhat curved in female, more or less 

parallel for greater length in males, median ridge higher than lateral ridges; anterior angles 

strongly produced forming very prominent laterally directed teeth (slightly more so in males 

than in female seen), see Figs. 3–4, other teeth moderately developed; puncturation coarse, 

reticulate as on head, a few punctures reniform. 

Elytra. Length : maximum breadth ratio, 18.7–22.6 : 10; sides gradually curved to apex 

(apices curved to suture, not produced before it); third and alternate interstriae with setae 

arranged in three rows (usual herring-bone arrangement). 

Metathoracic legs. Male, metatrochanter with spine, metatibia with minute spine near 

apex (metafemur without spine); female, without secondary sexual characters (as in other 

Oryzaephilus spp.). 

Male genitalia. (Figs. 5–6). Internal sac with armature (Fig. 5, somewhat fragmented in 

specimen drawn); 11–13 rods on each side towards ostium; median strut strongly narrowed 

to basal half; median lobe with a few short setae on basal third, sinuate before broad, rounded 

apex; parameres elongate, more or less parallel sided, slightly curved to base from apical 

half, apices truncate to slightly rounded to outer margin, bearing four long apically forked 

setae plus two or three thinner, shorter simple setae towards outer margin, outer and inner 

margins below the apices with several short inconspicuous setae (Fig. 6); sternites VIII–IX 

(not illustrated), sternite VIII with three longer setae present on outer half of margin of each 

side, fi ner very short setae medially. 

Differential diagnosis. The following combination of characters distinguishes this from 

other known species: Eyes large and prominent; temples short, about a fi fth or less as long 

as eye; anterior angles of pronotum strongly produced laterally to form a prominent, narrow 

tooth, obviously more strongly developed than all other teeth; pronotum not gibbous; male 

genitalia: internal sac with armature; median lobe without a ventral tooth, sides sinuate before 

broad apex; parameres elongate more or less parallel-sided, only a few short setae along outer 

margin (no long setae there). 

A strongly developed tooth at the anterior pronotal angle, more prominent than the other teeth 

especially in larger males, is also present in O. gibbosus, an African species that has been found 

in Socotra (see below), and O. acuminatus Halstead, 1980, an Oriental species. However, apart 

from having obviously different male genitalia (parameres and median lobe are quite different) 

the elytra of these two species appear more elongate, more parallel sided and at their apices 

usually have the margin slightly produced before meeting the suture, also the pronota of these 

species are to some extent gibbous, inconspicuously to (in large males) obviously so. 

Males of Oryzaephilus canus Halstead, 1980 and the new species have the same secondary 

sexual characters of the hind legs; in both the metafemora are without a spine. Also their 

genitalia are similar although in O. socotraensis sp. nov. the parameres, apart from having 

long setae limited to the apices, are more elongate. In O. canus long setae are also present 

along the apical half of the outer margin of the parameres (see HALSTEAD 1980 for fi gures). The 

damaged � specimen of O. socotraensis sp. nov. from Farmihin was fi rst seen in 2002, when 

it was mistakenly thought to be a form of O. canus with more prominent anterior pronotal 

angles, etc. Its true status became apparent when the author received additional specimens


last year. [Unfortunately, the record of O. canus from Socotra that was included in HALSTEAD 

(2011) was based on the Farmihin specimen and consequently is wrong. However, O. canus 

occurs in Somalia, as well as other parts of East Africa, and in the United Arab Emirates, so 

perhaps it will be found in Socotra in the future.] 

Etymology. The geographic species name has been used because Socotra is where it was 

fi rst discovered. 

Distribution. So far known only from two localities in Noged plain, Socotra Island. 

Figs. 3–7. Oryzaephilus spp. 3–6 – O. socotraensis sp. nov.: 3 – head, pronotum and elytra of male; 4 – head and 

pronotum of female; 5–6 – male genitalia, 5 – internal sac, 6 – genitalia without sac. 7 – O. gibbosus Aitken, 1965, 

median lobe and parameres of male genitalia (after HALSTEAD 1980). Scale bars = 1 mm (Figs. 3–4), 0.1 mm (Figs. 

5–7).

228 


Oryzaephilus gibbosus Aitken, 1965 

(Fig. 7) 

Material examined. 1 dissected �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Isl. / GPS 12.652N, 54.024E; 10m / Hadibu, 11.-23.xi.2000 

/ V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg’ (NMPC); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOQOTRA-ARCHIPEL. SOQOTRA / Wadi Danegan, 

Barbelfallen, 90m / 12°36′59″N 54°03′48″E, / 28.-30.x.2000 / leg: T. van. Harten & H. Pohl SOQ 2000/02a // 

HLMD-Col-933’ (HLMD). 

Notes. Oryzaephilus gibbosus is widespread in Africa but has not previously been recorded 

from Socotra. In the past it was found on East African coconuts and coconut shell (AITKEN 

1965) imported to the United Kingdom. It has also been found on other oilseeds, sifted from 

compost, and caught in a soil trap (HALSTEAD 1980). Some notes on characters for distinguishing 

O. gibbosus and O. socotraensis sp. nov. are included in the differential diagnosis for 

the latter species. In addition, O. gibbosus males have a spine on the metafemora, as well 

as the other secondary sexual characters of the hind legs. The typical form of the parameres 

and median lobe of this species is illustrated in Fig. 7. For additional line illustrations of 

O. gibbosus and its genitalia, see HALSTEAD (1980, 1993). 

Silvanolomus Reitter, 1912 

Silvanolomus is a genus of small beetles found in tropical and subtropical regions of the 

Old World. The following seven species have been described: three from Australia, including 

Silvanolomus armatulus (Blackburn, 1891), Silvanolomus crenicollis (Grouvelle, 1911) and 

Silvanolomus goughi Halstead, 1993; 1 from Sri Lanka, Silvanolomus denticollis (Reitter, 

1876); one from India, Silvanolomus halsteadi Sengupta & Pal, 1996; one from Japan, Silvanolomus 

inermis (Reitter, 1876) and one from Africa, Silvanolomus pullus (Reitter, 1898), the 

new one described below making a total of eight. The author has also seen a few additional 

new species from the Orient and Australia. These beetles have been collected on fl ower heads 

of various plants including cereals and wild grasses, they have been found quite commonly on 

heads of sorghum in Queensland, Australia, occasionally in association with stored products 

and often collected in light traps. Silvanolomus spp. usually have six obvious lateral teeth 

on each side of the pronotum but these may be very much reduced or virtually absent. Their 

eyes are large and prominent. The pronotum and elytra are usually transversely, moderately 

convex. The tarsi have 5 tarsomeres, the 3rd produced in front to form a conspicuous lobe, the 

4th is very small. In general, because there are few useful external characters species identifi 

cation is very diffi cult, however male genitalia are often valuable for species recognition. 

Secondary sexual characters have not been discovered and size rarely seems to be linked to 

sex. Further notes on the genus with descriptions and illustrations for some of the species are 

given in HALSTEAD (1993) and SENGUPTA & PAL (1996). 

Silvanolomus depressus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 2, 8–11) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: dissected � (NMPC): ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Dixam plateau Firmihin (Dracaena 

forest) / 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490m. / J. Bezděk leg., 15-16.xi.2010’. PARATYPE: 1 dissected �, with the same data 

as holotype (NMPC).


Description (measurements/ratios given for holotype fi rst): Body. Brown, vertex of head and 

disc of pronotum appearing fl at. Length 2.0 mm, 2.2 mm; length: maximum elytral breadth 

ratios, 30.74 : 10, 29.7 : 10. Pubescence golden. 

Head. Length: breadth across eyes ratios, 10 : 13.75, 10 : 14.37; eyes very large and protuberant 

(as usual in the genus), separated across mid-line by ×4.8, ×5.0 breadth, length : 

breadth ratio 23.1 : 10, 24.62 : 10; antennal length about 1/3 body length; vertex almost fl at, 

with puncturation coarsely reticulate. 

Figs. 8–12. Silvanolomus spp. 8–11 – S. depressus sp. nov.: 8 – head, pronotum and elytra of male; 9 – pronotum of 

female; 10–11 – male genitalia, 10 – internal sac, 11 – genitalia without sac. 12 – S. inermis (Reitter, 1876), median 

lobe and parameres of male genitalia. Scale bars = 1 mm (Figs. 8–9), 0.1 mm (Figs. 10–12).

230 


Pronotum. Length: maximum breadth ratio, 11.81 : 10, 11.02 : 10 i.e., slightly more elongate 

in male than in female seen (although possibly signifi cant, similar sexual difference has not 

been observed in other Silvanolomus – more material is required for confi rmation); puncturation 

as on vertex of head, coarsely reticulate; disc overall shallowly depressed (appearing 

almost fl at at low magnifi cation), depression deepest toward base; lateral margins with teeth 

obsolete, represented by six very small prominences (anterior and posterior angles included), 

most obvious in larger (female) specimen, coarse punctures at pronotal edge producing an 

uneven margin between prominences. 

Elytra. Slightly less than ×2 as long as broad, length: maximum breadth ratios, 18.4 : 10, 

18.1 : 10; interstriae with setae arranged in alternate single and double rows, one row on 1 st 

(sutural) interstriae, two on 2 nd etc. 

Male genitalia (Figs. 10–11). Internal sac as in Fig. 10, usual form in Silvanolomus, rows 

of 11–13 obvious rods on each side towards ostium; median lobe somewhat triangular, apex 

rounded, row of setae across basal half; parameres, at about apical third tapered from distal 

margin to apex, bearing 5–6 long setae along apical margin, longest more than half as long 

as parameres, few short setae on distal half at beginning of taper. 

Differential diagnosis. This species differs from other described and new ones known to 

the author in having the pronotal disc shallowly depressed and appearing rather fl at, and the 

head with the vertex comparatively fl at. Other species have the pronotum and head obviously, 

transversely, moderately convex. 

Poorly developed pronotal teeth, although somewhat variable, are also a characteristic of 

S. inermis (Japan, China and Korea). In addition, this species has similar genitalia but they 

differ from those of the new species as follows: the median lobe appears more triangular 

(sides straighter) and the parameres more widely separated, more parallel sided and with the 

point of taper a little closer to the apex (cf. Figs. 11–12). Relatively poorly developed teeth 

are also present on the pronotum of S. pullus (distribution Africa and South Yemen) but teeth 

in this species are generally more easily distinguished from the smaller prominences between 

them. The male genitalia of S. depressus sp. nov. and S. pullus do not appear to differ in any 

signifi cant way, suggesting that they are very closely related. However, separate species status 

has been given to the taxon based principally on the rather unique character provided by the 

shallowly depressed pronotal disc. 

Etymology. The name refers to the pronotal disc. 

Distribution. So far known only from the type locality in Socotra Island. 


I wish to thank Jiří Hájek for sending specimens from NMPC, providing the colour illustrations 

and other help kindly given. Robert Güsten, previously at HLMD, sent specimens 

and recently Sabine Wamser kindly sent them for re-examination. 

References 

AITKEN A. D. 1965: A new species of Oryzaephilus (Col. Silvanidae). Proceedings of the Royal Entomological 

Society of London (B) 34: 123–126.


HALSTEAD D. G. H. 1980: A revision of the genus Oryzaephilus Ganglbauer, including descriptions of related 

genera (Coleoptera: Silvanidae). Zoological Journal of the Linnaean Society 69: 271–374. 

HALSTEAD D. G. H. 1993: Keys for the identifi cation of beetles associated with stored products. II. Laemophloeidae, 

Passandridae and Silvanidae. Journal of Stored Products Research 29: 99–197. 

HALSTEAD D. G. H. 1997: New Oryzaephilus Ganglbauer and related taxa from Africa (Coleoptera: Silvanidae). 

Annales Zoologici (Warszawa) 47: 189–198. 

HALSTEAD D. G. H. 2011: Order Coleoptera, family Silvanidae. Pp. 233–245. In: HARTEN A. VAN (ed.): Arthropod 

Fauna of the United Arab Emirates. Volume 4. Multiply Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 832 pp. 

SENGUPTA T. & PAL T. K. 1996: Fauna of India and the adjacent countries, Calvicornia [sic!]: Coleoptera Family 

Silvanidae. Zoological Survey of India, Calcutta, [10] + 262 pp.

232 



Published 17.xii.2012 Volume 52(suppl. 2), pp. 233–240 ISSN 0374-1036 

Phalacridae of Socotra Island (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea) 

Matthew L. GIMMEL 

Division of Entomology, Biodiversity Institute & Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, 

University of Kansas, 1501 Crestline Drive, Suite 140, Lawrence, Kansas, 66045, U.S.A.; 

e-mail: phalacrid@gmail.com 

Abstract. The family Phalacridae is newly reported from Socotra. Three species 

in three genera are recorded, including two new species: Olibrosoma eudaimonarabiana, 

sp. nov., Olibrus socotrana, sp. nov., and Pseudolibrus gestroi Flach, 

1889. Illustrations of each species are provided, and a key is given to allow identifi 

cation of Socotran species. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Phalacridae, Olibrosoma, Olibrus, taxonomy, new species, 

new records, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The family Phalacridae, though recently revised at the genus level (GIMMEL, in press), are 

still among the poorest known beetle families at the species level. Their appearance is highly 

uniform over most of the family. Male genitalia are required in most cases to defi nitively 

establish species identities. A few recent studies by Z. Švec have focused on select East 

African (ŠVEC 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006) and Middle Eastern species (ŠVEC 2010), and GIMMEL 

(2009) treated the Seychellois fauna. Socotran species have never been treated, so this report 

contains the fi rst records of the family from the island. 

Three genera are reported from Socotra: 1) Olibrosoma Tournier, 1889 is represented by 

two previously described species from Mauritania to Transcaucasia; 2) Olibrus Erichson, 

1845, the largest genus of Phalacridae with 128 previously described species, is represented 

on all habitable continents except South America and is especially rich in arid and semiarid 

regions; and 3) Pseudolibrus Flach, 1889 known from fi ve described species from subsaharan 

Africa and outlying islands (GIMMEL, in press). Based on morphological similarity, the closest 

apparent relatives of Socotran species in each genus are mainland Afrotropical species, with 

one species reported both from Socotra Island and mainland Yemen. 

The known Socotran species are easily distinguished from each other externally. However, 

since species within the reported genera may be extremely similar-looking, specimens should 

be dissected to detect the presence of additional species in the Socotran fauna. 



234 

GIMMEL: Phalacridae of Socotra Island 


Specimens were dissected by removing the abdomen using a method similar to that of 

DETTMER (1974). The abdomen was then placed in warm KOH for 10 minutes, transferred to 

water, whereupon the aedeagus was extracted and sclerites separated for clearer observation 

and illustration. The sclerites were remounted in water- and alcohol-soluble dimethylhydantoin 

formaldehyde (DMHF) resin on cellulose acetate rectangles and pinned with the specimen. 

Female genitalia were not studied for this work. Although they have been shown to contain 

diagnostic characters (especially in Olibrus), they are too poorly known in most species to be 

useful, and their description awaits further revision. Habitus photographs were taken using 

a Canon EOS 70D digital camera with an Infi nity K-2 long-distance microscope lens, and 

images were assembled using CombineZM. 

Specimens for this study were made available from the National Museum, Prague, Czech 

Republic (NMPC); the Faculty of Forestry, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech 

Republic (CULS); and Pietro Lo Cascio and Flavia Grita private collection, Lipari, Italy 

(PLFG). The type of Pseudolibrus gestroi Flach, 1889 was borrowed from Museo Civico di 

Storia Naturale ‘Giacomo Doria,’ Genova, Italy (MSNG). A small number of specimens were 

retained for my personal collection (MLGC). Label data of holotypes in the type material 

sections are given verbatim; separate labels are divided by (//) and individual lines on labels 

are divided by (/). 

Taxonomy 

Key to Phalacridae of Socotra Island 

1. Elytron with nine distinct, nearly complete striae (Fig. 11); frontoclypeus not emarginate 

above antennal base. .................................................... Pseudolibrus gestroi Flach, 1889 

– Elytron with one or two incomplete striae near suture, remainder of elytron smooth (Figs. 

1, 6); frontoclypeus with small emargination above antennal base. ................................ 2 

2. Elytron with one stria near suture (Fig. 1); antenna with four-segmented club (Fig. 5); 

metatarsus exceedingly long and slender (Fig. 4). ............................................................. 

.......................................................................... Olibrosoma eudaimonarabiana sp. nov. 

– Elytron with two striae near suture (Fig. 6); antenna with three-segmented club (Fig. 10); 

metatarsus not notably longer than other tarsi (Fig. 9). ........ Olibrus socotranus sp. nov. 

Olibrosoma eudaimonarabiana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–5) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Zerik. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), point mounted, genitalia removed and placed in DMHF on acetate card with 

specimen, abdomen removed and remounted on point, with label data ‘Yemen; Socotra Isl. / Zerik, 25.-27.iii.2001 / 

V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. // HOLOTYPE � / Olibrosoma / eudaimonarabiana Gimmel / des. M.L. Gimmel 2012 

[red label]’. PARATYPES (N=41): YEMEN: SOCOTRA: Noged Plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 

57m, 05–06.xii.2003, J. Farkač leg. (5, CULS); same data except D. Král leg. (2, NMPC); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N,


53°58.9′E, 200 m, 07–08.xi.2010, J. Hájek leg. (1, NMPC); same except J. Bezděk leg. (1, NMPC); Wadi Ayhaft, 

12°36′38″N, 53°58′49″E, 190 m, 24–26.xi.2003, D. Král leg. (1, NMPC); Firmihin, 12°28′27″N, 54°00′54″E, 

400–500 m, 06–07.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg., at light (4, NMPC; 1, MLGC); Dixam Plateau, Wadi 

Esgego, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m, 02–03.xii.2003, J. Farkač leg. (1, NMPC); same except P. Kabátek leg. (2, 

NMPC); Zemhon area, 12°20′58″N, 54°06′39″E, 270–300 m, 16–17.vi.2010, V. Hula leg. (1, NMPC); Zemhon area, 

12°30′58″N, 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m, 03–04.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (1, NMPC); Homhil protected 

area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 364 m, 28–29.xi.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (1, NMPC); Hadiboh environs, 12°65′02″N, 

54°02′04″E, 10–100 m, 21.xi–12.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (3, NMPC); Kesa environs, 12°39′37″N, 53°26′42″E, 

220–300m, 28–29.i.2010, L. Purchart leg. (1, NMPC); Qualentiah environs, slopes 5 km SE from Quaysoh, 

12°39.691′N, 53°26.658′E, 04–05.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (8, NMPC; 1, MLGC). HADRAMAUT: Wada 

Daw’an, NW of Al Mukalla, 15°09′N, 48°26′E, 946 m, 20.x.2005, S. Kadlec leg. (1, NMPC); Kushum al Ain, 50 

km SE of Hisn al Abr, 15°52′N, 47°40′E, 745 m, 09.x.2005, S. Kadlec leg. (1, NMPC). TA’IZZ: Suq ad Dabab, 

WSW of Ta’izz, 13°32′N, 43°57′E, 1208 m, 26.x.2005, S. Kadlec leg. (1, NMPC); MA’RIB: Wadi as-Sudd, 10 km 

W of Ma’rib, 15°24′N, 45°16′E, 1117 m, 08.x.2005, S. Kadlec leg. (1, NMPC). SANA’A: Wadi Anis, 60 km SW of 

Sana’a, 15°00′N, 44°09′E, 1522 m, 07.x.2005, S. Kadlec leg. (1, NMPC). AL MAHRAH: Jabal al Fatk, Hawf, NE of 

Al Ghaydah, 16°39′N, 53°04′E, 477 m, 31.iii.2007, S. Kadlec leg. (1, NMPC). Each paratype with label ‘PARATYPE 

/ Olibrosoma / eudaimonarabiana Gimmel / det. M.L. Gimmel 2012 [yellow label]’. 

Description. Total length 2.3–3.2 mm. Color uniform rufotestaceous dorsally (Fig. 1) and 

ventrally, appendages usually somewhat lighter; diffraction grating evident on elytra. 

Head fi nely, densely punctate; frontoclypeus with shallow emargination above antennal 

insertion; eye large, distinctly emarginate at level of frontoclypeal shelf, eyes separated by 

slightly more than one eye width in frontal view; with weak periocular groove along margin 

of posterior half of eye. Mandible unidentate; maxillary palp with palpomere IV subequal to 

II and III combined; labial palpomere III broad, fusiform. Antenna (Fig. 5) short, not reaching 

Figs. 1-5. Olibrosoma eudaimonarabiana sp. nov. 1 – dorsal habitus; 2 – tegmen, ventral; 3 – penis, ventral; 4 

– metatibia and tarsus, ventral; 5 – antenna. Scale bars = 0.3 mm.

236 


posterior corner of pronotum; antennomeres VIII–XI distinctly expanded into club, antennomere 

VII slighly expanded, causing club to appear 4- to 5-segmented. Pronotum with hind 

angle sharp, about right; scutellar lobe moderately developed. Pronotal lateral bead coarse, 

distinctly thickened at front angle; pronotum lacking border along posterior margin; punctation 

as fi ne as that of head but less dense, especially sparse medially; pronotum completely 

lacking microsculpture. Elytron with a single stria near suture, evident in apical three-fourths; 

elytral surface smooth, with trace of additional longitudinal striae represented by rows of 

exceedingly weak punctures; weak transverse strigae evident laterally in apical two-thirds of 

elytron; elytron sparsely micropunctulate over entire surface, microsculpture not evident at 60× 

magnifi cation. Prosternum with a few very short, ventrally directed setae; prosternal process 

apex with margin indistinct; protibia with ctenidium long, extending about three-fourths of 

length of tibia. Metaventral process extending slightly anterior of mesocoxae, not forming a 

shelf over mesoventrite; metaventral postcoxal line smoothly arcuate, enclosing area about 

one-fi fth longitudinal distance between meso- and metacoxae; metaventrite weakly punctate; 

metatarsus about as long as metatibia, with four tarsomeres in both sexes; dorsal (longest) 

metatibial spur about one-third length of metatarsomere I (Fig. 4); metatarsomere I longer 

than remaining tarsomeres combined; metatarsomere II as long as III and IV combined. 

Aedeagus with fused parameres of tegmen (Fig. 2) acuminately pointed apically, with 

three pairs of setae (two pairs ventrally, one pair dorsally, the latter positioned more apically); 

penis (Fig. 3) broadly pointed and minutely tripartite at apex, internal sac with paired, weakly 

sclerotized, rounded spicules, based of penis broadly rounded. 

Differential diagnosis. Distinguished from other Socotran phalacrids by the single elytral 

sutural stria, long metatarsi (Fig. 4), and rufotestaceous coloration (Fig. 1). It differs from other 

species of Olibrosoma by the uniform rufotestaceous coloration and details of the aedeagus, 

especially the three pairs of setae on the parameres (Fig. 2) and lack of an X-shaped sclerite 

in the penis (Fig. 3). 

Distribution. Collected from multiple localities on the island of Socotra and mainland Yemen. 

Etymology. The specifi c epithet derives from Eudaimon Arabia (‘Happy Arabia’), the name 

given to the region of present-day Yemen by the ancient Greek geographer Ptolemy. 

Notes. Only one other species of Olibrosoma has been illustrated previously, O. testacea 

Tournier, 1889, which occurs in the Saharan and Arabian deserts (illustrated in ŠVEC 2010). 

Another species, O. strigosus (Reitter, 1899), was placed in the genus tentatively by GIMMEL 

(in press). At least two additional, undescribed species occur in eastern and southern Africa. 

One form occurring in the Horn of Africa is similar externally to O. eudaimonarabiana sp. 

nov. but differs signifi cantly with regard to the male genitalia. 

Olibrus socotranus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 6–10) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra, Noged, Mokhar, 12°18′43″N 53°43′31″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), point mounted, genitalia removed and placed in DMHF on acetate card 

with specimen, abdomen removed and remounted on point, with label data ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., / Noged, Mokhar, 

/ 31.iii.2001, / leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný // HOLOTYPE � / Olibrus / socotranus Gimmel / des. M.L. Gimmel


2012 [red label]’. PARATYPES (N=17): Same capture data as holotype, with label ‘PARATYPE / Olibrus / socotranus 

Gimmel / det. M.L. Gimmel 2012 [yellow label]’ (5 CULS; 9, NMPC; 3, MLGC). 

Description. Total length 1.8–2.2 mm. Color uniformly black or nearly black dorsally, 

with faint greenish metallic tinge (Fig. 6); ventrally dark rufotestaceous, appendages bright 

rufotestaceous. 

Head extremely fi nely, moderately densely punctate; frontoclypeus with distinct emargination 

above antennal insertion; eye medium-sized, extremely shallowly emarginate at 

level of frontoclypeal shelf, eyes separated by about two eye widths in frontal view; lacking 

periocular groove. Maxillary palp with palpomere IV short, wide, fusiform; labial palp very 

small, inconspicuous. Antenna (Fig. 10) short, not reaching posterior corner of pronotum; 

antennomeres VII and VIII distinctly longer than wide, IX slightly longer than X, XI weakly 

turbinate, shorter than IX and X combined. Pronotum with hind angle distinctly obtuse; scutellar 

lobe weakly developed. Pronotal lateral bead fi ne, complete, not distinctly thickened at 

front angle; pronotum with very weak but evident border along posterior margin; punctation 

fi ner and sparser than that of head; pronotum completely lacking microsculpture. Elytron with 

two striae near suture, medial stria extending about two-thirds length of elytron, lateral stria 

extending about one-half length of elytron, striae joining near apex; elytral surface smooth, 

with faint trace of additional longitudinal striae represented by rows of exceedingly weak 

elongate punctures, with round interstrial punctures also faintly indicated; transverse strigae 

and microsculpture completely absent from elytron. Prosternum entirely glabrous; prosternal 

process apex with margin completely absent; protibia with two spines at outer apical angle. 

Figs. 6-10. Olibrus socotranus sp. nov. 6 – dorsal habitus; 7 – tegmen, ventral; 8 – penis, ventral; 9 – metatibia and 

tarsus, ventral; 10 – antenna. Scale bars = 0.3 mm.

238 


Metaventral process broader than mesocoxal cavity, extending distinctly anterior of mesocoxae, 

evenly rounded at apex, forming a shelf over mesoventrite; metaventral postcoxal line closely 

adhered to mesocoxal cavity; metaventrite very weakly, sparsely punctate, punctures entirely 

absent from large areas posteromedially; metatarsus shorter than metatibia, male with four 

tarsomeres, female with fi ve; ventral (longest) metatibial spur nearly equal to metatarsomere 

I (Fig. 9); metatarsomere I less than half length of II; metatarsomere II subequal to III–IV(–V 

in female) combined. 

Aedeagus with tegmen (Fig. 7) short, broad, fused parameres broader than long, slightly 

emarginate at apex, without setae; penis (Fig. 8) blunt to slightly emarginate at apex, acutely 

pointed at base, internal sac with ‘ω’-shaped sclerite, ejaculatory duct with spirally arranged 

sclerotization proximal to penis. 

Differential diagnosis. Distinguished from other Socotran phalacrids by the two elytral 

sutural striae, short metatarsi (Fig. 9), and deep black coloration (Fig. 6). It differs from 

other species of Olibrus by the combination of deep black coloration, two sutural striae that 

coalesce apically and do not approach the base of the elytra, the almost total lack of striae on 

the elytral disc, lack of microsculpture on the dorsal surface, the unbordered pronotal base, 

the bright rufotestaceous appendages (with antennal club not infuscated), the highly obtuse 

pronotal hind angles, and details of the aedeagus, especially the short, wide parameres (Fig. 

7) and the acutely pointed base of the penis (Fig. 8). 

Distribution. So far known only from Socotra, from one locality in the Noged Plain. 

Etymology. The specifi c epithet refers to the island of Socotra, from which all known specimens 

of this species originate. 

Notes. This species keys to Olibrus platysternus Champion, 1925 in LYUBARSKY’s (1998) 

treatment of some southern African members of this genus. However, O. socotranus sp. nov. 

is slightly larger on average, has a more slender antennal club, and differs in aedeagal morphology 

based on the illustration in LYUBARSKY (1998). It is also similar to O. quadristriatus 

Champion, 1925 but differs from that species in lacking a medio-basal border on the pronotum, 

antennal club not darkened, and differences in aedeagal morphology (that species also 

illustrated in LYUBARSKY 1998). 

I have seen a small collection of northeastern African Olibrus and none were similar to 

this new species. Additionally, investigation of primary literature for previously described but 

still poorly known African, Eastern Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern species of Olibrus 

revealed specifi c differences in all cases. However, without examination of a large number 

of types scattered among numerous museums, the possibility exists that this species has been 

previously described from another locality. 

Pseudolibrus gestroi Flach, 1889 

(Figs. 11–15) 

Pseudolibrus Gestroi Flach, 1889: 270 (original description; Type locality: Eritrea). 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (MSNG), point mounted, genitalia removed and placed in DMHF on acetate card 

with specimen, abdomen removed and remounted on point, with label data ‘Bogos 1870 / Sciotel [handwritten] / 

O. Beccari. // Museo Civ. / Genova // Olibrus / pallescens / m. [handwritten] // Olibrus / pallescens / n.sp. in litt. 

[handwritten] / det.E.Reitter // ? TYPUS of / Pseudolibrus / gestroi Flach, 1889 / R.Poggi [handwritten] [red label] 

// HOLOTYPE / Pseudolibrus / gestroi Flach / det. M.L. Gimmel 2011 [red label]’.


Figs. 11-15. Pseudolibrus gestroi Flach, 1889. 11 – dorsal habitus; 12 – tegmen, ventral; 13 – penis, ventral; 

14 – metatibia and tarsus, ventral; 15 – antenna. Scale bars = 0.3 mm. 

Material examined (N=80). YEMEN: SOCOTRA: Noged Plain (Sand Dunes), Sharet Halma village environs, 

12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 20 m, 10–11.xi.2010, J. Hájek leg. (17, NMPC; 2, MLGC); same data except P. Hlaváč 

leg. (5, NMPC); same data except J. Bezděk leg. (20, NMPC); Esdegob, 24.ii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. 

(1, NMPC); Zerik, 25–27.iii.2001, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (2, NMPC); Noged Plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 

12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 57 m, 05–06.xii.2003, coll. J. Farkač leg. (6, CULS; 1, MLGC); same data except D. Král 

leg. (3, NMPC); same data except P. Kabátek leg. (1, NMPC); Hadiboh environs, 12°65′02″N, 54°02′04″E, 10–100 

m, 21.xi–12.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (2, NMPC); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200 m, 07–08.xi.2010, J. 

Bezděk leg. (1, NMPC); Dixam Plateau, Wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E, 750 m, 03.xii.2003, D. Král leg. (1, 

NMPC); Dixam Plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, 15–16.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg. (7, 

NMPC); same data except J. Hájek leg. (2, NMPC); same data except L. Purchart leg. (1, NMPC); Firmihin Plateau, 

12°28′46″N, 54°01′E, 400–500 m, 18–19.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (2, NMPC); Dixam Plateau, Wadi 

Esgego, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m, 02–03.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (2, NMPC); same data except J. Farkač 

leg. (1, NMPC); Aloove area, Hassan village environs, 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m, 09–10.xi.2010, J. Hájek leg. (1, 

NMPC); Khayrha Mountains, north slopes, Qalansiyah environs, 12°38′50″N, 53°27′45″E, 85–592 m, 09–10.xii.2003, 

P. Kabátek leg. (1, NMPC); Wadi Da’arho, 21.ii.2009, P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita leg. (1, PLFG). 

Diagnosis. Distinguished from other Socotran phalacrids by the nine nearly complete elytral 

striae (Fig. 11), large scutellum, and by the structure of the metatarsus (Fig. 14) and antenna 

(Fig. 15). It differs from other species of Pseudolibrus by the uniform testaceous coloration 

and details of the aedeagus, especially the two pairs of setae on the parameres (Fig. 12) and 

the blunt, evenly rounded apex of the penis (Fig. 13). 

Distribution. Reliably identifi ed specimens are known only from the type locality (Eritrea) 

and Socotra Island, but the species is probably much more widespread in Africa. 

Notes. The genus Pseudolibrus had not been used outside of catalogues since the original 

description, until GIMMEL (submitted) recognized it as a senior synonym of Biophytus 

Guillebeau, 1894 and Polyaloxus Guillebeau, 1894.

240 



I thank Zdeněk Švec (Prague, Czech Republic) for making me aware of the Socotran 

material and Jiří Hájek (NMPC) for the loan of the material for this study, and both for helpful 

reviews of this manuscript, along with an anonymous reviewer. Roberto Poggi (MSNG) kindly 

investigated and sent the cryptic holotype of Pseudolibrus gestroi. Crystal Maier (University 

of Kansas, USA) assisted with the habitus illustrations and Chris Carlton (Louisiana State 

University, USA) helped to improve the manuscript. 

References 

DETTMER W. 1974: Zur Genitalpräparation von Phalacriden (Coleoptera). Mitteilungen des Internationalen Entomologischen 

Vereins E.V. Frankfurt 2(6): 82–84. 

FLACH K. 1889: Pseudolibrus nov. gen. Phalacridarum. Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift 1889: 269–270. 

GIMMEL M. L. 2009: Family Phalacridae. The shining mold beetles. Pp. 106–108. In: GERLACH J. (ed.): The 

Coleoptera of the Seychelles Islands. Pensoft, Sofi a-Moscow, 266 pp. 

GIMMEL M. L.: Genus-level revision of the family Phalacridae (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea). Zootaxa, in press. 

LYUBARSKY G. Y. 1998: Phalacridae of the southern Africa (Coleoptera). Russian Entomological Journal 6(1-2) 

(1997): 17–40. 

ŠVEC Z. 2002: Revision of the African species of the genus Tinodemus Guillebeau (Coleoptera, Phalacridae). 

Results of the entomological expeditions of the Museum of Natural History, Berlin to Africa. 76th contribution. 

Mitteilungen aus dem Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin Zoologische Reihe 78: 217–256. 

ŠVEC Z. 2003: A review of the genera Stilbus Seidlitz, 1872, Podocesus Guillebeau, 1894 and Entomocnemus 

Guillebeau, 1894 from Africa, Madagascar and the Seychelles (Coleoptera, Phalacridae). Entomologica Basiliensia 

25: 99–133. 

ŠVEC Z. 2005: Notes on the genus Olibrus Erichson, 1945 [sic] (Coleoptera: Phalacridae) with the description of a 

new species. Studies and Reports of District Museum Prague-East Taxonomical Series 1: 133–139. 

ŠVEC Z. 2006: Afronyrus gen. n. (Coleoptera: Phalacridae) with descriptions of new Phalacridae from Africa and 

Asia. Studies and Reports of District Museum Prague-East Taxonomical Series 2: 105–122. 

ŠVEC Z. 2010: Order Coleoptera, family Phalacridae. Pp. 249–252. In: HARTEN A. VAN (ed.): Arthropod Fauna 

of the UAE, Volume 3. Multiply Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 700 pp.



A new species of Lamiogethes from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Nitidulidae: Meligethinae) 

Paolo AUDISIO 

Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza Università di Roma, 

Via Borelli 50, I-00161 Rome, Italy; e-mail: paolo.audisio@uniroma1.it 

Abstract. A new species of pollen beetle of the genus Lamiogethes Audisio & 

Cline, 2009, L. socotranus sp. nov., is described from Socotra Island (Yemen). 

The new species is isolated from other East African representatives of this genus, 

exhibiting a general shape of male genitalia partially resembling certain Lamiogethes 

species known from southern Indian Peninsula. The new species is the fi rst 

described Meligethinae recorded from Socotra Island, where further specialized 

research could enable discovery of other endemic or new species, chiefl y in the 

genera Lamiogethes, Afrogethes Audisio & Cline, 2009, and Pria Stephens, 1830. 

Lamiogethes socotranus sp. nov. was regularly collected on Cephalocroton socotranus 

Balf.f. (Euphorbiaceae), but it could be more likely associated as larvae with 

an unidentifi ed species of Leucas L. (Lamiaceae), which includes seven species 

endemic to Socotra Island. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Nitidulidae, Meligethinae, Lamiogethes, new species, 


Introduction 

Socotra is a relatively large island (3665 km 2 ) located 380 kilometres south of the Arabian 

Peninsula and ~240 kilometres east of the Horn of Africa. The island is characterized by a 

high rate of endemic plant and animal species (WRANIK 2003; MILLER & MORRIS 2004; KILIAN 

& HEIN 2006; BELLÉS 2009; PURCHART 2012; COLONNELLI, in prep.). Beetles are represented by 

~370 species (WRANIK 2003; J. Hájek, pers. comm.), with a little less than half of them being 

endemic, but this number is probably an underestimate. On average, beetles are represented by 

an overall species number that, in well-explored countries, usually doubles the species number 

of native plants (the latter being a recognized synthetic indicator of overall biodiversity). In Italy 

the number of native plant species is around 6000 (PIGNATTI 1982), while the number of native 

species of beetles is around 12,000 (FAUNA EUROPAEA 2012). This 2:1 proportion seems to be 

relatively stable throughout most of temperate continental countries in the world, whereas the 



242 

AUDISIO: A new Lamiogethes from Socotra Island (Nitidulidae) 

value increases in tropical and subtropical areas where the number of beetle species is usually 

largely underestimated as compared to plants. In insular conditions, chiefl y in ancient islands 

with limited long-distance colonization by beetles, this proportion decreases consistently to ~1:1 

(e.g. the Canary Islands with ~2000 native species of plants and beetles (BRAMWELL & BRAMWELL 

1974, HANSEN & SUNDING 1993, MACHADO & OROMI 2000). Nearly the same proportion occurs 

in Sardinia, where ~2000 native plant species are recorded (PIGNATTI 1982), and a comparable 

number of beetle species is known (FAUNA EUROPAEA 2012). Based on these assumptions, and 

considering that ~850 plant species are known from Socotra (MILLER & MORRIS 2004, KILIAN 

& HEIN 2006), an estimate of at least some 800–1000 beetle species should be present on the 

island with nearly half of them being endemic. This estimate suggests that more than half of the 

actual local beetle diversity remains undiscovered (e.g. COLONNELLI, in prep.). 

Pollen beetles (Nitidulidae: Meligethinae) are all strictly associated with fl owering plants 

for their larval development, and species numbers throughout most temperate continental 

countries of the Palaearctic are represented by an average fraction of ~2 % of the native plant 

species number (in Italy ~100 pollen beetle species are known with a corresponding ~6000 

species of native plants; AUDISIO 1993 and unpublished data). Nearly the same percentage 

seems to be present in South Africa (more than 20,000 native plant species, compared to ~300 

species of described and undescribed pollen beetles: AUDISIO et al. 2009 and unpublished data). 

In insular conditions, again, this percentage decreases consistently (~0.5 % in the Canary 

Islands, where ~2.000 native plant species are recorded compared to less than 10 species of 

described and undescribed pollen beetles: MACHADO & OROMI 2000; P. AUDISIO, unpublished 

data). This percentage rises to ~1.5 % in Sardinia, where some 2000 native plant species are 

recorded compared to ~30 species of known pollen beetle species (AUDISIO 2011). Assuming 

for Socotra an average estimate of ~1 % of the native plant species number, we could then 

hypothesize that some 5–10 species [1% over 850 = 8.5] of Meligethinae should be present 

on this island. However, until now no species has been described from the region, which is 

likely due to lack of specialized fi eld research (see Discussion below). 

My colleague Jiří Hájek sent me a series of Meligethinae specimens that were recently 

collected by Czech entomologists in Socotra Island and deposited in the collections of the 

National Museum of Prague. As expected, this interesting material included a new species 

whose description is presented herein. 


All specimens of the new species were obtained from The National Museum, Prague, Czech 

Republic (NMPC). Some paratypes are preserved in the author’s collection, Sapienza Rome 

University, Italy (PACR), and in the Natural History Museum, London, England (BMNH). 

Habitus dorsal view images of the type specimen were taken with a Canon EOS 550D 

digital camera with a Canon MP-E 65 mm objective. Images of the same specimen at different 

focal planes were combined using the Helicon Focus 5.1.19 software. The aedeagus of the 

holotype was mounted in EUPARAL on the same card as the type specimen. The aedeagus 

was drawn by hand with a drawing tube mounted on a BX50 OLYMPUS® upright microscope 

(magnifi cation = 200–1000x).


Total length of specimens is here defi ned as the distance between anterior margin of clypeus 

and posterior apex of pygidium. Maximum width is defi ned as the maximum (combined) 

width of elytra. Elytral length was considered the distance between posterior apex of scutellum 

and elytral distal apex. 

Systematics 

Lamiogethes socotranus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–5) 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Hagher Mts., Skant, N 12º34.557′, E 54º01.514′, 

V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg., 7-8.vi.2010, collected on Cephalocroton socotranus’. PARATYPES: same data as holotype, 

6 ��, 3 �� (NMPC, PACR, BMNH); YEMEN: Socotra Island, Homhil Protected area, N12º34′27″ E54º18′32″, 

364 m a.s.l., 28-29.xi.2003. D. Král lgt, 1 � (NMPC); YEMEN: Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Wadi Madar, 

N12º33′20″ E54º00′40″, 1180-1230 m a.s.l., 12-14.xi.2010, J. Bezděk lgt, 1 � (NMPC); YEMEN: Socotra Island, 

Wadi Zirik, N12º29.584′ E53º59.475′, ca. 500 m a.s.l., 12.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová lgt, 2 ��, 1 � (NMPC, 

PACR); YEMEN: Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, Wadi Zeeriq, N12º31′08″ E53º59′09″, 750 m a.s.l., 3.xii.2003. 

D. Král lgt, 1 � (NMPC); YEMEN: Socotra Island, eastern part, Zemhon area, N12º20′58″ E54º06′39″, 270-300 m 

a.s.l., 16-17.vi.2010, V. Hula lgt, 1 �, 1 � (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Small to medium-sized, almost glabrous dorsally, reddish-brown with yellowish 

legs and antennae (Fig. 1), frequently with darker, blackish elytra and ventrites, similar to 

Lamiogethes leucasi (Easton, 1960) from Central and Eastern Africa in general appearance, 

with differently toothed protibiae (these markedly similar in shape to the European Lamiogethes 

diffi cilis (Heer, 1841): Fig. 5), and different male genitalia (Figs. 2–3). 

Description (male holotype). Body medium-sized, length: 2.3 mm; width: 1.2 mm, moderately 

elongate and convex (Fig. 1); unicolorous reddish-brown, shining, almost glabrous 

dorsally, with peculiarly fi ne and barely distinct golden pubescence on head only, glabrous 

elsewhere (ventral pubescence fi ne and short, golden), frequently with darker, blackish elytra 

and ventrites. 

Head with deep punctures nearly 1.5× as large as eye facets, separated by one diameter 

or less, surface between them smooth, shining; anterior margin of clypeus almost truncate, 

with lateral angles rather blunt (Fig. 1). 

Antennae yellowish, medium-sized, antennomere 3 slender, much narrower, but slightly 

shorter than antennomere 2; club small and symmetrical (Fig. 1). 

Thorax. Pronotum convex, transverse, 1.85× as wide as long, moderately arcuate at sides, 

broadest near posterior angles, more narrowed anteriorly, sides distinctly bordered and narrowly 

explanate; posterior angles slightly obtuse but distinct; posterior basal margin markedly 

sinuate on either side of scutellum; discal punctures deep, 1.5–2.0× as large as eye facets, absent 

in posterior angles, separated by one diameter or more, surface between them shining. 

Scutellum medium-sized, sparsely punctate in anterior half, shining and almost inpunctate 

posteriorly. 

Elytra long, 1.0× as long as wide, broadest at basal second fi fth, ca. 1.15× as wide as 

pronotum; humeri moderately raised, humeral striae absent; punctures as deep and large as 

those on pronotum; spaces between punctures smooth and shining.

244 


Fig. 1. Lamiogethes socotranus sp. nov. 1 – habitus of a male paratype (Body length: 2.4 mm). 

Figs. 2–5. Lamiogethes socotranus sp. nov. 2–3 – male genitalia (tegmen and median lobe of the aedeagus, dorsal view) 

of a male paratype; 4 – ovipositor of a female paratype; 5 – front tibia of a male paratype. Scale bar = 0.2 mm.


Thoracic ventrites with fi ne short golden pubescence. Prosternal antennal ridges strongly 

marked; prosternal process distinctly wider (ca. 1.5×) than antennal club, apex fl atly rounded; 

punctures rather deep, ca.1.5× diameter of eye facet, separated by nearly one diameter; 

surface smooth. Mesoventrite with posterior edge straight. Metaventrite fl atly convex, with 

punctures shallower, as large as or slightly larger than eye facets, separated by one diameter 

or more, surface smooth and shining; secondary sexual characters represented by distinct 

wide impression on posterior two thirds of male metaventrite (appearing fl at and simple in 

females). Metaventral ‘axillary line’ simple. 

Legs yellowish. Protibiae (Figs 1, 5) with outer edge serrate in distal half, with a series of 

4–5 longer, rather sharp teeth; protarsi in both sexes short, narrow, much shorter than antennae, 

protarsal plate in males slightly narrower than antennal club (Fig. 1), more narrow in females; 

meso- and metatibiae rather long (Fig. 1), with arc-like outer edge, bearing a regular series of 

strong, sharp and heavily sclerotiozed spinules; tarsal claws simple, not toothed at base. 

Ventrites. Last abdominal ventrites simple, without distinct secondary sexual characters 

(posterior edge in middle barely emarginate in males), in both sexes with deep and strongly 

marked arc-like impression on each side. 

Tegmen (Fig. 2) long, arcuately narrowed distad, distinctly setose at apex, apical excision 

deep and peculiarly narrow; aedeagus elongate (Fig. 3), abruptly narrowed from distal third, 

and markedly pointed distad. 

Female. Ovipositor yellowish, with rather blunt and slightly darker apex, bearing quite 

long styli inserted close to apex (Fig. 4); ‘central point’ placed at distal three sevenths, without 

ventral spicule; transverse suture narrowly V-shaped, with arcuate base of gonocoxites. 

Variation. The new species exhibits relatively strong variation in body colour (from unicolorous 

pale orange to orange-brown with blackish elytra and ventrites) and size (length: 

1.8–2.4 mm; width: 0.95–1.25 mm). 

Biology. Several specimens of the new species were collected on fl owering shrubs of Cephalocroton 

socotranus Balf.f. (Euphorbiaceae), a Socotran endemic inhabiting subtropical dry 

shrublands in mountainous areas of the island. Euphorbiaceae are among the relatively few 

plant families colonized by Meligethinae larvae (larvae of a single unrelated genus in Central 

Africa were recently collected on infl orescences of Macaranga spp., Euphorbiaceae; P. 

AUDISIO, unpublished data), but Lamiogethes species appear to be all strictly associated with 

Lamiaceae. This occurrence of a Lamiogethes on a non-Lamiaceae host suggests that the 

hypothesis of a possible larval-host plant relationship of Lamiogethes socotranus sp. nov. 

with Cephalocroton Hochst. is rather unlikely, which is also supported by the low ratio of 

collected females to males. Combining the relatively close morphological relationships of 

the new species with L. leucasi (Easton, 1960) and related species from Eastern and Central 

Africa, mostly associated with Leucas spp. (Lamiaceae; EASTON 1959, 1960; AUDISIO unpublished 

data), as well as the occurrence of seven Socotran endemics in this botanical genus 

(Leucas fl agellifolia (Balf.f.) Guerke, L. hagghierensis Al-Gifri & Cortés-Burns, L. kishenensis 

(Radcl.-Sm.) Sebald, L. pendulifl ora Al-Gifri & Cortés-Burns, L. samhaensis Cortés-Burns 

& A.G.Mill., L. spiculifera (Balf.f.) Guerke, and L. virgata Balf.f.; SEBALD 1980; SCHEEN & 

ALBERT 2009), I suspect that at larval stages the new species could be associated with one of 

the above cited Leucas species. However, further more recent (June, 2012) fi eld research on

246 


the island seems to confi rm a regular association of adults of Lamiogethes socotranus sp. nov. 

with Cephalocroton socotranus (J. Hájek, pers. comm.). During the same recent expedition, 

some specimens of the new species were also found in fl owers of Carphalea obovata (Balf. 

f.) Verdc. (Rubiaceae), but none was observed at the top of Haghier Mts., where Leucas 

hagghierensis was one of the dominant plants. These combined circumstances could then 

suggest that the hypothesis of a possible ecological shift of Lamiogethes socotranus sp. nov. 

on Cephalocroton should not be excluded. On the other hand, nothing is known about the 

larval host-plant relationships of the several southern Indian Lamiogethes related to the new 

Socotran species (see discussion below). 

Etymology. The new species is named after its area of occurrence, i.e. Socotra Island. 

Distribution. Lamiogethes socotranus sp. n. is only known from the above cited type localities 

on Socotra Island, Yemen. 

Discussion 

The new species described herein is easily distinguished from the other African species 

of the Lamiogethes rufi collis/gloriosus group (EASTON 1960) by the characteristically shaped 

protibiae (Fig. 5) that are similar to those of the European L. diffi cilis (Heer, 1841), by the 

peculiar male genitalia with a narrowly and deeply incised tegmen (Figs. 2–3), and by almost 

glabrous dorsal body surface. The shape of both tegmen and median lobe of the aedeagus of 

the new species is, in fact, markedly distinct from the typical shape observed in most African 

members of the Lamiogethes rufi collis group (EASTON 1959, 1960). The genus Lamiogethes 

includes (AUDISIO et al. 2009) nearly one hundred described species from Palaearctic, tropical 

and subtropical Africa, India, and Madagascar. Species are attributed to four main speciesgroups, 

including: the L. diffi cilis group from Palaearctic areas; the L. rufi collis/gloriosus 

group from tropical and subtropical Africa; the L. convexus group from southern Africa; 

and the L. luminosus/politus group from India and Madagascar. Lamiogethes socotranus 

sp. nov. occupies a particularly interesting phylogenetic position that likely links it to the 

L. luminosus/politus and L. rufi collis/gloriosus groups via shared morphological characters 

and biogeographical tendencies. This new species, in fact, combines a general body shape 

similar to that of most African species of the L. rufi collis/gloriosus group, including an 

almost glabrous body, and male genitalia more closely resembling certain species of the L. 

luminosus/politus group from the Indian Subcontinent (see, e.g., KIREJTSHUK 1988). Overall 

body shape and colour are particularly similar to those of Lamiogethes mixtus (Grouvelle, 

1908) from southern India. 

As discussed in the Introduction, it is likely that at least a few other Meligethinae species 

occur in Socotra, chiefl y in the genera Lamiogethes (several endemic Lamiaceae and Euphorbiaceae 

are recorded from the Island; SEBALD 1980; MILLER & MORRIS 2004, SCHEEL & ALBERT 

2009), Afrogethes Audisio & Cline, 2009 (mostly associated with Fabaceae, Boraginaceae, 

and Verbenaceae, relatively well represented in the island; MIES & BEYHL 1996, MILLER & 

MORRIS 2004, KÜRSCHNER et al. 2006), and Pria Stephens, 1830 (associated with several plant 

families including Solanaceae, Mesembryanthemaceae, Ericaceae, and others). These three 

genera include most of the Meligethinae fauna known to occur on the Arabian Peninsula


(EASTON 1954; JELÍNEK 1979, 1988; COOPER 1982; AUDISIO et al. 2009). Further fi eld work in 

Socotra aimed to specifi cally collect Meligethinae will very likely enable the discovery of 

other thus far undetected and undescribed species. 


Thanks are due to Jiří Hájek (NMPC) for sending all specimens of the new species (including 

relevant fi eld information on its observed adult biology), and for the preparation of 

the colour picture. I am also grateful to David Král (Prague, Czech Republic), Jan Bezděk, 

Vladimír Hula and Jana Niedobová (all Mendel University, Brno, Czech Republic), for collecting 

all specimens of the new species in the fi eld in Socotra. Finally, I am grateful to my 

friends Josef Jelínek (NMPC) and Andrew R. Cline (Sacramento, California, USA) for their 

criticism, corrections, and suggestions on the fi rst draft of the paper. 

References 

AUDISIO P. 1993: Coleoptera Nitidulidae – Kateretidae. Fauna d’Italia. Vol. 32. Calderini Edizione, Bologna, 

xvi + 971 pp. 

AUDISIO P. 2011: The Nitidulidae and Kateretidae of Sardinia: recent data and updated checklist (Coleoptera), Pp. 

447–460. In: NARDI G., WHITMORE D., BARDIANI M., BIRTELE D., MASON F., SPADA L. & CERRETTI 

P. (eds.): Biodiversity of Marganai and Montimannu (Sardinia). Research in the framework of the ICP Forests 

network. Conservazione Habitat Invertebrati 5: 1–896 + 1 map. 

AUDISIO P., CLINE A.R., DE BIASE A., ANTONINI G., MANCINI E., TRIZZINO M., COSTANTINI L., 

STRIKA S., LAMANNA F. & CERRETTI P. 2009: Preliminary re-examination of genus-level taxonomy of the 

Pollen Beetle subfamily Meligethinae (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae). Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae 

49: 341–504. 


145–154. 

BRAMWELL D. & BRAMWELL Z. 1974: Wild fl owers of the Canary Islands. Stanley Thornes, London, 261 pp. 

COOPER M. C. 1982: The species of the genus Pria Stephens (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae). Zoological Journal of the 

Linnean Society 75: 327–390. 

EASTON A. M. 1954: British Museum Expedition to South-west Arabia 1937–8. 24. Coleoptera: (Nitidulidae) 

Meligethes Stephens. Bulletin of the British Museum (Natural History) 1: 337–350. 

EASTON A. M. 1959: The Meligethes of Abyssinia (Col.; Nitid.). Transactions of the Royal Entomological Society 

of London 111: 367–403. 

EASTON A. M. 1960: The Meligethes of East Africa (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae). Transactions of the Royal Entomological 

Society of London 112: 263–318. 

FAUNA EUROPAEA 2012: Fauna Europaea version 2.5. Online available at http://www.faunaeur.org (last update 

from 23 July 2012, as of 10 August 2012). 

HANSEN A. & SUNDING P. 1993: Flora of Macaronesia. Check list of vascular plants. 4 th revised edition. Sommerfeltia 

17: 1–295. 

KILIAN N. & HEIN P. 2006: New and noteworthy records for the vascular plant fl ora of Socotra Island, Yemen. 

Pp. 57–77. In: KILIAN N. & HUBAISHAN M. A. (eds.): Biodiversity of Socotra: forests, woodlands and 

bryophytes. Englera 28: 1-175. 

KIREJTSHUK A. G. 1988: Novye taksony zhukov-blestyanok (Coleoptera, Nitidulidae) vostochnogo polushariya. 

Chast’ 2. [New taxa of the Nitidulidae (Coleoptera) of the East Hemisphaere. Part 2]. Trudy Zoologicheskogo 

Instituta, Akademiya Nauk SSSR 178: 62–97 (in Russian). 



(eds.): Biodiversity of Socotra: forests, woodlands and bryophytes. Englera 28: 1–175.

248 


JELÍNEK J. 1979: Insects of Saudi Arabia. Coleoptera: Fam. Nitidulidae. Fauna of Saudi Arabia 1: 223–227. 

JELÍNEK J. 1988: Coleoptera: Nitidulidae of Saudi Arabia (Part 2). Fauna of Saudi Arabia 9: 42–51. 

MACHADO A. & OROMI P. 2000: Elenco de los coleópteros de las Islas Canarias. Instituto de Estudios Canarios, 

La Laguna, 306 pp. 

MIES B. & BEYHL F. 1996: The vegetation ecology of Socotra. Pp. 35–81. In: DUMONT H. (ed.): Proceedings of 

the fi rst international symposium on Soqotra Island: present and future, Aden 1996. Soqotra Technical Series, 

Volume 1. United Nations Publications, New York, USA. 

MILLER A. & MORRIS M. 2004: Ethnofl ora of the Soqotra Archipelago. Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, 

Scotland. 759 pp. 

PIGNATTI S. 1982: Flora d’Italia, vol. 1-3. Edagricole, Bologna, 790 + 732 + 780 pp. 



SCHEEN A. C. & ALBERT V. A. 2009: Molecular phylogenetics of the Leucas group (Lamioideae; Lamiaceae). 

Systematic Botany 34:173–181. 

SEBALD O. 1980: Die Gattung Leucas R. Brown (Labiatae) in Afrika und auf der arabischen Halbinsel. Stuttgarter 

Beitrage zur Naturkunde, Serie A, Biologie 341: 1–200. 

WRANIK W. 2003: Fauna of the Socotra Archipelago-Field Guide. Universitätsdruckerei, Rostock, 542 pp.



Description of a new Corticaria from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Latridiidae) 

Wolfgang H. RÜCKER 

Von-Ebner-Eschenbach-Str. 12, D-56567 Neuwied, Germany; e-mail: wolfgang@wruecker.de 

Abstract. Corticaria dioscorida sp. nov. from Socotra Island, Yemen is described 

and illustrated. With heavily toothed sides of pronotum, the new species is similar 

to Corticaria arenosa Rücker, 2011 from the United Arab Emirates, from which 

it differs in broadly rounded and convex elytra. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Latridiidae, Corticaria, new species, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Latridiidae represent a small family of mycetophagous beetles. Altogether, 30 genera and 

ca. 770 species are known to occur in all zoogeographical regions of the world (cf. RÜCKER 

2010). The fauna of Latridiidae of the African Horn and the Arabian Peninsula is poorly 

known – so far only 19 species have been recorded from the region (cf. OTTO 1978, 1979; 

RÜCKER 1985, 2008, 2011; JOHNSON 2007). 

Corticaria Marsham, 1802 represents the worldwide species-richest genus within Latridiidae, 

with about 170 known species – fi ve of them have been recorded also from the Arabian 

Peninsula. A recent entomological research of Czech entomologists in Socotra Island (Yemen) 

revealed a new peculiar Corticaria, which I describe below. 


Exact label data are cited for all type specimens; a forward slash (/) separates different 

lines of data. 




WRCN Wolfgang H. Rücker collection, Neuwied, Germany. 



250 

RÜCKER: A new Corticaria from Socotra Island (Latridiidae) 

Systematics 

Corticaria dioscorida sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–2) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt. env., 12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, 1450 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), labelled: ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / Scant Mt. env. / 

12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, 1450 m / J. Bezděk leg., 12-13.xi.2010’. PARATYPES: 1 �, same label data as holotype (NMPC); 

1 � 5 �� and 2 unsexed specimens, same label data, but P. Hlaváč leg. (NMPC, WRCN); 1 � same label data, but 

J. Hájek leg. (NMPC). 

Description. Body length 1.5–1.9 mm. Coloration of head, pronotum and appendages yellowish 

brown, coloration of elytra maroon to brown. 

Head broader than long, maximum width/length ratio 1 : 0.5; microsculptured, with fi ne 

and sparsely distributed punctures; recumbent setation short. Eyes small, hemispherical, 

coarsely facetted; diameter of eye ca. 0.06 mm. Temples short, their length corresponding 

approximately to size of two facets, ca. 0.03 mm. Antenna with eleven antennomeres; antennal 

club trimerous. Length of antenna 0.57 mm. 

Pronotum broader than long, maximum width : length ratio 1 : 0.78; microsculptured, 

matt; punctures sparse, hardly visible. Sides fl at, each with fi ve distinct teeth in anterior three 

quarters, two small teeth subbasally, and acute angles forming additional teeth (Fig. 1); all 

teeth bearing single long seta (length ca. 0.06 mm). Pronotum subbasally with large shallow 

depression in middle; pronotal disc distinctly convex. Setation short and recumbent; with row 

of long, backward directed setae along sides. 

Elytra broadly rounded, widest in basal third, maximum width : length ratio 1: 1.29; convex. 

Lateral margin very narrow, visible only in basal fi fth in dorsal view. Humeral bulge not 

developed. Surface microsculptured, weakly shiny. Punctation fi ne, indistinct; odd puncture 

rows formed by coarse punctures, each puncture with one very short seta (visible using 80x 

magnifi cation); even puncture rows formed by sparse very fi ne punctures, each puncture with 

long seta (length ca. 0.10 mm) (Fig. 1). Hind wings poorly developed, micropterous and thus 

beetle unable to fl ight. 

Male. Length of aedeagus ca. 0.79 mm, width ca. 0.09 mm. Length of median lobe ca. 

0.26 mm, tegmen ca. 0.53 mm. Sides of median lobe parallel, apex lanceolate, preputial sac 

with tiny acerate tooth (Fig. 2). 

Female. Without conspicuous external differences from male. 

Differential diagnosis. A conspicuous Corticaria, characterised by distinctly toothed sides of 

the pronotum, in which it resembles Corticaria arenosa Rücker, 2011 from the United Arab 

Emirates (RÜCKER 2011). However, Corticaria dioscorida sp. nov. can be easily separated from 

that species by broadly rounded and distinctly convex elytra, contrary to rather subparallel 

and fl at elytra of C. arenosa (cf. RÜCKER 2011: Fig. 1). 

Etymology. The new species is named after the ancient name of Socotra Island – Dioscoridou 

(in Greek) or Dioscoridus (in Latin). 

Collection circumstances. The type specimens of Corticaria dioscorida sp. nov. were sifted 

from litter under shrubs and trees in high altitudes (above 1400 m) of the Haghier Mountains


Figs. 1–2. Corticaria dioscorida sp. nov. 1 – habitus; 2 – aedeagus. 

together with, e.g. Nanocaecus hlavaci Schawaller & Purchart, 2012 (cf. SCHAWALLER & 

PURCHART 2012). 

Distribution. So far known only from the type locality in Al Haghier Mountains, Socotra 

Island. 


I am very grateful to Jiří Hájek (NMPC) for the loan of the Corticaria material and for the 

review of the manuscript. I particularly thank Peter Hlaváč (Košice, Slovakia) for the gift of 

some paratypes for my collection.

252 

RÜCKER: A new Corticaria from Socotra Island (Latridiidae) 

References 

JOHNSON C. 2007: Family Latridiidae Erichson, 1842. Pp. 635–648. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue 

of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 4. Elateroidea – Derodontoidea – Bostrichoidea – Lymexyloidea – Cleroidea 

– Cucujoidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 935 pp. 

OTTO J. 1978: Neue Lathridiidae aus dem Naturhistorischen Museum Basel (Col.). Entomologica Basiliensia 3: 

287–290. 

OTTO J. 1979: Insects of Saudi Arabia. Coleoptera: Fam. Lathridiidae: Subfam. Corticariinae. Fauna of Saudi 

Arabia 1: 232–234. 

RÜCKER W. H. 1985: Insects of Saudi Arabia. A new species of Melanophtalma from Saudi Arabia (Coleoptera: 

Latridiidae). Fauna of Saudi Arabia 6 (1984): 249–250. 

RÜCKER W. H. 2008: Order Coleoptera, family Latridiidae. Pp. 240–253. In: HARTEN A. VAN (ed.): Arthropod 

Fauna of the United Arab Emirates. Volume 1. Multiply Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 754 pp. 

RÜCKER W. H. 2010: Checklist Latridiidae & Merophysiinae of the World. Latridiidae & Merophysiinae 9: 

1–15. 

RÜCKER W. H. 2011: Order Coleoptera, family Latridiidae. Description of a new species of Corticaria Marsham, 

1802. Pp. 246–249. In: HARTEN A. VAN (ed.): Arthropod Fauna of the United Arab Emirates. Volume 4. Multiply 

Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 832 pp. 




52 (supplementum 2): i–vi + 1–557.



Mordellidae (Coleoptera) from Socotra Island 

Jan HORÁK 1,2) , Jan FARKAČ 1) & Oto NAKLÁDAL 1) 

1) Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, 

Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 21, Praha 6-Suchdol, Czech Republic 

2) K Hádku 567, Dubeček, CZ-107 00 Praha 10-Dubeč, Czech Republic; e-mail: janho_cz@yahoo.com 

Abstract. Five species of the family Mordellidae from Socotra Island are described 

and illustrated: Mediimorda socotrensis sp. nov., Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) 

purcharti sp. nov., Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) janae sp. nov., 

Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) stastnyi sp. nov. and Ermischiella bejceki sp. 

nov. Keys to species of the genus Ermischiella Franciscolo, 1950 and subgenus 

Pseudomordellistena Ermisch, 1952 of Mordellina Schilsky, 1908 are provided. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Mordellidae, Mediimorda, Mordellina, Pseudomordellistena, 

Ermischiella, new species, keys, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Socotra is an island (3,550 km 2 ) in the Indian Ocean east of the Gulf of Aden. It is built of 

volcanic rocks and metamorphic Precambrian rocks covered by younger sediments (limestones, 

sandstones). The Socotran fauna and fl ora are characterized by a high degree of endemism 

resulting from the long lasting isolation of the island. This can also be exemplifi ed by the 

species of the beetle family Mordellidae. 

The Mordellidae material examined contains 163 specimens representing fi ve species of three 

genera. All the species are classifi ed as new to science. The genus Mediimorda Méquignon, 

1946 is so far known to occur in the Palaearctic Region, south Africa, Madagascar and Yemen 

(FRANCISCOLO 1965, PANKOW 1981, HORÁK 2008), but more species from east Africa, India and 

southeast Asia are waiting their description (J. Horák, in prep.). The two collected genera Mordellina 

Schilsky, 1908 and Ermischiella Franciscolo, 1950 belong to the tribe Mordellistenini, 

both occurring in the Afrotropical, Oriental and Palaearctic Regions (HORÁK 2008, 2011). 


The basic material from the Socotra Island was obtained while solving the Socotra Project, 

between 1999 and 2010, within the framework of the international development Programme 

– help given to the Republic of Yemen by the Czech Republic. It was supplemented by two 



254 

HORÁK et al.: Mordellidae from Socotra Island 

specimens collected by W. Wranik (University of Rostock, Germany) in 1999, but particularly 

by the material collected within the framework of the project INGO MŠMT ČR LA10036 

‘Participation of young scientists of Mendel University in Brno, in the research activities of 

IUFRO – The Global Network for Forest Science Cooperation’. 



BMNH The Natural History Museum [formerly British Museum (Natural History)], London, United Kingdom 

(Maxwell V. L. Barclay); 

CULS Czech University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (Jan 

Farkač); 


JHCP Jan Horák collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 


URRG Universität Rostock (Fachbereich Biologie, Meeresbiologie), Rostock, Germany (Wolfgang Wranik). 

Systematics 

Tribe Mordellini 

Mediimorda socotrensis sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–9) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, wadi Esgego. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Esdegob, 24.ii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (NMPC). AL- 

LOTYPE: �, Magasu [Yemen, Socotra Isl.], iii. 1999, „Zoologische excursion“, [W.] Wranik leg. (URRG). PARATYPES: 

1 �, same data as holotype (JHCP); 1 �, same data as allotype (URRG); 1 �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Deiqub cave env., 

10.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (JHCP); 1 �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE from 

Quaysoh, N 12°39.691′ E 053°26.658′, 4.–5.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (JHCP); 1 � 2 ��, Yemen, Socotra 

Isl., Zemhon area, 270–300 m, N 12°30.58′ E 054°06.39′, 16.–17.vi.2010, V. Hula leg. (JHCP); 1 �, Yemen, Socotra 

Island, Noged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env., 20 m, 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 10.–11.xi.2010, L. Purchart 

leg. (JHCP); 42 �� 10 ��, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Dixam plateau, Firmihin, Dracaena [cinnabari] forest, 490 m, 

12°28.6′N 54°01.1′E, 15.–16.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg. (BMNH, CULS, JHCP); 9 �� 3 ��, same data, but J. Hájek 

leg. (NMPC); 3 �� 1 �, same data, but Jan Batelka leg. (JBCP); 1 �, Socotra Isl. (Ye), Noged plain (sand dunes), 

Sharet Halma vill., 20 m, 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 10.–11.xi.2010, Jan Batelka leg. (JBCP); 3 �� 1 �, Yemen, Socotra 

island, wadi Denegen, 6 km SE Hadibo, 140 m a.s.l., 12°36′42″N; 54°03′41″E, 4.v.2004, A. Reiter leg. (NMPC). 

Description. Male holotype. Small, rather slender and parallel-sided (Fig. 1). Ground colour 

black, anterior legs, antennae and maxillary palpi dark black-brown; galea, lacinia, anteclypeus, 

anterior margin of labrum and base of mandibles yellowish-brown. Pubescence of dorsum 

black with faint violet lustre and characteristic golden-silvery pattern (Fig. 1). 

Body length from tips of mandibles to tips of elytra 3.2 mm, to tip of pygidium 4.0 mm. 

Head fl atly convex, wider than long (width to length ratio 5.3 : 4.5), narrower than pronotum 

(ratio of head width to pronotal width 5.3 : 6.0), only indistinctly narrowed at mouth part, with 

golden-silvery pubescence. Labrum narrow, almost twice as wide as long (width to length ratio 

3.0 : 1.3). Eyes elongate oval, almost 1.5 times longer than wide, not emarginate at insertions 

of antennae, very fi nely facetted, with short and sparse setae. Temples absent, slightly distinct 

temporal angles developed on ventral side. Maxillary palpomere II (Fig. 2) only moderately 

wider than palpomere III, terminal palpomere narrowly securiform, with inner angle situated


Figs. 1–9. Mediimorda socotrensis sp. nov. 1 – habitus; 2–3 – maxillary palpus; 4–5 – antenna; 6 – paramere; 7 

– phallobasis; 8 – apical part of penis; 9 – � sternite VIII. 1, 2, 4, 6–9 – holotype (�); 3, 5 – allotype (�). Scale: a 

– 4–6; b – 7–8; c – 9; d – 1; e – 2–3.

256 


at midlength. Antennae (Fig. 4) with antennomeres III and IV of equal length, antennomere 

V strongly conical and conspicuously longer than IV, antennomeres VI–X about as long as 

wide and indistinctly shorter than antennomere V; terminal antennomere oblong oval. Galea 

short, only slightly longer than lacinia, with yellow cirrose outgrowths at distal end. 

Pronotum moderately convex, wider than long (width to length ratio 6.0 : 5.0). Anterior 

angles hardly visible from above, anterior margin semicircular, without distinct neck-shaped 

protuberance. Basal lobe semicircular, occupying somewhat less than one third of basal margin 

width. Sides in lateral view slightly convex, posterior angles rather sharp and moderately 

obtuse. Punctation sparse, rasp-like. Five spots of darker setae present on pronotum. 

Scutellum small, subtriangular with rounded apex, with coarse rasp-like punctures and 

golden-silvery pubescence. 

Elytra fl atly convex, rather parallel-sided in basal third, gradually narrowed behind it, 1.9 

times longer than their combined width, separately rounded at apex. Sides in lateral view 

strongly arcuate, elytral epipleuron at base short and strongly enlarged. Pubescence black 

except for golden-silvery dorsal pattern (Fig 1). 

Ventral surface with golden-silvery vestiture. Only small spot at posterior margin of metaventrite 

besides elytra, oval spot at posterior margin of ventrite I besides elytra, and analogous 

spot on ventrite II, which is longer, reaching middle of dorsal length of segment, are black; 

entire posterior margins of ventrites III–IV bear black pubescence. 

Pygidium elongate, conical, about twice as long as hypopygium and reaching somewhat 

less than half elytral length, obliquely truncate at apex. Pubescence black except for narrow 

basal ringlet of golden-silvery setae. 

Protibiae straight, without swelling and without longer setae at base, longer than protarsi 

(ratio of tibia length to tarsus length 3.0 : 2.5). Protarsomere IV strongly bilobed, without distinct 

onychium on ventral side. Mesotibiae as long as middle tarsi. Metatibiae with short apical ridge 

reaching nearly one third tibia width and, one distinct dorsal ridge, metatarsomeres without 

ridges. Terminal spurs of metatibia black, and outer spur two thirds shorter than inner one. 

Male genitalia as in Figs. 6–8, shape of urosternite VIII illustrated in Fig. 9. 

Female allotype. Antennae (Fig. 5) shorter, antennomeres VI–X wider than long, terminal 

antennomere distinctly shorter than in male. Terminal maxillary palpomere (Fig. 3) with inner 

angle strongly rounded. Pygidium short, thicker and one third longer than hypopygium. Body 

length from tips of mandibles to tips of elytra 3.3 mm, to tip of pygidium 3.7 mm. 

Variability. Body shape and colour pattern very uniform. Total length, measured from tips 

of mandibles to apex of pygidium, ranging between 3.5 and 4.0 mm. 

Differential diagnosis. Mediimorda socotrensis sp. nov. differs from all the known species 

of the genus at the fi rst sight in a different pattern of elytra (HORÁK 1985; LEBLANC 2002, 

2007) and, compared to M. bipunctata (Germar, 1827), it has two transverse black bars behind 

midlength of elytra. It also differs in its minute stature, very short prolongation of maxillary 

area and a short, very broad labrum, 2.5 times wider than long; in M. bipunctata it is only 

1.5 times wider than long. 

Etymology. The specifi c name refers to the name of Socotra Island, where the new species 

was discovered. 

Collection circumstances. Large series of specimens from Firmihin was collected from 

fl owering bushes of Ochradenus sp. (Resedaceae) (J. Hájek, pers. comm.).


tribe Mordellistenini 

Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) janae sp. nov. 

(Figs. 10–21) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Deiqub cave, ca. 12°23.1′N, 54°00.9′E, 115 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Deiqub cave env., 10.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (NMPC). 

ALLOTYPE: �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Haqher [Haghier] Mts, Skant, N 12°34.557′ E 54°01.514′, 7.–8.vi.2010, V. Hula 

& J. Niedobová leg. (JHCP). PARATYPES: 5 ��, same data as allotype (JHCP); 1 �, Yemen, Socotra Island, Diksam 

plateau, Bidehor, Digeila, cave env., 920 m, 12°30′31″N 53°56′18″E, 8.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (JHCP); 

2 �� 2 ��, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Al Haqhier Mts., wadi Madar, 1180–1230 m, 12°33.2′N 54°00.4′E, 12.–14.xi.2010, 

J. Bezděk leg. (JHCP); 1 � 1 �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Al Haqhier Mts, Scant Mt. env., 1450 m, 12°34.6′N 54°01.5′E, 

12.–13.xi.2010, L. Purchart leg. (JHCP); 2 �� 2 ��, same data, but J. Bezděk leg. (JHCP); 1 � 2 ��, same data, 

but J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); 1 �, same data, but Jan Batelka leg. (JBCP); 2 ��, Yemen, Socotra Isl., wadi Ayhaft, 

200m, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 7.–8.xi.2010, J. Hájek leg. (NMPC). 

Description. Male holotype. Body slender, rather parallel-sided, only moderately convex (Fig. 

10). Ground colour blackish-brown, only head, anterior third of pronotum, maxillary palpi, 

antennae, anterior and mid legs reddish-brown. Terminal spurs of posterior tibiae yellowishbrown. 

Pubescence golden-yellow, on elytra with faint blue-green lustre. 


Head distinctly fl atly convex, only indistinctly wider than long (width to length ratio 

6.8 : 6.5), distinctly prolonged at mouth parts. Eyes (Fig. 17) of usual size, broadly oval, 

emarginate at insertions of antennae, coarsely facetted, with short setae, posterior margins 

with very narrow temporal border, temporal angles not developed. Maxillary palpus (Fig. 

11) with palpomere II distinctly wider than palpomere III, palpomere II nearly twice as long 

as wide; terminal palpomere rather broadly securiform with distinctly rounded inner angle 

and its outer side gently convex. Antennae (Fig. 13) long and fi liform; antennomeres I and 

II subequal, antennomere III almost as long as and distinctly narrower than antennomere II; 

antennomere IV nearly three times as long as wide, indistinctly wider and almost twice as long 

as antennomere III; following antennomeres gradually slightly shorter than antennomere X, 

antennomere X 2.6 times as long as wide; terminal antennomere long oval, with moderately 

narrowed apex, 2.6 times as long as wide and 1.2 times as long as penultimate one. 

Pronotum wider than long (width to length ratio 14.0 : 11.0), anterior margin with very 

slightly neck-shaped protuberance. Lateral margin of pronotum only moderately emarginate, 

posterior angles nearly rectangular with rounded apex. Dorsal surface with sparse rasp-like 

punctures. 

Scutellum very small, triangular with moderately rounded apex. 

Metaepisterna long, three times as long as wide, at base twice as broad as on sternal side, 

which is truncate. 

Elytra in basal half almost parallel-sided, almost three times as long as their combined width 

at shoulders, separately rounded at apex. Punctation dense and rather coarse, rasp-like. 

Pygidium slender, narrowly conical, three times longer than hypopygium. 

Protibia gently curved inward, at base with gentle calf-like swelling and without longer 

setae. Protarsomere I only moderately shorter than two following ones together, protarsomere 

IV only indistinctly longer than wide, terminal tarsomere twice as long as preceding one. 

Mesotibia distinctly shorter than mesotarsus. Metatibia besides short apical ridge with two

258 


Figs. 10–21. Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) janae sp. nov. 10 – habitus; 11–12 – maxillary palpus; 13–14 – antenna; 

15 – protibia and tarsus; 16 – metatibia and tarsus; 17 – eye; 18 – paramere; 19 – phallobasis; 20 – apical part 

of penis; 21 – � sternite VIII. 10–11, 13, 15–21 – holotype (�); 12, 14 – allotype (�). Scale: a – 11–12; b – 10; c 

– 18; d – 19–20; e – 16; f – 13–15; g – 17; h – 21.


very oblique ridges. Metatarsomeres I–II with two very oblique ridges, metatarsomere III 

without ridges. Outer terminal spur of metatibia one fourth shorter than inner one. 

Genitalia as Figs. 18–20, shape of urosternite VIII as in Fig. 21. 

Female allotype. Body more robust than in male, 4.3 mm long from tips of mandibles to 

apex of elytra and 5.4 mm long from tips of mandibles to apex of pygidium. Antennae (Fig. 

14) shorter, antenonnomere X twice as long as wide. Terminal maxillary palpomere (Fig. 12) 

broadly securiform, with strongly rounded inner angle. 

Variability. Body shape and colour very uniform. The total length, measured from tips of 

mandibles to apex of pygidium, varies between 3.8 and 5.4 mm. 

Differential diagnosis. The species is similar to M. (P.) fuscocastanea Ermisch, 1952 

from the Congo (ERMISCH 1967), from which it may be easily distinguished by the antennal 

length, elytral length and pygidium shape. The diagnostic characters are included in the key 

to species below. 

Etymology. Dedicated to Jana Niedobová who participated, together with Vladimír Hula 

(both Mendel University, Brno, Czech Republic), in discovery of the species. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens from Scant were collected at light trap and swept 

at night from bushes (J. Hájek, pers. comm.). 

Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) purcharti sp. nov. 

(Figs. 22–31) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil protected area, ca. 12°34′25″N, 54°18′53″E, 400–510 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil area, 12°34′25″N 54°18′53″E, 400–510 m, at light, 

9.–10.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (NMPC). 

Description. Male holotype. Body short, strongly rounded and convex (Fig. 22). Ground 

colour blackish-brown, only anterior portion of frons, anteclypeus, labrum, mandibles, antennomeres 

I–III, protibiae and terminal spurs of metatibia yellowish brown. 


Head strongly convex, only slightly wider than long (width to length ratio 7.3 : 7.0) and 

distinctly narrower than pronotum (ratio of head width to pronotal width 7.0 : 9.0), distinctly 

prolonged at mouth part. Eyes (Fig. 23) very large, almost circular, occupying almost half 

of head width (frontal view), only moderately narrowed towards mandibles, very coarsely 

facetted, with short and sparse setae. Posterior margin behind eyes with very narrow temporal 

border, temporal angles very small, but distinct. Maxillary palpus (Fig. 24) rather small, 

palpomere II only moderately wider than palpomere III, terminal palpomere rather shortly 

securiform, 1.5 times longer than wide, its inner angle situated at midlength. Antennae (Fig. 

25) rather long, reaching shoulders, antennomeres I and II almost subequal, antennomere II as 

long as antennomere IV, antennomere III one fi fth shorter and one fourth narrower than antennomere 

II, antennomere IV indistinctly narrower and one fourth shorter than antennomere V, 

antennomere V 1.4 times as long as wide, antennomeres V–X gradually slightly diminished, 

terminal antennomere oblong oval with narrower distal end, twice as long as wide and one 

third longer than preceding one. 

Pronotum moderately convex, wider than long (width to length ratio 9.0 : 7.4), anterior 

margin with distinct neck-shaped protuberance. Lateral margin of pronotum only moderately

260 


Figs. 22–31. Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) purcharti sp. nov. holotype. 22 – habitus; 23 – eye; 24 – maxillary 

palpus; 25 – antenna; 26 – protibia and tarsus; 27 – metatibia and tarsus; 28 – paramere; 29 – phallobasis; 30 – apical 

part of penis; 31 – sternite VIII. Scale: a – 24; b – 27; c – 22; d – 28; e – 29–30; f – 23, 31; g – 25–26.


emarginate, posterior angles nearly rectangular and rounded at tip. Dorsal surface with fi ne 

and dense punctation. 

Scutellum small, triangular, with rounded apex. 

Metepisterna long, three times longer than wide, at base twice as broad as on sternal side, 

which is truncate. 

Elytra strongly rounded, almost twice as long as their combined width at shoulders, separately 

rounded at tip. Punctation dense and rather coarse, rasp-like. 

Pygidium narrowly conical, 2.5 times longer than hypopygium, rather short, reaching 

third of elytral length. 

Protibiae (Fig. 26) distinctly curved inward, with distinct calf-like swelling and without 

setae at base. Protarsomere I almost as long as two following ones combined, protarsomere 

IV narrow, almost one third longer than wide, truncate at apex; protarsomere V long, twice as 

long as tarsomere IV. Mesotibiae distinctly longer than mesotarsi. Metatibiae (Fig. 27) besides 

short apical ridge reaching one third of tibial width, with two very oblique lateral ridges, upper 

lateral ridge very long and nearly twice as long as lower one. Metatarsomeres I–II with two 

very oblique ridges. Outer terminal spur of metatibia reaching one fourth inner one. 

Genitalia as in Figs. 28–30, shape of urosternite VIII as in Fig. 31. 


Differential diagnosis. The new species is similar to M. (P.) fuscobrunnea Ermisch, 1952 

from the Congo (ERMISCH 1967), from which it differs in very large and coarsely facetted 

eyes and in different proportion of terminal antennomere. Diagnostic characters are included 

in key to species. 

Etymology. Dedicated to Luboš Purchart (Mendel University, Brno, Czech Republic), who 

underwent, along with Jan Vybíral (Brno, Czech Republic), collecting trip to Socotra Island, 

which led to the discovery of this species. 

Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) stastnyi sp. nov. 

(Figs. 32–43) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, wadi Zerig, ca. 12°29.6′N, 53°59.5′E, 655 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Zerik, 25.–27.3.2001, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (NMPC). 

ALLOTYPE: �, same data as holotype (JHCP). PARATYPES: 2 �� 4 ��, same data as holotype (JHCP); 1 � 4 ��, 

Yemen, Socotra Isl., Wadi Far, 69 m, 1.4.2001, GPS 12.433N 54.195E, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (JHCP); 2 

�� 12 ��, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Calanthia, 29.–30.3.2001, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (JHCP, BMNH, CULS, 

NMPC); 4 ��, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Ayhaft, 15.3.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (JHCP); 1 �, Yemen, Socotra 

Isl., Hamadero, 20.11.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (JHCP); 1 � 2 ��, Yemen, Socotra Island E, Homhil 

area, 12°34′25″N 54°18′53″E, 400–510 m, at light, 9.–10.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (JHCP); 2 �� 

3 ��, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Zemhon area, 270–300 m, N 12°20.58′ E 054°06.39′ 16.–17.vi.2010, V. Hula leg. 

(JHCP); 4 ��, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Firmihin plato, 400–500 m, N 12°28′46″ E 54°00′89″, 18.–19.vi.2010, V. 

Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (JHCP). 

Description. Male holotype. Body (Fig. 32) slender, sides rather rounded and only moderately 

convex. Ground colour yellowish-brown, only anteclypeus, entire maxillary palpi, anterior 

legs, mesotibiae and terminal spurs of metatibia yellow. Pubescence of dorsal surface goldenyellow, 

without lustre. 

Body length from tips of mandibles to tips of elytra 3.3 mm, to tip of pygidium 4.1 mm.

262 


Head rather fl atly convex, sparsely punctate, distinctly wider than long (width to length 

ratio 6.0 : 5.0), distinctly narrower than pronotum (ratio of head width to pronotal width 6.0 

: 7.5). Eyes (Fig. 33) large, coarsely facetted, with short and rather dense setae. Temples not 

developed, only temporal angles moderately distinct. Maxillary palpomeres II–III (Fig. 34) 

almost equally broad, terminal palpomere securiform with strongly rounded inner angle. Antennae 

(Fig. 36) of medium length, antennomeres IV and V almost subequal, antennomeres 

V–X approximately 1.6 times longer than wide, terminal antennomere narrowly oval, twice 

as long as wide and nearly one third longer than preceding one. 

Pronotum fl at, widest at basal third, wider than long (width to length ratio 7.5 : 6.0), anterior 

margin semicircular, with short and distinct neck-shaped protuberance. Lateral margins 

in lateral view gently emarginate, posterior angles almost rectangular with rounded apex. 

Punctation sparse, rasp-like. 

Scutellum small, triangular, with dense and rather fi ne rasp-like punctation, covered with 

golden-yellow pubescence. 

Elytra distinctly convex, rounded at sides, 2.4 times longer than their combined width, 

separately rounded at apex. 

Pygidium narrowly conical, 2.3 times longer than hypopygium and reaching about one 

third of elytral length. 

Protibiae (Fig. 38) straight, with long calf-like swelling and without longer setae at base. 

Protarsus only indistinctly narrower than protibia. Protarsomere I nearly 1.3 times longer than 

protarsomere II. Protarsomere IV 2.5 times as long as wide and truncate at apex, terminal 

protarsomere long and narrow, overlapping it by one third of its length. Mesotarsi distinctly 

shorter than mesotibiae. Metatibiae (Fig. 39) besides short and rather oblique apical ridge with 

two very long and oblique lateral ridges, upper ridge longer than lower one. Metatarsomeres 

I and II with two very oblique ridges, metatarsomere III without ridges. Outer terminal spur 

of metatibia small, reaching one fourth of inner one. 

Male genitalia as in Figs. 40–42, shape of urosternite VIII as in Fig. 43. 

Female allotype. Female more robust and convex, with strongly arcuate sides. Terminal 

maxillary palpomere (Fig. 35) with strongly rounded inner angle. Protibia without calf-like 

swelling and without longer setae at base. Pygidium shorter and broadly conical, only one 

third longer than hypopygium. Body length from tips of mandibles to tips of elytra 3.7 mm, 

to tip of pygidium 4.2 mm. 

Variability. Body shape and colour uniform. Total length, measured from tips of mandibles 

to apex of pygidium, varying between 2.8 and 5.3 mm. 

Differential diagnosis. The new species is similar to M. (P.) fuscocastanea Ermisch, 1952 

from the Congo (ERMISCH 1967), from which it is distinguished at fi rst glance by robust 

body, different proportions of antennomeres and shape of pygidium. Diagnostic characters 

are included in key to species. 

Etymology. New species is dedicated to our teacher and friend Karel Šťastný, who 

underwent, along with Vladimír Bejček (both Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, 

Czech Republic), the research in Socotra Island, which lead to the discovery of this species.


Figs. 32–43. Mordellina (Pseudomordellistena) stastnyi sp. nov. 32 – habitus; 33 – eye; 34–35 – maxillary palpus; 

36–37 – antenna; 38 – protibia and tarsus; 39 – metatibia and tarsus; 40 – paramere; 41 – phallobasis; 42 – apical 

part of penis; 43 – sternite VIII. 32–34, 36, 38–42 – holotype (�); 35, 37 – allotype (�) Scale: a – 34–35; b – 40; c 

– 32; d – 39, 41–42; e – 33; f – 36–38; g – 43.

264 


Key to known species of Mordellina subg. Pseudomordellistena from Socotra Island 

1(2) Antennomeres IV and V subequal (Fig. 13). Head almost as long as wide, in anterior part 

strongly prolonged. Frons (Fig. 10) in dorsal view twice as wide as both eyes combined. 

Elytra 2.9 times as long as their combined width at shoulders (female). Length: 3.8–5.4 

mm. ............................................................................................ M. (P.) janae sp. nov. 

2(1) Antennomere IV almost one third shorter than antennomere V (Figs. 25, 36). Head 

always wider than long, only moderately prolonged anteriorly. Elytra short, 2.4–2.5 

times as long as their combined width at shoulders. 

3(4) Ground colour dark blackish-brown. Antennae long (Fig. 25), antennomeres IV and V 

1.4 times longer than wide. Frons in dorsal view as wide as both eyes combined (Fig. 

22). Length: 4.7 mm. .......................................................... M. (P.) purcharti sp. nov. 

4(3) Ground colour yellowish-brown. Antennae short (Fig. 36), antennomeres V and X 1.6 

times as long as wide. Frons in dorsal view twice as wide as both eyes combined (Fig. 

32). Length: 2.8–5.3 mm. ...................................................... M. (P.) stastnyi sp. nov. 

Ermischiella bejceki sp. nov. 

(Figs. 44–54) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Zemhon protected area, ca. 12°20.58′N, 54°06.39′E, 270–300 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Zemhon area, 270–300 m, N 12°20.58′ E 054°06.39′ 16.–17.vi.2010, 

V. Hula leg. (NMPC). ALLOTYPE: �, same data as holotype (NMPC). PARATYPES: 4 �� 3 ��, same data as holotype 

(JHCP); 1 �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Firmhin plato, 400–500 m, N 12°28′46″ E 54°00′89″, 18.–19.vi.2010, V. Hula & 

J. Niedobová leg. (JHCP); 1 �, Yemen, Socotra Isl., Wadi Far, 69 m, 1.4.2001, GPS 12.433N 54.195E, V. Bejček 

& K. Šťastný leg. (JHCP); 2 �� (one is torso), Yemen, Socotra Isl., Zerik, 25.–27.3.2001, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný 

leg. (JHCP). 

Description. Male holotype. Ground colour yellowish-brown, eyes and ridges of hind legs 

black. Maxillary palpi, antennomeres I–IV, anterior and mid legs, and terminal spurs of metatibiae 

yellowish-brown. Pubescence uniform, golden-yellow, with faint silver lustre. 


Head (Fig. 44) rather fl atly convex, shining and sparsely punctate; distinctly wider than long 

(width to length ratio 7.0 : 6.0) and distinctly narrower than pronotum (ratio of head width to 

pronotal width 7.0 : 8.5). Eyes large, almost globular, coarsely facetted and short and rather 

densely pubescent. Temples not developed, somewhat extended in area of temporal angle. 

Maxillary palpi (Fig. 45) rather long, palpomere II clavate, one third wider than palpomere 

III, which is almost one half longer than wide; terminal palpomere broadly securiform, its 

inner angle rather shifted toward base and distinctly rounded at top. Antennae (Fig. 47) very 

long, reaching shoulders; antennomere I one third longer and slightly wider than antennomere 

II; antennomere III almost equally long and one third narrower than antennomere 

II; antennomere IV almost twice as long and about one third wider than antennomere III; 

antennomeres IV and V equal in length; antennomere IV almost three times as long as wide; 

antennomeres V–X gradually slightly diminished, antennomere X only twice as long as wide; 

terminal antennomere oblong oval, almost twice as long as wide and only 1.15 times longer 

than penultimate one. 

Pronotum fl atly vaulted, wider in posterior third, distinctly wider than long (width to length 

ratio 8.5 : 6.0). Anterior angles hardly visible from above, anterior margin almost semicircu-


Figs. 44–54. Ermischiella bejceki sp. nov. 44 – habitus; 45–46 – maxillary palpus; 47–48 – antenna; 49 – protibia 

and tarsus; 50 – metatibia and tarsus; 51 – paramere; 52 – phallobasis; 53 – apical part of penis; 54 – sternite VIII. 

44 – 45, 47, 49 – 54 – holotype (�); 46, 48 – allotype (�). Scale: a – 45–46; b – 49; c – 47–48, 50, 52–53; d – 44; 

e – 51; f – 54.

266 


lar, with indistinct neck-shaped protuberance. Sides in dorsal view almost straight, posterior 

angles obtuse with rounded tips. Punctation sparse, rasp-like. 

Scutellum small, triangular, brown with golden-yellow pubescence. Punctation coarse, 

rasp-like. 

Elytra 2.1 times longer than their combined width, in basal third almost parallel-sided, then 

gradually narrowed posteriorly, their tips separately rounded. Punctation coarse, rasp-like. 

Pygidium narrowly conical, one third longer than hypopygium. 

Protibiae (Fig. 49) only indistinctly curved inward, without swelling and longer setae 

at base. Protarsomere I almost as long as protarsomeres II–III combined; protarsomere IV 

moderately wider than protarsomere III, bilobed to basal third and with truncate onychium 

on ventral side; terminal protarsomere overlapping it almost by two thirds of its length. 

Mesotibiae longer than mesotarsi. Metatibiae (Fig. 50) besides short apical ridge, with two 

oblique lateral ridges and above upper lateral ridge with another ridge structurally similar to 

dorsal ridge. Metatarsomere I with three oblique ridges, metatarsomere II with two oblique 

ridges, metatarsomere III without ridges. Outer terminal spur of metatibia reaching almost 

midlength of inner one. 

Male genitalia as in Figs. 51–53, shape of urosternite VIII as in Fig. 54. 

Female allotype. Larger, more robust and convex, with strongly arcuate sides. Antennae 

(Fig. 48) shorter and less serrate. Terminal maxillary palpomere (Fig. 46) elongate securiform, 

its inner angle situated at distal third. Palpomere II narrower than in male. Pygidium widely 

conical. Metatarsomere I with four ridges. Body length from tips of mandibles to tips of elytra 

4.3 mm, to tip of pygidium 4.9 mm. 

Variability. Body shape and colour uniform. Total length, measured from tips of mandibles 

to apex of pygidium, varying between 3.6 and 4.9 mm. 

Differential diagnosis. The diagnostic characters are included in the key to species below. 

Etymology. The new species is dedicated to our teacher and friend Vladimír Bejček, who 

underwent, along with Karel Šťastný (both Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech 

Republic), research in Socotra Island leading to discovery of this species. 

Distribution remarks. All hitherto known species of the genus Ermischiella occur in the 

Oriental and eastern Palaearctic Regions. The occurrence of E. bejceki sp. nov. in Socotra 

represents the westernmost limit of the genus range of distribution. 

Key to currently known species of the genus Ermischiella Franciscolo, 1950 

Note. Glipostenoda hasagawai Nomura, 1951, currently classifi ed within Ermischiella (cf. HORÁK 2008) does not 

belong to that genus and has to be transferred elsewhere (J. Horák, in prep.). Therefore it is not included in the 

key. 

1(2) Metatarsomeres 1–3 with ridges. New Guinea, Guam. ................................................ 

.............................. E. papuana Franciscolo, 1950 and E. castanea (Boheman, 1858) 

2(1) Only metatarsomeres 1–2 with ridges. 

3(4) Protibiae distinctly curved inward, with distinct calf-like swelling and with longer setae 

at base. Maxillary palpomere II strongly dilated, twice as wide as palpomere III. Japan 

(Bonin Is.). ....................................................................... E. nigriceps Nomura, 1975


4(3) Protibiae straight, without swelling and longer setae at base. Palpomere II only indistinctly 

dilated, almost one half wider than palpomere III. 

5(8) Antennomere III one half narrower than antennomere II, and only indistinctly narrower 

than antennomere IV. Metatarsomere I with three ridges. 

6(7) Palpomere II one half wider than palpomere III. Frons in dorsal view as wide as both 

eyes combined. Japan (Bonin Is.). ............................ E. chichijimana Nomura, 1975 

7(6) Palpomere II almost as wide as palpomere III. Frons in dorsal view fi ve times wider 

than both eyes combined. China (Fujian). .................... E. fukiensis (Ermisch, 1951) 

8(5) Antennomere III only one fourth narrower than antennomeres II and IV. Metatarsomere 

I with three to four ridges. 

9(10) Body entirely black (rarely dark brown), only head yellow. Terminal palpomere in 

male broadly securiform, 1.6 times longer than wide. Antennomere IV in male twice 

as long as antennomere III, in female as long as antennomere III. Japan (Bonin Is.). 

..................................................................................... E. hahajimana Nomura, 1975 

10(9) Body yellowish-brown. Terminal palpomere in male narrowly securiform, twice as long 

as wide. Antennomere IV three times longer than antennomere III, in female twice as 

long as antennomere III. Yemen (Socotra Is.). .............................. E. bejceki sp. nov. 


We thank all those who perceive the research of nature and the interpretation of the established 

data as an appeal and mission. We are obliged to our teachers and friends Karel Šťastný 

and Vladimír Bejček (both Faculty of Environment, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, 

Czech Republic), without whose help the present paper would never come to existence. Due to 

their work and enthusiasm they namely enabled us to perform the research in Socotra. As well 

we are obliged to those who provided us with the specimens from their research trips, especially 

to Jan Bezděk (Mendel University, Brno, Czech Republic), Wolfgang Wranik (University 

of Rostock, Germany) and Jiří Hájek (National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic), whose 

collections signifi cantly contributed to the present paper. The study was partly supported by 

the project CIGA No. 20124310 (Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague). 

References 

ERMISCH K. 1967: The Scientifi c Results of the Hungarian Soil Zoological Expedition to the Brazzaville-Congo. 

Opuscula Zoologica (Budapest) 7: 125–168. 

FRANCISCOLO M. 1965: Coleoptera: Mordellidae II: A Monograph of the South African Genera and Species. 2 

Tribe Mordellini. South African Animal Life (Lund) 4: 344–468. 

HORÁK J. 1985: Ergebnisse der tschechoslowakisch-iranischen entomologischen Expeditionen nach Iran 1970, 1973 

und 1977. Coleoptera: Mordellidae 1 (Stenaliini, Mordellini). Entomologishe Abhandlungen 49: 1–25. 

HORÁK J. 2008: Family Mordellidae Latreille, 1802. Pp. 87–105. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue 

of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 5. Tenebrionoidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 670 pp. 

HORÁK J. 2011: Světový rodový systém čeledi hrotařovitých (Coleoptera: Mordellidae) a rozšíření druhů této čeledi 

v České republice. (The World Genera system of family tumbling fl ower Beetles (Coleoptera: Mordellidae) and 

its distribution in the Czech Republic). Unpublished Bc. thesis. Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech 

University of Life Sciences, Prague, 47 pp (in Czech).

268 


LEBLANC P. 2002: Description de deux nouvelles espéces ouest-européennes du genre Mediimorda Méquignon, 

1946. Bulletin Menssuel de la Société Linnéenne de Lyon 71: 317–324. 

LEBLANC P. 2007: Révision des espéces ouest-paléarctiques du genre Mediimorda Méquignon, 1946 et description de 

deux nouvelles espéces d′Afrique du Nord. Bulletin Menssuel de la Société Linnéenne de Lyon 76: 235–250. 

PANKOW W. 1981: Insects of Saudi Arabia. Coleoptera: Fam. Mordellidae and Scraptiidae, Subfam. Anaspidinae. 

Fauna of Saudi Arabia 3: 273–275.



Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov., the fi rst ripiphorid 

from Socotra Island, with an account of the biogeography 

of the Ptilophorini (Coleoptera: Ripiphoridae) 

Jan BATELKA 

Nad Vodovodem 16, CZ-100 00 Praha 10, Czech Republic; e-mail: janbat@centrum.cz 

Abstract. Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Ripiphoridae) from Socotra 

Island, Yemen, is described and fi gured. It is compared with all known Afrotropical 

and Palaearctic species of the genus and is considered to be a relictual species 

with Asian relatives. The distribution of the species seems to be restricted 

to the Afromontane forest habitats in Al Hagher mountain range. A preliminary 

phylogenetic analysis of Ptilophorini is performed and discussed. The density 

and length of setation on the antennal rami of Ptilophorini males are shown to be 

characters of potential phylogenetic importance which may help to understand the 

biogeography of the tribe. A preliminary hypothesis of Ptilophorini biogeography 

is proposed. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Ripiphoridae, Ptilophorinae, Ptilophorini, Ptilophorus, 

Toposcopus, biogeography, new species, phylogeny, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Ptilophorinae is a subfamily with world-wide distribution containing seven described genera 

in two distinct clades (currently recognized as tribes; FALIN 2003). The tribe Ptilophorini 

sensu FALIN (2003) represents one of the least explored groups of the Ripiphoridae. The 

nominotypical genus Ptilophorus Dejean, 1834 with 22 described species is distributed in the 

Old World and Australia with the following distributional pattern: central and south Europe, 

north Africa and Near East (1 species), Near East and Central Asia (5 species), Afrotropical 

Region (5 species) and Australia (11 species). The genus is absent from the Oriental Region. 

A revision of the genus is available (SCHILDER 1925) although the diagnoses of the species are 

sometimes based on characters of little phylogenetic signifi cance. Three additional species 

were described subsequently (PIC 1945, KASZAB 1957, IABLOKOFF-KHNZORIAN 1973) and some 

new species known to me await description. The second genus of Ptilophorini, the monotypic 

Toposcopus LeConte, 1868 with isolated occurrence in the southern part of the U.S.A., was 



270 

BATELKA: Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov. from Socotra Island (Ripiphoridae) 

synonymized with Ptilophorus by SCHILDER (1925). RIVNAY (1929) regarded it as a distinct 

genus and FALIN (2003) again questioned its validity (but see Discussion). Nothing is known 

about the biology of these two genera. 

The discovery of an undescribed species of Ptilophorus on the main island of the Socotra 

Archipelago situated in the Western Indian Ocean was rather unexpected. Socotra lies about 

250 km east of Cape Guardafui in Somalia and 300 km south of Cape Ras Fartaq in Yemen, 

about 12°30′N by 53°50′E. From the zoogeographical point of view it is therefore situated in 

a very isolated position between the Afrotropical and the Palaearctic Regions. Even though 

the Socotran arthropod fauna contains mainly East African elements (e.g. UVAROV & POPOV 

1957, MAHNERT 2007, TAITI & CHECCUCCI 2009, HACKER & SALDAITIS 2010), Socotran beetles 

are sometimes catalogued within the Palaearctic Region (e.g. LÖBL & SMETANA 2008). 

Described Afrotropical species of Ptilophorus are distributed in the South-West of the 

continent (i.e., Angola, Namibia, Republic of South Africa, and Zambia). And although additional 

unidentifi ed and possibly undescribed species from Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, 

Tanzania and Zimbabwe are present in collections, no Afrotropical Ptilophorus species known 

to me occurs north of the equator. In the Northern Hemisphere, only the Palaearctic P. dufourii 

(Latreille, 1818) reaches to ‘Maghreb’ countries in the North Africa and to Jordan and Iran 

in the Near East at the southern extreme of its range (BATELKA 2007). Within current knowledge 

of distribution of the genus, the here-described Socotran Ptilophorus therefore shows 

isolated and probably relictual distributional pattern. The species is diagnosed, described and 

fi gured in this paper. 

Preliminary phylogenetic analysis including Palaearctic, Afrotropical, Australian and 

Nearctic species of Ptilophorini is performed and polarity of some characters is discussed. 

A biogeographic hypothesis for the current distribution of Ptilophorini is proposed based on 

characteristic setation of male antennal rami. 


The fi gures of the holotype were taken at the Department of Zoology, Charles University, 

Prague using an Olympus Camedia C-5060 digital camera attached to an Olympus SZX9 

binocular microscope. Differently focused images were combined using Helicon Focus 

3.20.2.Pro software. 

SEM microphotographs of male antennal rami of dry specimens were made at the Department 

of Palaeontology of the National Museum in Prague using a Hitachi S-3700N scanning 

electron microscope. The number of main setae (i.e. microsetae excluded) in a randomly 

selected line segment of 100 μm, erection and erection-angle of setae with respect of ramus, 

and protrusion of setae on inner side of ramus with respect of the width of ramus were measured 

from the pictures. Several measurements for each species were repeated, areas with 

damaged setation or anomalies were omitted. 

The map of World Pacifi c Ocean centring was downloaded from d-maps.com, free outline 

& blank maps at http://d-maps.com. 

The holotype is deposited in the National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic, one paratype 

is stored in The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom (BMNH); the remaining 

paratypes are deposited in the author’s collection (JBCP). Exact label data are cited as fol-


lows: Lines on the label are separated by a single slash (/), different labels are separated by a 

double slash (//), comments appear in square brackets. The holotype and three paratypes are 

dry-mounted, two paratypes are stored in 96% ethanol. 

The data matrix was analysed using the program TNT version 1.1, described and discussed 

in GOLOBOFF et al. (2008). The character matrix (Table 1) consists of 13 unweighted and unordered 

characters, 12 are related to males, one to females. Parameters setup for calculation: 

traditional (heuristic) search with 1000 replicates; Wagner trees; random seed: 11; 20 trees to 

save per replication; tree bisection reconnection (TBR); collapse trees after the search. The 

consensus tree was obtained using the strict procedure (Nelsen). Characters were mapped on 

this tree using the WinClada program (NIXON 2002). 

Subfamilial and tribal classifi cation of Ripiphoridae follows FALIN (2003). Although his 

study remains unpublished, conclusions and subfamilial rearrangements from this work were 

adopted by LAWRENCE et al. (2010). Subfamily Ptilophorinae as it is defi ned by FALIN (2003) 

contains two tribes: Ptilophorini with genera Ptilophorus (10 species included in the present 

analysis) and Toposcopus (the only known species analysed), and an unnamed tribe containing 

four genera including the speciose Trigonodera Dejean, 1834 (one species T. conicollis 

(Laporte, 1840) analysed) and Micropelecotoides Pic, 1910 (two species M. rufi thorax Pic, 

1924 and M. fulvus (Pic, 1950) analysed). Clinops spectabilis Schaufuss, 1872 from Pelecotominae, 

sister subfamily to Ptilophorinae, was chosen for rooting of trees. 

Locality data of unidentifi ed Ptilophorus species fi gured and used in the phylogenetic 

analysis (all from JBCP) are as follows: 

Ptilophorus sp. 1: Australia, W. Australia, Darling Range, Lane Pool C.R., 33°8.51′S, 116°22.15′E, 29.xii.1999. 

Ptilophorus sp. 2: Botswana, Gaborone, 6.ii.1997. 

Ptilophorus sp. 3: Kenya, eastern of Thika, SW Kangonde, 28.xii.2007. 

Ptilophorus sp. 4: Mozambique NW, 15 km SSE Manje, 15°29′S, 33°16′E, 530m, 2.–4.xii.2005. 

Ptilophorus sp. 5: Zambia, Southern province, 15 km E of Kalomo, 31.i.–1.ii.2006. 

Ptilophorus sp. 6: Zimbabwe, East Zimbabwe, Mutare, Dorowa env., 29.xi.1998. 

Table 1. Character state matrix. Character state is marked (?) when information is not available and (-) when the 

character is not applicable. Autapomorphic characters were excluded from the analysis. 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 

Clinops 1 1 1 0 3 1 ? 0 1 0 0 - 1 

Micropelecotoides 1 1 1 0 3 1 ? 0 1 0 0 1 1 

Trigonodera 1 1 1 0 3 1 ? 0 1 1 0 1 1 

Toposcopus wrightii 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 

Ptilophorus fallax 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 

Ptilophorus fi scheri 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 

Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov. 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 ? 

Ptilophorus sp. 6 (Zimbabwe) 0 0 0 1 2 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 ? 

Ptilophorus sp. 2 (Botswana) 0 0 0 1 2 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 ? 

Ptilophorus dufourii 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 

Ptilophorus sp. 3 (Kenya) 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 ? 

Ptilophorus sp. 4 (Mozambique) 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 ? 

Ptilophorus sp. 1 (Australia) 0 1 0 1 2 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 ? 

Ptilophorus sp. 5 (Zambia) 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 ?

272 


List of characters used in the analysis. 

Males. Head. 

1. Temples: developed (0); absent (1). 

2. Tooth on incisor edge of mandibles: present (0); absent (1). 

3. Impression on mandibles: present (0); absent (1). 

4. Eyes: slightly incised (0); deeply emarginated (1). 

5. Antennal club: strongly arched (0); arched apically (1); straight (2); not developed 

(3). 

6. Antennae: antennal rami distinctly curved outward (0); antennal rami straight or indistinctly 

curved (1). 

7. Number of main setae in the line segment of 100 μm: three at most (0); more than four 

(1). 

8. Protrusion of setae on inner side of antennal rami reach: at most 2/3 of the thickness of 

the ramus (0); more than 1.5 of the thickness of the ramus (1). 

9. Brush of setae on frons: present (0); absent (1). 

Thorax. 

10. Lateral pronotal carina: present (0); absent (1). 

Elytra. 

11. Epipleura: present (0); absent (1). 

Legs. 

12. Distal apices of metatibiae: expanded outward (0); narrowly bordered (1). 

Females. 

13. Frons: with smooth oval area (0); completely covered by setae (1). 

Results 

Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–5, 13) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Hagghier Mts., Skant [= Skand, Skent] Mt. env., 1450 m a.s.l., 12°34′33″N, 

54°01′31″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Skant area, 1300-1500 m / N 12°34’33’’, E 54°01’31’’ 

/ 31.i.-1.ii.2010, L. Purchart lgt. [printed label]’. PARATYPES: YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND: same data as the holotype, 

1 �; ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Hagher [sic!] Mts, Skant, / N 12°34,557’, E 54°01,514’ / 7.-8.vi.2010, / V. Hula & 

J. Niedobová leg. // collected on / Cephalocroton / socotranus [printed labels]’, 1 �; ‘SOCOTRA Is. (YE) / Al 

Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m / 12°33.2’N, 54°00.4’E, / Jan Batelka leg. 12.xi.2010 [printed label]’, 1 

�; ‘SOCOTRA Is. (YE) / Al Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m / 12°33.2’N, 54°00.4’E, / Luboš Purchart 

leg. 13.xi.2010 [printed label]’, 1 � (all JBCP); ‘SOCOTRA: / Kishin. / 700 m. / 18.iv.1967 / K. Guichard. [printed] 

/ B.M. 1967 – 455 [handwritten]’, 1 � (BMNH). Specimens of the newly described species are provided with one 

red printed label: ‘Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov. / HOLOTYPE [or PARATYPE] / Jan Batelka det. 2012’. 

Diagnosis (male). Antennae distinctly unifl abellate, scapus long, widening apically, covered 

by long semi-erect setae, pedicel lenticular, covered by short sparse setae, antennomeres 

3–10 compressed, bearing each one long ramus, antennomere 11 prolonged and fused basally 

with antennomere 10, equal in length and shape to ramus of antennomere 10. Antennal 

rami long, distinctly curved outward in their posterior third, covered with long erect setae.


Pronotum without lateral carina. Elytra long, 2.25 × longer than wide at the base, without 

epipleuron, setae on elytra arranged outward and backward along suture, not combed into 

separate rows. Pretarsal claws each with 6–9 teeth depending on the size of specimen. Body 

length 5.5–9.0 mm. 

Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov. differs from all other members of the genus by the antennal 

rami curved outward in their posterior third and by the highest length ratio between 

antennal rami and the antennal club among all Ptilophorini. From all African species it 

differs by its antennal rami covered by long erect setae (probable synapomorphy with all 

Asiatic species). At least from Afrotropical P. atricornis (Pic, 1923), P. rufomarginatus 

(Pic, 1945) (types examined in Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, coll. M. Pic, Paris), 

P. capensis Gerstaecker, 1855 and P. pygmaeus Schilder, 1923 the newly described species 

differs by the absence of elytral epipleura (a fi fth Afrotropical species P. herero Schilder, 

1923 from Namibia was not examined). In the density, protrusion and length of setae on the 

antennal rami it is similar to Ptilophorus species from Central Asia, from which it further 

differs by shape and ratio between length and width of the pronotal disc (cf. IABLOKOFF- 

KHNZORIAN 1975). 

Description (male holotype). Body brown, covered by long semi-erect golden pubescence, 

all appendages dark brown. 

Head. Eyes fi nely faceted, deeply incised by projections of the convex densely pilose genae, 

dorsal and ventral eye-lobes completely disconnected. Frons broad, with medial brush 

of short erect setae between antennae insertion. Tempora large, with long dense golden setae. 

Vertex upraised. Labrum transverse, with slightly incised anterior margin, slightly concealed 

beneath clypeus. Mandibles prolonged, triangular in section, with several semi-erect setae 

along posterior half of its outer margin and with convex ridge along outer margin; incisor 

edge with distinct tooth. Maxillae with very long and large lacinia bearing brush of long dense 

cilia and without galea. Maxillary palps with apical palpomere narrowly obovate. Labium 

bears long labial palps. 

Antennae with 11 antennomeres, inserted near margins of eyes in deep sockets, antennal 

club (i.e. antennomeres 3–10 combined) is strongly arched ventrally, antennal rami about 5.25 

× longer than length of antennal club, covered with long erect setae, in average 2–3 main setae 

in the line segment of 100 μm, almost all setae semi-erect in about 40°–80° angle, protrusion 

of setae on inner side of antennal rami reach about 1.5 of the thickness of ramus. 

Prothorax. Pronotum more or less bell-shaped, lateral pronotal carinae absent, pronotal 

disc 1.2 × wider than long, with doubly notched posterior margin. Setae on pronotal disc 

combed mainly toward posterior margin, without clusters or partings. Prosternal process 

narrow and acute. 

Mesothorax. Mesoscutellar shield posteriorly truncate. 

Elytra rugose, concealing entire abdomen, conjointly rounded apically, densely pilose, 

with golden setae directed obliquely outward and backward along suture, 2.25× longer than 

wide at base and 1.15× wider than posterior margin of pronotum, with protruding humeral 

tubercles, elytral epipleura absent. 

Legs long, metatibial apex spread outwards, tibial spurs formula 2–2–2, spurs spatulate, 

outer posterior spur widely rounded apically, tarsi 5–5–4, length ratios as follows: protarsi

274 


Figs. 1–5. Holotype of Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov. 1 – habitus, dorsal view; 2 – pretarsal claws; 3 – detail of the 

antennal club; 4 – detail of the head; 5 – internal abdominal segments dorsally: apical part of tergite 8 with erect 

setae and apical part of aedeagus (medial lobe with parameres); basal part of aedeagus and abdominal segment 9 

are not fi gured.


3.0–1.2–1.2–1.0–3.2 / mesotarsi 3.3–1.3–1.2–1.0–2.8 / metatarsi 2.7–1.4–1.0–2.2, pretarsal 

claws dentate, each claw with one long seta basally. 

Abdomen narrow, with fi ve ventrites (i.e. sternites 3–7). Tergite 8 weakly sclerotised, 

consisting of two longitudinal plates connected medially by membraneous cuticle, each 

plate with some 20 long erect setae apically. Sternite 8 wider than longer, simple, slightly 

trapeziform, with short golden pubescence. Abdominal segment 9 reduced, spiculum gastrale 

long, straight and simple. 

Aedeagus narrow and tubular, parameres bare, fused along middle, drawn into long 

processes at both ends, slightly curved inward apically. Medial lobe wider than parameres, 

extended just before sharp apex. 

Female. Unknown, sexual dimorphism is expected. 

Etymology. The newly described species is dedicated to Luboš Purchart (Mendel University, 

Brno), specialist in beetles of the family Tenebrionidae and leader of our Socotra expedition. 

Habitat. All specimens were collected in Al Hagghier mountain range on three different sites. 

The localities of Scant Mt. at 1,450 m a.s.l. and Wadi Madar at 1,180–1,230 m a.s.l. are covered 

by Afromontane forest. The locality of Scant (see BATELKA 2012: Fig. 14) belongs to Leucado 

hagghierensi-Pittosporetum viridifl orum association, and that of Wadi Madar (see BATELKA 

2012: Fig. 15) to Trichodesmo scotii-Cephalocrotonetum socotrani association (KÜRSCHNER 

et al. 2006). According to HABROVA et al. (2007) the site at 1,450 m is the coldest place in 

Socotra (lowest recorded temperature is 8.2°C in 30 th January 2005). Although the timing of 

the monsoons and their infl uence on different habitats of Socotra has been recently evaluated 

(SCHOLTE & DE GEEST 2010), I am not able to provide conclusions about the seasonality of 

Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov. based on limited available data and owing to climatic anomalies 

caused by the 2010 El Niño event worldwide. 

Collecting circumstances. Males collected by L. Purchart were swept from the vegetation, V. 

Hula and J. Niedobová collected their male on Cephalocroton (= Cephalocrotonopsis) socotranus 

Balf. f., and the specimen collected by myself was captured by hand in the late afternoon, 

sitting on infl orescence of an unidentifi ed Lamiaceae about 0.5 m above the ground. 

Discussion 

Ptilophorus sex ratio in collections 

Only males are known for P. purcharti sp. nov. In respect of the available material of other 

Ptilophorus species this is obviously not accidental. Using the data from my collection as a 

reference, not a single female is present in a sample of 30 specimens from Africa, only four 

females are present among 39 specimens of P. fi scheri (Ménétriés, 1848) from Uzbekistan, and 

only 12 females are present in my material of P. dufourii from 13 countries (96 specimens in 

total). This unbalanced sex ratio, when males outnumber females in the collections seems to 

be a sampling artefact caused by collecting methods used and by different behaviour of males 

and females of Ptilophorus. While males are easy to capture by sweeping or even by hand 

when they are sitting on vegetation (see above for P. purcharti sp. nov.; identical behaviour

276 


was observed by myself in P. dufourii in Bulgaria and Tunisia), females apparently spend 

most of their life in hidden, so they are only accidentally collected. An unusual sample, that 

undoubtedly originated in one collecting event, consisting of 30 females and only a single 

male of P. dufourii is stored in the Museum für Naturkunde (Berlin). One of these specimens 

has an original handwritten label ‘30 melandria [= former misidentifi cation], H. 28.4.21’, and 

all 31 specimens were later (probably in the 1960’s or 1970’s) provided with a label ‘Hara, 

28.4.1921, Palästina’ [most probably = Al Harrah, ca. 33°04′N, 35°58′E, now situated in 

Syria]. Although the correctness of the subsequent label transcription cannot be verifi ed, it 

is clear that the series must have been collected by some special technique or during some 

exceptional circumstance. 

Preliminary phylogenetic analysis of Ptilophorini 

Historical delimitation of Ptilophorini. Both intra- and inter-specifi c variability of some 

external characters complicate the phylogenetic analysis of the genus Ptilophorus. A good 

example of intra-specifi c variability is the number of teeth of the pretarsal claws which positively 

correlates with the size of specimen. For example the number varies between 13–16 in 

P. fi scheri (body length 7–12 mm), 10–18 in P. dufourii (body length 5–11 mm), and 6–9 in 

P. purcharti sp. nov. On the contrary, some characters may be convergent in different species 

groups, as e.g. the pubescence of elytra (combed into longitudinal partings in Asian P. fi scheri 

but uncombed in the closely related P. fallax Iablokoff-Khnzorian, 1973, but also combed 

into partings in unrelated P. atricornis from Zambia or P. nervosus Gerstaecker, 1855 from 

Australia). Another example of such convergence may be the shortening of the ramus of the 

3rd antennomere, which is transformed into a short process in P. dufourii or reduced to about 

4/5 of the length of the following ramus in Toposcopus wrightii LeConte, 1868. 

The fi rst suggestion of the affi nity of the Ptilophorus species was provided by SCHILDER 

(1925) who arranged all Ptilophorini species into two species-groups according to the presence 

or absence of an elytral epipleuron. The group without epipleura has been further divided in 

two subgroups according to the presence or absence of a brush of setae on the male frons. 

Although both characters may be of phylogenetic importance, SCHILDER (1925) probably 

derived the diagnoses of some species solely from incomplete original descriptions which 

resulted in incorrect placement of some species, e.g. in P. atricornis in which the epipleuron 

is actually present based on my examination of the type specimen. 

A previously overlooked character important for delimiting Palaearctic species of Ptilophorus 

was discovered by IABLOKOFF-KHNZORIAN (1975), who pointed out that P. dufourii 

may be separated from all other Asian species by its ‘appressed hairs ... with a few very short 

semierect hairs’ in male antennal rami, while male antennal rami bear only ‘erect hairs’ in 

Asian species. Detailed examination of antennal setation in 11 Ptilophorini species by scanning 

electron microscope (Figs. 6–16) showed that these characters may be of phylogenetic 

signifi cance within the tribe and may elucidate its present distribution. 

Results of the analysis. Strict consensus tree (Fig. 17) was calculated from the three most 

parsimonious trees retained (best score hit 1000 times out of 1000, best score 20). According 

to the analysis, Ptilophorini can be preliminarily divided into two main groups based on


protrusion and density of setae on antennal rami (characters 7 and 8). The hereby so-called 

‘Southern Group’, represented in the analysis by fi ve Afrotropical species, one Australian 

species and by the Palaearctic P. dufourii, is basal and paraphyletic in respect to the species 

from Socotra, Central Asia and U.S.A. Remaining Ptilophorini species (Ptilophorus fallax, 

P. fi scheri, P. purcharti sp. nov. and Toposcopus wrightii), i.e. those with distribution North 

of the Equator (with exception of P. dufourii), form a monophyletic clade (the so-called 

‘Northern Group’). 

Southern Group (SG). On average 5–6 main setae in the line segment of 100 μm 

(excepting 4–5 in species from Botswana and eight in Ptilophorus sp. 1 (Australia)). 

Protrusion of setae on inner side of antennal rami distinctly shorter than the thickness 

of the ramus. Two species-groups may be distinguished based on direction/protrusion 

of setae: 

• Subgroup I. Setae more or less appressed, all in the same direction, protrusion 

of setae on inner side of antennal rami do not overreach 1/3 of the thickness of the 

ramus. Species examined: three unidentifi ed species Ptilophorus sp. 1 (Australia), 

Ptilophorus sp. 2 (Botswana) and Ptilophorus sp. 5 (Zambia), and P. dufourii from 

Greece (JBCP) (Figs. 6–9). 

• Subgroup II. Most of the setae semi-erect in about 60°–90° angle, protrusion of setae 

on inner side of antennal rami do not overreach 2/3 of the thickness of the ramus. 

Species examined: three unidentifi ed species Ptilophorus sp. 3 (Kenya), Ptilophorus 

sp. 4 (Mozambique) and Ptilophorus sp. 6 (Zimbabwe) (Figs. 10–12). 

Delimitation of SG into two subgroups was also supported by the analysis (excepting 

the position of P. dufourii) although protrusion of setae in both subgroups (i.e. 

appressed vs. semi-erect setae) was not distinguished in the analysis. 

Northern Group (NG). On average 2–3 main setae in the line segment of 100 μm, 

almost all of the setae semi-erect at an angle of about 40°–90°, protrusion of setae 

on inner side of antennal rami reach about 1.5 of the thickness of the ramus (2.0 in 

Toposcopus wrightii). Species examined: Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov., P. fi scheri 

from Kazakhstan, P. fallax from Tajikistan and Toposcopus wrightii from Texas (all 

JBCP) (Figs. 13–16). 

Polarity of characters. The Northern Group is well characterised by apomorphic prolonged 

protrusion of antennal setae and simultaneously by reduction of their density. It is of note, 

that Ptilophorus sp. 1 (Australia) with the highest density of setae among the examined Ptilophorini 

is placed most basally in the cladogram although this particular character for this 

species was coded within the same variability range as it was coded in the rest of the SG species. 

The direction and length of setae on the antennal rami is at fi rst sight a specifi c character 

in the most Ptilophorini I examined. Although described Australian and Afrotropical species 

are underrepresented in the sample, the preliminary clustering of given sets of characters in 

all 11 examined species could hardly be accidental. From Australia only one, possibly undescribed, 

representative was included in the sample and described Australian species remain to 

be examined if they all match with the proposed criteria. Should they turn out to be distinct

278 


Figs. 6–9. Setation of antennal rami, Southern Group, subgroup I. 6 – Ptilophorus sp. 1, Australia, 7 – Ptilophorus 

sp. 2, Botswana, 8 – Ptilophorus sp. 5, Zambia, 9 – Ptilophorus dufourii (Latreille, 1818). Scale bars: 100 μm.


Figs. 10–12. Setation of antennal rami, Southern Group, subgroup II. 10 – Ptilophorus sp. 3, Kenya, 11 – Ptilophorus 

sp. 4, Mozambique, 12 – Ptilophorus sp. 6, Zimbabwe. Scale bars: 100 μm.

280 


Figs. 13–16. Setation of antennal rami, Northern Group. 13 – Ptilophorus purcharti sp. nov., 14 – Ptilophorus 

fi scheri (Ménétriés, 1848), 15 – Ptilophorus fallax Iablokoff-Khnzorian, 1973, 16 – Toposcopus wrightii LeConte, 

1868. Scale bars: 100 μm.


Fig. 17. Strict consensus tree of Ptilophorini with mapped synapomorphies. 

to some extent (the examined Australian species possess the highest number of setae within 

Ptilophorini), the defi nition of SG subgroups might change. Some species were available only 

as old pinned specimens (including types) which caused technical complications for preparation 

of SEM microphotographs. However, their examination using a binocular microscope 

did not show any apparent difference from the proposed criteria for each group. 

Proposed delimiting characters seem to be independent for example of climatic conditions 

in the areas inhabited by the species of both groups. Ptilophorus dufourii (SG) survives in 

localities with hot and dry climate (e.g. mountain and desert oases in Algeria or Southern 

Tunisia, southern coast of Crete), as well as in cold mountains up to 2,000 m a.s.l. (High 

Atlas in Morocco and Eastern Turkey) or in temperate Central Europe (Hungary, regionally 

extinct in the 19th century). On the contrary, P. purcharti sp. nov. (NG) is restricted to 

remnants of Afromontane forest, where the temperature probably never drops below 0°C, 

Toposcopus wrightii (NG) occurs in the deserts of Arizona, New Mexico and Texas (U.S.A.), 

while Ptilophorus species from the Central Asia (NG) inhabit the high mountain ranges of 

the Tien-Shan and the Pamirs where the hard winters are similar to those in Moroccan or 

Turkish mountains. Considering different climatic conditions in all these extralimital localities 

of particular species/groups, possible morphological adaptations with respect to these 

conditions can most probably be ruled out. 

Systematic position of Toposcopus. FALIN (2003) synonymised the monotypic Toposcopus 

with the speciose Ptilophorus. However, in his phylogenetic analysis of Ripiphoridae, he did 

not use nor mention the above discussed character on male antennae introduced for Ptilo-

282 


phorini by IABLOKOFF-KHNZORIAN (1975). In addition to Toposcopus, FALIN (2003) chose for the 

analysis a small and unbalanced sample of four Ptilophorus species (Palaearctic P. dufourii, 

Afrotropical P. pygmaeus and two Australian species P. nervosus and P. signatus Schilder, 

1925). Toposcopus then appeared as a terminal branch/taxon sister to Ptilophorus pygmaeus 

from Angola to which it is undoubtedly not related. However, the position of Toposcopus is 

similar in his work as in the present cladogram (Fig. 17), i.e., making the genus Ptilophorus 

paraphyletic with respect to Toposcopus, and the two genera should indeed be treated as 

synonyms, as proposed by SCHILDER (1925). However, for confi rmation of this, comprehensive 

morphological or molecular analysis including more Ptilophorini species from both the 

Northern and Southern Groups is required. Interestingly FALIN’S cladogram is also similar 

to results obtained in the present study with respect to the position of the Australian species 

which are those placed the most basally followed by African species, i.e. (P. nervosus + (P. 

signatus + (P. dufourii + (P. pygmaeus + Toposcopus)))). 

Biogeography of the Ptilophorini 

Based on the arrangement of setae on the male antennal rami, Ptilophorini could be divided 

into two different groups with distinct distributional patterns (Fig. 18). The Southern Group 

should include 16 described and several undescribed species distributed south of the Equator. 

Ptilophorus dufourii distributed in the northern hemisphere is the only exception within 

the group. The Northern Group includes seven species which are distributed exclusively 

north of the Equator. The members of the SG seem to be of the Gondwanan origin and their 

current distribution in the Afrotropical region and Australia is most probably a result of the 

Mesozoic break-up of the supercontinent Gondwana. The presence of one isolated species (P. 

dufourii) in the Northern hemisphere is here considered to be the result of range expansion 

of the Afrotropical members northward. The NG currently has its centre of diversity in the 

mountain chains of Central Asia and the Near East, and is represented in both Socotra and 

North America by single relictual species. Although members of the NG came out from the 

analysis as descendants of African species (including P. dufourii), and this seems to be the 

most probable scenario, their exact origin cannot be proposed because of incomplete taxon 

sampling. 

Consequently, the following three ancient expansion events within Ptilophorini could be 

proposed: 

1) Mediterranean-southern African disjunct model. Owing to its short appressed setae 

on antennal rami and their high density, the Palaearctic P. dufourii is supposed here to be 

derived from southern African stock. Migration northward (probably in Neogene period) 

of P. dufourii’s ancestor from tropical Africa with subsequent speciation and colonization 

of the Mediterranean may best explain current disjunct distribution of this morphotype. 

A similar scenario in Coleoptera is predicted for the meloid genera Actenodia Laporte de 

Castelnau, 1840 and Ceroctis Marseul, 1870 (BOLOGNA et al. 2008a, b) and the chrysomelid 

Longitarsus capensis species-group (BIONDI & D’ALESSANDRO 2008). Another chrysomelid 

Oxylepus boroveci Borowiec, 2001 from southern Tunisia seems to be more closely related 

to its southern African congeners than it is to another two Mediterranean species (BOROWIEC


Fig. 18. Ptilophorini distributional map. Northern Group - full line, Southern Group - interrupted line, numbers 

indicate number of known species in the particular range, arrows correspond to supposed expansion events. 

2001). In Ripiphoridae a possible example of this disjunct distributional pattern is the genus 

Clinops Gerstaecker, 1855 with one species distributed in Greece and Turkey and one species 

known from southern Africa (‘Caffraria’) (BATELKA 2005). 

2) Asiatic-Arabian faunal interchange. The isolated occurrence of Ptilophorus purcharti sp. 

nov. seems to be an example of a derived endemic Socotran taxon with Asian relatives. Two 

genera of freshwater crabs (Potamidae) – Socotrapotamon Apel & Brandis, 2000 and Socotra 

Cumberlidge & Wranik, 2002 – show affi nities to Eurasian potamids and their occurrence in 

Socotra supposed to be a result of the early Miocene connections of Arabia (including Socotra) 

with continental Asia (APEL & BRANDIS 2000; CUMBERLIDGE & WRANIK 2002). Another 

example of this expansion scenario are land snails of the genera Pseudonapaeus Westerlund, 

1887 and the monotypic Mordania Bank & Neubert, 1998 from Oman which are related to 

species of ‘the inner-Asiatic steppe areas and can be characterised as Irano-Turanian elements’ 

(NEUBERT 1998: 444). However, the direction of putative Ptilophorus expansion between 

Socotra and Central Asia can not be inferred from the morphological and distributional data, 

as they are currently available. 

3) Asiatic-American faunal interchange. Toposcopus wrightii from the southernmost U.S.A. 

(Arizona, New Mexico and Texas) appears to be a relictual successor of an Asian Ptilophorus 

invader which expanded to the New World through Beringia. Similarly, the ancestors of 

some Mexican endemic beetle genera like the goliathini Ischnoscelis Burmeister, 1842 and 

Neoscelis Schoch, 1897 (Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae) (MORÓN & RATCLIFFE 1989, MUDGE et

284 


al. 2003) or the cavernicolous ground beetle Miquihuana Barr, 1982 (Carabidae: Sphodrini) 

(CASALE 1988) are considered to be linked to the Miocene faunal expansion through Beringia 

followed by subsequent isolation and speciation. 


I am obliged to Luboš Purchart and Jan Bezděk (Mendel University, Brno) for the possibility 

to study this unique material, to participate in the project and to visit and study on Socotra. 

I thank Jan, Jiří, Josef, Luboš and Peter for their pleasant company during our Yemen-Socotra 

2010 trip. Martin Fikáček (National Museum, Prague) kindly made SEM microphotographs, 

commented on the manuscript and created the distributional map. The type material was collected 

with agreement of Environment Protection Authority (EPA) in Yemen. This study was 

partly supported by Grant of Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of the Czech Republic 

no. LA10036/MSMT and Project of Structural funds of EU ‘Management of natural resources 

in tropics and subtropics - innovation of study programmes at the Faculty of Forestry and 

Wood Technology Mendel University, Brno’ (reg. No.: CZ.1.07/2.2.00/07.0156). I am indebted 

to Manfred Uhlig and Bernd Jaeger (Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin) for the possibility to 

study Ptilophorus dufourii specimens in their charge. I am indebted also to Jakub Straka and 

Jakub Prokop from the Department of Zoology, Charles University (Prague) for access to 

their lab equipped with binocular and digital camera. Zachary Falin (University of Kansas, 

Lawrence) generously made available the male of P. purcharti sp. nov. he had borrowed from 

The Natural History Museum, London. Last but not least, I thank Jan Růžička (Praha) and 

Jakub Straka for reviewing and comments upon phylogenetic analysis, and Max Barclay for 

corrections of the English. 

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London (Zoology) 43: 359–389.

286 




Colydiinae (Coleoptera: Zopheridae) of Socotra Island 

Rudolf SCHUH 

Raugasse 28a/2/18, A-2700 Wiener Neustadt, Austria; e-mail: rudolf.schuh@chello.at 

Abstract. The Colydiinae (Zopheridae) of Socotra Island were studied. Three 

species are recorded: Sprecodes socotrensis sp. nov. and Lasconotus hajeki sp. nov. 

are described and illustrated, and Synchita africana (Grouvelle, 1905) is reported 

from Socotra Island for the fi rst time. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Zopheridae, Colydiinae, Sprecodes, Lasconotus, taxonomy, 

new species, new record, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The island of Socotra is situated 240 km east of the Horn of Africa and 380 km south of 

the Arabian Peninsula. Politically, it belongs to the Republic of Yemen. Its continental, nonvolcanic 

origin and the long isolation resulted in a high degree of endemism. For example, 

37% of the plant species are endemic (MILLER & MORRIS 2004). So far, no published data about 

the Colydiinae from this island have become available. Recent comprehensive explorations 

and thorough collecting by Czech entomologists revealed three species of Colydiinae, two 

of them new to science. 


Measurements were taken as follows: head width (HW): across maximum width; head 

length (HL): along midline from anterior margin of clypeus to line connecting posterior margins 

of eyes (surface of head has to be in a plane perpendicular to optical axis); total length 

(TL): from apical margin of clypeus to apex of elytra; pronotal width (PW): across maximum 

width (excluding denticulations); pronotal length (PL): along midline from anterior to posterior 

margin (surface of pronotum has to be in a plane perpendicular to optical axis); elytral 

width (EW): across maximum combined width; elytral length (EL): along suture, including 

scutellum; eye length (EYL): length of eye in dorsal aspect. 

The specimens are deposited in the following collections: 

NHMB Naturhistorisches Museum, Basel, Switzerland (Michel Brancucci); 

NHMW Naturhistorisches Museum, Wien, Austria (Manfred A. Jäch); 

NMPC Národní Muzeum, Praha, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek); 



288 

SCHUH: Colydiinae of Socotra Island (Zopheridae) 

PHCK Peter Hlaváč collection, Košice, Slovakia; 

PPCB Pavel Průdek collection, Brno, Czech Republic; 

PZCW Petr Zabranský collection, Wien, Austria; 

RSCW Rudolf Schuh collection, Wiener Neustadt, Austria. 

Taxonomy 

Synchita africana (Grouvelle, 1905) 

Material examined. YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: wadi Ayhaft, 200 m, 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 7.–8.xi.2010, 1 spec., 

Jiří Hájek leg. (NMPC). 

Comment. The species was described from Equatorial Guinea (former Spanish Guinea) by 

GROUVELLE (1905) and so far reported also from Senegal and the Democratic Republic of the 

Congo (POPE 1961). Additional specimens from Gambia, Kenya, Somalia and continental Yemen 

have been examined (R. Schuh, unpublished data). First record from Socotra Island. 

Sprecodes socotrensis sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1, 2, 4, 5) 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), “YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / Scant Mt. env./ 12°34.6′N, 

54°01.5′E, 1450m / Jiří Hájek leg. 12-13.xi.2010”. PARATYPES (64 spec.): 17 spec. (NMPC, RSCW) same data as 

holotype; 33 spec. (NMPC, RSCW): same data, but “J. Bezdĕk leg.”; 14 spec. (PHCK, RSCW, NHMW): same 

data, but “P. Hlaváč leg”. 

Description. TL: 3.6–4.7 mm. Wingless. Body moderately elongate, parallel-sided (TL/EW: 

2.70–2.85), transversely convex, dark brown, legs, antennae and margins of body reddish 

brown; habitus as in Fig. 1. 

Head (HW/HL: 1.70–1.90) broad, moderately to strongly widened in front of eyes, lateral 

margins convex above antennal insertions, narrowing again to rounded frontal angles; clypeus 

broad, shortly protruding beyond anterior margin of frons, forming rectangular incision at 

fronto-clypeal suture; anterior margin of clypeus straight. Dorsal surface of head almost fl at; 

central part of clypeus slightly convex. Sculpture consisting of large, irregularly polygonal to 

round granules (diameter about 0.05 mm), each bearing a pointed black bristle (length 0.06 

mm), sculpture gradually becoming fi ner anteriorly; anterior third of clypeus matt, without 

granules; basal part of head capsule with smaller granules, each bearing short, white hairlike 

seta. Eyes convex with few interfacetal setae, EYL: 0.15 mm. Temples absent; head 

constricted behind eyes in straight line. Antennal grooves broad, as long as eye. Antenna as 

long as head width; antennomere 1 not visible in dorsal aspect, 1.6 times as long as wide; 

antennomere 2 of same width, 1.25 times as long as wide; antennomere 3 narrower (width of 

antennomere 3 / width of antennomere 2: 0.7 / 1.0), twice as long as wide; antennomeres 4 

to 8 of same width (length to width ratios: 4: 1.3; 5: 1.1; 6: 1.0; 7: 1.0; 8: 1.0); antennomere 

9 slightly wider than preceding ones, 1.2 times as wide as long; antennomere 10 1.8 times 

wider than 9, 1.6 times as wide as long; antennomere 11 narrower than 10, 1.1 times as long 

as wide. Setation of antennomeres 2 to 9 consisting of ring of hair-like setae at mid-length, 

antennomeres 10 and 11 densely setose. Sculpture of ventral surface of head fi nely granulate, 

setation hair-like; basal portion of head smooth, sparsely punctate.


Pronotum broader than long (PW/PL: 1.26–1.42), widest at apical third (i.e. 0.3 PL), 1.6 

times wider than head, slightly narrower than elytra (PW/EW: 0.81-0.96), transversely convex. 

Lateral margins explanate, convex; anterior angles acute (approximately 80 degrees); 

posterior angles indistinct. Anterior margin convex, slightly denticulate; subapical sulcus 

distinct. Pronotal base convex, granulate; subbasal sulcus distinct. Disc convex; sculpture 

like on frons, granules somewhat larger (diameter about 0.06 mm), along midline with some 

shining, smooth interspaces, granules becoming sparser and smaller with large, shining 

interspaces on explanate lateral parts. Edge of lateral margins with 11–14 large spines and 

additional submarginal row of smaller spines; lateral spines each 0.05–0.07 mm long and 

0.03–0.04 mm wide, bearing 0.06–0.07 mm long pointed black bristle; sublateral spines each 

0.03–0.04 mm long, 0.03 mm wide, bearing similar bristle as lateral ones. 

Prosternum (Fig. 2) granulate; granules round, each bearing white hair-like seta; their interspaces 

larger on central portion, smooth, shiny; anterior margin bulging, smooth and shiny; 

anterior edge incised with row of punctures. Proepisterna densely granulate near prosternal 

suture, smooth and shiny near lateral margin. 

Scutellum small, pentagonal, matt. 

Elytra almost parallel-sided (EL/EW: 1.70–1.85), transversely convex, widest at 0.6 elytral 

length, apically jointly rounded; outline in lateral aspect straight; apical declivity beginning 

at 0.75 elytral length; humerus broadly rounded; basal margins denticulate, slightly concave 

near suture; lateral margins spinose; near humerus spines similar to those on pronotal lateral 

margin, becoming gradually smaller apicad. Each elytron with nine striae. Scutellar striola 

absent. Striae regular; striae 6 and 7 almost converging at base; stria 8 not reaching base. 

Strial punctures round, separated longitudinally by elongate, shiny tubercles; tubercles pointed 

basad and apicad, becoming gradually higher on base and on lateral and apical declivities, 

each bearing black bristle like on pronotum. Intervals 1 to 8 fl at, smooth, shiny, 1.2–1.5 times 

wider than striae; interval 9 with row of tubercles near stria 9 (in fact, these are displaced 

tubercles of stria 9, only coincident with stria 9 on base and apex; stria 9 otherwise only consisting 

of a row of deep punctures); interval 10 explanate, with loose row of small tubercles. 

Epipleuron broad at base, narrowing apicad, from the level of ventrite 1 to elytral apex of 

constant width (as wide as width of metatibia), sparsely set with fi ne granules bearing white 

hair-like setae. 

Mesoventrite densely granulate. Metaventrite (Fig. 2) short, 3 times as wide as long; 

surface smooth, shiny, with deep pit along midline at 0.6 of mid-length, sparsely granulate; 

granules two diameters apart. Relative length of ventrites: 1: 1.8; 2: 1.5; 3: 1.4; 4: 1.0; 5: 1.4. 

Sculpture on ventrites one to three like on metaventrite; granules more closely set on median 

portions of ventrites (separated by 1 diameter), particularly dense and almost contiguous 

on intercoxal process of ventrite 1, bearing white, hair-like seta. Male with ventrites 1 to 4 

sparsely granulate like metaventrite; ventrite 3 and 4 each with transverse zone of large pores 

(diameters approx. 0.025 mm); ventrite 5 matt. 

Legs short; femora shortly protruding over lateral margins of body; tibiae oval in crosssection; 

outer edge of tibiae fi nely granulate, set with white bristles; remaining surface of 

tibia with fi ne white hair-like setae. Tarsomeres 1 to 3 short, similar in length, tarsomere 4 

1.5 times as long as 1 to 3 combined. Claws simple, dilated at base.

290 


Male. Aedeagus (Figs. 4, 5) elongate, parallel-sided (length 0.65 mm; length to width ratio: 

4.7). Parameres 1.15 times longer than phallobase, narrowed apicad, fl at in lateral aspect, 

slightly bent ventrad in apical third. Penis comparatively short, 0.7 times of total length of 

aedeagus, narrowly rounded at tip. 

Female. Abdominal ventrites 1 to 4 sparsely granulate like metaventrite; ventrite 3 and 4 

without pores. 

Variability. The development of lateral pronotal and elytral spines is subject to certain 

variability. In some specimens the spines are rather in the shape of denticles, particularly 

on elytra. Moreover, the body surface is usually encrusted with dirt, partially concealing the 

shape of lateral spines. 

Differential diagnosis. Sprecodes socotrensis sp. nov. is a quite distinct species, its closest 

relationship is to S. madagascariensis (Grouvelle, 1902) and S. insularis Dajoz, 1994 from 

Madagascar, because of head widened in front of eyes and hair-like setation. Sprecodes 

madagascariensis and S. insularis have a more cylindrical body, pronotum without explanate 

lateral portions, lateral elytral declivities steeper, humeral calli well developed, wings present 

and eyes larger. 

Etymology. Named in reference to its type locality. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens were collected under bark of rotten log of an 

unidentifi ed tree. It seems to be restricted only to the highest part of the Haghier mountains 

(J. Hájek, pers. comm.) 

Remarks. The genus Sprecodes Pope, 1961 was erected to accommodate two species of 

african colydiines formerly placed in the genus Caprodes Pascoe, 1863. POPE (1961) selected 

Caprodes ater Grouvelle, 1904 as type species. Later, DAJOZ (1980, 1994) added three species 

from Madagascar to this genus. 

Sprecodes is closely related to Bolcocius Dajoz, 1977. The relationships between these 

genera are still unclear. The only clearly defi ned character to separate members of both genera 

is the presence of scutellar striolae. The genus Bolcocius is distributed in the Oriental Region 

with eight described and several undescribed species and in tropical and southern Africa with 

at least two undescribed species. 

Lasconotus hajeki sp. nov. 

(Figs. 3, 6, 7) 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), “YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Noged plain (sand dunes) / SHARED HALMA 

vill. env./ 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 20m / Jiří Hájek leg. 10-11.xi.2010”. PARATYPES (275 spec.): 4 spec. (NMPC, RSCW) 

same data as holotype; 4 spec. (NMPC): same data but “J. Bezdĕk leg.”; 2 spec. (PHCK): same data but “P. Hlaváč 

leg.”; 1 spec. (NMPC): YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / wadi Ayhaft / 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200m / Jiří Hájek leg. 

7-8.xi.2010; 7 spec. (NMPC, RSCW): same data but “L. Purchart leg.”; 34 spec. (PHCK, RSCW): same data but “P. 

Hlaváč leg.”; 7 spec. (NMPC, RSCW): YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Dixam plateau / Firmihin (Dracaena forest) / 

12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490m / Jiří Hájek leg. 15-16.xi.2010; 6 spec. (NMPC, RSCW): same data but “J. Bezdĕk leg.”; 

1 spec. (NMPC): same data but “L. Purchart leg.”; 3 spec. (NMPC): YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Firmihin plato, 400- 

500m / 12°28′46″N, 54°00′89″E / 18-19.vi.2010 / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.; 2 spec. (NMPC, RSCW): YEMEN, 

SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, HASSAN vill. env. / 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221m / Jiří Hájek leg. 9-10.xi.2010; 

150 spec. (PHCK, RSCW): same data but “P. Hlaváč leg.”; 3 spec. (NMPC, RSCW): YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / 

Zemhon area, 270-300m / 12°20′58″N, 54°06′39″E / 16.-17.6.2010 / V. Hula leg; 17 spec. (NMPC, RSCW): Yemen, 

Soqotra Is., 2003 / 5-6.xii., Noged plain / QAAREH (waterfall), 57m / 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E / [GPS], David Král


lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition, Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král; 1 spec. (NMPC): Yemen, 

Soqotra Is., 2003 / 6-7.xii., Noged plain / WADI IREEH, 95m / 12°23′11″N, 53°59′47″E / [GPS], David Král lgt.; 1 

spec. (NMPC): Yemen, Soqotra Is., 2003 / 3.xii., Dixam plateau / WADI ZEERIQ, 750m / 12°31′08″N, 53°59′09″E 

/ [GPS], David Král lgt.; 3 spec. (NMPC): Yemen, Soqotra Is., 2003 / 3-4.xii., Dixam plateau / WADI ESGEGO, 

Figs. 1–3. Socotran Colydinae. 1–2. Sprecodes socotrensis sp. nov. (1 – habitus in dorsal view; 2 – same in ventral 

aspect). 3 – Lasconotus hajeki sp. nov., habitus in dorsal view.

292 


300m / 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E / [GPS], David Král lgt.; 1 spec. (NMPC): Yemen, Soqotra Is. / 24-26.xi.2003 / 

WADI AYHAFT, 190m / 12°36′38″N, 53°58′49″E / [GPS], David Král lgt.; 1 spec. (NMPC): Yemen, Soqotra Is. / 

HOMHIL protected area / 28-29.xi.2003, 364m / 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E / [GPS], David Král lgt.; 3 spec. (NMPC): 

Yemen, Soqotra Is. / 21.xi.-12.xii.2003 / HADIBOH env., ca. 10-100m / 12°65′02″N, 54°02′04″E / [GPS], David 

Král lgt.; 20 spec. (RSCW, PZCW): YEMEN: SOCOTRA / Hadibo 100-300m / leg. Zabranský I.1993; 2 spec. 

(PPCB): Yemen: Socotra / Shuab 10.3.2000 / leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný; 2 spec. (PPCB): Yemen: Socotra / Wadi 

Faar / GPS 12.433N; 54.195E / 69m 1.4.2001 / leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný. 

Description. TL: 2.4–4.0 mm. Body elongate, parallel-sided (TL/EW: 3.15–3.40), transversely 

convex, reddish brown, elytra, legs, antennae and apical margin of head yellowish brown; 

habitus as in Fig. 3. 

Head (HW/HL: 1.30–1.45) weakly transverse, slightly narrowed in front of eyes to broadly 

rounded frontal angles; clypeus not separated from frons by a groove or suture; anterior 

margin of clypeus concave. Dorsal surface of head slightly convex between eyes; central 

part of clypeus also slightly convex; interocular sulci weak, but distinct, interocular carinae 

fi ne, remnants of fronto-clypeal suture visible as two short, oblique sulci between antennal 

insertions. Sculpture of basal part of frons consisting of large punctures, separated by 0.5 times 

of their diameters, each bearing recumbent, pointed, squamiform seta (0.025 × 0.005 mm), 

directed towards a point on base of head; sculpture on clypeus consisting of fi ne punctures 

separated by twice their diameters, each bearing seta like on frons, directed to midline, their 

Figs. 4–7. Aedeagi: 4–5 – Sprecodes socotrensis sp. nov.: 4 – aedeagus, dorsal aspect, 5 – aedeagus, lateral aspect. 

6–7 – Lasconotus hajeki sp. –nov.: 6 – aedeagus, dorsal aspect, 7 – aedeagus, lateral aspect. Scale bar = 0.5 mm.


interspaces shiny; dorsum of basal part of head capsule more or less wrinkled, matt. Eyes 

large, convex, eye length 0.15 mm. Temples absent; head slightly constricted behind eyes for 

a short distance; basal part parallel-sided. Antenna 0.8 times as long as head width; antennomere 

1 visible in dorsal aspect for apical third, 1.3 times as long as wide; antennomere 2 

slightly narrower, as long as wide; antennomere 3 narrower (width of antennomere 3 / width 

of antennomere 2: 0.7 / 1.0), 1.4 times as long as wide; antennomeres 4 to 8 each of similar 

length but increasing width (length to width ratios: 4: 0.85; 5: 0.80; 6: 0.75; 7: 0.70; 8: 0.65); 

antennomere 9 to 11 forming broad club 3 times as wide as preceding ones, antennomere 9 

1.8 times as wide as long, trapezoidal; antennomere 10 slightly wider, 2.2 times as wide as 

long; antennomere 11 slightly narrower than 10, 1.5 times as wide as long, transversely oval. 

Sculpture of ventral surface of head densely punctate, setation very fi ne, hair-like. 

Pronotum almost quadrate (PW/PL: 0.94–1.02), widest at apical third (i.e. 0.3 pronotal 

length), 1.2 times wider than head, slightly narrower than or of same width as elytra (PW/EW: 

0.94–1.02); disc almost fl at; lateral declivities steep; lateral explanate portions narrow (half 

as wide as protibia). Lateral margins weakly convex anteriorly, almost straight from point of 

maximum width to base; anterior angles acute (approximately 75 degrees), slightly produced 

with rounded tip; posterior angles rectangular. Anterior margin straight. Pronotal base convex. 

Pronotal sculpture consisting of fused tubercles, bearing squamiform seta like on frons; in 

some places tubercles merged tightly without interspaces, giving an aspect like an uneven 

punctate surface; setation recumbent, directed to midline on lateral declivities, directed basad 

on anterior half, and apicad on posterior half of disc. Sublateral carina separating disc from 

lateral declivity almost parallel to lateral pronotal margin, low but conspicuous, accentuated 

towards disc by a smooth sulcus, curved inwards anteriorly to form weak apical marginal 

ridge, curved inwards basally to form basal ridge. Disc with four almost parallel, longitudinal 

sulci; each sulcus originating apically from deep pit at usual position of subapical sulcus, 

attenuate at mid-length, deepened again basad, ending in a deep pit at usual position of subbasal 

sulcus; margins of sulci irregularly delimited by more or less isolated tubercles; ridges 

between sulci fl at, narrow basally (of width of one tubercle there), slightly enlarged apically, 

connected to apical marginal ridge and to basal marginal ridge, in other words, interrupting 

subapical and subbasal sulci. Edge of lateral margins fi nely crenulate. 

Prosternum and proepisterna matt, granulate; granules round or transversely wrinkled, 

bearing white hair-like seta. 

Scutellum, pentagonal, matt. 

Elytra parallel-sided (EL/EW: 1.85–2.00), transversely convex, apically jointly rounded 

in semicircular outline; outline in lateral aspect straight; apical declivity beginning at 0.8 

elytral length; basal margin concave; lateral margins not explanate, slightly crenulate near 

humerus, otherwise almost smooth. Each elytron with nine striae. Scutellar striola present. 

Striae regular. Strial punctures round, separated longitudinally by less than their diameters. 

Intervals 1 to 9 fl at, as wide as strial punctures; each interval with one row of very closely set 

fi ne punctures, bearing seta; setae white, recumbent, squamiform, of same shape, but smaller 

than those on pronotum, each reaching base of the following one, giving an aspect of a white 

line. Epipleuron inclined, smooth, bordered along inner margin near base, narrowing apicad, 

not reaching elytral apex. Wings present.

294 


Mesoventrite and metaventrite matt, densely punctured; punctures partly confl uent; midline 

at posterior half impressed. Relative length of ventrites: 1: 2.8; 2: 1.5; 3: 1.2; 4: 1.0; 5: 1.2. 

Ventrites matt, granulate, with white, hair-like setation. 

Legs short; femora shortly protruding over lateral margins of body; tibiae oval in crosssection, 

enlarged apically, set with fi ne hair-like setae; outer apical angle with two to four 

small spines. Tarsomeres 1 to 3 longer than wide, similar in length, tarsomere 4 1.1 times as 

long as 1 to 3 combined. Claws simple, dilated at base. 

Male: Apical margins of apical sternite and tergite regularly rounded. Tegmen (Figs. 6, 7) 

short, parallel-sided (length 0.5 mm; length to width ratio: 3.2). Parameres 0.8 times as long, 

and slightly wider than phallobase, fused for more than half of their length, each narrowed 

towards pointed and setose apex, broad in lateral aspect. Penis long, 1.3 times of total length 

of tegmen, constricted in middle; its tip arrowhead-shaped, bent ventrad. 

Female: Apical margin of terminal sternite with omega-shaped (ω) excision and terminal 

tergite angulate apically, its tip produced and densely pubescent. 

Differential diagnosis. Lasconotus saudicus Ślipiński, 1985 is known from the Arabian 

Peninsula. It differs from L. hajeki sp. nov. in its smaller size (TL: 2.2–2.5 mm); absence of 

sulcus along margin of eye; pronotal sculpture without sulci or deep pits between sublateral 

carinae, rather smooth with granules reduced to punctures; anterior pronotal angles rectangular, 

posterior ones blunt; broader elytral intervals and fi ner strial punctures (see also ŚLIPIŃSKI 

1985). The absence of the sulcus along the margin of the eye was not recorded in the species 

description, but was recognized by examination of the holotype (NHMB). 

Etymology. Dedicated to Jiří Hájek (NMPC), collector of this new species. 

Collection circumstances. Lasconotus hajeki sp. nov. was frequently found under bark of 

dead Boswellia elongata Balf. f. tree (Burseraceae); several specimens were also attracted to 

light trap (J. Hájek, pers. comm.). 


The author thanks Jiří Hájek (NMPC) and Peter Hlaváč (Košice, Slovakia) for the opportunity 

to study the material, Harald Bruckner (NHMW) for making the photographs and Harald 

Schillhammer (NHMW) for critically reading the manuscript. 

References 

DAJOZ R. 1977: Coléoptères Colydiidae et Anommatidae Paléarctiques. Faune de l′Europe et du Basin Méditerranéen. 

Vol. 8. Masson, Paris, 275 pp. 

DAJOZ R. 1980: Insectes coléoptères: Colydiidae et Cerylonidae. Faune de Madagascar 54: 1–256. 

DAJOZ R. 1994: Espèces nouvelles et localités nouvelles de coléoptères Tenebrionidae, Colydiidae, Cerylonidae et 

Erotylidae de Madagascar. Nouvelle Revue d′Entomologie (Nouvelle Série) 11: 165–184. 

GROUVELLE A. 1905: Nitidulides, colydiides, cucujides et mycetophagides de le Guinée Espagnole. Memorias 

de la Real Sociedad Española de Historia Natural 1: 241–258. 

MILLER A. G. & MORRIS M. 2004: Ethnofl ora of the Socotra Archipelago. Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, 

759 pp. 

POPE R. D. 1961: Colydiidae (Coleoptera Clavicornia). Exploration du Parc National de la Garamba – Mission 

H. de Saeger 25: 1–115. 

ŚLIPIŃSKI S. A. 1985: Insects of Saudi Arabia Coleoptera: Fam. Colydiidae. Fauna of Saudi Arabia 6 (1984): 

251–254.



Description of larva and pupa of the genus Deretus (Coleoptera: 

Tenebrionidae) with key to the larvae of the tribe Helopini * 

Luboš PURCHART 1) & Maxim V. NABOZHENKO 2) 


e-mail: lubos.purchart@post.cz; lubos.purchart@mendelu.cz 

2) Institute of arid zones Southern Scientifi c Centre, Russian Academy of Sciences, 

Azov Department of Murmansk Marine Biological Institute, Kola Scientifi c Centre RAS, 

Сhekhov str. 41, 344006 Rostov-on-Don, Russia; E-mail: nalassus@mail.ru 

Abstract. Larva and pupa of Deretus spinicollis Schawaller, 2004 are described 

and illustrated for the fi rst time. The systematic position of the genus Deretus 

Gahan, 1900 is discussed and an updated key to larvae for known Palaearctic 

genera within the tribe Helopini is given. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Helopini, Deretus, larva, pupa, description, 


Introduction 

Presently, 45 genera of Helopini (Coleoptera: Tenerionidae) are known in the world fauna, 

comprising roughly more than seven hundred species in the Palaearctic region (here we use 

regions as defi ned by LÖBL et al. 2008), roughly 80 described species from America (Nearctic 

and Neotropical regions) and three species in other regions (CHAMPION 1884–1893; GEBIEN 

1942, 1943; LÖBL et al. 2008; STEINER 2009). However, larvae of only 11 species belonging to 

nine genera (NABOZHENKO & GURGENIDZE 2006) and pupae belonging to two genera (STEINER 

1995; BOUCHARD & STEINER 2004; CHERNEY 2005) have been described so far. There are several 

historical papers with individual descriptions of Helopini larvae (e.g. WATERHOUSE 1836). But 

the most important are recent papers systematically focused on Palaearctic larvae of Helopini, 

which gave descriptions of several species and comparative analyses and keys to subtribes and 

generic groups of Helopini based on larvae (BYZOVA & GILYAROV 1956; GILYAROV & SVETOVA 

1963; BYZOVA et al. 1964; CHERNEY 2005; NABOZHENKO & GURGENIDZE 2006). 

This paper presents the descriptions of the larva and pupa of Deretus spinicollis Schawaller, 

2004 and it is the fi rst description of immature stages of the genus Deretus Gahan, 1900. The 

* Results of the biodiversity research of darkling beetles on Socotra Island. Part II. 



296 

PURCHART & NABOZHENKO: Larva and pupa of the genus Deretus (Tenebrionidae) 

description is based on material collected under biodiversity research projects conducted by 

the research team of Mendel University in Brno (Czech Republic) (for more details see also 

PURCHART & SCHAWALLER 2012). The paper is a follow-up to an earlier contribution (PURCHART 

2012) devoted to the genus Deretus. 


Seven larvae and three pupae of Deretus spinicollis Schawaller, 2004 used for the descriptions 

were collected by J. Hájek and J. Bezděk on November 12 2010 in the Skant area of the 

Haghier Mts. (Socotra Island, Yemen) at an altitude of 1400 m in rotten wood of large old fallen 

trees. Only one member of the genus Deretus is known from this area (PURCHART 2012). 

Material used in this paper is deposited in the collection of the National Museum in Prague 

(Czech Republic) and in authors´ collections. 

Measurements of pupae: as the head of pupae is hypognathous, the body length is comprised 

of two numbers, the fi rst is the total length from the apex of urogomphi to anterior margin 

of pronotum, and the second is the total length of head from its posterior margin to anterior 

margin of labrum. Body width is the greatest abdominal width, including lateral processes. 

Morphology 

Deretus spinicollis Schawaller, 2004 

(Figs. 1–16) 

Larva. The description is based on a later instar larva 26 mm long, 2.8 mm wide, head 

capsule 2.3 mm broad. 

Body (Fig. 1). Brownish-yellow with blackish mandibles; cuticle sclerotized, with shiny 

and weakly rugose surface of tergites and sternites. 

Head (Figs. 2–6). Prognathous, oval, slightly tilted downward; seams very weakly visible; 

vertex with two and forehead with four long erect setae. Clypeus convex in lateral view, transverse, 

trapezoidal and with two long setae on each side, anterior margin somewhat hollowed. 

Labrum transverse, its dorsal surface slightly convex in lateral view, with eight marginal and 

two discal setae; marginal setae form three groups (3+2+3); discal setae slightly longer than 

marginal. Epipharynx with ten long marginal and two short discal setae; marginal setae form 

three groups (4+2+4); basal part with two longitudinal rows of brush-like setae. Antennae 

trimerous; antennomere I wider than long; antennomere II two to three times longer than 

the fi rst one, slightly narrowed in middle; antennomere III slender, with four setae apically. 

Mandibles asymmetrical, strongly sclerotized apically and at molar part; both mandibles in 

dorsal view with long seta at their base and two setae laterally; mandible apices distinctly bifi d 

(bidentate); left mandible with triangular tooth between apical tooth and molar part dorsally. 

Maxilla consisting of primary cardo, stipes, maxillary palpus and lacinia; the latter with two 

rows of short and thick setae on its inner margin; maxillary palpus three-segmented, bearing 

several long setae, all segments longer than wide, with last segment sub-conical. Labium with 

distinct prementum, mentum and submentum; prementum centrally with pair of long setae; 

ligula with two short thick setae; mentum subcylindrical, slightly widened in middle, with


Figs. 1–8. Deretus spinicollis Schawaller, 2004; larva. 1 – habitus in lateral view; 2 – clypeus, labrum and antennae 

in dorsal view; 3 – epipharynx in ventral view; 4 – head in ventral view; 5 – left mandible; 6 – right mandible; 7 

– front leg; 8 – mid leg.

298 


Figs. 9–16. Deretus spinicollis Schawaller, 2004; 9–10 – larva; 11–16 – pupa. 9 – abdominal segments 7–9 in dorsal 

view; 10 – same in lateral view. 11 – habitus in dorsal view; 12 – same in ventral view; 13 – same in lateral view; 

14 – abdominal segments 7–9 in dorsal view; 15 – same in lateral view; 16 – head.


three pairs of long setae situated latero-medially and close to anterior and posterior margin 

respectively; submentum centrally with a pair of setae. 

Thorax. Prothorax slightly longer than wide; mesothorax approx. twice as broad as long; 

metathorax approximately 1.5 times broader than long; prothorax with two pairs of setae 

situated close to anterior margin; meso- and metathorax with a pair of setae situated centrolaterally; 

all thoracic segments with four to seven setae laterally. 

Legs (Figs. 7–8). Forelegs somewhat longer and stouter than mid- and hindlegs; trochanter 

elongated, covered with differing number of strong setae; femur and tibiotarsus covered 

sparsely with varying number of spines and setae; claws brown apically, their length about 

half length of tibiotarsus. 

Abdomen (Figs. 9–10). Abdominal tergites 1–7 with several setae dorso-laterally; cuticle 

very slightly wrinkled transversally; spiracles small, more or less circular, slightly longer than 

wide; abdominal tergite 8 with large deep rounded holes, with two small spines situated dorso-laterally, 

with one small tooth in posterior corners and with relatively large and somewhat 

bidentate protuberance in the middle of posterior margin, this protuberance is smooth and 

bears two spines at its base projecting back obliquely upward; abdominal tergite 9 transverse 

in dorsal view, apically rounded and with 12 setae forming three groups (5+2+5) – two well 

separated groups of setae situated laterally and one group of setae situated in the middle of 

apex; abdominal tergite 9 also with prominent, projecting urogomphi apically strongly sclerotized, 

vertical and slightly bent forward, with three setae situated dorsally, one seta situated 

dorso-laterally on the outer side of each urogomphus and one seta situated at anterior base 

of each, lateral parts of abdominal tergite 9 also with one small projecting tooth horizontal 

and bent forward. 

Pupa. Body (Figs. 11–13). Body length 16.5–18.2 (2.5–2.8) mm, body width 5.4–5.6 mm 

(n=3), white with darker apices of spines on lateral processes and urogomphi, with brown claws 

and mandible apices and with black eyes; body very sparsely setose, setae whitish-yellow; 

lateral processes of abdominal tergites well developed, bearing two fi ne setae; abdominal 

tergite 9 with pair of refl exed urogomphi. 

Head (Fig. 16). Smooth, concealed (not visible in dorsal view), with two setae on forehead, 

with further two setae between eyes and with two setae behind each eye, the latter with two 

setae on its anterior margin; clypeus transversely wrinkled with two setae on each side; labrum 

smooth, sparsely setose. 

Thorax. Pronotum transverse, slightly transversely wrinkled and with strongly protruded 

anterior angles, each with one to two spines, anterior pronotal margin with 4 spines, sides of 

pronotum slightly convex, with three to fi ve spines in middle, posterior angles of pronotum 

with one spine, each half of pronotum with one spine situated before posterior pronotal 

margin, all pronotal spines bearing one seta; hypomeron smooth and glabrous; elytral and 

metathoracic wing sheaths glabrous, the latter shorter apically; mesonotum slightly longer 

than metanotum, both shorter than fi rst abdominal tergum, meso- and metanota with two pairs 

of setae; meso- and metaventrite glabrous, the latter slightly longer than metacoxa. 

Abdomen (Figs. 14–15). Abdominal spiracles ovate, present on segments 1–6; tergites 1–8 

with 4–5 pairs of setae, tergite 8 also with two tubercles laterally, each bearing one seta; lateral 

processes of abdominal segments 1–7 with two apically sclerotized spines with one seta

300 


before each spine; abdominal ventrite 2 glabrous, ventrite 3 with one pair of setae, ventrites 

4–6 with fi ve pairs of setae and ventrites 7–8 with three pairs of setae; tergite 9 with one pair 

of strongly developed, apically sclerotized urogomphi with several setae at base. 

Legs. Same colour as body; procoxae with one to two setae; femora sparsely covered with 

several setae; tibiae and tarsi glabrous, the latter with brown claws. 

Remarks. Spines on lateral processes of the abdomen and urogomphi on abdominal tergite 9 

present in pupae of Deretus spinicollis serve as antipredator devices (STEINER 1995; BOUCHARD 

& STEINER 2004). Such structures, together with protective setae, spines as well as cryptic, 

aposematic and mimetic colours and shapes form a group of passive antipredator device and 

can be found in many insect pupae (BOUCHARD & STEINER 2004). In some cases also non-passive 

antipredator devices as stridulatory organs or so called ‘gin traps’ can be observed (HINTON 

1955). In tenebrionid pupae, both these defence mechanisms can be observed frequently. The 

list of known tenebrionid pupae possessing antipredator devices is presented by BOUCHARD 

& STEINER (2004). According to this list, pupae of the genus Helops Fabricius, 1775 and 

Tarpela Bates, 1870 are the only known representatives of the tribe Helopini with antipredator 

structures. Helops possess the same structures as Deretus, while in Tarpela pupae gin traps 

and paired urogomphi are present. 

Structures present in pupae seem to be very useful for phylogeny of Tenebrionidae. However, 

as only few representatives have been studied so far, there is no doubt that more taxonomic, 

ecological and behavioural studies are needed to fully understand their phylogenetic 

and evolutionary importance (BOUCHARD & STEINER 2004). 

Comparative analysis 

Presently, two subtribes of Palaearctic Helopini are recognized – subtribe Cylindrinotina 

and Helopina (NABOZHENKO 2005; NABOZHENKO & GURGENIDZE 2006). According to LÖBL et 

al. (2008) Deretus belongs to the subtribe Helopina. So far this placement could not be confi 

rmed based on larvae. Results of this study, however clearly show that its placement in the 

subtribe Helopina is justifi ed, as the larvae of Deretus spinicollis have no protuberances at 

the base of urogomphi. The presence of small cylinder-shaped or cone-shaped protuberances 

is on the other hand a key character for the larvae of the subtribe Cylindrinotina. Three morphological 

types of Helopini larvae were distinguished (NABOZHENKO 2005a, b): ‘helopioid’, 

‘nalassoid’ and ‘cylindrinotoid’. These three types correlate with adults´ characters and have 

been used for classifi cation and phylogeny of the tribe. It is appropriate to distinguish four 

larval types that show the main phylogenetic branches of the tribe Helopini: ‘helopioid’ and 

‘hedyphanoid’ of the subtribe Helopina and ‘nalassoid’ and ‘cylindrinotoid’ of the subtribe 

Cylindrinotina (see the key below). Results of this study show that the genus Deretus can be 

included in ‘helopioid’ branch of the tribe Helopini. Its larvae did not lose some structures 

during specialization as did Hedyphanes Fischer von Waldheim, 1820. Larvae of Hedyphanes 

live in soils of arid landscapes and have no protuberances and spines on sternite 8, unlike many 

other genera of the subtribe Helopina. Other known larvae of Helopina (Helops, Probaticus 

Seidlitz, 1896, Deretus) possess such characters and most of their species are associated with 

wood biotopes.


Generally, the tribe Helopini developed from the sylvan mode of life to the existence in 

open semi-desert landscapes (NABOZHENKO 2005b). Adults of many species live in trees and 

their larvae are soil dwellers, e.g. North American Helops or Tarpela (STEINER 1999; STEINER 

2009). Only several species (Deretus and Palaearctic Helops) inhabit wood as adults and 

larvae (BYZOVA & GILYAROV 1956; PURCHART 2012). 

Key to subtribes and generic groups 

of the tribe Helopini based on larvae 

[Modifi ed key based on GILYAROV & SVETOVA (1963); NABOZHENKO & GURGENIDZE (2006); for authors and years of 

descriptions of the genera of Cylindrinotina see LÖBL et al. (2008)] 

1. Abdominal segment 9 with small cylinder-shaped or cone-shaped protuberances at base 

of urogomphi. Subtribe Сylindrinotina ......................................................................... 2 

– Abdominal segment 9 without small cylinder-shaped or cone-shaped protuberances at base 

of urogomphi. Subtribe Helopina ................................................................................... 3 

2. Labrum with 8 marginal and 2 discal setae on dorsal side. ................................................ 

..................................... Nalassus group of genera [Nalassus, Zophohelops, Xanthomus] 

– Labrum with 10 marginal and 2 discal setae on dorsal side. .............................................. 

.................... Cylindrinotus group of genera [Odocnemis (Heloponotus), Cylindrinotus] 

3. Abdominal tergite 8 without spines or protuberances (hedyphanoid type). ....................... 

........................................................................ Hedyphanes Fischer von Waldheim, 1820 

– Abdominal tergite 8 with spines and protuberances (helopioid type). ............................ 4 

4. Unpaired protuberance on abdominal tergite 8 with one distinct, strongly sclerotized apex. 

Surface of this protuberance bumpy. Large holes only on surface of abdominal tergite 8. 

Labrum with about 18–20 marginal and 6 discal setae. ........... Probaticus Seidlitz, 1896 

– Unpaired protuberance on abdominal tergite 8 with two distinct apices or only somewhat 

bidentate apex. Surface of this protuberance smooth. ..................................................... 5 

5. Whole surface of abdominal tergite 8 and partly surface of abdominal tergite 7 covered by 

large, deep and rounded holes. Labrum with 10 marginal and 4 discal setae. Large bifi d 

protuberance of tergite 8 without spines. .................................... Helops Fabricius, 1775 

– Only surface of abdominal tergite 8 covered by large deep rounded holes. Labrum with 8 

marginal and 2 discal setae. Large protuberance of tergite 8 with 2 short spines. ............ 

.......................................................................................................... Deretus Gahan, 1900 


Authors are very much obliged to Warren Steiner (Smithsonian Institution, Washington, 

D.C., USA) and Patrice Bouchard (Canadian National Collection of Insects, Ottawa, Canada) 

for the help, valuable information and review of the work. Jan Bezděk (Mendel University 

in Brno, Czech Republic) took part of photographs. This work was supported by the grant of 

the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of the Czech Republic No.: LA10036/MSMT,

302 


the Research plan of the Czech Ministry of Education MSM 6215648902 and by the grant 

of the Russian Foundation for Basic Research 12-04-00663-а. 

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Transactions of the Entomological Society of London 1: 215–227.



Nanocaecus hlavaci gen. & sp. nov. – fi rst record 

of the tribe Gnathidiini (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: 

Diaperinae) from the Socotra Archipelago * 

Wolfgang SCHAWALLER 1) & Luboš PURCHART 2) 

1) Museum of Natural History, Rosenstein 1, D-70191 Stuttgart, Germany; 

e-mail: wolfgang.schawaller@smns-bw.de 



Abstract. Nanocaecus hlavaci gen. & sp. nov. from Socotra Island is described and 

fi gured by SEM. It is the fi rst record of the tenebrionid tribe Gnathidiini, subtribe 

Anopidiina from the Socotra Archipelago. The closest relatives (genera Anopidium 

Jeannel & Paulian, 1945, Paranopidium Dajoz, 1973) live in subterranean 

habitats of the mountains in eastern Africa. The new genus is very probably an old 

continental relict element in the island fauna. A key to the genera of the subtribe 

Anopidiina from Africa including Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles and Socotra 

is provided and a catalogue of the tribe Gnathidiini from that area is added. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Colydiidae, Tenebrionidae, Diaperinae, Gnathidiini, 

Anopidiina, Nanocaecus, new genus, new species, taxonomy, description, key to 

genera, catalogue, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

So far, darkling beetles (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) represent the most diverse and speciose 

beetle family known from the Socotra Archipelago. KRAATZ (1865) was the fi rst author 

publishing about Socotran Tenebrionidae and describing a new monotypic genus. Larger 

material was studied by WATERHOUSE (1881), who recorded ten species, eight of which were 

described as new, together with two new genera. Later, GAHAN (1900) added eight new species 

and one new genus. The same author redescribed most of the known species (GAHAN 1903), 

and fi nally LESNE (1915) described one new species. Much later, KOCH (1970) summed up the 

knowledge about taxonomy, zoogeography and ecology of all the 20 species known from the 

Socotra Archipelago. The most recent comprehensive study on Socotran Tenebrionidae was 

* Results of the biodiversity research of darkling beetles on Socotra Island. Part III. 



304 

SCHAWALLER & PURCHART: Nanocaecus hlavaci gen. & sp. nov. 

presented by SCHAWALLER (2004), who recorded 39 species (including descriptions of seven 

new species) from the archipelago. The same author later added a new record of the tribe 

Cossyphodini (SCHAWALLER 2006). NOVÁK (2007) established a new genus of the subfamily 

Alleculinae with three new species, and NOVÁK & PURCHART (2012) added further four new 

representatives of this subfamily. One new species was added by PURCHART (2009), LO CASCIO 

& GRITA (2011) and PURCHART & SCHAWALLER (2012), respectively. PURCHART (2012) revised 

the genus Deretus Gahan, 1900 and described several new species. PURCHART & NABOZHENKO 

(2012) provided the fi rst description of larva and pupa of the genus Deretus. To sum up, the 

tenebrionid fauna of the Socotra Archipelago presently consists of 53 species. 

This paper presents the fi rst record of the tenebrionid tribe Gnathidiini, subtribe Anopidiina 

from the Socotra Archipelago, being described as a new genus and a new species. The closest 

relatives of this taxon (genera Anopidium Jeannel & Paulian, 1945, Paranopidium Dajoz, 

1973) live in subterranean habitats of the mountains in eastern Africa. DOYEN & LAWRENCE 

(1979) listed the world genera of the tribe Gnathidiini (with the two subtribes Gnathidiina and 

Anopidiina) in the tenebrionid subfamily Diaperinae and their rough distribution in the tropics 

of the Old and New World. Morphological characters of the tribe were recently also treated 

by MATTHEWS & BOUCHARD (2008). Members of this tribe are of small body size (around 2 

mm), have usually a hidden, subterranean mode of life in leaf litter and rotten logs, and most 

species are blind and fl ightless. Because of several apomorphic characters, Nanocaecus gen. 

nov. is very probably an old continental relict element in the island fauna of Socotra, and not 

a younger immigrant to the Archipelago. 


Material of the new species described in this paper was obtained under the research project 

implemented by a research team of the Mendel University in Brno (Czech Republic) (for 

details see PURCHART 2012). 

Stated lengths and widths represent the maximum values of the measured parts. Body 

length is the distance from the clypeus to the elytral apex with the head in its natural position. 

Width of the elytra is the combined maximum width of both elytra. 

The specimens used for the SEM-preparations were air-dried. The mounted material was 

coated with a Au/Pd layer by an Edwards S150B sputter coater and examined and photographed 

under a Zeiss Evo LS 15 SEM in SMNS. 

Label data are given verbatim. All specimens of the type series bear one printed red label: 

‘HOLOTYPUS [PARATYPUS], Nanocaecus hlavaci gen. & sp. nov., det. W. Schawaller & 

L. Purchart 2011’. 

The specimens studied are deposited in the following collections: 

BMNH The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom (Maxwell V. L. Barclay); 

HNHM Hungarian Natural History Museum, Budapest, Hungary (Otto Merkl); 


LPCB Luboš Purchart collection, Brno, Czech Republic; 

NMPC National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek); 

SMNS Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde, Stuttgart, Germany (Wolfgang Schawaller); 

ZSMC Zoologische Staatssammlung, München, Germany (Michael Balke).


Taxonomy 

Nanocaecus gen. nov. 

(Figs. 1–13) 

Diagnosis. Within the subtribe Anopidiina, Nanocaecus gen. nov. shares with Anopidium 

and Paranopidium the antenna with 10 antennomeres including a terminal club of 4 

antennomeres, and the small but visible scutellum. For other genera see the key below. 

Anopidium can be separated by the antennomere 3 distinctly prolonged, about two times 

longer than antennomere 2 (contrary to antennomere 3 equal in length to antennomere 2 

in Nanocaecus gen. nov. and Paranopidium); and by the round shape of pronotum and 

elytra combined with the pronotum widest at base (contrary to long parallel shape with the 

pronotum widest in the middle). In Paranopidium the last four antennomeres form a fused 

club with irregular overall setation (contrary to a compact club with terminal setation of 

each joint in Nanocaecus gen. nov.); the clypeal suture is present (absent); pronotum and 

elytra without any setation (with microsetae); pronotum with sinuated anterior margin 

and prominent anterior corners (not sinuated with rounded anterior corners); elytra with 

8 irregular rows of punctures and with short scutellar striolae (with irregular punctation 

and without scutellar striolae); base of elytra bordered laterally (completely unbordered); 

meso-and metaventrite with feeble, nearly invisible punctation (with striking large but not 

confl uent punctation); and fi rst abdominal ventrite with fi nger-like apophysis between hind 

coxae (with broad rounded apophysis). 

Type species. Nanocaecus hlavaci sp. nov. by present designation. 

Tribal assignment. According to DOYEN & LAWRENCE (1979) the existence of an exposed 

and visible membrane between clypeus and labrum, as well as the long and acuminate last 

maxillary palpomere are synapomorphic characters of the subtribe Anopidiina (members 

of the subtribe Gnathidiina have no visible membrane between clypeus and labrum, and 

truncate last palpomere is broadened). Four African genera of the Anopidiina (Anopidium, 

Paranopidium, Peyrierasia Dajoz, 1974, Pseudanopidium Dajoz, 1973) are keyed by DAJOZ 

(1974), mainly using characters of the antennae, scutellum and body shape. However, this 

key is incomplete because DOYEN & LAWRENCE (1979) subsequently added two other genera 

with African species to this subtribe (Paralyreus Grouvelle, 1918, Tyrtaeus Champion, 1913, 

see the complete key and catalogue below). 

Etymology. The generic name is composed of the Latin words nanus (= dwarf) and caecus 

(= blind); gender masculine. 

Nanocaecus hlavaci sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–13) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt. env. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), labelled: YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt. env., 

1450m, 12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, P. Hlaváč leg., 12-13.xi.2010. Paratypes (27 specimens NMPC, 6 SMNS, 6 LPCB, 

5 BMNH, 5 HNHM, 5 ZSMC): same data as holotype; (11 NMPC, 2 SMNS, 2 LPCB): same data as holotype, 

Jiří Hájek leg.; (11 NMPC, 2 SMNS, 2 LPCB): same data as holotype, Jan Bezděk leg.; (4 JBCP): same data as 

holotype, Jan Batelka leg.

306 


Figs. 1–2. Nanocaecus hlavaci gen. & sp. nov., habitus. 1 – dorsal view; 2 – ventral view.


Figs. 3–8. Nanocaecus hlavaci gen. & sp. nov. 3 – head, dorsal view; 4 – head, ventral view; 5 – sensillae of maxillary 

palpus; 6 – tip of maxillary palpus; 7 – tip of labial palpus; 8 – antenna, ventral view. 

Description. Body length 1.9–2.1 mm, width of elytra 0.6 mm. Surface and all appendages 

unicoloured shining brown. Head without eyes, frons with regular, fi ne and separate punctation, 

each puncture bearing a small acute seta, setae distinctly longer at anterior margin of clypeus, 

clypeal suture absent; membrane between clypeus and labrum exposed; labrum of semicircular 

shape; mandibles bifi d; last maxillary palpomere long oval with fi nger-like tip, ventrally with 

a row of 5 blunt sensillae, tip with fi eld of smaller sensillae; last labial palpomere swollen in

308 


Figs. 9–13. Nanocaecus hlavaci gen. & sp. nov. 9 – prosternal apophysis; 10 – protarsus; 11 – metatarsus; 12 – tip 

of aedeagus, dorsal view; 13 – tip of ovipositor, ventral view. 

middle and tip with fi eld of sensillae; mentum hexagonal; without transverse or medial gular 

impression; antenna with 10 antennomeres, antennomere 3 not prolonged, with apical four 

antennomeres forming dense but not fused oval club, club apically of each joint with dense 

and long acute setae. Pronotum with regular, fi ne punctation and setation similar as on head; 

disc without impressions, slightly convex until the lateral margin, lateral margin equally 

rounded and basally wider separated from disc than distally; anterior margin not sinuated and


not protruding in middle, anterior corners rounded; basal (posterior) margin feebly sinuated, 

basal corners rectangular; all margins unbordered, before basal margin laterally with transverse 

row of larger punctures; epipleura smooth and unpunctured; prosternal apophysis fl at and 

not projected. Meso- and metaventrite with extraordinary large but not confl uent punctation. 

Scutellum small but visible. Wings completely absent. Elytra long oval, widest before middle, 

surface with punctures larger than those on pronotum and head, each puncture bearing acute 

microsetae, punctation irregular, without any rows or traces of rows, also without scutellar 

striolae; base of elytra completely unbordered; in dorsal view lateral margin visible only in 

anterior quarter; epipleura broad in anterior three quarters, abruptly narrower in posterior 

quarter. Abdominal ventrites with regular and separate punctation, punctures of fi rst ventrite 

as large as punctures of metaventrite, punctures bearing acute microsetae; ventrites 3/4 and 

4/5 somewhat more separated than basal ventrites, but membranes between them not exposed; 

last ventrite of semicircular shape and regularly bordered, without any impressions or other 

modifi cations. Femora claviform, tibiae rounded without any keels, tibial spurs short; tarsal 

formula 5-5-4. Tip of aedeagus see Fig. 12, tip of ovipositor see Fig. 13. No distinct external 

sexual dimorphism. 

Etymology. Named in honour of Peter Hlaváč (Košice, Slovakia), specialist of Pselaphinae 

and main collector of the type series. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens of the type series were sifted from litter under 

shrubs and trees in high altitudes (above 1400 m) of the Haghier Mountains. 

Distribution. So far known only from the type locality in Haghier Mountains, Socotra, 

Yemen. 

Key to the genera of the subtribe Anopidiina 

from Africa including Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles and Socotra 

1. Antenna with seven to eight antennomeres including a single terminal broadened antennomere. 

............................................................................................................................ 2 

– Antenna with ten antennomeres including a terminal club of four antennomeres. ......... 5 

2. Antenna with eight antennomeres. ....................................... Paralyreus Grouvelle, 1918 

– Antenna with seven antennomeres. ................................................................................. 3 

3. Head with prominent or reduced eyes (about 7 ommatides). .......................................... 4 

– Head without any eyes (only Seychelles). .................................. Peyrierasia Dajoz, 1974 

4. Head with prominent eyes, body long and parallel (widespread in the tropics including 

Seychelles). .............................................................................. Tyrtaeus Champion, 1913 

– Head with reduced eyes, body short and round (Mauritius). ............................................. 

..........................................................................................Mauritianopidium Dajoz, 1977 

5. Scutellum invisible. .......................................................... Pseudanopidium Dajoz, 1973 

– Scutellum small but visible. ............................................................................................ 6 

6. Antennomere 3 distinctly prolonged, about twice as long as antennomere 2; shape of 

combined pronotum and elytra broadly rounded with the pronotum widest at base. ........ 

................................................................................. Anopidium Jeannel & Paulian, 1945

310 


– Antennomere 3 equal in length to antennomere 2; shape of combined pronotum and elytra 

elongated with the pronotum widest in the middle. ........................................................ 7 

7. Last four antennomeres forming a fused club with irregular overall setation; clypeal suture 

present; pronotum and elytra glabrous; elytra with eight irregular rows of punctures and 

with short scutellar striolae. .................................................. Paranopidium Dajoz, 1973 

– Last four antennomeres forming a compact club with setation near the apex of each segment; 

clypeal suture absent; pronotum and elytra with microsetae; elytra with irregular 

punctation and without scutellar striolae. ...................................... Nanocaecus gen. nov. 

Catalogue of the tribe Gnathidini from Africa 

including Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles and Socotra 

Subtribe Gnathidiina Gebien, 1921 

Anommabates Koch, 1956 

Anommabates griveaudi Dajoz, 1977a Madagascar 

Anommabates kochi Bremer, 1997 Madagascar 

Anommabates lucidus Dajoz, 1982 Madagascar 

Anommabates pauliani Koch, 1956 Madagascar 

Anommabates peyrierasi Dajoz, 1982 Madagascar 

Caecochares Koch, 1956 

Caecochares comorensis Bremer, 1992 Comoros 

Caecochares cephalotes Koch, 1956 Madagascar 

Caecochares descarpentriesi Ardoin, 1974 Madagascar 

Caecochares endroedyi Bremer, 2000 Madagascar 

Caecochares franzi Dajoz, 1972 Madagascar 

Caecochares gigas Dajoz, 1972 Madagascar 

Caecochares grjebinei Koch, 1956 Madagascar 

Caecochares hovanus Bremer, 2000 Madagascar 

Caecochares insularis Dajoz, 1977a Madagascar 

Caecochares intermedius Dajoz, 1982 Madagascar 

Caecochares janaki Bremer, 2000 Madagascar 

ssp. merinaensis Bremer, 2000 Madagascar 

Caecochares kaszabi Bremer, 2000 Madagascar 

Caecochares merkli Bremer, 2000 Madagascar 

Caecochares meridionalis Dajoz, 1994 Madagascar 

Caecochares milloti Koch, 1956 Madagascar 

Caecochares pierrei Dajoz, 1972 Madagascar 

Caecochares robinsoni Koch, 1956 Madagascar 

Caecochares serripes Koch, 1956 Madagascar 

Caecochares subpunctus Koch, 1956 Madagascar 

Caecochares tibialis Bremer, 2000 Madagascar


Gnathidium Gebien, 1921 

Gnathidium basilewskyi Kaszab, 1956 Congo 

Gnathidium cephalotes Gebien, 1921 Principe (São Tomé) 

Gnathidium crassicornis Kaszab, 1956 Congo 

Gnathidium decellei Bremer, 1992 Congo 

Gnathidium geginati Bremer, 1997 Uganda (Ruwenzori) 

Gnathidium goliath Kaszab, 1956 Congo 

Gnathidium kulzeri Kaszab, 1956 Congo 

Gnathidium leleupi Ardoin, 1976 Tanzania 

Gnathidium parallelum Kaszab, 1956 Rwanda 

= Gnathidium werneri Ardoin, 1976 

Gnathidium sobrinum Bremer, 1997 Tanzania 

Gnathidium szekessyi Kaszab, 1956 Congo 

Gnathidium translucidum Ardoin, 1976 Tanzania 

Gnathidium ulugurense Ardoin, 1976 Tanzania 

Gnathidium zicsii Kaszab, 1969 Congo 

Subtribe Anopidiina Jeannel & Paulian, 1945 

Anopidium Jeannel & Paulian, 1945 

Anopidium conspicuum Bremer, 1998 Congo 

Anopidium elgonicum Jeannel & Paulian, 1945 Uganda/Kenya (Mt. Elgon) 

Mauritianopidium Dajoz, 1977b 

Mauritianopidium oculatum Dajoz, 1977b Mauritius 

Nanocaecus gen. nov. 

Nanocaecus hlavaci sp. nov. Socotra Archipelago (Isl. Socotra) 

Paralyreus Grouvelle, 1918 

Paralyreus scotti Grouvelle, 1918 Seychelles (Isl. Mahé) 

Paranopidium Dajoz, 1973 

Paranopidium africanum Dajoz, 1973 Tanzania (Kilimanjaro) 

Peyrierasia Dajoz, 1974 

Peyrierasia sechellensis Dajoz, 1974 Seychelles (Isl. Mahé, Isl. Praslin) 

Pseudanopidium Dajoz, 1973 

Pseudanopidium punctatum Dajoz, 1973 Kenya (Aberdare Mts.) 

Tyrtaeus Champion, 1913 

Tyrtaeus singularis Grouvelle, 1918 Seychelles (Isl. Mahé)

312 


Gnathidiini incertae sedis 

Betschia Dajoz, 1980 

Betschia minuta Dajoz, 1980 Madagascar 

Remarks. Betschia was established by DAJOZ (1980) as a new genus of the family Colydiidae for Betschia 

minuta Dajoz, 1980 (by monotypy). IVIE & ŚLIPIŃSKI (1990) transferred the genus Betschia from the family 

Colydiidae to the Tenebrionidae. Betschia, along with its associated family-group name Betschiini Dajoz, 1980 

were included under Tenebrionidae incertae sedis in BOUCHARD et al. (2011). The latter authors mentioned 

that its systematic placement could be close to Gnathidiini. Members of the tribe Gnathidiini possess the 

tarsal formula 5-5-4 or 4-4-4 (MATHEWS & BOUCHARD 2008) while the genus Betschia has the tarsal formula 

3-3-3. Therefore its placement remains uncertain, and for this reason it is considered here as incertae sedis 

as well. 

Mireanopidium Dajoz, 1977b 

Mireanopidium camerunensis Dajoz, 1977b Cameroon 

Mireanopidium montanum Dajoz, 1977b Cameroon 

Mireanopidium distinctum Dajoz, 1977b Cameroon 

Remarks. DAJOZ (1977b) described two genera: the genus Mauritianopidium Dajoz, 1977b with species 

Mauritianopidium oculatum Dajoz, 1977b, and the genus Mireanopidium Dajoz, 1977b based on three 

species – Mireanopidium camerunensis Dajoz, 1977b (type species of the genus), M. montanum Dajoz, 

1977b and M. distinctum Dajoz, 1977b, and placed them in the tribe Anopidiini of the family Colydiidae. 

The tribe Anopidiini is presently recognised as the subtribe Anopidiina of the tribe Gnathidiini in the family 

Tenebrionidae. While Mauritianopidum undoubtedly belongs to Tenebrionidae, Mireanopidium does not. 

The main reason to exclude the latter genus from Tenebrionidae is the fact that it possesses 10-segmented 

antenna with 3-segmented club and the tarsal formula 4-4-3. We believe that it might be a member of the 

family Colydiidae as originally placed by Dajoz. However, the genus was not mentioned in the catalogue 

of this family presented by IVIE & ŚLIPIŃSKI (1990), so its systematic placement is uncertain. Therefore it is 

considered here as incertae sedis. 

Generic assignment unclear 

Anopidium errans Pope, 1962 Tanzania (Kilimanjaro, Mt. Meru) 

Remarks. The species Anopidium errans described by POPE (1962) was provisionally retained in the genus 

Anopidium by BREMER (1998), although he suggested, based on several morphological characters, that for this 

species a new genus should probably be established. To this date, no record of a transfer of A. errans to another 

(new) genus has been found in the literature, therefore this species is considered here as incertae sedis. 


We cordially thank Karin Wolf-Schwenninger (SMNS) for technical help with the SEM 

and also two referees – Patrice Bouchard (Canadian National Collection of Insects, Ottawa, 

Canada) and Dariusz Iwan (Museum and Institute of Zoology Polish Academy of Sciences, 

Warszawa, Poland) for review and improving the work. This work was supported by grant of 

the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of the Czech Republic No.: LA10036/MSMT and 

partly also by the Research Plan of the Czech Ministry of Education MSM 6215648902.


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A new species of the genus Corticeus (Coleoptera: 

Tenebrionidae) from Socotra Island * 

Luboš PURCHART 1) & Wolfgang SCHAWALLER 2) 

1) Mendel University, Department of Forest Ecology, Zemědělská 3, CZ- 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic; 


2) Museum of Natural History, Rosenstein 1, D-70191 Stuttgart, Germany; 

e-mail: wolfgang.schawaller@smns-bw.de 

Abstract. Based on the material collected during biodiversity research of insects 

on Socotra Island, the new species Corticeus socotranus sp. nov. is described and 

fi gured. The new species belongs to the C. longicollis-group and differs in the 

shape of genae and pronotum, and in the colour of body. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Hypophlaeini, Corticeus, new species, 


Introduction 

In the past decade several zoological expeditions to Socotra Island (Yemen) were realized 

by various research institutions to study the plant and animal biodiversity of the island. This 

led to discovery of many species new to science, e.g. new bark beetles (KNÍŽEK 2010), new 

jewel beetles (ZABRANSKY 2004; BÍLÝ 2005; VOLKOVITSH 2012), new leaf beetles (BEZDĚK 

2012a,b; ZOIA 2012), new spider beetles (BELLÉS 2005, 2009, 2012) and others. Many new 

species of the family Tenebrionidae have also been described recently based on the material 

from these expeditions (SCHAWALLER 2004, 2006; NOVÁK 2007; PURCHART 2009, 2011; LO 

CASCIO & GRITA 2011). 

In 2009 and 2010 a research team of Mendel University in Brno (Czech Republic) in collaboration 

with the Environmental Protection Authority of Yemen launched two projects to 

study insect diversity of Yemen with particular interest in the fauna of Socotra Island. This 

research resulted in the discovery of additional species new to science, including members 

of the family Tenebrionidae (Coleoptera), which are with specialists and being described at 

present. This paper brings a part of these results and is a follow-up to an earlier contribution 

(PURCHART 2012). It focuses on the genus Corticeus Piller & Mitterpacher, 1783 (Coleoptera: 

* Results of the biodiversity research of darkling beetles on Socotra Island. Part IV. 



316 

PURCHART & SCHAWALLER: A new Corticeus from Socotra Island (Tenebrionidae) 

Tenebrionidae) and presents the description of a new species. Further new species of darkling 

beetles will be described in subsequent papers under preparation. 

The genus Corticeus is a worldwide distributed genus which has been revised in the 

Afrotropical region (formerly Ethiopian region) (BREMER 1985, 1987, 1995), South Africa 

(SCHAWALLER 2010), North America (TRIPLEHORN 1990), Latin America (BREMER & TRIPLEHORN 

1999), Oriental Region (BREMER 1998, 1999, 2010) and partly in the Australasian region with 

special emphasis on the Papuan area (BREMER 1992, 1993; LILLIG 2002). So far, the genus has 

been unknown from the Socotra Archipelago. 

Corticeus longicollis (Wollaston, 1867) was the fi rst and only member of the genus from 

the Arabian Peninsula reported from Yemen by SCHAWALLER (2007). It belongs to the Corticeus 

longicollis-group defi ned by BREMER (1995) which currently contains 14 species and 5 

subspecies distributed in southern, western, central and eastern Africa. The group is characterized 

mainly by the strongly narrowed base of pronotum; the ratio between the broadest part 

of pronotum and the posterior corners of the pronotum is higher than 1.25. The new species 

discovered on Socotra Island and described below belongs to the same group, as it possesses 

a similar character. Besides C. longicollis, the closest occurrence of the C. longicollis-group’s 

member is in Kenya and Uganda. Based on BREMER’s (1995) detailed description of all members 

of the group and fi gured mostly by SCHAWALLER (2010), we found that the new species 

is clearly different from all members of the longicollis-group. The most similar and perhaps 

the closest related species is C. longicollis. Therefore, we compared the specimens of the 

new species with specimens collected in Yemen and reported by SCHAWALLER (2007) and with 

specimens identifi ed by Bremer during his revision of the Afrotropical Corticeus species, and 

we found distinct differences (see differential diagnoses below). 


The habitus photograph was prepared using a Leica DFC 480 digital camera on a Leica 

MZ16 APO microscope, and the digital photograph was subsequently processed using Leica 

LAS software. 

Stated lengths and widths represent the maximum values of the measured parts. Body 

length is the distance from the clypeus to the elytral apex with the head in its natural position. 

Width of the elytra is the combined maximum width of both elytra. 

Label data are given verbatim. Authors’ remarks are given in brackets. All specimens of 

the species described as new bear one printed red label: ‘HOLOTYPUS [PARATYPUS], 

Corticeus socotranus sp. nov., det. L. Purchart & W. Schawaller 2011’. 

The material studied is deposited in the following collections: 

BMNH – The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom (Maxwell V.L. Barclay); 

JBCP – Jan Batelka collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 

CULS – Faculty of Forestry, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (Jan Farkač); 

HNHM – Hungarian Natural History Museum, Budapest, Hungary (Otto Merkl); 

LPCB – Luboš Purchart collection, Brno, Czech Republic; 

NMPC – National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek); 

SMNS – Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde, Stuttgart, Germany (Wolfgang Schawaller); 

ZSM – Zoologische Staatssammlung, München, Germany (Michael Balke).


Taxonomy 

Genus Corticeus Piller & Mitterpacher, 1783 

Corticeus Piller & Mitterpacher, 1783: 87. Type species: Corticeus unicolor Piller & Mitterpacher, 1783: 87 (by 

monotypy). 

Hypophlaeus Fabricius, 1790: 222 (synonymized by CROTCH 1870). 

Syncolydium Kolbe, 1898: 110 (synonymized by BREMER 1995). 

Corticeus socotranus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–2) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE [unsexed] (NMPC), labelled: YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Dixam plateau, Firmihin 

(Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, Jiří Hájek leg., 15-16.xi.2010. PARATYPES. (11 specimens NMPC, 

2 SMNS, 1 LPCB): same data as holotype; (1 NMPC): same data as holotype, P. Hlaváč leg.; (6 JBCP): same 

data as holotype, Jan Batelka leg.; (6 LPCB, 2 SMNS): YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Firmihin, 400-500 m, N 

12°28′27′′E 54°0′54′′, 22.-25. vi. 2009, L. Purchart lgt.; (2 LPCB): YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Wadi Zirik, 

650-670 m, N 12°29′35′′E 53°59′28′′, 16. vi. 2009, L. Purchart lgt.; (1 LPCB): YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Al 

Haghier Mts., Scant Mt. env., 1300-1500 m, 12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, 31.i.-1.ii.2010, L. Purchart lgt; (1 CULS): 

Yemen: Soqotra Is., 2.-3.xii.2003, Dixam plateau, WADI ESGEGO, N 12°28′09′′ E 54°00′36′′, 300 m [GPS]; Jan 

Farkač lgt., YEMEN - SOQOTRA 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David Král; (6 LPCB, 3 SMNS): 

YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Aloove area, ALOOVE vill. env., Jatropha unicostata shrubland with Boswellia elongata 

trees, 19.-20.vi.2012, 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m, SOCOTRA expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, 

P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.; (1 BMNH, 1 HNHM, 8 LPCB, 2 SMNS, 1 ZSM): 

YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Dixam plateau 14.-15.vi.2012, FIRMIHIN, Dracaena woodland, 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 

490 m, SOCOTRA expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. 

Purchart leg.; (3 BMNH, 3 HNHM, 14 LPCB, 5 NMPC, 6 SMNS, 3 ZSM): YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, Dixam 

plateau, wadi ZERIG, pools, Juncus marsh; Dracaena trees; cave, 13.-14.vi.2012, 12°29.6′N, 53°59.5′E, 655 m, 

SOCOTRA expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart 

leg.; (2 LPCB): YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, HOMHIL protected area, open woodland with Boswellia & Dracaena 

trees; 10.-11.vi.2012, 12°34.5′N, 54°18.5′E, 360-500 m, SOCOTRA expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. 

Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. 

Description. Small, body narrow and parallel. Dorsal as well as ventral side of body dark 

brown with labrum, antennae, and legs pale brown. 

Measurements. Body length: 3.1–4.1 mm (holotype 3.1 mm); width: 0.8–1.0 mm (holotype 

0.8 mm). Ratios: Pronotal width/length 0.81. Elytral length/width 2.25–2.40; elytral length 

/pronotal length 2.14–2.15; elytral width /pronotal width 1.08–1.18. Width of frons/width of 

one eye 2.00–2.23. Length of antenna/width of head 1.17–1.29. 

Head with large eyes, glabrous, entire surface punctate. Narrower than widest part of 

pronotum. Genae with longitudinal depression along the outer margin. Frontoclypeal suture 

indicated by transverse depression. In dorsal view, distance between eyes twice as wide as 

their diameter. Antennae relatively short, shorter than pronotum in ratio 1.16; claviform, serrate 

and covered with short yellow setae. Antennomeres I, II and IV as wide as long. Antennomere 

III distinctly longer than broad. Antennomeres V–X club-like widened, strongly transverse, 

trapezoid. Apical antennomere globose. 

Pronotum glabrous, smooth, much longer than broad, strongly widened towards anterior 

margin. Broadest in anterior third. Entire surface of pronotum simply and densely punctate.

318 


Figs. 1–4. Corticeus socotranus sp. nov. 1 – habitus in dorsal 

view; 2–4 – aedeagus (2 – lateral view; 3 – dorsal view; 

4 – ventral view). 

Space between those punctures approximately as large as eye facet. Pronotum completely 

rimmed, obliterated only in middle of anterior margin. Prothoracic hypomeron glabrous, 

smooth and fi nely punctate, similarly to surface of pronotum. 

Elytra smooth, glabrous, parallel-sided and in dorsal view with slightly narrowed apex. 

Entire surface simply, fi nely and regularly punctate with punctures arranged in rows. Scutellum 

small with several small shiny granules. Elytral suture shallowly but conspicuously 

depressed behind scutellum. Shoulders strongly developed, rectangular. 

Pygidium rounded, densely punctate, covered with short yellow setae. 

Ventral part. Prosternum glabrous, shagreened, fi nely punctate. Prosternal process narrow 

between coxae, distinctly broadened and bent upward behind coxae. Mesoventrite glabrous, 

shagreened and roughly punctate. Metaventrite glabrous, inconspicuously shagreened and very 

fi nely and scarcely punctate. Abdominal ventrites 1–4 glabrous, fi nely and scarcely punctate 

with laterally situated groove on each side. Apical ventrite densely punctate, laterally without 

grooves and with several yellow erected setae apically.


Table 1. Measurements for easier separation of related species. Ratios adopted from BREMER (1995). * - usual 

ratio. 

pronotum length / 

pronotum width 

Legs short. Apical half of tibiae covered with yellow setae. Pro- and mesotibia with sharp 

edge terminating latero-apically with small and acute spine-like tooth. 

Aedeagus see Fig. 2. 

Differential diagnosis. Corticeus socotranus sp. nov. is a member of the C. longicollis-group 

and can be distinguished as follows: from Corticeus voluptuosus Bremer, 1995 it differs in 

the absence of colour spots on elytra (red-yellow spots on elytra in the latter species). With C. 

longicollis, C. constrictus (Gebien, 1921) and C. glabratus (Kolbe, 1898) it shares punctate, 

micro-reticulated (and therefore dull) and, in contrast to genae, raised clypeus. This feature 

separates the new species together with the latter three species from the remaining members 

of the longicollis-group, where the clypeus is fl at (not raised) and shiny. From C. longicollis 

it differs in its constantly dark brown body and shorter pronotum (for ratios see Tab. 1). In 

C. longicollis the pronotum is longer, body yellow, brown or often with dark-brown to black 

frons, pronotum and pygidium, and with yellow elytra. With C. constrictus and C. glabratus 

it shares uniformly coloured body, which is black to black-brown in the latter two species. 

Besides, these two species possess much longer pronotum (Tab. 1). For comparison see also 

fi gures of the mentioned species (except C. constrictus) in SCHAWALLER (2010). 

Etymology. The name refers to the island’s name Socotra where the new species occurs. 

Biology. Most specimens of the new species were found under the bark of fallen Dragon 

Blood Tree – Dracaena cinnabari Balf. f. (family Asparagaceae), usually in a wet layer and 

in the company of Cossonus sp. weevils (Curculionidae). Several specimens (Aloove area) 

were found during the night walking on the bark of fallen Boswellia elongata Balf. f. (family 

Burseraceae) trees together with large amount of Scolytinae beetles. Corticeus beetles together 

with their larvae are usually feeding on the exuding sap and detritus under bark in the 

galleries of bark beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae). 

Distribution. Yemen, Socotra Island. 


elytra length / 

pronotum length 

C. socotranus sp. nov. 1.23 2.14–2.15 

C. constrictus (Gebien, 1921) 1.44–1.53 1.88–1.99 

C. glabratus (Kolbe, 1898) 1.33–1.43 1.88–2.13 (2.00–2.10)* 

C. longicollis (Wollaston, 1867) 1.30–1.39 1.94–2.05 

We would like to thank Jiří Hájek (NMPC), Jan Farkač (Prague, Czech Republic) and Jan 

Batelka (Prague, Czech Republic) for allowing us to study the material in their custody. We 

also thank two referees – Martin Lillig (University of Basel, Switzerland) and Hans J. Bremer 

(Melle-Wellingholzhausen, Germany) for review and improving the work. Johannes Reibnitz 

(Stuttgart, Germany) prepared the photograph and Jan Bezděk (Mendel University in Brno, 

Czech Republic) prepared the drawing. This work was supported by the Project of Structural

320 


Funds of EU ‘Management of natural resources in tropics and subtropics - innovation of study 

programmes at Faculty of Forestry and Wood technology, Mendel University in Brno’ No.: 

CZ.1.07/2.2.00/07.0156, by the grant of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of the 

Czech Republic No.: LA10036/MSMT and partly also by the Research Plan of the Czech 

Ministry of Education MSM 6215648902. 

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231–290. 

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zu und Neubeschreibungen von Corticeus-Arten der madagassischen Subregion. Mitteilungen der 

Münchner Entomologischen Gesellschaft 77: 33–49. 

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Tenebrionidae, Hypophlaeini). Spixiana 33: 69–72. 

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(Coleoptera, Hypophloeini). Part I. The species described by Reitter and Pic, and description of two new species. 

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Island, Yemen. Fauna of Arabia 23: 319–334. 

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from the Socotra Archipelago, with description of a new species. African Entomology 17: 23–27. 

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Archipelago. Fauna of Arabia 21: 247–250. 

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(Coleoptera) from Yemen. Carolinea 65: 179–181. 

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ZABRANSKY P. 2004: Ein neuer Prachtkäfer aus der Unterfamilie Polycestinae: Strigoptera (Svatacesta subgen. 

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2): i–vi + 1–557.

322 




New species of the genus Socotralia and fi rst record 

of the genus Alogista from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Alleculinae) * 

Vladimír NOVÁK 1) & Luboš PURCHART 2) 

1) Nepasické náměstí 796, CZ-190 14 Praha 9, Czech Republic; e-mail: alleculinae.vn@centrum.cz 


e-mail: lubos.purchart@post.cz, lubos.purchart@mendelu.cz 

Abstract. Four new species of the genus Socotralia Novák, 2007 from Socotra 

Island (Yemen) are described: Socotralia montana sp. nov., S. intermedia sp. nov., 

S. reitteri sp. nov. and S. vybirali sp. nov. A key to all seven known species of the 

genus is provided. The genus Alogista Fåhraeus, 1870 is reported from Socotra 

for the fi rst time. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Alleculinae, Socotralia, Alogista, taxonomy, 

new species, new records, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Socotralia Novák, 2007 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Alleculinae), an endemic genus 

inhabiting Socotra Island, was established by NOVÁK (2007) for three species – S. major 

Novák, 2007 (type species), S. minor Novák, 2007 and S. brunnea Novák, 2007. The same 

author (NOVÁK 2007) also provided a key to distinguish the related genera of Alleculini 

that occur in the Arabian Peninsula and adjacent regions. Generally, Socotralia belongs to 

the group of genera in which the penultimate tarsomere of each tarsus possesses a membranous 

lobe (which also includes Allecula Fabricius, 1801, Mycetocharina Seidlitz, 1891, 

Alogista Fåhraeus, 1870, Prionychus Solier, 1835 and Hymenalia Mulsant, 1856), while in 

other genera of Alleculini living in this area such a lobe is absent. Socotralia can also be 

recognised by the eyes being moderately deeply emarginated anteriorly, with insertions of 

the antennae located adjacent to the eye in the emargination, by broadly triangular ultimate 

palpomere, and by having membranous lobes underneath the penultimate tarsomere of each 

tarsus (NOVÁK 2007). 

* Results of the biodiversity research of darkling beetles on Socotra Island. Part V. 



324 

NOVÁK & PURCHART: Socotralia and Alogista from Socotra Island (Tenebrionidae) 

This paper presents descriptions of four new species of the genus Socotralia and fi rst record 

of the genus Alogista based on the material collected under biodiversity research projects implemented 

by a research team from the Mendel University in Brno (Czech Republic) (for details 

see PURCHART 2012) and is a follow-up to previous contributions devoted to the tenebrionid 

fauna of the Socotra Island that resulted from these projects (PURCHART 2012; PURCHART & 

NABOZHENKO 2012; PURCHART & SCHAWALLER 2012; SCHAWALLER & PURCHART 2012). 


Two important morphometric characteristics have been used for descriptions of species of 

the subfamily Alleculinae: the ‘ocular index’ (CAMPBELL & MARSHALL 1964) is calculated by 

measuring the minimum distance between the eyes and dividing this value by the maximum 

dorsal width across eyes, the resulting quotient converted into an index by multiplying by 100, 

and the ‘pronotal index’ (CAMPBELL 1965) expresses the ratio of the length of the pronotum 

along the midline to the width at basal angles, this ratio is multiplied by 100 for convenience 

in handling. Both these indexes are used in this paper as well. 

Measurements were made using Olympus SZ 40 stereoscopic microscope with continuous 

magnifi cation and with Soft Imaging System AnalySIS software. Measurements of body parts 

and corresponding abbreviations used in text are as follows: 

AEB/AEA ratio of length of basal / apical part of 

aedeagus 

AL total antennae length 

BL maximum body length 

EL maximum elytral length 

EW maximum elytral width 

HL maximum length of head (visible part) 

HW maximum width of head 

OI ocular index 

PI pronotal index 

PL maximum pronotal length 

PW pronotal width at base 

RLA ratios of relative lengths of antennomeres 

1–11 from base to apex (3=1.00) 

RL/WA ratios of length / maximum width of antennomeres 

1–11 from base to apex 

RLT ratios of relative lengths of tarsomeres 1–5 

(pro- and mesotarsus) and 1–4 (metatarsus) 

from base to apex (1=1.00) 

Label data are given verbatim. A slash (/) separates data in different rows on locality labels, 

a double slash (//) separates data on different labels. All specimens of the species described 

as new bear one printed red label: ‘HOLOTYPUS [PARATYPUS] name of species sp. nov., 

det. V. Novák & L. Purchart 2011 [or 2012]’. 

The specimens studied are deposited in the following collections: 

BMNH The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom (Maxwell V.L. Barclay); 

HNHM Hungarian Natural History Museum, Budapest, Hungary (Ottó Merkl); 

IRSNB Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique, Brussels, Belgium (Alain Drumont); 


LPCB Luboš Purchart collection, Brno, Czech Republic; 

NMPC National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek); 

PLFG Pietro Lo Cascio and Flavia Grita collection, Lipari, Italy; 

SMNS Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde, Stuttgart, Germany (Wolfgang Schawaller); 

VNCP Vladimír Novák collection, Prague, Czech Republic; 

ZSMC Zoologische Staatssammlung, München (Michael Balke).


Results 

Socotralia intermedia sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–5) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Aloove area, Hassan village. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), labelled: ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, HASSAN vill. env. / N 

12°30′58.2″, E 54°06′39.2″ / 270-350 m, 3.-4.ii.2010 / L. Purchart lgt.’. PARATYPES: 18 �� 3 ��, same data as holotype 

(1 � NMPC, 1 � BMNH, 1 � HNHM, 1 � SMNS, 1 � ZSMC, 7 �� 1 � LPCB, 7 �� 1 � VNCP); 4 ��, same 

data as holotype, but ‘300 m, at light / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’ (2 �� LPCB, 2 �� VNCP); 1 �: ‘YEMEN, 

SOCOTRA Island / Kesa env., 220-300 m / 12°39′37″N, 53°26′42″E / 28.-29.i.2010, L. Purchart lgt.’ (LPCB); 1 �, 

‘Yemen: Socotra Isl. / Ayhaft, 15.3.2000 / V. Bejček & K. Šťastný lgt.’ (VNCP); 2 ��: ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Calanthia, 

/ 29.-30.iii.2001, / leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný’ (VNCP); 1 �: ‘SOCOTRA: Homhill / 23-24.II.2009-leg. P. / 

Lo Cascio & F. Grita’ (PLFG); 1 �: ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, ALOOVE vill. env. / Jatropha unicostata 

shrubland with / Boswellia elongata trees / 19.-20.vi.2012 / 12°31.2’N, 54°07.4’E, 221 m // SOCOTRA expedition 

2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (LPCB). 

Description. Male (holotype). Habitus as in Fig. 1. Body small, elongate, brown, with pale 

brown setation, BL 6.1 mm. Widest near elytral midlength; BL/EW 2.69. 

Head (Fig. 2) brown, with long, pale brown setation and microgranulation, slightly shiny, 

punctation distinct, punctures relatively large. HW 1.1 mm; HW/PW 0.69; HL 0.5 mm. Eyes 

dark, very large, transverse, deeply excised, space between eyes distinctly shorter than length 

of antennomere 2; OI equal to 13.42. 

Antennae (Fig. 3). Long, relatively narrow, unicoloured pale brown with microgranulation, 

punctation and pale brown setation, slightly shiny; AL 3.8 mm; AL/BL 0.62. Antennomere 2 

shortest, antennomere 3–10 distinctly broadest at apex. RLA (1–11): 0.82: 0.47: 1.00: 1.11: 

1.07: 1.02: 1.05: 1.13: 1.05: 0.93: 1.14. RL/WA (1–11): 2.30: 1.77: 3.39: 3.13: 2.66: 2.79: 

2.46: 2.81: 2.67: 2.46: 3.19. 

Maxillary palpus. Pale brown with pale brown setation and microgranulation. Palpomeres 

2–4 distinctly broadened from base to apex, slightly shiny. Ultimate palpomere broadly 

triangular. 

Pronotum (Fig. 2) unicoloured brown, elongate, distinctly longer than semicircular, bellshaped, 

with long, dense pale brown setation, setae directed backwards, closely covering body, 

with microgranulation and punctation. Punctures conspicuous, relatively large, coarse. PL 

1.3 mm; PW 1.6 mm; PI equal to 81.25. Borders complete, pronotal base bisinuate. Posterior 

angles of pronotum rectangular, anterior angles indistinct. 

Elytra. Unicoloured brown, slightly oval, covered with dense, long, backward directed, 

closely adhering to body, pale brown setation. Broadest near midlength. EL 4.3 mm; EW 2.3 

mm; EL/EW 1.87. Elytra with microgranulation and punctation; punctures relatively large. 

Rows of punctures in striae not clearly conspicuous, punctures in elytral interspaces smaller 

than in striae. Scutellum triangular, brown, with darker sides, covered with long, pale brown 

setae. Epipleura well developed, brown, with large punctures and pale brown setation, regularly 

narrowing from pronotal base to fi rst abdominal ventrite, then continuing as parallel. 

Ventral part. Reddish-brown, with pale brown setation, punctation and microgranulation. 

Punctures large. Abdomen with shallow, medium-sized punctures.

326 


Legs. Unicoloured pale brown, covered with dense, short, pale brown setation. Tibiae 

and tarsi narrow, tibiae slightly dilated anteriorly. Penultimate tarsomere of each tarsus very 

slightly broadened, distinctly lobed. RLT: protarsus: 1.00: 0.49: 0.46: 0.55: 1.12; mesotarsus: 

1.00: 0.54: 0.37: 0.35: 0.93; metatarsus: 1.00: 0.34: 0.29: 0.50. Both anterior tarsal claws 

with 10 visible teeth. 

Aedeagus (Figs. 4, 5). Pale brown, with microgranulation, slightly shiny. Basal part 

slightly rounded dorsally in lateral view, in dorsal view regularly narrowing laterally. Apical 

part (apex) short, in lateral view in form of long narrow triangle and dorsal view regularly 

narrowing laterally, with sharp tip. AEB/AEA 4.53. 

Female. Antennae slightly shorter than in male. Anterior tarsal claws with seven visible 

teeth. 

RLA (1–11): 0.76: 0.54: 1.00: 1.30: 1.11: 1.22: 1.24: 1.41: 1.19: 1.16: 1.30. RL/WA (1–11): 

1.40: 1.54: 2.31: 2.67: 2.16: 2.50: 2.88: 2.89: 2.32: 2.39: 3.20. 

RLT: protarsus: 1.00: 0.56: 0.59: 0.72: 1.48; mesotarsus: 1.00: 0.63: 0.45: 0.51: 0.89; 

metatarsus: 1.00: 0.32: 0.35: 0.61. 

BL 6.1 mm; HL 0.5 mm; HW 1.0 mm; OI 17.05; PL 1.2 mm; PW 1.5 mm; PI 80.00; EL 

4.4 mm; EW 2.4 mm; HW/PW 0.67; BL/EW 2.54; EL/EW 1.83; AL 3.6 mm; AL/BL 0.59. 

Variability. Measurements: mean (minimum–maximum). Males (n=28). BL 5.2 mm 

(4.5–6.1 mm); HL 0.5 mm (0.4–0.6 mm); HW 1.0 mm (0.8–1.0 mm); OI 18.05 (13.42–24.95), 

PL 1.2 mm (1.0–1.3 mm) PW 1.4 mm (1.2–1.7 mm); PI 82.39 (76.53–88.48); EL 3.5 mm 

(3.0–4.4 mm); EW 1.9 mm (1.7–2.4 mm). Females (n=3). BL 5.7 mm (5.2–6.0 mm); HL 0.5 

mm (0.4–0.7 mm); HW 1.0 mm (0.9–1.0 mm); OI 19.27 (17.05–23.18), PL 1.1 mm (0.9–1.3 

mm) PW 1.5 mm (1.4–1.6 mm); PI 75.25 (65.49–81.28); EL 4.1 mm (3.8–4.4 mm); EW 2.1 

mm (1.9–2.4 mm). 

Differential diagnosis. Socotralia intermedia sp. nov. differs, besides characters stated in the 

key, from all similar species of Socotralia mainly in having space between eyes very narrow, 

distinctly narrower than length of antennomere 2, while other Socotralia species have space 

between eyes distinctly broader than length of antennomere 2. 

Etymology. Latin adjective intermedius, -a, -um (= intermediate), expressing the species 

body size, which is halfway within the size range of the genus Socotralia. 

Collection circumstances. Members of this species were collected during the day on herb 

layer – fl owering plants of the family Fabaceae. They were also attracted to the light. 


Socotralia major Novák, 2007: 326. 

Socotralia major Novák, 2007 

Material examined. 8 �� 5 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island E / Homhil area, 400-510 m / N 12°34′25″, E 

54°18′53″ / 9.-10.ii.2010 / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’ (1 � NMPC, 4 �� 2 �� LPCB, 4 �� 2 �� VNCP); 2 

��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Diksam plateau, Bidehor, Digeila / Cave env., 920 m, 8. ii. 2010 / N 12°30′31″, 

E 53°56′18″ / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’ (1 � LPCB, 1 � VNCP); 2 �� 2 ��, ‘SOCOTRA: W. Ayheft / 28.II- 

1.III.2009 – leg. P. / Lo Cascio & F. Grita’ (PLFG); 1 �, ‘Coll. I.R.Sc.N.B. / N.SOKOTRA isld., / Top of Ayheft 

valley / 17-I-2010/Leg Saldaitis / Achat Saldaitis.I.G31.512’ (IRSNB).

Socotralia minor Novák, 2007: 330. 


Socotralia minor Novák, 2007 

Material examined. 4 �� 5 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island E / Homhil area, 400-510 m / 12°34′25″ N, 54°18′53″ 

E / 9.-10.ii.2010 / L. Purchart lgt.’ (1 � NMPC, 4 �� 4 �� LPCB); 2 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island E / Homhil 

area, 400-510 m / N 12°34′25″, E 54°18′53″ / 9.-10.ii.2010 / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’ (LPCB); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, 

Socotra Isl., / Deiqub cave env., / 10.vi.2010, / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (LPCB); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA 

Island / Zemhon, 260-320 m / N 12°32′17.5″, E 54°4′12.7″ / 20.vi.2009 / L. Purchart lgt.’ (LPCB); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, 

SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, HASSAN vill. env. / N 12°30′58.2″, E 54°06′39.2″ / 270-350 m, 3.-4.ii.2010 / L. Purchart 

lgt.’ (LPCB); 1 �, ‘Republic of Yemen / Socotra Isl. 16.-17.6.2010 / Aloove area, 270-300 m a.s.l. / N 12°30.58′, E 

054°06.39′ / lgt. V. Hula & J. Niedobová’ (LPCB); 2 �� 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, S / Noged plain, Deiqyub 

Cave / 16.vi.2009 / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’ (1 � 1 � LPCB, 1 � VNCP); 2 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island 

/ Aloove area, HASSAN vill. env. / N 12°30′58.2″, E 54°06′39.2″ / 300 m, 9.-10.ii.2010, at light / L. Purchart & J. 

Vybíral lgt.’ (1 � LPCB, 1 � VNCP); 27 �� 36 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, 270-350 m / N 

12°30′58″, E 54°06′39″ / 16.-17.vi.2010, V. Hula lgt. // window trap / Installed 4. ii. 2010 / by L. Purchart / medium 

– ethylenglycol 98%’ (1 � 1 � BMNH, 1 � 1 � HNHM, 1 � 1 � NMPC, 1 � 1 � SMNS, 1 � 1 � ZSMC, 12 �� 

16 �� LPCB, 10 �� 15 �� VNCP); 3 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Firmihin, 400-500 m / N 12°28′27.9″, 

E 54°0′54.2″ / 22.-25.vi.2009, L. Purchart lgt.’ (2 �� LPCB, 1 � VNCP); 1 �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 2003 / 2-3/xii., 

Dixam plateau, / WADI ESGEGO, 300m / N12°28′09″ E54°00′36″ / [GPS], David Král lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 

2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David Král’ (NMPC); 4 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Dixam 

plateau / Firmihin (Dracaena forest) / 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m / P. Hlaváč leg., 15-16.xi.2010’ (NMPC). 

Socotralia montana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 6–10) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scand Mt. env. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), labelled: ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / Scant Mt. env. / 

12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, 1450m / 12.-13.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg.’. PARATYPES: 1 �, same data as holotype, but J. Hájek 

leg. (NMPC); 1 �, same data as holotype, but P. Hlaváč lgt. (VNCP); 4 ��, same data as holotype, but J. Batelka 

leg. (3 � � JBCP, 1 � LPCB); 3 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m / 

12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E / 13.-14.xi.2010, P. Hlaváč lgt.’ (1 � VNCP, 1 � LPCB, 1 � JBCP). 

Description. Male (holotype). Habitus as in Fig. 6. Body relatively large, elongate, narrow, 

from pale reddish-brown to dark blackish-brown, with pale brown setation, slightly shiny, 

BL 7.4 mm. Widest near midlength of elytra; BL/EW 3.08. 

Head (Fig. 7) relatively small, reddish-brown, with sparse, pale brown setation and microgranulation, 

dull. HW 1.2 mm; HW/PW 0.71; HL 0.9 mm. Eyes dark, large, transverse, deeply 

excised, space between eyes approximately as broad as length of antennomere 1, distinctly 

broader than length of antennomere 2; OI equal to 30.09. 

Antennae (Fig. 8). Long, relatively narrow with pale reddish-brown setation; antennomeres 

1 and 2 reddish-brown, antennomere 3 bicolored, antennomeres 4–11 dark blackish-brown with 

distinctly paler apex. AL 4.5 mm, AL/BL 0.61. Antennomere 2 shortest, antennomere 3 distinctly 

longer than antennomere 2. RLA (1–11): 0.55: 0.33: 1.00: 1.16: 1.01: 0.99: 1.02: 1.03: 0.94: 

0.85: 0.88. RL/WA (1–11): 1.85: 1.59: 3.57: 4.13: 3.60: 3.65: 3.88: 3.92: 3.48: 3.16: 3.24. 

Maxillary palpus. Pale brown with sparse, short, pale brown setation and a few long pale 

brown setae. Palpomeres 2–4 with microgranulation, distinctly broadened from base to apex. 

Ultimate palpomere broadly triangular, with darker posterior half.

328 


Pronotum (Fig. 7). Narrower than base of elytra, blackish-brown with sides narrowly reddish-brown, 

covered with pale brown setation, microgranulation and punctation, punctures 

small. PL 1.2 mm; PW 1.7 mm; PI equal to 70.59. Borders complete but not clearly conspicuous. 

Base of pronotum fi nely bisinuate, on antescutellar area straight. Posterior angles fi nely 

obtuse, anterior angles indistinct. 

Elytra. Narrow, parallel, distinctly shiny, blackish-brown, covered with dense pale brown 

setation, microgranulation and punctation. Broadest near midlength. EL 5.4 mm; EW 2.4 mm; 

EL/EW 2.25. Elytral striae indistinct. Elytral surface with rows of medium-sized punctures. 

Scutellum small, triangular, reddish-brown with sides dark blackish-brown, covered with 

pale brown setae. Elytral epipleura well-developed, blackish-brown, covered with pale brown 

setation, regularly narrowing from elytral base to fi rst abdominal ventrite, then continues as 

parallel. 

Ventral aspect. Pale reddish-brown, with pale brown setation and punctation. Metaventrite 

and abdominal ventrites 1–3 partly dark brown. Abdomen reddish-brown with pale brown 

setation and punctation, slightly shiny. 

Legs. Narrow, brown, covered with dense pale brown setation, anterior part of femora pale 

brown, posterior part dark brown. Tibiae and tarsi narrow, tibiae slightly dilated anteriorly. 

Penultimate tarsomere of each tarsus very slightly broadened and distinctly lobed. RLT: 

protarsus: 1.00: 0.80: 0.86: 1.00: 1.57; mesotarsus: 1.00: 0.47: 0.40: 0.61: 0.84; metatarsus: 

1.00: 0.45: 0.42: 0.60. Both anterior tarsal claws with 15 visible teeth. 

Aedeagus (Figs. 9, 10). Pale brown, slightly shiny. In dorsal view basal part long, shortly 

rounded, then parallel laterally. In lateral view basal half of basal part rounded dorsally and 

apical half slightly narrowing dorsally. Apical part (apex) short, covered with short spines, 

in lateral view in form of long narrow triangle and in dorsal view broadly cross-shaped, 

respectively. AEB/AEA 3.47. 

Female. Anterior tarsal claws with nine visible teeth. 

RLA (1–11): 0.55: 0.36: 1.00: 1.23: 1.10: 1.07: 1.05: 1.11: 1.05: 0.97: 1.02. RL/WA (1–11): 

1.79: 1.47: 3.65: 3.62: 3.24: 3.00: 2.71: 3.29: 3.10: 3.00: 3.32. 


metatarsus: 1.00: 0.41: 0.35: 0.59. 



Variability. Measurements: mean (minimum–maximum). Males (n=2). BL 7.35 mm (7.3– 

7.4 mm); HL 0.85 mm (0.8–0.9 mm); HW 1.15 mm (1.1–1.2 mm); OI 34.06 (30.09–38.02), 


(5.2–5.9 mm); EW 2.35 mm (2.3–2.4 mm). Females (n=3). BL 8.10 mm (8.00–8.2 mm); HL 

0.95 mm (0.9–1.00 mm); HW 1.19 mm (1.1–1.2 mm); OI 34.64 (31.62–37.07), PL 1.27 mm 

(1.2–1.3 mm) PW 1.93 mm (1.9–2.00 mm); PI 65.88 (63.16–68.54); EL 5.85 mm (5.7–5.9 

mm); EW 2.72 mm (2.7–2.8 mm). 

Differential diagnosis (for more details see the key below). Socotralia montana sp. nov. 

differs from the similar species S. vybirali sp. nov. mainly in having antennomeres 3–10 

relatively narrow while in S. vybirali sp. nov. antennomeres 3–10 are slightly serrate and 

distinctly broadest at apex. From S. intermedia sp. nov., S. reitteri sp. nov., S. major and


Figs. 1–10. Male holotypes of Socotralia intermedia sp. nov. (1–5) and S. montana sp. nov. (6–10). 1, 6 – habitus in 

dorsal view; 2, 7 – head and pronotum in dorsal view; 3, 8 – antenna; 4, 9 – aedeagus in lateral view; 5, 10 – aedeagus 

in dorsal view. Scale bars = 2 mm (body); 1 mm (antenna); 0.5 mm (pronotum).

330 


Figs. 11–20. Male holotypes of Socotralia reitteri sp. nov. (11–15) and S. vybirali sp. nov. (16–20). 11, 16 – habitus 

in dorsal view; 12, 17 – head and pronotum in dorsal view; 13, 18 – antenna; 14, 19 – aedeagus in lateral view; 

15, 20 – aedeagus in dorsal view. Scale bars = 2 mm (body); 1 mm (antenna); 0.5 mm (pronotum).


S. minor it differs mainly in having antennomere 11 distinctly shorter than antennomere 3, 

while in the previous species the antennomere 11 is distinctly longer than antennomere 3. 

Socotralia montana sp. nov. can be distinguished from S. brunnea by its narrow, elongate 

body and parallel pronotum, while in S. brunnea the body is slightly oval and pronotum more 

transverse and rounded. 

Etymology. Latin adjective montanus, -a, -um (= montane), expressing the species affi nity 

to high (mountain) altitudes. 

Collection circumstances. The adults were collected at night by shaking off the shrub vegetation. 

They were also attracted to light. 


Socotralia reitteri sp. nov. 

(Figs. 11–15) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), labelled: ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Firmihin, 400-500 m / N 12°28′27″, 

E 54°0′54″ / 6.-7.ii.2010 at light / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’ PARATYPES: 3 �� 5 ��, same data as holotype (1 � 

NMPC, 1 � 2 �� LPCB, 2 �� 2 �� VNCP). 

Description. Male (holotype). Habitus as in Fig. 11. Body small, elongate, from pale reddish-brown 

to dark blackish-brown, with pale brown setation, BL 4.6 mm. Widest near elytral 

midlength; BL/EW 2.56. 

Head (Fig. 12). Small, reddish-brown, with long, pale brown setation and microgranulation, 

slightly shiny. Anterior aspect and clypeus distinctly paler, punctation conspicuous, punctures 

relatively large. HW 0.9 mm; HW/PW 0.64; HL 0.5 mm. Eyes dark, large, transverse, 

deeply excised, space between eyes distinctly broader than antennomere 2 is long; OI equal 

to 22.28. 

Antennae (Fig. 13). Long, with microgranulation, punctation and pale brown setation, 

bicoloured, with antennomeres 1–2 and base of antennomere 3 pale reddish-brown, slightly 

shiny, anterior half of antennomere 3 and antennomeres 4–11 black, duller. AL 3.2 mm, AL/BL 

0.70. Antennomere 2 shortest, antennomere 3–10 distinctly broader at apex. RLA (1–11): 

0.77: 0.51: 1.00: 1.22: 1.20: 1.24: 1.20: 1.33: 1.31: 1.31: 1.45. RL/WA (1–11): 1.93: 1.56: 

2.58: 2.46: 2.38: 2.38: 2.61: 2.51: 2.69: 2.64: 3.50. 

Maxillary palpus. Pale reddish-brown with pale brown setation and microgranulation. 

Palpomeres 2–4 distinctly broadened from base to apex, slightly shiny. Ultimate palpomere 

broadly triangular. 

Pronotum (Fig. 12) unicoloured reddish-brown, slightly longer than semicircular, bellshaped, 

with long, pale brown setation, setae directed backwards, with microgranulation 

and punctation. Punctures conspicuous, relatively large. PL 1.0 mm; PW 1.4 mm; PI equal 

to 70.43. Borders complete, pronotal base bisinuate, on antescutellar area straight. Posterior 

angles rectangular, anterior angles indistinct. 

Ventral part. Reddish-brown, with pale brown setation, microgranulation and punctation, 

punctures large and coarse. 

Elytra unicoloured dark blackish-brown, elongate, covered by dense, long, backward 

directed, pale brown setation. EL 3.2 mm. Broadest near elytral two thirds, EW 1.8 mm; EL/

332 


EW 1.78. Elytra with microgranulation and punctation; punctures relatively large. Rows of 

punctures in elytral striae not clearly conspicuous. Scutellum triangular, pale reddish-brown 

with pale brown setae and sparse microgranulation, shiny. Elytral epipleura well developed, 

pale reddish-brown, with large punctures and pale brown setation, regularly narrowing from 

elytral base to abdominal ventrite 1, then continues as parallel. 

Legs. Unicoloured pale reddish-brown, with dense, short, pale brown setation. Tibiae, tarsi 

narrow, tibiae slightly dilated anteriorly. Penultimate tarsomere of each tarsus very slightly 

broadened, distinctly lobed. RLT: protarsus: 1.00: 0.72: 0.72: 0.80: 1.66; mesotarsus: 1.00: 

0.44: 0.36: 0.48: 0.91; metatarsus: 1.00: 0.33: 0.30: 0.54. Both anterior tarsal claws with 

eight visible teeth. 

Aedeagus (Figs 14, 15). Pale brown, slightly shiny. Basal part rounded in lateral view, in 

dorsal view regularly narrowing anteriorly. Apical part (apex) short, in lateral view narrowly 

triangular, in dorsal view in form of a long triangle. AEB/AEA 3.54. 

Female. More oval, antennae distinctly shorter in than male. Anterior tarsal claws with 

fi ve visible teeth. 

RLA (1–11): 0.71: 0.40: 1.00: 1.11: 1.09: 1.22: 1.31: 1.36: 1.27: 1.22: 1.29. RL/WA (1–11): 

1.95: 1.00: 2.29: 2.26: 1.94: 2.03: 2.06: 2.21: 1.76: 1.91: 2.09. 


metatarsus: 1.00: 0.35: 0.32: 0.48. 



Variability. Measurements: mean (minimum–maximum). Males (n=4). BL 4.5 mm (4.1–4.9 

mm); HL 0.5 mm (0.4–0.6 mm); HW 0.8 mm (0.7–0.9 mm); OI 25.44 (22.28–28.85), PL 0.9 

mm (0.8–1.0 mm) PW 1.2 mm (1.1–1.4 mm); PI 70.39 (68.61–71.59); EL 3.1 mm (2.8–3.5 

mm); EW 1.7 mm (1.4–1.9 mm). Females (n=6). BL 4.3 mm (4.00–4.5 mm); HL 0.4 mm 

(0.4–0.5 mm); HW 0.75 mm (0.7–0.8 mm); OI 33.10 (29.86–36.25), PL 0.8 mm (0.7–0.8 

mm) PW 1.2 mm (1.1–1.3 mm); PI 66.89 (64.31–69.36); EL 3.1 mm (2.9–3.2 mm); EW 1.7 

mm (1.5–1.9 mm). 

Differential diagnosis (for more details see the key below). Socotralia reitteri sp. nov. differs 

from similar species S. montana sp. nov., S. vybirali sp. nov. and S. brunnea mainly in having 

antennomere 11 distinctly longer than antennomere 3, while S. montana sp. nov., S. vybirali 

sp. nov. and S. brunnea have antennomere 11 shorter than antennomere 3. S. reitteri sp. nov. 

differs from the similar species S. intermedia sp. nov. mainly in having space between eyes 

broader than length of antennomere 2, while S. intermedia sp. nov. has space between eyes 

distinctly shorter than length of antennomere 2. S. reitteri sp. nov. differs from the similar 

species S. major in having antennomere 3–10 distinctly serrate, while S. major has antennomeres 

3–10 narrower. S. reitteri sp. nov. differs from the similar species S. minor in having 

sides of pronotum conically narrowing, while S. minor has rounded sides of pronotum. 

Etymology. Named in honour of Edmund Reitter (1845–1920), world famous expert in 

Coleoptera. 

Collecting circumstances. Members of this species were collected only at night when they 

were attracted to light. They were not found during the day on herb or shrub vegetation. 



Socotralia vybirali sp. nov. 

(Figs. 16–20) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil area. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), labelled: ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Homhil area, 400-510 m / 12°34′25″N 

54°18′53″E / 9.-10.i.2010, at light / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’. PARATYPES: 5 �� 4 ��, same data as holotype 

(1 � NMPC, 2 �� 2 �� LPCB, 3 �� 1 � VNCP); 2 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Shibhon plateau / ESERHE, 

13.vi.2012 / Croton socotranus shrubland / 12°25.2’N, 53°56.6’E, 547 m // SOCOTRA expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, 

J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � NMPC, 1 � LPCB). 

Description. Male (holotype). Habitus as in Fig. 16. Body small, elongate, from pale brown 

to dark blackish-brown, with pale brown setation, BL 4.5 mm. Widest near two thirds of 

elytral length; BL/EW 2.65. 

Head (Fig. 17). Relatively narrow, small, brown, with long, pale brown setation and microgranulation, 

slightly shiny, punctation conspicuous, punctures relatively large. HW 0.9 mm; 

HW/PW 0.56; HL 0.4 mm. Eyes dark, very large, transverse, deeply excised, space between 

eyes approximately as long as antennomere 2; OI equal to 20.05. 

Antennae (Fig. 18). Shorter, relatively narrow; pale brown with microgranulation, punctation 

and pale brown setation, slightly shiny; AL 2.4 mm, AL/BL 0.53. Antennomere 2 shortest, 

antennomere 3-10 distinctly broadest at apex. Antennomere 3 and 4 distinctly longer than each 

of antennomeres 5–11. RLA (1–11): 0.61: 0.57: 1.00: 1.06: 0.98: 1.04: 0.97: 1.06: 0.98: 0.95: 

0.96. RL/WA (1–11): 1.61: 1.97: 3.45: 2.87: 2.58: 2.48: 2.26: 2.26: 2.09: 1.86: 2.26. 

Maxillary palpus. Pale brown with pale brown setation and microgranulation. Palpomeres 

2–4 distinctly broadened from base to apex, slightly shiny. Ultimate palpomere broadly 

triangular. 

Pronotum (Fig. 17) unicoloured dark reddish-brown, transverse, with long, dense, pale 

brown setation, setae directed backwards, closely covering to body, with punctation, microgranulation 

not clearly conspicuous. Punctures conspicuous, relatively large and coarse. PL 

0.9 mm; PW 1.6 mm; PI equal to 56.25. Borders complete, base bisinuate, on antescutellar 

area straight. Posterior angles roundly rectangular, anterior angles indistinct, sides slightly 

rounded, in posterior half parallel. 

Ventral side of body. Brown, with pale brown setation. Abdomen dark brown with pale 

brown setation, microgranulation and punctation, punctures relatively large, sparse. 

Elytra unicoloured dark blackish-brown, slightly oval, shiny, covered by dense, long, backward 

directed, body closely covering, pale brown setation. EL 3.1 mm. Elytra broadest near 

midlength, EW 1.7 mm. EL/EW 1.82. Elytra with very fi ne microgranulation and punctation; 

punctures in elytral striae and elytral interspaces of approximately same diameter, relatively 

large. Rows of punctures in striae not clearly conspicuous. Scutellum triangular, pale brown, 

paler than elytra, with sides darker, with microgranulation and long, pale brown setae. Elytral 

epipleura well-developed, at base pale brown, then brown, with large punctures, pale brown 

setation and distinct microgranulation, regularly narrowing from pronotal base to abdominal 

ventrite 1, then continues as parallel. 

Legs. Unicoloured pale reddish-brown, with dense, pale brown setation. Tibiae, tarsi 

narrow, tibiae slightly dilated anteriorly. Penultimate tarsomere of each tarsus very slightly 

broadened and distinctly lobed. RLT: protarsus: 1.00: 0.90: 0.68: 0.84: 2.00; mesotarsus:

334 


1.00: 0.61: 0.34: 0.42: 0.87; metatarsus: 1.00: 0.28: 0.22: 0.38. Anterior tarsal claws with 

nine visible teeth. 

Aedeagus (Figs. 19, 20). Pale brown, with fi ne microgranulation, slightly shiny. Basal part 

rounded in lateral view and in dorsal view regularly narrowing. Apex short, in dorsal view 

slightly broadening from base towards end of 1/3 then narrowing anteriorly, without sharp 

tip; in lateral view slightly bent upwards. AEB/AEA 4.82. 

Female. More oval. Anterior tarsal claws with 5–7 teeth. 

RLA (1–11): 0.64: 0.61: 1.00: 1.14: 1.04: 1.07: 1.05: 1.05: 1.00: 0.89: 1.07. RL/WA (1–11): 

1.44: 1.42: 1.81: 2.00: 1.71: 1.77: 1.74: 1.79: 1.81: 1.43: 1.82. 



Variability. Measurements: mean (minimum–maximum). Males (n=6). BL 4.5 mm (4.2– 

4.6 mm); HL 0.4 mm (0.3–0.5 mm); HW 0.8 mm (0.8–0.9 mm); OI 21.01 (17.34–26.35), 


(3.0–3.2 mm); EW 1.7 mm (1.6–1.8 mm). Females (n=4). BL 4.4 mm (4.3–4.7 mm); HL 

0.5 mm (0.4–0.6 mm); HW 0.8 mm (0.8–0.9 mm); OI 29.94 (24.43–34.53), PL 0.8 mm 

(0.8–0.9 mm) PW 1.3 mm (1.2–1.5 mm); PI 62.42 (61.27–64.86); EL 3.1 mm (3.0–3.3 mm); 

EW 1.8 mm (1.7–1.9 mm). 

Differential diagnosis (for more details see the key below). Socotralia vybirali sp. nov. differs 

from similar species S. intermedia sp. nov., S. reitteri sp. nov., S. major and S. minor mainly 

in having antennomere 11 shorter than antennomere 3, while S. intermedia sp. nov., S. reitteri 

sp. nov., S. major and S. minor have antennomere 11 distinctly longer than antennomere 3. 

S. vybirali sp. nov. differs from similar species S. montana sp. nov. and S. brunnea mainly in 

smaller body length and distinctly serrate antennomeres 3–10, while in S. montana sp. nov. 

and S. brunnea the body is large and antennomeres 3–10 are narrower. 

Etymology. Named in honour of Jan Vybíral (Židlochovice, Czech Republic), one of the 

collectors of the type series. 

Collection circumstances. Specimens of the new species were collected at night when they 

were attracted to light. Two specimens (Eserhe) were found also during the day on herb and 

shrub vegetation. 

Distribution. Yemen, Socotra Island. 

Key to the males of Socotralia Novák, 2007 

1 Antennomere 11 shorter or as long as length of antennomere 3. Both anterior tarsal claws 

with odd number of visible teeth (9, 11 or 15). .............................................................. 2 

– Antennomere 11 distinctly longer than length of antennomere 3. Both anterior tarsal claws 

with even number of visible teeth (8, 10 or 14). ............................................................. 4 

2 Body small (body length less than 5 mm), antennomeres 3–10 distinctly broadest at apex, 

fi nely serrate. Both anterior tarsal claws with 9 visible teeth. ........... S. vybirali sp. nov. 

– Body large (body length greater than 6.5 mm), antennomeres 3–10 narrow, only slightly 

broader at apex. Both anterior tarsal claws with 11 or 15 visible teeth. ......................... 3 

3 Sides of pronotum rounded. Both anterior tarsal claws with 11 visible teeth. .................. 

................................................................................................... S. brunnea Novák, 2007


– Sides of pronotum parallel. Both anterior tarsal claws with 15 visible teeth. ................... 

........................................................................................................... S. montana sp. nov. 

4 Space between eyes very narrow, narrower than length of antennomere 2. Both anterior 

tarsal claws with 10 visible teeth. ................................................. S. intermedia sp. nov. 

– Space between eyes distinctly broader than length of antennomere 2. Anterior tarsal claws 

with different number of visible teeth. ............................................................................ 5 

5 Antennomeres 3–10 serrate. ........................................................................................... 6 

– Antennomeres 3–10 narrow. Both anterior tarsal claws with 14 visible teeth. .................. 

....................................................................................................... S. major Novák, 2007 

6 Sides of pronotum conically narrowed, pronotum broadest at base. Both anterior tarsal 

claws with 8 visible teeth. .................................................................... S. reitteri sp. nov. 

– Sides of pronotum fi nely rounded, pronotum broadest near middle. Both anterior tarsal 

claws with 14 visible teeth. ........................................................... S. minor Novák, 2007 

Alogista sp. 

Material examined. 1 spec., ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, HASSAN vill. env. / 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E / 

221 m / Jiří Hájek leg.m 9-10.xi.2010’ (NMPC); 1 spec., ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, / Dixam plateau, / Firmihin 

(Dracaena forest) / 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, / P. Hlaváč leg., 15-16.xi.2010’ (NMPC); 1 spec., same data, but 

Jiří Hájek leg. (NMPC). 

Remarks. This is a new record for the genus from the Socotra Archipelago. Alogista 

Fåhraeus, 1870 is a widely distributed genus and with the exception of southern Africa 

occurs in most parts of Africa, including Madagascar. It contains about 150 species 

described mainly by Maurice Pic (almost 90 % of all known species). At present it is almost 

impossible to study all the Pic’s types and although it has never been reported from the 

Socotra Archipelago and the Arabian Peninsula so far, the authors refrain from describing 

this species as a new one. 


Sincere thanks are due to Zuzana Čadová (Liberec, Czech Republic) for her drawings, 

and to Wolfgang Schawaller (Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde, Stuttgart, Germany) and 

an anonymous reviewer for their review of the work. Jan Bezděk (Mendel University, Brno, 

Czech Republic) took the photographs. This work was supported by the grant of the Ministry 

of Education, Youth and Sport of the Czech Republic No.: LA10036/MSMT and partly also 

by the Research Plan of the Czech Ministry of Education MSM 6215648902. 

References 

CAMPBELL J. M. 1965: A revision of the genus Charisius (Coleoptera: Alleculidae). Coleopterist’s Bulletin 19: 

43–56. 

CAMPBELL J. M. & MARSHALL J. D. 1964: The ocular index and its application to the taxonomy of the Alleculidae 

(Coleoptera). Coleopterist’s Bulletin 18: 42. 


Island, Yemen. Fauna of Arabia 23: 319–334.

336 







2): i–vi + 1–557. 







52 (supplementum 2): i–vi + 1–557.



A review of the family Oedemeridae (Coleoptera) 


Vladimír ŠVIHLA 

Department of Entomology, National Museum, Kunratice 1, CZ-148 00 Praha 4, Czech Republic; 

e-mail: vladimir_svihla@nm.cz 

Abstract. The species of the family Oedemeridae inhabiting the Socotra Archipelago 

are reviewed and keyed. Anisochrodes janavlada sp. nov. (Socotra) and 

Colobostomoides marshalli socotraensis ssp. nov. (Socotra) are described and 

illustrated. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Oedemeridae, Colobostomoides, Dentostomus, Anisochrodes, 

taxonomy, new species, new subspecies, distribution, key, Yemen, 

Socotra 

Introduction 

Hitherto only three species of the family Oedemeridae have been recorded from the Socotra 

Archipelago: two endemic species, Dentostomus socotrensis (Švihla, 1986), described originally 

in the genus Hypascleroides Švihla, 1986, and Dentostomus guichardi (Švihla, 1987), 

described originally in Paroxacis Arnett, 1951 – both species were later transferred to the genus 

Dentostomus Švihla, 1984 (ŠVIHLA 2004); and the Middle Eastern Probosca (Proboxantha) 

maindroni (Pic, 1935) (ŠVIHLA 2008b). In the rich material collected in the last decade, one 

additional new species and one new subspecies have been recognized, and new localities of 

previously cited species have been recorded. All species inhabiting this archipelago belong 

to the tribe Asclerini of the subfamily Oedemerinae. 

This paper aims to improve the knowledge of the Oedemeridae of the Socotra Archipelago, 

describing new taxa and adding new faunistic records. 


The studied specimens are deposited in the following collections: 

ISNB Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique, Brussels, Belgium; 

NMPC Národní muzeum, Praha, Czech Republic. 



338 

ŠVIHLA: Oedemeridae of the Socotra Archipelago 

The names of integument structures used in the descriptions follow HARRIS (1979). They 

were examined under a 90× magnifi cation using an Olympus SZ 61 binocular microscope. 

The black and white fi gures were made using the camera lucida. Photographs were taken 

using the Canon MP-E 65 mm macro lens attached to the Canon Eos 550D camera. Images 

of the same specimen at different focal planes were combined using the Helicon Focus 5.1.19 

software. Locality labels of type specimens are cited verbatim, separate lines on the label are 

divided by a slash. Names of localities and dates of additional specimens are standardized. 

Taxonomy 

Colobostomoides marshalli socotraensis ssp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–2) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Neet. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘Socotra I., x.2000 / Neet / V. Bejček, K. Šťastný lgt. [white label, printed]’. 

PARATYPES (NMPC), same label data, 2 ��; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island SE / sandy beach by Wadi Dehlme / 

N 12°26′43″, E 54°16′54″ / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt. [white label, printed]’, 3 ��; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / ca. 3 

km NE of SHUAB / Avicennia marina mangrove; / sand dunes, 20.–21.vi.2012 / 12°34.1′N 53°23.9′E, 3 m // SOCOTRA 

Expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’, 1 �. 

Diagnosis. Length (�): 9.2–14.4 mm. Male terminalia similar to those of the nominotypical 

subspecies (cf. VÁZQUEZ 1996), female unknown. 

Differential diagnosis. The newly described subspecies differs from the nominotypical form 

in the characters mentioned in Table 1 (cf. Figs. 1–2 and VÁZQUEZ 1996). 

Comments. C. marshalli marshalli is hitherto known only from the Republic of South Africa 

(Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces). It is probable, that C. marshalli socotraensis 

ssp. nov. was introduced to Socotra by ocean streams and here it differentiated on the subspecifi 

c level. However, there is also the possibility, that C. marshalli s. lat. originates from 

Socotra (and/or Asian mainland) and it was introduced to southern Africa by the commercial 

ships commuting, very frequent during the Antiquity and the Middle Ages. Another possibility 

is that this species is widely distributed from South Africa to Yemen, but still has not 

been discovered in the intermediate areas. This pattern of distribution is known for example 

in Stenoria muiri Kaszab, 1956 (Meloidae) – Yemen and southern Mozambique, with two 

subspecies scarcely distinct by phenetic characters. 

Table 1. Differential characters of Colobostomoides marshalli marshalli (Blair, 1926) and C. marshalii socotraensis 

ssp. nov. 

C. marshalli marshalli C. marshalli socotraensis ssp. nov. 

Pronotum pale lemon yellow with narrow medio-longitudinal 

terra-cotta to sienna stripe, not reaching anterior 

and posterior margin. 

Surface of pronotal disc with much fi ner imbrication 

between punctures, so that disc almost lustrous. 

Pronotum either entirely pale lemon yellow or (in one 

specimen) almost entirely sienna with narrow anterior, 

ventro-lateral and posterior paler margins only. 

Surface of pronotal disc with coarser imbrication between 

punctures, so that disc semilustrous to matt. 

Vertex mostly infuscate. Head uniformly coloured. 

Elytra more or less darkened submarginally. Elytra either entirely pale lemon yellow or (in one specimen) 

almost entirely sienna with narrow sutural and 

lateral margins only.


Figs. 1–4. General habitus of Socotran Oedemeridae. 1–2 – Colobostomoides marshalli socotraensis ssp. nov.; 

3–4 – Dentostomus socotrensis (Švihla, 1986).

340 


Figs. 5–8. General habitus of Socotran Oedemeridae. 5 – Dentostomus guichardi (Švihla, 1987); 6–8 – Anisochrodes 

janavlada sp. nov.


Etymology. Named according to its distribution. 

Distribution. Endemic to Socotra Island. 

Probosca (Proboxantha) maindroni (Pic, 1935) 

Ananconia maindroni Pic, 1935: 101. 

Probosca (Proboxantha) maindroni: ŠVIHLA (1995): 16. 

Material examined. YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Neet, 8.–9.iii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný lgt., 42 spec.; same 

label data but 1.x.2000, 8 spec.; Shuab, 10.iii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný lgt., 25 spec. (all NMPC). 

Distribution. Species described from southern Pakistan, and subsequently recorded from the 

United Arab Emirates, and, without precise data, also from Socotra (ŠVIHLA 2008b). Here the 

fi rst detailed records from Socotra Island are published. 

Dentostomus guichardi (Švihla, 1987) 

(Fig. 5) 

Paroxacis guichardi Švihla, 1987: 25, Figs. 64–67. 

Dentostomus guichardi: ŠVIHLA (2004): 76. 

Material examined. YEMEN: ABD AL KURI: without detailed locality, 6.ii.2000, Wranik lgt., 1 � 2 �� (NMPC); 

Towanie vill. env., 12°10′N 52°13′E, 25.–27.ii.2008, A. Saldaitis lgt., 30 spec. (ISNB, NMPC). SOCOTRA ISLAND: 

Wadi Ayhaft, 23.iv.2009, Wranik lgt., 1 � (NMPC). 

Distribution. Species described from Abd al Kuri. Subsequently, ŠVIHLA (2008a) cited D. 

guichardi without specifi c data also from Socotra. Here the fi rst detailed record from Socotra 

Island is published. 

Dentostomus socotrensis (Švihla, 1986) 

(Figs. 3–4) 

Hypascleroides socotrensis Švihla, 1986: 197, Figs. 165–167. 

Dentostomus socotrensis: ŠVIHLA (2004): 76. 

Material examined. YEMEN: ABD AL KURI: Towanie vill. env., 12°10′N 52°13′E, 25.-27.ii.2008, A. Saldaitis lgt., 

11 spec. (ISNB, NMPC). SOCOTRA ISLAND: Neet, 8.-9.iii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný lgt., 21 spec.; same label 

data but 1.x.2000, 43 spec.; Shuab, 10.iii.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný lgt., 27 spec. (all NMPC); same locality 

but 24.iii.2009, A. Saldaitis lgt., 151 spec.; Di Hamri env., 1.iii.2008, A. Saldaitis lgt., 1 spec.; Diksam Canyon, 

23.iii.2009, A. Saldaitis lgt., 15 spec.; sand dunes near Irriseyi., 18.i.2010, A. Saldaitis lgt.; 3 spec. (all ISNB); Ayri 

valley, 10.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová lgt., 1 spec.; Shibhon, 680 m, 12°28′15″N 53°58′31″E, 13.vi.2009, 

L. Purchart lgt., 1 spec.; Deiqub cave, env., 10.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová lgt., 1 spec.; Noged plain, sand 

dunes, 11 m, 12°21′09″N 54°01′47″E, 5.–6.xii.2003, D. Král lgt., Yemen – Socotra 2003 Expedition, Jan Farkač, 

Petr Kabátek & David Král, 1 spec.; Noged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env., 20 m, 12°21.9′N 54°05.3′E, 

10.–11.xi.2010, J. Hájek lgt., 11 spec.; same label data but J. Batelka lgt., 7 spec.; same label data but P. Hlaváč 

lgt., 1 spec. (all NMPC). 

Comments. Most common and strongly variable species in its length (6.8–13.5 mm) and 

coloration (cf. Figs. 3–4). 

Distribution. A species so far known only from Darsah and Socotra (ŠVIHLA 2008a), this is the 

fi rst record from Abd al Kuri. WRANIK (2003) mentioned this species also from Madagascar, 

which seems to me to be rather improbable, however, it cannot be ruled out with absolute 

certainty.

342 


Anisochrodes janavlada sp. nov. 

(Figs. 6–13) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Wadi Zirik, 12°29.584′N 53°59.475′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Wadi Zirik, 12.vi.2010 / N 12°29,584′, E 053°59,475′ 

/ V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [white label, printed]’. PARATYPES (NMPC), same label data, 1 �; ‘YEMEN, Socotra 

Isl. / Firmihin plato, 400-500 m / N 12°28′46″, E 54°00′89″ / 18.-19.vi.2010 / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [white 

label, printed]’, 1 �; ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Dgisfu valley, 2.vi.2010 / N 12°28,444′ E 054°08,596′ / V. Hula & 

J. Niedobová leg. [white label, printed]’, 1 �; ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Zemhon area 270-300 m / N 12°20,58′, 

E 054°06,39′ / 16.-17.6., V. Hula leg. [white label, printed]’, 1 �; ‘YEMEN, Socotra I., 4.-5.vi. / Qualentiah env., 2010 

/ slopes 5 km SE from Quasoit / N12°39,691′, E 053°26,658′ / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [white label, printed]’, 

1 �; ‘Republic of Yemen / Socotra Isl. – Deigyup cave env. / V. Hula lgt., 16.6.2009 [white label, printed]’ 7 �� 

1 �; ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Deiqub cave env. / 10.vi.2010 / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [white label, printed]’, 

1 � 2 ��; ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., 2.vi.2010 / 7 km NW from Rhi di-Hamri, / fl owering Croton scrubs / V. Hula & 

J. Niedobová leg. [white label, printed]’, 12 �� 3 ��; ‘SOCOTRA Is. (YE) / Noged plain (sand dunes) / SHARET 

HALMA vill. env. / 12°21,9′N, 54°05,3′E, 20 m / Jan Batelka leg. 10-11.xi.2010 [white label, printed]’, 1 �; ‘YEMEN, 

SOCOTRA ISLAND / WADI THAR DI ITRUR, 21.vi.2012 / sifting under Ficus cordata / 12°32.8′N 53°42.9′E, 54 m // SOCO- 

TRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’, 

1 �; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / ALOOVE AREA, Aloove vill. env. / Jatropha unicostata shrubland with / Boswellia 

elongata trees, / 19.–20.vi.2012 / 12°34.5′N 54°07.4′E, 221 m // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, 

V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’, 6 �� 3 ��; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / 

HOMHIL protected area / open woodland with Boswellia & Dracaena trees, 10.–11.vi.2012 / 12°34.5′N 54°00.9′E, 

115 m // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský / J. Niedobová & L. 

Purchart leg.’, 4 �� 2 ��; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / DEIQUB cave, 12.vi.2012 / cave & Croton socotranus + / 

Jatropha unicostata shrubland / 12°23.1′N 54°00.9′E, 115 m // J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula / P. Kment, I. Malenovský 

/ J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’, 1 � 2 ��; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / KAZAZHAN area / shrubland on limestone; 

sifting / 10.vi.2012 / 12°33.8′N 54°19.8′E, 540 m // SOCOTRA Expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. 

Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’, 2 �� 1 �. 

Description. Coloration (Figs. 6–8). Head iron grey, sometimes with slight coppery tinge, 

mouthparts terra-cotta, tips of mandibles sepia, antennae terra-cotta. Pronotum either entirely 

terra-cotta or with pair of smaller or larger spots in anterior half or spots enlarged and 

extending over almost whole length of pronotum, so that only narrow margins of pronotum 

remain yellow. Legs terra-cotta, tibiae mostly longitudinally infuscate on outer side, tarsi sepia. 

Ventral part of abdomen iron grey, sometimes with slight coppery tinge, last two abdominal 

segments terra-cotta. Elytra iron grey. 

Male. Eyes rather small, slightly reniform, moderately protruding, head across eyes only 

very slightly wider than pronotum, head behind eyes narrowing posteriorly almost in straight 

line. Antennae fi liform, moderately exceeding basal third of elytral length, terminal antennomere 

constricted behind its midlength. Terminal palpomere of maxillary palpus securiform. 

Surface of pronotum fi nely and densely imbricate-punctate, with fi ne, white, recumbent 

pubescence, matt. Pronotum about as long as wide, moderately cordiform, anterior margin 

very slightly rounded, anterior corners rounded, lateral margins sinuately converging posteriorly, 

posterior corners rounded, posterior margin straight. Surface of pronotum more fi nely 

and sparsely imbricate-punctate than that of head and with yellow pubescence, semilustrous. 

Basal projections of claws long, almost reaching apices of claws. Elytra parallel-sided up to 

elytral midlength, moderately narrowing in posterior half, elytral apices separately rounded. 

Elytral venation only very slightly visible basally, surface of elytra very fi nely and densely


Figs. 9–13. Anisochrodes janavlada sp. nov. 9 – last abdominal segment of female, ventral view; 10 – last abdominal 

segment of male including projections of urite VIII, ventral view; 11 – tegmen, ventral view; 12 – apical portion of 

tegmen, lateral view; 13 – aedeagus, lateral view. Scale bar: 0.5 mm. 

rugulose-lacunose, with fi ne, white, short recumbent pubescence, matt. Pygidium almost 

twice as long as apical sternite, apex of which is widely rounded with shallow, subtriangular 

emargination in middle; pygidium subtriangular with shallow, subtriangular emargination 

apically (Fig. 10). Projections of urite VIII visible, very narrow, moderately curved, similar 

to that of A. jelineki Švihla, 1983 (cf. Fig. 10). Tegmen and aedeagus as in Figs. 11–13. 

Female. Basal projections of claws shorter than in male, hardly reaching midlength of 

claws, elytral venation better developed, very slight but visible in ca basal two thirds of elytral 

length. Pygidium only moderately exceeding last sternite, similar to that of male, last sternite 

subtriangular, roundly tapering apically from about its midlength (Fig. 9). 

Length (��): 4.8–11.9 mm.

344 


Differential diagnosis. Anisochrodes janavlada sp. nov. with its pronotum at least partly coloured 

differently than elytra mostly resembles A. escalerai Švihla, 1999, from which it differs in much 

fi ner and sparser pubescence of elytra, semilustrous pronotum, unicolor tibiae and especially 

in parameres with basoventral tooth and bigger apical hook of the aedeagus (cf. Figs. 6–8 and 

ŠVIHLA 1999). The three remaining species of the genus have pronotum similar to elytra in 

colour, and denser and thicker elytral pubescence. This type of pubescence suggests that the new 

species represents a sister clade of the three species known from the Asian mainland. 

Etymology. Patronymic, dedicated to two of its collectors, Jana Niedobová (Brno, Czech 

Republic) and Vladimír (familiarly Vláďa) Hula (Moutnice, Czech Republic). To be used as 

the noun in apposition. 

Distribution. Endemic to Socotra Island. 

Key to the Socotran species of the Oedemeridae 

1. Both mandibles and claws simple. .................................................................................. 2 

– Either both mandibles bifi d apically or right mandibles with subapical tooth; claws dentate 

basally. ............................................................................................................................. 3 

2. Parameres with ventrobasal tooth, pygidium rounded apically in both sexes, coloration as 

in Figs. 1–2. Socotra. ....................... Colobostomoides marshalli socotraensis ssp. nov. 

– Parameres without ventrobasal tooth; pygidium narrowly incised apically in both sexes; 

for habitus and coloration as in ŠVIHLA (2008b). Socotra, UAE, S Pakistan. ..................... 

.............................................................. Probosca (Proboxantha) maindroni (Pic, 1935) 

3. Both mandibles bifi d apically; basal teeth of claws reaching at least their midlength; pygidium 

triangularly emarginate in both sexes; parameres glabrous; habitus and coloration as 

in Figs. 6–8. Socotra. ................................................... Anisochrodes janavlada sp. nov. 

– Left mandibles simple, right one with subapical tooth; basal teeth of claws not reaching 

their midlength; pygidium rounded in both sexes; parameres pubescent. ...................... 4 

4. Head and vertex unicolor; aedeagus with apical tooth; habitus and coloration as in Fig. 5. 

Socotra, Abd al Kuri. .......................................... Dentostomus guichardi (Švihla, 1987) 

– Head with darker spot on vertex; pronotum infuscate medio-longitudinally and laterally; 

aedeagus without apical tooth; habitus and coloration as in Figs. 3–4. Socotra, Darsah, 

Abd al Kuri. ...................................................... Dentostomus socotrensis (Švihla, 1986) 

Discussion 

The oedemerid genera represented in the fauna of Socotra are distributed in the southern 

part of the Arabian Peninsula, the Middle East and in eastern Africa. The genus Colobostomoides 

Švihla, 1983 includes two species; Colobostomoides longepubens Švihla, 1983 is 

distributed from Oman through southern part of Iran to southern Pakistan (ŠVIHLA 2008a), C. 

marshalli (Blair, 1926), according to VÁZQUEZ (1996), has been known only from eastern part 

of Republic of South Africa so far (Eastern Cape Province and KwaZulu-Natal Province). 

There are eight hitherto recognized species of the Probosca subgenus Proboxantha Švihla,


1995, seven of which are distributed in the arid zone from Chad to north-eastern Africa 

(southernmost to Sudan) and through the Near and Middle East to southern Pakistan easterly; 

the eighth species was described from Namibia. The genus Dentostomus includes two endemic 

Socotran species, and the third species, D. anceyi (Pic, 1920), is distributed in Djibouti, Saudi 

Arabia and continental Yemen (ŠVIHLA 2008a). Finally, the genus Anisochrodes Švihla, 1983, 

until now included Anisochrodes jelineki from southern Iran and Pakistan (Baluchistan), A. 

holzschuhi Švihla, 1983 from eastern Afghanistan, and A. escalerai from south-western Iran 

(ŠVIHLA 2008a). 

It follows from the above survey, that origin of the oedemerid fauna of the Socotra 

Archipelago is double. Anisochrodes janavlada sp. nov. is a member of the genus distributed 

in the Middle East, and Probosca (Proboxantha) maindroni seems to be a late immigrant 

from the same region; isolation of its Socotran population has not been long enough to 

create a distinct taxon. The origin of the genus Dentostomus seems to be Afro-Arabic, 

based on its present distribution. The origin of the genus Colobostomoides is somewhat 

disputable. The Asian species, Colobostomoides longepubens, seems to show a couple of 

more derived characters than C. marshalli, e.g. dilated parameres, sickle-shaped mandibles 

and long erected pubescence of body; however, the question is, where the latter species 

developed. The view of the origin and composition of the oedemerid fauna of the Socotra 

Archipelago will probably change in the future, when our knowledge, especially of the 

Afrotropical fauna, increases. 


I am much obliged to Jan Batelka (Praha, Czech Republic), Jan Bezděk (Mendel University, 

Brno, Czech Republic), Jan Farkač (University of Life Sciences, Praha, Czech Republic), 

Peter Hlaváč (Košice, Slovakia), Pol Limbourg (ISNB) for the possibility to examine rich 

and very interesting material, to Jan Bezděk (Brno, Czech Republic), Marco Bologna (Roma, 

Italy), Jiří Hájek (NMPC) and Ottó Merkl (Budapest, Hungary) for valuable comments, and to 

Martin Fikáček (NMPC) for help with preparing fi gures. This study was fi nancially supported 

by the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic (DKRVO 00023272). 

References 

HARRIS R. A. 1979: The glossary of surface sculpturing. Occasional Papers in Entomology (Sacramento) 28: 

1–3. 

PIC M. 1935: Coléoptères oedémérides nouveaux. Revue Française d’Entomologie 2: 98–102. 

ŠVIHLA V. 1986: Revision of the generic classifi cation of the Old World Oedemeridae (Coleoptera). Sborník 

Národního Muzea v Praze 41B (1985): 141–238. 

ŠVIHLA V. 1987: Contribution to the knowledge of the Old World Oedemeridae (Coleoptera). Annotationes Zoologicae 

et Botanicae (Bratislava) 181: 1–27. 

ŠVIHLA V. 1995: Contribution to the knowledge of the family Oedemeridae (Coleoptera) of arid regions of the 

Palaearctic. Folia Heyrovskyana 3: 9–23. 

ŠVIHLA V. 1999: Revision of the Old World Diplectrus with notes on the other genera (Coleoptera: Oedemeridae). 

Folia Heyrovskyana 7: 73–86.

346 


ŠVIHLA V. 2004: Contribution to the knowledge of the Old World Oedemeridae (Coleoptera). Acta Societatis 

Zoologicae Bohemiae 68: 61–78. 

ŠVIHLA V. 2008a: Family Oedemeridae Latreille, 1810. Pp. 45, 353–369. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): 

Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 5. Tenebrionoidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 670 pp. 

ŠVIHLA V. 2008b: Order Coleoptera, family Oedemeridae. Pp. 264–269. In: HARTEN A. VAN (ed.): Arthropod fauna 

of the United Arab Emirates, Volume 1. Multiply Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 754 pp. 

VÁZQUEZ X. A. 1996: Revision of the Southern African Oedemeridae (Coleoptera, Tenebrionoidea). Mitteilungen 

aus dem Zoologisches Museum in Berlin 72: 83–147. 




Studies on the genus Anthelephila (Coleoptera: Anthicidae). 

12. Review of the species from Yemen, 

including Socotra Island 

Zbyněk KEJVAL 

Muzeum Chodska, Chodské náměstí 96, Domažlice CZ-344 01, Czech Republic; 

e-mail: anthicid@seznam.cz 

Abstract. The species of Anthelephila Hope, 1833 of Yemen are reviewed. Three 

species are newly described: Anthelephila kadleci sp. nov. and A. praefecta sp. 

nov. from continental Yemen, and A. pilitarsis sp. nov. from Socotra Island. A 

new synonymy, Anthelephila anceyi rathjensi (Pic, 1957) = Formicomus panelii 

Hille, 1977, syn. nov., is proposed. New records of eight species of Anthelephila 

from Yemen are given and a key to species is provided. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Anthicidae, Anthelephila, new species, new synonymy, 

new records, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Anthelephila Hope, 1833 is a large Old World genus comprising about 400 described 

species. It is most diverse in the tropics of Asia and Africa, however, as evident from the 

present paper, even arid subtropical parts of the Palaearctic region possess species, and their 

exploration still produces new discoveries. 

The reasons to review the Anthelephila species of Yemen were i) the comparatively rich 

material collected by several Czech entomological expeditions in the past ten years, and ii) 

the need to comment on some older records by PIC & HAWKINS (1957) and the distributional 

data provisionally accepted in the recent Palaearctic catalogue (CHANDLER et al. 2008). Based 

on CHANDLER et al. (2008), the fauna of Yemen comprises twelve species of Anthelephila. 

Some general conclusions resulting from this paper are as follows: there are presently twelve 

species / subspecies of Anthelephila reliably known to occur in Yemen, three of them are 

newly described herein; occurrence of two other species, A. arabica (Pic, 1899) and A. ionica 

(LaFerté-Sénectère, 1849) that are listed from Yemen by CHANDLER et al. (2008), is dubious 

and should be confi rmed by new fi ndings; all published records of A. anceyi (Pic, 1898) and A. 

amaena (LaFerté-Sénectère, 1849) from Yemen are based on misidentifi cations; fi ve species 

of Anthelephila are known only from Yemen so far (two of them from Socotra Island and, in 

contrast, three species display rather wide distributions, including presence in Africa. 



348 

KEJVAL: Anthelephila of Yemen including Socotra Island (Anthicidae) 


Specimens were examined with a Leica MZ 9.5 stereomicroscope; morphological measurements 

were taken with an ocular graticule. Male genitalia of the type specimens were 

examined after being cleared in a hot 10% KOH solution and then placed on the same card 

with the specimens in a water-soluble, dimethyl-hydantoin formaldehyde resin (DMHF). 

Photographs were taken by a Nikon Coolpix 4500 digital camera attached to a Leica MZ 

9.5 trinocular (habitus) or a compound (details) microscope; images of the same specimen 

at different focal planes were combined with Helicon Focus 5.2 Pro and edited with Adobe 

Photoshop 9.0.2. software. 

The material examined is deposited in the following institutions (given in round brackets): 


MNHN Museum national ďHistoire naturelle, Paris, France; 

NMPC Národní muzeum, Praha, Czech Republic; 

ZKDC collection of Zbyněk Kejval, Domažlice, Czech Republic; 

Exact label data are quoted for the type specimens only. Separate labels are indicated by 

double slashes (//); following abbreviations are used: p – printed, h – handwritten. Species 

in the results chapter are ordered alphabetically. 

A key to Anthelephila species of Yemen (including Socotra Island) 

1 (2) Pronotal disc with rather sharp median longitudinal furrow (Fig. 21). ..................... 

......................................................................... A. paolii (Krekich-Strassoldo, 1928) 

2 (3) Pronotal disc lacking any longitudinal furrow. 

3 (6) Elytra with distinct, narrow, whitish, transverse setose band in basal third (Fig. 17). 

4 (5) Elytra longitudinally oval, 1.8–1.9 times as long as wide, humeri rounded, moderately 

indicated (Fig. 17); prongs of male sternite VIII with long projection ventrally near 

base and conspicuous setation. ............................... A. anceyi rathjensi (Pic, 1957) 

5 (4) Elytra rather short, 1.6–1.7 times as long as wide, humeri distinctly angulately protruding; 

prongs of male sternite VIII simple, scantily setose. ................................... 

.......................................................................... A. ionica (LaFerté-Sénectère, 1849) 

6 (7) Elytra rather evenly setose or with wider, vague setose band in basal third (Fig. 

18). 

7 (10) Elytra with metallic blue-green refl ection (Figs. 20, 23), rarely reddish and lacking 

this refl ection. 

8 (9) Head base distinctly differentiated from the neck; pronotum more robust, wide (in 

relation to head width; Fig. 20), dorsal surface of the head and pronotum unwrinkled; 

punctation of elytra rather coarse and setation long and raised; median process of male 

sternum VII conspicuously long, well sclerotized, transversely wrinkled (fi le-like) 

and with numerous long, stiff setae; prongs of male sternite VIII of rather complex 

structure, with long projections ventro-medially, and conspicuous setation. ............ 

...................... A. caeruleipennis (LaFerté-Sénectère, 1849), A. arabica (Pic, 1899)


9 (8) Head base somewhat less distinctly differentiated from the neck (Fig. 13); pronotum 

narrower (in relation to head width; Fig. 12), dorsal surface of the head and pronotum 

distinctly corrugated; punctation of elytra rather fi ne and setation comparatively short 

and less raised; median process of male sternum VII minute and less sclerotized (Fig. 

15); prongs of male sternite VIII simple and nearly bare (Fig. 4). ............................ 

.................................................................................................. A. praefecta sp. nov. 

10 (11) Elytra dark brown to black, sometimes paler in basal third / fourth, if reddish coloured 

as in Fig. 19, than body very shortly setose. 

11 (12) Elytra short, rather convex in lateral view; pronotum moderately bulging dorsally 

shortly before base, its dorsal outline uneven posteriorly in lateral view; male front 

legs simple. ................................................................ A. bispilifasciata (Pic, 1897) 

12 (13) Elytra elongate, rather fl attened in lateral view; pronotum lacking distinct antebasal 

bulge, its dorsal outline nearly evenly shaped posteriorly in lateral view; male front 

legs always modifi ed. 

13 (14) Body black (Fig. 24); head rather widely rounded posteriorly in dorsal view; male 

terminalia elongate, strongly protruding (Fig. 24), prongs of sternite VIII very long 

and narrow, simple. ............................................................... A. walkeri (Pic, 1895) 

14 (15) Body at most brown-black, often with paler, reddish brown head, pronotum and basal 

third / fourth of elytra; head evenly rounded to moderately produced postero-medially 

in dorsal view; male terminalia slightly protruding as in Fig. 22, prongs of sternite 

VIII rather short, sometimes with various lobes or projections. 

15 (18) Dorsal surface of head and / or pronotum largely distinctly longitudinally wrinkled 

(Fig. 6). 

16 (17) Head nearly evenly parabolic posteriorly in dorsal view; antennae moderately long 

and slender, antennomere X 1.7 times and XI 2.6 times as long as wide; elytral punctation 

distinctly double, fi ne intermixed punctures numerous and quite distinct; basal 

metatarsomere in males with short, inconspicuous setae; lateral lobes of tegmen more 

elongate, narrowed and pointed apically. .......................... A. bejceki Kejval, 2002 

17 (16) Head base unevenly shaped, subparallel posteriorly to eyes in dorsal view (Fig. 6); 

antennae very long and slender, antennomere X 2.8 times and XI 3.6 times as long 

as wide; elytral punctation nearly simple, fi ne intermixed punctures inconspicuous; 

basal metatarsomere in males with conspicuously long tufted setae (Fig. 9); lateral 

lobes of tegmen less elongate, rounded apically (Fig. 11). ...... A. pilitarsis sp. nov. 

18 (15) Dorsal surface of head and / or pronotum at most with rather fi ne corrugation. 

19 (22) Dorsal punctation of head fi ner and largely indistinct, concealed by corrugation; male 

abdominal sternum III nearly simple, lacking any distinct paired median protrusions; 

prongs of male sternite VIII nearly bifurcate (Fig. 3). 

20 (21) Male profemoral process wide and short, nearly lobe-like shaped (rounded apically), 

lacking short stiff apical setae; male protibiae with small pointed protuberance distally 

on inner side, otherwise simple, not impressed on inner side. ................................... 

.................................................................................................. A. simoni (Pic, 1893) 

21 (20) Male profemoral process long and narrow, fl attened and rounded apically, with a dense 

row of short and stiff black setae on apical margin (Fig. 2); male protibiae slightly

350 


dilated and fl attened on inner side at mid-length and with small rounded lobe on their 

outer side distally. ....................................................................... A. kadleci sp. nov. 

22 (19) Dorsal punctation of head coarser, distinct even at corrugated places; male abdominal 

sternum III with a pair of distinct median protrusions; prongs of male sternite VIII 

simple, lacking long ventro-lateral projections. 

23 (24) Basal two metatarsomeres in males with some conspicuously long, bristle-like setae 

on inner side; median protrusions of male sternum III short; median process of male 

sternum VII rather large, wide, rounded apically. .. A. macilenta (Bonadona, 1962) 

24 (23) Basal two metatarsomeres in males distally on inner side normally setose, at most 

with moderately longer, stiff setae near apex; median protrusions of male sternum 

III long; median process of male sternum VII minute, narrow and pointed. ............. 

.......................................................................................... A. insperata Kejval, 2010 

Taxonomy 

Anthelephila amaena (LaFerté-Sénectère, 1849) 

Remarks. Anthelephila amaena is reliably known only from Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan 

(KEJVAL 2000). Both records from Yemen, Al Huseini [near Lahij] (PIC & HAWKINS 1957) 

and Wadi Zabid (UHMANN 1985), are based on misidentifi cations, and the relevant specimens 

belong to A. anceyi rathjensi (those from the BMNH are listed below). 

Anthelephila anceyi anceyi (Pic, 1898) 

Remarks. PIC (1898a) described Formicomus anceyi from an unstated number of specimens 

collected in Ethiopia (“Abyssinie”). In Yemen it was recorded from Dhala and the vicinity 

of Ta’izz and Sana’a (PIC & HAWKINS 1957); the relevant specimens are listed below under 

A. anceyi rathjensi. 

I have not seen either the types or any reliably identifi ed specimens of Anthelephila 

anceyi anceyi. It was probably described based on female specimens, because the original 

description of Pic lacks discussion of any male characters (modifi cations of the front legs). Its 

identity may be diffi cult to determine considering the existence of several externally similar 

Afrotropical species, that differ only in the male characters, e.g. A. albolineata (Pic, 1893) 

or A. niveopilosa (Fairmaire, 1893). 

Anthelephila anceyi rathjensi (Pic, 1957) 

(Fig. 17) 

Formicomus anceyi var. rathjensi Pic, 1957: 440. 

Formicomus panelii Hille, 1977: 199, fi g. 2, syn. nov. 

Type material. Formicomus anceyi var. rathjensi: HOLOTYPE, �: ‘Type [p; round label with red margin] // DRY 

FIELDS SOUTH OF CITY [p] // YEMEN San’a, ca.7,9000 ft. Dr.Carl Rathjens. 11.ix.1937. B.M.1938-396. [p; 

yellow line] // FORMICOMUS sp. near IONICUS Laf. but darker the tooth on anterior femora broader, shorter less 

curved Hawkins [h; partly illegible] // Formicomus anceyi v. nov rathjensi. [h]’ (BMNH). 

Additional material examined. YEMEN: 2 �� 2 ��, Sana’a, 2370 m, 11.ix.1937, C. Rathjens leg. (BMNH); 3 

��, Ta’izz env., fi eld near road to Mocha, 1230 m, 16.xii.1937, H. Scott & E. B. Britton leg. (BMNH); 1 �, Dhala,


1440 m, 14.ix.1937, H. Scott & E. B. Britton leg. (BMNH); 1 �, 10 km S of At Turbah, 13°10′N 44°07′E, 1610 

m, 25.iii.2007, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Sh. Ohtman env. (Wadi), v.1985, Materlik leg. (ZKDC); 4 ��, Wádi 

Zabid, E of Zabid, 14°09′N 43°31′E, 325 m, 22.iii.2007, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC, NMPC); 1 �, dtto, P. Kabátek 

leg. (ZKDC); 4 ��, Al Hudaydah gov., Jabal Bura valley forest National Park, at light, 240–350 m, 14°52.4–5′N 

43°24.6–25.2′E, 4.xi.2010, P. Hlaváč leg. (ZKDC, NMPC); 2 ��, dtto, J. Bezděk leg. (ZKDC); 1 � 1 �, dtto, J. 

Hájek leg. (NMPC); 1 �, 5 ��, 10 km W of Al Manşuriah, 14°43′N 43°12′E, 110 m, 8.iv.2007, P. Kabátek leg. 

(ZKDC); 1 �, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt. env., 12°34.6′N 54°01.5′E, 1450 m, 12.–13.xi.2010, L. 

Purchart leg. (ZKDC). 

Remarks. PIC (1957) described Formicomus anceyi var. rathjensi from a single female 

specimen collected near Sana’a in Yemen, differing from the typical F. anceyi in the largely 

reddish colouration and more elongate elytra. It was provisionally raised to subspecifi c rank 

by CHANDLER et al. (2004) with respect to the Article 45.6.4 of the Code (ICZN 1999). The 

identity of Anthelephila anceyi rathjensi is augmented herein by the discovery of males; for 

male characters see description of the herein synonymized Formicomus panelii by HILLE 

(1977). However, its subspecifi c placement remains questionable (see above). 

Anthelephila anceyi rathjensi is clearly variable in body colouration. It is mostly reddish, 

with the posterior two-thirds of the elytra darker (behind a transverse whitish setose band), 

rarely nearly unicolourous, dark brown with slight reddish tinge. A male specimen from Sana’a 

(BMNH), bearing an identifi cation label ‘Formicomus anceyi Pic var.’ by Maurice Pic (PIC 

& HAWKINS 1957), is somewhat aberrant in having a rather widely rounded head base, which 

is usually evenly semicircular to semi-oval. Similar variability of the head shape was noted 

previously by HILLE (1953b) for the Afrotropical A. chappuisi (Pic, 1939). 

HILLE (1977) described Formicomus panelii from Lahij, which is a city and governorate 

located in southernmost Yemen. It was recorded also from Sudan and Saudi Arabia (HILLE 

1977, KEJVAL 2000). I have not seen the types, nevertheless the original description, which 

includes rather detailed fi gures of the male characters, leaves no doubt about its identity and 

the newly proposed synonymy. 

Anthelephila arabica (Pic, 1899) 

Remarks. Anthelephila arabica was described by PIC (1899) from Saudi Arabia (‘Arabia’) 

and later was never revised nor reliably recorded. The records from Saudi Arabia by UHMANN 

(1998) belong to misidentifi ed specimens of A. bispilifasciata (Pic, 1897), and its occurrence 

in Yemen (UHMANN 1998, CHANDLER et al. 2008) is dubious, and is probably based on some 

unpublished data from Uhmann’s identifi cations. 

Anthelephila arabica is undoubtedly very close to A. caeruleipennis (LaFerté-Sénectère, 

1849) and A. viridipennis (Krekich-Strassoldo, 1931), as suggested by the overall similarity 

of their male characters. Its specifi c rank is, in my opinion questionable, as well as that of 

A. viridipennis, however, this problem is beyond the scope of the present paper. Based on 

label data, the single type (male) of A. arabica deposited in Pic’s collection in the MNHN 

originates from Hejaz, which is a region situated along the Red Sea coast in Saudi Arabia. 

Externally it is conspicuous in having reddish coloured elytra that lack bluish or greenish 

metallic refl ections (otherwise shared by all members of this small species-group, present in 

all specimens I have seen; Fig. 20). As for male characters, it differs from A. caeruleipennis

352 


only in the detailed morphology of the prongs of male sternite VIII, especially in their rather 

wide ventral process with conspicuously long apical setation. The unusual reddish colouration 

of the elytra is rather an aberration than a species character; cf. comments on variation 

(colour regression) in A. tuberculifer (Pic, 1897) and A. chappuisi by HILLE (1953a,b), and 

A. bispilifasciata (below). 

Anthelephila bejceki Kejval, 2002 

Material examined. YEMEN: 4 �� 1 �, Socotra, Noged plain, Wadi Ireeh, 12°23′11′′ E 53°59′47′′[GPS], 95 m, 

6.–7.xii.2003, D. Král leg. (ZKDC); 2 �� 1 �, Socotra, Dixam plateau, Sirhin area, 12°31′08′′ E 53°59′09′′[GPS], 

812 m, 1.–2.xii.2003, J. Farkač leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Socotra, Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 12°20′10′′ N 53°37′56′′ 

E 37 m [GPS], 5.–6.xii.2003, J. Farkač leg. (ZKDC); 2 �� 3 ��, Socotra, Dixam plateau, Wadi Esgego, 12°28′09′′ 

N 54°00′36′′ E 300 m [GPS], 2.–3.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Socotra, Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE 

from Quayson, 12°39.691′ N 53°26.658′ E, 4.–5.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Socotra, Dgisfu 

valley, 12°28.444′ N 54°08.596′ E, 2.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (ZKDC); 56 �� 32 ��, Socotra, Dixam 

plateau, Firmihin, Dracaena forest, 490 m, 12°28.6′N 54°01.1′E, 15.–16.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg. (ZKDC); 17 �� 14 

��, same data, except: J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); 5 �� 4 ��, same data, except: P. Hlaváč leg. (NMPC). 

Remarks. This species was described from Socotra Island (Wadi Faar) (KEJVAL 2002) and is 

known only from this island so far. The above listed large series of specimens from Firmihin 

was collected from fl owering bushes of Ochradenus sp. (Resedaceae) (J. Hájek & J. Batelka, 

pers. comm.). 

Anthelephila bispilifasciata bispilifasciata (Pic, 1897) 

(Figs. 18, 19) 

Material examined. YEMEN: 1 �, Al Hudaydah gov., 20 km SE of Hudaydah, 50 m, oase with Acacia sp., 14°43′N 

49°09′E, 12.iv.1997, Brechtel, Wurst & Ehmann leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Jabal Bura, 25 km SE of Bajil, 14°53′N 43°27′E, 

1000 m, 13.iv.1997, Brechtel, Wurst & Ehmann leg. (ZKDC); 2 ��, 20 km W of Lawdar, 13°53′N 45°48′E, 1101 

m, 26.–27.iii.2007, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Wadi Daw’an, NW of Al Mukalla, 15°00′N 48°26′E, 946 m, 

3.iv.2007, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Jabal Aş Şalw, 24 km NWW of Turbah, 13°19′N 44°07′E, 1863 m, 25.x.2005, 

S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, N of Lahij, 13°10′N 44°49′E, 258 m, 23.x.2005, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Wadi 

Surdud (Sari’), W of Sana’a’, 15°15′N 43°30′E, 627 m, 2.xi.2005, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, 20 km W of Lawdar, 

13°53′N 45°48′E, 1101 m, at light, 26.–27.iii.2007, M. Rejzek leg., 2 �� (ZKDC); 2 ��, Sana’a gov., Bab Bahel 

(river valley and pool), 15°07.0′N 43°40.9′E, 1195 m, 4.xi.2010, P. Hlaváč leg. (NMPC). 

Remarks. PIC (1897, 1898b) described both Formicomus bispilifasciatus and F. bispilifasciatus 

var. obscuripennis from Obock in Djibouti, and later recorded F. bispilifasciatus from 

Yemen (PIC & HAWKINS 1957). The variety was rather provisionally raised to subspecifi c 

rank by CHANDLER et al. (2004), with respect to the Article 45.6.4 of the Code (ICZN 1999). 

I have not examined either the types of both subspecies or any specimens from Djibouti. The 

above listed specimens were found to be identical with the three Yemeni specimens (1 �, 2 

�� from Ahwar) identifi ed by R. F. Heberdey and deposited in the BMNH (PIC & HAWKINS 

1957), and also the specimens from Saudi Arabia, identifi ed by G. Uhmann (UHMANN 1998), 

and Oman (Dhofar province, ZKDC). 

Anthelephila bispilifasciata does not seem to be closely related to any of the presently 

known Palaearctic species. Its males are diffi cult to recognize owing to minimal sexual


dimorphism (simple front legs, slightly modifi ed sternum VII). The specimens from the 

Arabian Peninsula are mostly dark coloured, with an indication of wide, transverse whitish 

setose bands on the elytra together with scattered, distinctly longer erect setae (Fig. 18). 

Remarkably, some of the specimens differ conspicuously in having the elytra contrastingly 

pale reddish, with rather even, short setation (Fig. 19). Both forms may occur at the same 

localities, and do not differ in male characters. Similar colour aberration is probably found 

in the type of A. arabica (see above). 

Anthelephila caeruleipennis (LaFerté-Sénectère, 1849) 

(Fig. 20) 

Material examined. YEMEN: 1 �, ‘Sh. Othman env. (Wa di)’ v.1985, Materlik leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, 20 ��, Wadi 

as-Sudd, 10 km W of Ma’rib, 15°24′N 45°16′E, 1117 m, 8.x.2005, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, dtto, J. Halada leg. 

(ZKDC); 11 ��, dtto, M. Rejzek leg. (BMNH); 1 � 1 �, Wadi Daw’an, NW of Al Mukalla, 15°09′N 48°26′E, 946 m, 

20.x.2005, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 3 ��, dtto, M. Rejzek leg. (BMNH); 1 �, Lawdar, NE of Adan, 13°53′N 45°48′E, 

1145 m, 22.x.2005, M. Rejzek leg. (BMNH); 3 ��, 20 km W of Lawdar, 13°53′N 45°48′E, 1101 m, 26.–27.iii.2007, 

P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 4 �� 14 ��, dtto, M. Rejzek leg. (ZKDC); 2 ��, 50 km NE of Aden, 7 km NNW Zinjibar, 

Wadi Bana, 13°09′69′′N 45°19′46′′E, 50 m, A. Bischof, J. Bittermann, M. Fibiger, H. Hacker, H. Peks & H-P. Schreier 

leg. (ZKDC); 2 ��, SE of Sunak Saywun, 15°41′N 48°52′E, 10.x.2005, J. Halada leg. (ZKDC). 

Remarks. A common and rather widely distributed species. In Yemen recorded from Mukeiras, 

Al Huseini, and Lahij (PIC & HAWKINS 1957, HILLE 1977). 

Anthelephila insperata Kejval, 2010 

Material examined. YEMEN: 1 �, 20 km S of Ta’izz, 13°30′N 43°57′E, 1200 m, 24.x.2005, J. Halada leg. 

(ZKDC). 

Remarks. A species recently described from Oman (KEJVAL 2010), and herein recorded from 

Yemen for the fi rst time. The male specimen examined is moderately aberrant in having a 

distinctly shorter median projection of the paired prongs of sternite VIII. 

Anthelephila ionica (LaFerté-Sénectère, 1849) 

Remarks. Species distributed and relatively common in the Eastern Mediterranean, ranging 

southwards as far as Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Yemen (CHANDLER et al. 2008). I am not aware 

of any published records, except for those from Saudi Arabia by UHMANN (1998), and I have 

not seen any specimens from these three countries. Uhmann’s record from Hakimah (UHMANN 

1998), which is located not far from border with Yemen, may belong to the externally similar 

A. anceyi rathjensi, and needs verifi cation. 

Anthelephila kadleci sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–5) 

Type locality. Yemen, Kawr Sayban mt., NW of Al Mukalla, 14°37′N 49°03′E, 575 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘S YEMEN, Kawr Saybān mt. NW of Al Mukallā, 575 m, 14°37′N 49°03′E, 29.III.2007, 

S. Kadlec leg. [p]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES: 1 �, 2 ��, same data as holotype (ZKDC, 1 � NMPC); 2 ��, ‘S YEMEN 

Kawr Saybān mt. NW Al Mukāllā 575 m N14°37′ / E49°03′ (light) 29.III.2007 M. Rejzek [11] [p]’ (ZKDC).

354 


Description. Male (holotype). Body length 3.6 mm. Head and pronotum dark brown, at places 

with reddish tinge; elytra dark brown with reddish base and vaguely indicated paired reddish 

posthumeral spot; legs brown, palpi brownish, antennae reddish in basal third, gradually 

darkening, with 3–4 apical antennomeres brownish. 

Body form as in Fig. 1. Head 1.4 times as long as wide, unevenly rounded posteriorly, 

somewhat produced postero-medially (posterior arch parabolic in dorsal view); tempora distinctly 

narrowing posteriad, their posterior angles absent; base clearly differentiated from short 

neck. Eyes conspicuously large, rather moderately convex. Dorsal surface glossy, corrugated 

in anterior half, with distinct longitudinal wrinkles along median margins of eyes, fi nely but 

distinctly punctate in posterior third (punctures otherwise somewhat obscured at corrugated 

places). Setation pale, subdecumbent, with a few slightly longer and rather inconspicuous 

erect setae. Antennae moderately enlarged in terminal third; antennomere X 1.7 times and 

antennomere XI 2.1 times as long as wide. 

Pronotum 1.5 times as long as wide, narrower than head across eyes, nearly evenly rounded 

anteriorly, strongly narrowed posteriorly and moderately impressed postero-laterally in dorsal 

view; pronotal disc evenly shaped, its outline more or less convex in lateral view. Surface 

glossy, largely smooth, rugose to transversely corrugated postero-dorsally shortly before base, 

postero-lateral impressions shortly and fi nely wrinkled; dorsal median punctation similar to 

that on head. Setation as that on head. 

Meso- and metaventrite simple. 

Elytra elongate, twice as long as wide, conjointly rounded apically; humeri moderately 

protruding, rather rounded; postscutellar impression at most slightly indicated. Surface glossy, 

fi nely but distinctly punctate; basal half with punctures simple, evenly spaced, about as coarse 

but sparser than those on head. Setation pale, generally moderately longer than that on head, 

subdecumbent, with few, inconspicuous erect setae. 

Metathoracic wings fully developed. 

Fore legs modifi ed (Fig. 2); profemora with long and narrow process, fl attened and rounded 

apically, with a dense row of short and stiff black setae on apical margin; protibiae slightly 

dilated and fl attened on inner side at mid-length and with small rounded lobe on their outer 

side distally; penultimate tarsomere widened / fl attened distally, with terminal tarsomere 

articulated dorsally in all tarsi. Setation normally developed. 

Abdominal characters as in Figs. 3, 4; sternum III with pair of very slight, setose protuberances 

(or coarser punctures) shortly before posterior margin; tergum VII simple, evenly 

rounded posteriorly; paired prongs of sternite VIII bifurcate in apical half; apical portion of 

tegmen 0.4 times as long as basal piece, trilobed apically (Fig. 5). 

Female. For most external characters identical with male, except for simple front legs and 

sternum VII. 

Variation. Body length (��) 3.6–4.8 mm. 

Differential diagnosis. Anthelephila kadleci sp. nov. undoubtedly belongs to the A. angustiformis 

species-group (KEJVAL 2002). It appears to be very close to A. simoni (Pic, 1893), as suggested 

by the similarity of some male abdominal characters (nearly simple abdominal sternum III, 

similar morphology of sternum VIII and bifurcate prongs of sternite VIII), however, it differs 

clearly in the characters of the front legs, that are modifi ed in A. simoni as follows: profemoral


Figs. 1–5. Anthelephila kadleci sp. nov. (holotype): 1 – habitus; 2 – profemur and tibia; 3 – sternum VII (bottom), sternite 

VIII (middle) and tergite VIII (top); 4 – sternum VII, detail of median process; 5 – apical portion of aedeagus.

356 


Figs. 6–11. Anthelephila pilitarsis sp. nov. (holotype): 6 – habitus (part); 7 – profemoral process; 8 – protibia; 9 

– basal metatarsomere; 10 – sternum VII (bottom), sternite VIII (middle) and tergite VIII (top); 11 – apical portion 

of aedeagus.


process wide and short, tooth-shaped, lacking short stiff apical setae; protibiae with small pointed 

protuberance distally on inner side, otherwise simple, not impressed on inner side. 

Etymology. Named in honour of the late Czech entomologist Stanislav Kadlec, specialist in 

Cerambycidae of the western Palaearctic Region and one of the collectors of this species. 

Distribution. Yemen. 

Anthelephila macilenta (Bonadona, 1962) 

Material examined. YEMEN: 1 �, Wadi Daw’an, NW of Al Mukalla, 15°09′N 48°26′E, 946 m, 20.x.2003, P. Kabátek 

leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, dtto, at light, 3.iv.2007, M. Rejzek leg. (ZKDC); 2 ��, 2 ��, dtto, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC); 1 � 

1 �, Jabal Bura’, NEE of Al Hudaydah, 14°52′N 43°24′E, 600 m, 30.x.–1.xi.2007, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC); 2 ��, 

20 km W of Lawdar, 13°53′N 45°48′E, 1101 m, 26.–27.iii.2007, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC); 2 ��, dtto, P. Kabátek leg. 

(ZKDC); 2 �� 5 ��, dtto, M. Rejzek leg. (ZKDC, NMPC); 1 �, NW of Al Mukalla, Kawr Sayban mt., 14°37′N 

49°03′E, at light, 575 m, 29.iii.2007, M. Rejzek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, 20 km NW of Dhawran, 14°40′N 44°13′E, 1794 

m, 29.x.2005, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, 30 km NW At Turbah, 13°15′N 44°01′E, 1300 m, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC); 

1 �, Jabal al Fatk, Hawf NE Al Ghaydah, 16°40′N 53°05′E, 729 m, 12.–13.x.2005, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 4 �� 

5 ��, dtto, 16°39′N 53°04′E, 477 m, 31.iii.2007, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC, NMPC); 1 �, dtto, at light, 1.iv.2007, M. 

Rejzek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, Wadi Surdud (Sari’), W of San’a’, 15°15′N 43°30′E, 627 m, 2.xi.2005, P. Kabátek leg. 

(ZKDC); 1 �, Hawf NE of Albhaydah, 16°40′N 53°05′E, 200–730 m, 14.x.2005, J. Halada leg. (ZKDC). 

Remarks. A rather widespread and common species ranging from Senegal, via Ethiopia as 

far as Saudi Arabia and Oman (KEJVAL 2002). It is recorded here from Yemen for the fi rst 

time. Male characters of the specimens from Oman and Saudi Arabia are fi gured by KEJVAL 

(2002). 

Anthelephila paolii (Krekich-Strassoldo, 1928) 

(Fig. 21) 

Remarks. Species described by KREKICH-STRASSOLDO (1928) from the southern part of the 

Somali Republic (‘Somalia Italiana’). In Yemen recorded from Wadi Dareija [SW of Dhala], 

Usaifi ra [N of Ta’izz], and from the vicinity of Ta’izz and Sana’a (PIC & HAWKINS 1957). 

Anthelephila paolii belongs to a small, almost exclusively Afrotropical group of species 

characterized by the presence of a conspicuous, longitudinal median sulcus on the pronotal 

disc (Fig. 21). Having examined the relevant Yemeni specimens from the BMNH, I can 

agree with remark made by J. Balfour-Browne in PIC & HAWKINS (1957) on identifi cation. 

However, based on the African specimens of my collection, it seems that the fi gures of the 

male characters by KREKICH-STRASSOLDO (1928) are rather sketchy, and / or there is variation 

in the detailed morphology of male sternite VIII. 

Anthelephila pilitarsis sp. nov. 

(Figs. 6–11, 22) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra, Noged plain, Qaareh, 12°20′10′′ N 53°37′56′′ E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is.; 5.-6.xii.2003 Noged plain: QAAREH (waterfall) N 12°20′10′′ 

E 53°37′56′′ 37 m [GPS]; Jan Farkač lgt. [p] // YEMEN - SOQOTRA 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek 

& David Král [p]’ (NMPC). 

Description. Male (holotype). Body length 6.2 mm. Body dark reddish brown, antennae and 

legs somewhat paler (Fig. 22).

358 


Head 1.4 times as long as wide, unevenly rounded posteriorly; tempora subparallel close 

to eyes and then narrowing posteriad, the posterior angles absent; base clearly differentiated 

from short neck. Eyes rather large and convex. Dorsal surface only moderately glossy, largely 

distinctly longitudinally corrugated except for basal area; punctation obscured by corrugation. 

Setation pale, rather short, subdecumbent, with few inconspicuous erect setae. Antennae long 

and slender, slightly enlarged in terminal third; antennomere X 2.8 times and antennomere 

XI 3.6 times as long as wide. 

Pronotum 1.6 times as long as wide, at most slightly narrower than head across eyes, 

somewhat unevenly rounded anteriorly (angled near collar) and moderately impressed posterolaterally 

in dorsal view; pronotal disc evenly shaped, its outline more or less convex in lateral 

view. Surface moderately glossy, largely distinctly corrugated, except of small unwrinkled 

area laterally near procoxal cavities; dorsal punctation obscured by longitudinal corrugation. 

Setation similar to that on head. 


Elytra elongate, 2.1 times as long as wide, conjointly rounded apically; humeri protruding; 

postbasal impression indistinct. Surface glossy, distinctly punctate; basal half with punctation 

inconspicuously double, coarse punctures simple, evenly spaced, intermixed fi ne punctures 

nearly indistinct. Setation pale, generally moderately longer than that on head, subdecumbent, 

with few short and inconspicuous erect setae. 


Fore legs modifi ed (Figs. 7, 8); profemora with moderately long and narrow process, fl attened, 

rounded to subtruncate apically, with dense row of short and stiff black setae on apical 

margin; protibiae moderately dilated on inner side at mid-length and more distinctly lobed 

on their outer side distally; penultimate tarsomere widened / fl attened distally, with terminal 

tarsomere articulated dorsally in all tarsi. Basal metatarsomere with conspicuously long and 

somewhat tufted setation (Fig. 9). 

Abdominal characters as in Fig. 10; sternum III with pair of small protuberances shortly 

before posterior margin; paired prongs of sternite VIII strongly arcuate in basal half in lateral 

view; apical portion of tegmen 0.4 times as long as basal piece, trilobed apically (Fig. 11). 


Differential diagnosis. Anthelephila pilitarsis sp. nov. is undoubtedly very close to A. bejceki 

Kejval, 2002 from Socotra, belonging to the A. angustiformis species-group (KEJVAL 2002), 

as suggested by similarity of the male characters. Externally it can be distinguished from the 

latter species by posteriorly narrower head with subparallel tempora (basal arch nearly evenly 

parabolic in A. bejceki), more distinct corrugation of the head and longer, more slender antennae 

(antennomere X 1.7 times and XI 2.6 times as long as wide in A. bejceki), by the indistinctly 

double punctation of the elytra (fi ne intermixed punctures numerous and quite distinct in A. 

bejceki), and the conspicuously long, tufted setation of the basal metatarsomeres. In addition, 

it differs in details of the morphology of male sternite VIII and the tegmen of the aedeagus 

(lateral lobes more elongate, narrowed and pointed apically in A. bejceki). 

Etymology. Composed of the Latin words pilis (hairs) and tarsus; referring to the conspicuously 

long, tufted setation of the basal metatarsomere in the male holotype. 

Distribution. Yemen (Socotra).


Figs. 12–16. Anthelephila praefecta sp. nov. (paratype): 12 – habitus (part); 13 – head in lateral view; 14 – sternum 

VII (bottom), sternite VIII (middle) and tergite VIII (top); 15 – sternum VII, detail of median process; 16 – apical 

portion of aedeagus.

360 


Figs. 17–24. Anthelephila spp., body in dorsal view. 17 – A. anceyi rathjensi (Pic, 1957), female, Wadi Zabid; 

18 – A. bispilifasciata bispilifasciata (Pic, 1897), female, Turbah; 19 – same species, male, Lawdar; 20 – A. caeruleipennis 

(LaFerté-Sénectère, 1849), male, Lawdar; 21 – A. paolii (Krekich-Strassoldo, 1928), male, Sana’a; 

22 – A. pilitarsis sp. nov., holotype; 23 – A. praefecta sp. nov., paratype, female, Jabal Bura; 24 – A. walkeri (Pic, 

1895), male, Al Mukalla.


Anthelephila praefecta sp. nov. 

(Figs. 12–16, 23) 

Type locality. Yemen, Al Hudaydah governorate, Jabal Bura valley forest National Park, 240–350 m, 14°52.4–5′N 

43°24.6–25.2′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘YEMEN, AL HUDAYDAH gov., Jabal Bura valley forest NP (stream valley; at light), 

240-350 m 14°52.4-5′N 43°24.6-25.2′E Jiří Hájek leg. 4.xi.2010 [p]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES: 1 �, ‘YEMEN, Al 

Hudaydah gov., Jabal Bura valley forest NP (stream vall., at light), 240-350 m, 14°52.4-5′N 43°24.6-25.2′E, 4.xi.2010, 

P. Hlaváč leg. [p]’ (ZKDC); 1 � [lacking head and pronotum, including front legs], same data, except: J. Bezděk 

leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, ‘W Yemen, 20 km NW of Dhawran, 1794 m, 14°40′N 44°13′E, 29.X.2005, S. Kadlec leg. [p]’ 

(ZKDC); 1 �, ‘W YEMEN Jabal Bura’ 557 m NEE Al Hudaydah N14°53′ / E43°26′ (light) 9.-21.III.2007 M. Rejzek 

[3] [p]’ (NMPC); 1 �, ‘W YEMEN, Jabal Sabir, S of Taizz, 13°31′N 44°33′E, 2977 m, 23.iii.2007, S. Kadlec leg. 

[p]’ (ZKDC); 1 �, ‘S YEMEN, Lawdar NE Adan, N13°53′ E45°48′E, 1145 m, 22.X.2005, lgt. M. Rejzek BMNH 

{E} 2006-6 [p]’ (BMNH). 

Description. Female (holotype). Body length 4.7 mm. Head black; pronotum reddish; elytra 

black with bluish refl ection (Fig. 23); legs, antennae and palpi reddish to reddish brown. 

Head 1.2 times as long as wide, nearly evenly rounded posteriorly, slightly angled posteromedially 

in dorsal view; tempora strongly narrowing posteriad, the posterior angles absent; 

base somewhat indistinctly differentiated from short neck (Fig. 13). Eyes medium-sized, 

convex. Dorsal surface only moderately glossy, largely corrugated, including some distinct 

longitudinal wrinkles; punctation obscured by corrugation. Setation pale, decumbent, rather 

long and raised in posterior half, with scattered, longer erect setae. Antennae long, moderately 

enlarged in terminal third; antennomere X 1.8 times and antennomere XI 2.5 times as 

long as wide. 

Pronotum 1.5 times as long as wide, distinctly narrower than head across eyes, evenly 

rounded anteriorly and rather moderately, shallowly impressed postero-laterally in dorsal 

view; pronotal disc evenly shaped, its outline more or less convex in lateral view. Surface 

glossy, largely smooth, distinctly, mostly longitudinally corrugated on disc, postero-lateral 

impressions shortly wrinkled; punctation fi ne and sparse, obscured by corrugation dorsally. 

Setation similar to that on head. 


Elytra 1.8 times as long as wide, conjointly rounded apically; humeri distinctly protruding; 

postbasal impression absent. Surface glossy, fi nely punctate; basal half with punctures simple, 

evenly spaced. Setation pale, mostly subdecumbent, moderately longer and more raised in 

basal third, with scattered short erect setae. 


Penultimate tarsomere widened / fl attened distally, with terminal tarsomere articulated 

dorsally in all tarsi. Setation of legs normally developed. 

Male (paratype). Abdominal characters as in Figs. 14, 15; tergum VII simple, evenly rounded 

posteriorly; paired prongs of sternite VIII simple; apical portion of tegmen 0.6 times as 

long as basal piece, trilobed apically (Fig. 16). 

Variation. Body length (��) 4.4–4.7 mm. 

Differential diagnosis. Anthelephila praefecta sp. nov. is a rather conspicuous species, which 

does not seem to be close to any of its Palaearctic congeners. It resembles A. caeruleipennis 

in its body form and colouration (cf. Figs. 23 versus 20), but displays quite dissimilar

362 


morphology of male abdominal sternum VII and sternite VIII. Externally, it differs from the 

latter species in the head base being somewhat less distinctly differentiated from the neck, 

narrower pronotum (in relation to head width), by the corrugated dorsal surface of the head 

and pronotum, and fi ner punctation and short, less raised setation of the elytra. 

Etymology. From Latin praefectus (governor); referring to the administrative subdivision of 

Yemen into governorates. Noun in apposition. 

Distribution. Yemen. 

Anthelephila simoni (Pic, 1893) 

Material examined. YEMEN: 1 �, Ghayl Ba Wazir, NE of Al Mukalla, 14°49′N 49°25′E, 126 m, 18.x.2005, P. 

Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 5 �� 6 ��, Wadi Zabid, E of Zabid, 14°09′N 43°31′E, 325 m, 22.iii.2007, S. Kadlec leg. 

(ZKDC, NMPC); 1 � 1 �, dtto, P. Kabátek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, 1 �, Al Hudaydah gov., Jabal Bura valley forest 

National Park, stream valley, at light, 240–350 m, 14°52.4–5′N 43°24.6–25.2′E, 4.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg. (ZKDC); 

1 �, dtto, P. Hlaváč leg. (ZKDC); 1 � 1 �, Jabal Bura’, NEE Al Hudaydah, 14°53′N 43°26′E, 557 m, at light, 

9.–21.iii.2007, M. Rejzek leg. (ZKDC); 1 �, 30 km NW of At Turbah, 13°15′N 44°01′E, 1300 m, Acacia forest on 

slope, at light, 25.iii.2007, M. Rejzek leg. (ZKDC). 

Remarks. A species described from Yemen (‘Aden’), and reliably known only from this 

country. For its redescription see KEJVAL (2002). 

Anthelephila walkeri (Pic, 1895) 

(Fig. 24) 

Material examined. YEMEN: 1 � 1 �, Kawr Sayban mt., NW of Al Mukalla, 14°37′N 49°03′E, at light, 29.iii.2007, 

M. Rejzek leg. (ZKDC); 1 � 3 ��, dtto, 575 m, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC, NMPC); 1 �, Jabal Bura, NEE Al Hudaydah, 

14°53′N 43°26′E, 557 m, 21.iii.2007, S. Kadlec leg. (ZKDC); 1 � 1 �, Lahij gov., Wadi Am Rija, W of Lahij Al 

Hutah by road, 13°01′57′′ N 44°33′30′′ [GPS], 297 m, 25.–26.x.2007, A. Reiter leg. (ZKDC). 

Remarks. Species described from Aden and Perim in Yemen, and known so far only from 

this country and Saudi Arabia (KEJVAL 2002). It was redescribed by KEJVAL (2002), including 

designation of a lectotype for the specimen collected on the island of Perim. 


My thanks are due to Maxwell V. L. Barclay (BMNH) and Jiří Hájek (NMPC) for loan 

of the specimens in their care and to Donald S. Chandler (University of New Hampshire, 

Durham, U.S.A.) and Vladimír Švihla (NMPC) for reviewing the manuscript and valuable 

comments. 

References 

CHANDLER D. S., NARDI G. & TELNOV D. 2004: Nomenclatural notes on the Palaearctic Anthicidae (Coleoptera). 

Mitteilungen des Internationalen Entomologischen Vereins e. V. (Frankfurt am Main) 29: 109–173. 

CHANDLER D. S., UHMANN G., NARDI G. & TELNOV D. 2008: Family Anthicidae Latreille, 1819. Pp. 421–455. 

In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 5. Tenebrionoidea. Apollo 

Books, Stenstrup, 670 pp.


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of Formicomus with red prothorax in South Africa. Proceedings of the Royal Entomological Society of London, 

Series B 22: 9–14. 

HILLE J. C. VAN 1953b: The genus Formicomus (Coleoptera, Anthicidae) in H. C. Dollman’s collection from N. 

Rhodesia. Proceedings of the Royal Entomological Society of London, Series B 22: 147–154. 

HILLE J. C. VAN 1977: Species of the genus Formicomus Laf. from North-East Africa and adjacent parts of the 

Arabian Peninsula (Coleoptera: Anthicidae). Entomologica Scandinavica 8: 197–204. 

INTERNATIONAL COMMISSION ON ZOOLOGICAL NOMENCLATURE 1999: International Code of Zoological 

Nomenclature. Fourth Edition. International Trust for Zoological Nomenclature, London, xxix + 306 pp. 

KEJVAL Z. 2000: Revisional notes on the Palaearctic Formicomus (Coleoptera: Anthicidae). Acta Societatis Zoologicae 

Bohemicae 64: 403–417. 

KEJVAL Z. 2002: The species of Anthelephila (Coleoptera: Anthicidae) related to A. angustiformis and A. walkeri. 

Folia Heyrovskyana 10: 83–114. 

KEJVAL Z. 2010: Studies of the genus Anthelephila (Coleoptera: Anthicidae). 11. New species and records from 

India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Oman. Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae 50: 189–234. 

KREKICH-STRASSOLDO H. VON 1928: Il Formicomus canaliculatus Laf. e species affi ni ďAfrica. Annali del 

Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Genova 52: 383–386. 

PIC M. 1897: Description de coléoptères nouveaux. Le Naturaliste 19: 134. 

PIC M. 1898a: Description de coléoptères nouveaux. Le Naturaliste 20: 63. 

PIC M. 1898b: Anthicides (Col. Hétéromères) africains nouveaux des collections du Muséum de Paris. Bulletin du 

Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle (Paris) 4: 67–72. 

PIC M. 1899: Description de coléoptères nouveaux. Le Naturaliste 21: 264. 

PIC M. & HAWKINS C. N. 1957: Coleoptera: Anthicidae. Expedition to South-West Arabia 1(29): 435–450. 

UHMANN G. 1985: Paläarktische Anthiciden (Coleoptera) des Ungarischen Naturwissenschaftlichen Museums 

Budapest. Folia Entomologica Hungarica 46: 177–203. 

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of Arabia 17: 93–105.

364 




Synonymical notes on the genus Sybrinus from Socotra 

Island (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) 

Jiří HÁJEK 1) & Petr KABÁTEK 2) 


e-mail: jiri_hajek@nm.cz 

2) Pešlova 133/10, CZ-190 00 Praha 9, Czech Republic; e-mail: kaabatek@volny.cz 

Abstract. Based on study of type material, the following new synonymies in 

the genus Sybrinus Gahan, 1900 are proposed: Sybrinus simonyi Gahan, 1903 = 

S. sokotrensis Jiroux, Sudre & Téocchi, 2004, syn. nov., and S. x-ornatus Téocchi, 

Jiroux & Sudre, 2007 = S. kabateki Téocchi, Jiroux & Sudre, 2007, syn. nov. 

A lectotype is designated for S. commixtus Gahan, 1900. All three currently known 

Socotran species of Sybrinus are illustrated and their host plants are mentioned. 

A checklist of the genus Sybrinus is provided. 

Key words. Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Sybrinus, new synonymy, host plants, 


Introduction 

The cerambycid fauna of the Socotra Archipelago is relatively species-poor, only 13 species 

have been formally recorded from the Socotra Island so far (ADLBAUER 2004, 2005; JIROUX 

et al. 2004; NEUMANN et al. 2004; TÉOCCHI et al. 2007; HOLZSCHUH 2008; LO CASCIO & GRITA 

2009). Twelve species are considered endemic to the island, one species also occur in the 

Arabian Peninsula (cf. HOLZSCHUH 2008). 

The most speciose cerambycid genus in Socotra is Sybrinus Gahan, 1900 with fi ve described 

species. The study of large Sybrinus material collected recently during various Czech entomological 

expeditions and its comparison with the type material of all respective species 

revealed two new synonymies which we propose below, reducing the number of Sybrinus 

species in Socotra Island to three. 


The material studied was examined with an Olympus SZX12 stereoscopic microscope. 

Photographs of specimens were taken with a Canon EOS 550D digital camera with a Canon 



366 

HÁJEK & KABÁTEK: Synonymical notes on Socotran Sybrinus (Cerambycidae) 

MP-E 65 mm objective. Images of the same specimen at different focal planes were combined 

using the Helicon Focus 5.1.19 software. The genitalia were studied in dry condition. Exact 

label data are cited and given in quotation marks for all the material. Authors’ additional 

remarks are given in square brackets. 

The specimens included in this study are deposited in the following institutional and private 

collections: 

BMNH Natural History Museum [former British Museum (Natural History)], London, Great Britain (Maxwell 

V. L. Barclay); 


MNHN Muséum Nationale d’Histoire naturelle, Paris, France (Thierry Deuve, Azadeh Taghavian); 


PKCP Petr Kabátek collection, Prague, Czech Republic. 

Systematics 

Sybrinus Gahan, 1900 

Sybrinus Gahan, 1900: 12 (type species S. commixtus Gahan, 1900, by monotypy); AURIVILLIUS (1922): 299 (catalogue); 

ADLBAUER (2010): 227 (catalogue). 

Arabosybrinus Breuning, 1948: 16 (type species S. fl avescens Breuning, 1948, by original designation). 

Sokotrosybrinus Breuning, 1949: 21 (type species S. simonyi Gahan, 1903, by original designation). 

GAHAN (1900) described the genus Sybrinus based on the single species S. commixtus Gahan, 

1900 from Socotra Island, and placed it close to the genus Sybra Pascoe, 1865, within the 

group ‘Ptericoptides’. GAHAN (1903) redescribed the genus and added one new species, again 

from Socotra Island. In accordance with GAHAN’s (1900) original description, AURIVILLIUS 

(1922) catalogued Sybrinus within the tribe Ptericoptini, and named one variety mentioned 

in GAHAN (1903). Subsequently BREUNING (1948) described two new species from ‘Aden’ in 

the new subgenus Arabosybrinus Breuning, 1948, BREUNING (1949) created a new subgenus 

Sokotrosybrinus Breuning, 1949 based on the Socotran S. simonyi, and BREUNING (1950) added 

three new species of Sybrinus from east Africa. In addition, BREUNING (1978) described two 

more Afrotropical Sybrinus, those were, however, synonymised with species of the genus 

Nyoma Duvivier, 1892 by SUDRE & TÉOCCHI (2005) and TÉOCCHI et al. (2008). HOLZSCHUH 

& TÉOCCHI (1991) listed both Arabian species, noted that they were erroneously placed in 

the genus Sybrinus and transferred them to genus Sophroniella Breuning, 1943. However, 

most recently, JIROUX et al. (2004) overlooked this synonymy and described a third Socotran 

taxon: Sybrinus (Arabosybrinus) albosignatus sokotrensis Jiroux, Sudre & Téocchi, 2004. 

Subsequently, TÉOCCHI et al. (2007) elevated the subspecies to specifi c rank, added two more 

new species, but also listed S. commixtus within the subgenus Arabosybrinus and assumed 

S. simonyi to be its synonym. Since S. commixtus and S. simonyi are the type species of their 

respective subgenera, by doing this TÉOCCHI et al. (2007) in fact informally synonymised 

all Sybrinus subgenera – which was formally published by SAMA (2010). SAMA (2010) also 

established a formal synonymy of Sybrinus with Sophroniella, currently a junior synonym 

of Nyoma (Sophronica punctata Jordan, 1894, type species of Sophroniella, is considered to 

be a junior subjective synonym of Nyoma parallela Duvivier, 1892, type species of Nyoma). 

Since the synonymy of Sybrinus and Nyoma is not based on study of type species, we retain,


Figs. 1–6. Habitus of Sybrinus. 1 – Sybrinus commixtus Gahan, 1900 (Hadibo; 11 mm); 2 – S. albosignatus Breuning, 

1948 (Yemen, wadi Sari; 11 mm); 3 – S. simonyi Gahan, 1903 � (W of Hadibo; 10 mm); 4 – S. simonyi � (W 

of Hadibo; 10 mm); 5 – S. x-ornatus Téocchi, Jiroux & Sudre, 2007 (Scant Mt.; 12 mm); 6 – S. x-ornatus (holotype; 

14 mm).

368 


Figs. 7–15. Male genitalia of Sybrinus. 7–9. Sybrinus commixtus Gahan, 1900; 10–12. S. simonyi Gahan, 1903; 

13–15. S. x-ornatus Téocchi, Jiroux & Sudre, 2007. 7, 10, 13 – median lobe in dorsal view; 8, 11, 14 – same in 

lateral view; 9, 12, 15 – parameres.


in accordance with TÉOCCHI et al. (2009), both genera as valid, pending a comprehensive 

revision of the group. 

After the synonymy presented below, the genus Sybrinus contains seven species occurring 

in east Africa (3 species), Socotra Island (3 species) and continental Yemen (2 species). 

Sybrinus commixtus Gahan, 1900 

(Figs. 1, 7–9) 

Sybrinus commixtus Gahan, 1900: 13 (original description); GAHAN (1903): 286 (description); AURIVILLIUS (1922): 

299 (catalogue); NEUMANN et al. (2004): 139 (notes); ADLBAUER (2010): 227 (catalogue). 

Sybrinus sp.: GAHAN (1903): 287 (notes). 

Sybrinus commixtus var. Gahani Aurivillius, 1922: 299 (description by indication to GAHAN 1903: 287). 

Sybrinus (Sybrinus) commixtus: BREUNING (1949): 21 (notes). 

Sybrinus (Arabosybrinus) commixtus: TÉOCCHI et al. (2007): 21 (redescription). 

Type material. Sybrinus commixtus: LECTOTYPE: �, by present designation (BMNH), labelled: ‘Type [p] / � [hw] 

[rounded label with red margin] // Adho Dimellus, / Sokotra. [p] / 3500-4500 [hw] feet. [p] / 1-17 [hw] .Feb. 99. 

/ W.R.O.Grant. / 99–85. [p] // Sybrinus / commixtus / Gahan � / � Type [hw] // LECTOTYPE � / SYBRINUS / 

commixtus Gahan, 1900 / J. Hájek & P. Kabátek des. 2011 [p, red label]’. 

Sybrinus commixtus var. gahani: HOLOTYPE: � (BMNH), labelled: ‘Type [p, rounded label with red margin] // 

Jena–agahan, / Sokotra. / 1200 [hw] feet. [p] / .Jan 99. / W.R.O.Grant. / 99–85. [p] // S. commixtus / v. Gahani Auriv. 

[hw] / det. K.G.Blair [p] // HOLOTYPE � / SYBRINUS / commixtus / var. gahani Aurivillius, 1922 / J. Hájek & 

P. Kabátek des. 2011 [p, red label]’. 

Additional material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: 9 spec., Hadiboh env., 12°65′02″N, 54°02′04E, 10–100 m, 

21.xi.–12.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 5 spec., same data, but D. Král leg. (NMPC); 7 spec., 10 km W Hadibo, 

10–70 m, 23.xi.+11.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 1 spec., Suq env., 12°40′02″N, 54°03′45″E, 20–170 m, sand 

dune, 22.xi.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 6 spec., wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°58′49″E, 190 m, 24.–26.xi.2003, P. 

Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 1 spec., Lahas (pass), 12°38′46″N, 54°05′26″E, 69 m, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 2 spec., Homhil 

protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 364 m, 28.–29.xi.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 1 spec., Homhil area, 

12°34′25″N, 54°18′53″E, 400–510 m, at light, 9.–10.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (NMPC); 3 spec., Dixam 

plateau, wadi Esgego, 12°28′09″N, 54°00′36″E, 300 m, 2.–3.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 1 spec., Firmihin 

plateau, 12°28′46″N, 54°00′89″E, 400–500 m, 18.–19.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (NMPC). 

Comments on classifi cation. The number and depositary of syntypes of S. commixtus is 

unknown. For that reason we here designate a lectotype to fi x the identity of this species. 

TÉOCCHI et al. (2007) suggested synonymy of Sybrinus commixtus and S. albosignatus Breuning, 

1948 described from Yemen (‘Aden’). We have compared Socotran material with the type 

of S. albosignatus [badly damaged, lacks head and prothorax] deposited in MNHN, as well with 

large recently collected material from several localities in Yemen. The two species are closely 

related and may represent subspecies of one taxon or even synonyms. However, small differences 

between insular and continental populations can be detected: The apex of elytra is less 

prominent and obtusely rounded, and the surface setation is usually denser and generally paler 

in S. albosignatus (Fig. 2). Therefore we prefer to retain both taxa as separate species. 

Bionomic notes. Sybrinus commixtus is a polyphagous species reared from number of trees 

and bushes in Socotra Island: Adenium obesum socotranum (Vierhapper) Lavranos (Apocynaceae); 

Boswelia ameero Balf.f. (Burseraceae); Cephalocroton socotranum Balf.f., Euphorbia 

arbuscula Balf.f., Jatropha unicostata Balf.f. (Euphorbiaceae); Sterculia africana socotrana 

(K. Sch.) Abedin et al. (Malvaceae); Acacia pennivenia Schweinf. (Fabaceae). Adults are 

frequently collected at light.

370 


Sybrinus simonyi Gahan, 1903 

(Figs. 3–4, 10–12) 

Sybrinus simonyi Gahan, 1903: 287 (original description); AURIVILLIUS (1922): 299 (catalogue); NEUMANN et al. 

(2004): 139 (notes); ADLBAUER (2010): 227 (catalogue). 

Sybrinus (Sokotrosybrinus) simonyi: BREUNING (1949): 21 (new subgeneric placement). 

Sybrinus nov. spec. ?: NEUMANN et al. (2004): 139 (notes). 

Sybrinus (Arabosybrinus) albosignatus sokotrensis Jiroux, Sudre & Téocchi, 2004: 22 (original description), syn. 

nov. 

Sybrinus (Arabosybrinus) sokotrensis: TÉOCCHI et al. (2007): 21 (redescription). 

Sybrinus sokotrensis: ADLBAUER (2010): 227 (catalogue). 

Type material. Sybrinus simonyi: HOLOTYPE: � (BMNH), labelled: ‘Type [p, rounded label with red margin] // 

Jena–agahan, / Sokotra. / 1200 [hw] feet. [p] / .Jan 99. / W.R.O.Grant. / 99–85. [p] // Sybrinus / simplex, / Gahan / Type 

[hw] // HOLOTYPE � / SYBRINUS / simonyi Gahan, 1903 / J. Hájek & P. Kabátek des. 2011 [p, red label]’. 

Sybrinus albosignatus sokotrensis: HOLOTYPE � (MNHN), labelled: ‘Ile de Sokotra / Nov. 1997 / Dr. Canu leg 

[handwritten] // HOLOTYPE [red label, printed] // Sybrinus / (Arabosybrinus) / albosignatus Breuning / subsp. 

sokotrensis nov. / J. Sudre et P. Téocchi / det 2004 [handwritten]’. 

Additional material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: 22 spec., 10 km W Hadibo, 10–70 m, 23.xi.+11.xii.2003, P. 

Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 1 spec., Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E, 364 m, 28.–29.xi.2003, P. Kabátek 

leg. (PKCP); 4 spec., Noged plain, Qaareh waterfall, 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″E, 57 m, 5.–6.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. 

(PKCP) [These specimens were erroneously listed as paratypes of S. sokotrensis by TÉOCCHI et al. (2007: 21)]; 2 

spec., wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N, 53°58′49″E, 190 m, 24.–26.xi.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 3 spec., wadi Ayhaft, 

12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200 m, at light, 7–8.xi.2010, J. Batelka leg. (JBCP); 2 spec., same data, but J. Bezděk leg. 

(NMPC); 2 spec., same data, but J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); 1 spec., Al Haghier Mts., W slopes, Skant area, 12°35′52″N, 

54°00′01″E, 900–1240 m, 2.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 4 spec., Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE from Quaysoh, 

12°39.691′N, 53°26.658′E, 4.–5.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (NMPC); 1 spec., Dixam plateau, Firmihin, 

Dracaena forest, 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, 15.–16.xi.2010, L. Purchart leg. (NMPC). 

Comments on classifi cation. Although the type specimen of Sybrinus simonyi bears an identifi 

cation label ‘Sybrinus simplex’, the specimen fi ts perfectly to Gahan’s description and we have 

no doubts about its authenticity. We assume that Gahan changed the name during publication 

and dedicated the new species to Prof. Oscar Simony without changing the respective label. 

JIROUX et al. (2004) did not study the type of S. simonyi and compared their S. albosignatus 

sokotrensis only with a non-type specimen from Saudi Arabia attributed to the nominotypical 

S. albosignatus. Similarly TÉOCCHI et al. (2007), when they elevated the taxon to specifi c rank, 

compared S. sokotrensis only with description of S. albosignatus and S. commixtus – and 

both mentioned species indeed differ signifi cantly from S. sokotrensis in many characters. 

However, when we compared S. sokotrensis with the single type specimen of S. simonyi, we 

found no differences between the two taxa, and therefore consider Sybrinus sokotrensis syn. 

nov. to be a junior subjective synonym of S. simonyi. 

Bionomic notes. Sybrinus simonyi was reared from spurges Euphorbia arbuscula and Jatropha 

unicostata (both Euphorbiaceae). Adult beetles were also collected at light. 

Sybrinus x-ornatus Téocchi, Jiroux & Sudre, 2007 

(Figs. 5–6, 13–15) 

Sybrinus (s. str.) x-ornatus Téocchi, Jiroux & Sudre, 2007: 23 (original description). 

Sybrinus (Arabosybrinus ?) kabateki Téocchi, Jiroux & Sudre, 2007: 23 (original description), syn. nov. 

Sybrinus kabateki: ADLBAUER (2010): 227 (catalogue). 

Sybrinus x-ornatus: ADLBAUER (2010): 227 (catalogue).


Type material. Sybrinus kabateki: HOLOTYPE: � (PKCP), labelled: ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., Al haghier / mts., W slopes, 

SKANT area / 2 xii.2003, N 12°35′52″ E 54°/ 00′01″,900–1240 m [GPS] / leg. P. Kabátek, ex larvae [printed] // 

Cephalocroton / socotranus [printed] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA / 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & 

David Král [printed] // HOLOTYPE [printed, red label] // Sybrinus / (Arabosybrinus ?) / kabateki nov. sp. / J. Sudre 

et P. Téocchi / det. 2005 [handwritten]’. 

Sybrinus x-ornatus: HOLOTYPE � (PKCP), labelled: ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., Al haghier / mts., W slopes, SKANT 

area / 2 xii.2003, N 12°35′52″ E 54°/ 00′01″,900–1240 m [GPS] / leg. P. Kabátek [printed] ex larve [handwritten] 

// Cephalocroton / socotranus [printed] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA / 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & 

David Král [printed] // HOLOTYPE [printed, red label] // Sybrinus / (s. str.) / x. ornatus nov. / J. Sudre et P. Téocchi 

/ det. 2005 [handwritten]’. 

Additional material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: 14 spec., same data as both holotypes (PKCP); 1 spec., 10 km 

W Hadibo, 10–70 m, 23.xi.+11.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (PKCP); 2 spec., Homhil area, 12°34′25″N, 54°18′53″E, 

400–510 m, at light, 9.–10.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (NMPC). 

Comments on classifi cation. TÉOCCHI et al. (2007) had seen only two pairs of Sybrinus reared 

from the same twig of Cephalocroton socotranus. Since the specimens differ in body length 

and dorsal colouration, they decided to describe them as two species: Sybrinus x-ornatus 

and S. kabateki, respectively. In their original description, the authors compare the two taxa 

only with S. commixtus and not with each other. After study of the whole series, we have 

found that the body size of both holotypes falls within the known intraspecifi c variability 

(10–14 mm), and the different body colouration can be ascribed to individual variation, and 

to scraping of dorsal setae on the holotype of S. x-ornatus. As we were not able to fi nd any 

other differences between the two taxa, we consider Sybrinus kabateki syn. nov. to be a junior 

subjective synonym of S. x-ornatus. 

Bionomic notes. Apart from Cephalocroton socotranus (Euphorbiaceae), from which the 

type series was reared, the specimen from environs of Hadibo was reared from Euphorbia 

arbuscula (Euphorbiaceae). Adults from Homhil were collected at light. 

Checklist of the genus Sybrinus Gahan, 1900 

Sybrinus albosignatus Breuning, 1948: 16 (Yemen) 

Sybrinus commixtus Gahan, 1900: 13 (Yemen: Socotra) 

Sybrinus commixtus gahani Aurivillius, 1922: 299 

Sybrinus crassipes Breuning, 1950: 172 (Tanzania) 

Sybrinus grossepunctipennis Breuning, 1950: 172 (Somalia) 

Sybrinus fl avescens Breuning, 1948: 16 (Yemen) 

Sybrinus persimilis Breuning, 1950: 171 (Sudan) 

Sybrinus simonyi Gahan, 1903: 287 (Yemen: Socotra) 

Sybrinus albosignatus sokotrensis Jiroux, Sudre & Téocchi, 2004: 22, syn. nov. 

Sybrinus x-ornatus Téocchi, Sudre & Jiroux, 2007: 23 (Yemen: Socotra) 

Sybrinus kabateki Téocchi, Sudre & Jiroux, 2007: 23, syn. nov. 

Species excluded from the genus Sybrinus 

Sybrinus albomarmoratus Breuning, 1978: 107. Currently Nyoma fuscosignata (Breuning, 

1948), see SUDRE & TÉOCCHI (2005). 

Sybrinus fl avicans Breuning, 1978: 107. Currently Nyoma fl avoapicalis (Lepesme & 

Breuning, 1953), see TÉOCCHI et al. (2008).

372 



We are obliged to Maxwell V. L. Barclay (BMNH), Thierry Deuve and Azadeh Taghavian 

(both MNHN) for the possibility to study the material in their care. We are indebted to Richard 

Sehnal (Velenice, Czech Republic) for making of the photos of Sybrinus genitalia. Karl Adlbauer 

(Graz, Austria) and Max Barclay are acknowledged for valuable comments to the manuscript. 

The senior author wishes to thank Jan Bezděk, Vladimír Hula & Luboš Purchart (all Mendel 

University, Brno, Czech Republic) for the possibility to join the Socotra project. The present 

study was supported by the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic (DKRVO 00023272). 

References 

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Bruchinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) 


Alex DELOBEL 

47 avenue Paul Langevin, F–92260 Fontenay aux Roses, France; 

e-mail: delobel.alex@aliceadsl.fr 

Abstract. First data on seed beetles (Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) from Socotra 

Island are presented for seven species: Bruchidius nalandus (Pic, 1927), Callosobruchus 

rhodesianus Pic, 1902, Caryedon gonagra (Fabricius, 1798), Caryedon 

sudanensis Southgate, 1971, Caryedon sp., Conicobruchus medaniensis (Decelle, 

1982), and Spermophagus monardi Decelle, 1975. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Bruchinae, new records, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

So far, no information has been available on seed beetles of Socotra Island, contrary to 

nearby countries: Somalia and the Arabian Peninsula (ANTON 2010, DECELLE 1979a,b, DELOBEL 

2011, JOHNSON et al. 2004, YUS RAMOS 2004). A small collection of Bruchinae was gathered 

during the recent expeditions conducted by the Mendel University in Brno and supplemented 

by additional specimens from the National Museum Prague and the Czech University of Life 

Sciences Prague (Expedition Soqotra 2003). The present data constitute a welcome addition 

to our knowledge of the East African and Arabian fauna of Bruchinae. 


Examination of external structures was carried out under a stereoscopic microscope (Wild 

MZ8). After dissection, genitalia were heated in hypertonic NaOH solution, and examined 

under a light microscope (Leitz Laborlux K). To prepare Figs. 1–7, digital photographs of 

microscope preparations were taken using a hand held Canon Powershot G3 camera, and 

transferred to a vector graphics editing program. Distribution data are based on available 

literature and, particularly for mainland Yemen, on ANTON (2010). 



374 

DELOBEL: Bruchinae from Socotra Island (Chrysomelidae) 

Specimens are deposited in the collection of the National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic 

(NMPC); some duplicates are also in the author′s personal collection (CBAD), in the collection 

of Faculty of Forestry, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (CULS) 

and in the personal collection of Jan Bezděk, Brno, Czech Republic (JBCB). 

Results 

Bruchidius nalandus (Pic, 1927) 

Material examined (111 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Coastal road, shrubby area, ca. 5 km W of Hadibo, 

13.vi.2009, 5 spec., L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); Shrub 5 km E of Hadiboh, 13.vi.2009, 1 spec., V. Hula leg. (NMPC); 

Elhe nursery, 12°32′39″N 54°04′43″E, 19.vi.2009, 3 spec., V. Hula leg. (NMPC); Shibhon, 12°28′15″N E53°58′31″E, 

680 m, 13.vi.2009, 7 spec., L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); Wadi between Firmihim and Shibhon, 23.vi.2009, 1 spec., L. 

Purchart leg. (NMPC); Di Lishe beach, 20 m, 2.ii.2010, 3 spec., L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); Zemhon area, 12°30′58″N 

E54°06′39″E, 270–350 m, 3.–4.ii.2010, 15 spec., L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (NMPC); Firmihin, 12°28′27″N 

E54°0′54″E, 400–500 m, at light, 6.–7.ii.2010, 3 spec., L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (2 spec. in NMPC, 1 spec. in 

CBAD); Di Hamri, 12°37′59″N 54°15′40″E, 20 m, 27.ii.2010, 4 spec., L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); Dgisfu Valley, 

12°28.444′N 54°08.596′E, 2.vi.2010, 1 spec., V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (CBAD); Deiqub cave env., 10.vi.2010, 

6 spec., V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (5 spec in NMPC, 1 spec. in CBAD); Zemhon area, 12°20′58″N 54°06′39″E, 

270–300 m, 16.–17.vi.2010, 9 spec., V. Hula leg. (NMPC); Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m, 7.–8.xi.2010, 1 

spec., J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); same data, 1 spec., P. Hlaváč leg. (NMPC); same data, 1 spec., J. Batelka leg. (NMPC); 

same data, 4 spec., J. Bezděk leg. (3 spec. in JBCB, 1 spec. in CBAD); Aloove area, Hasan vill. env., 12°31.2′N 

54°07.4′E, 221 m, 9.–10.xi.2010, 1 spec., J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); Noged Plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env., 

12°21.9′N 54°05.03′E, 20 m, 10.–11.xi.2010, 19 spec., J. Bezděk leg. (16 spec. in JBCB, 3 spec. in CBAD); same 

data, 1 spec., L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); same data, 2 spec., J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); same data, 3 spec., P. Hlaváč 

leg. (NMPC); same data, 1 spec., J. Batelka leg. (NMPC); Dixam plateau, Firmihim (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N 

54°01.1′E, 490 m, 15.–16.xi.2010, 2 spec., J. Hájek leg. (NMPC, CBAD); same data, 1 spec., J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); 

Aloove area, Aloove vill. env., Jatropha unicostata shrubland with Boswellia elongata trees, 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 

221 m, 19.–20.vi.2012, 2 spec., J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart 

leg. (NMPC); Deiqub cave, cave & Croton socotranus + Jatropha unicostata shrubland, 12°23.1′N 54°00.9′E, 115 

m, 12.vi.2012, 11 spec., J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. 

(NMPC); Noged plain, Abataro, border of sand dunes and shrubland, 12.–13.vi.2012, 12°22.1′N 54°03.4′E, 20 m, 1 

spec., J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); Sheq vill. 

env., 8.vi.2012, Croton socotranus + Jatropha unicostata shrubland, 12°39.7′N 54°03.8′E, 15 m, 2 spec., J. Bezděk, 

J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. Congo, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Republic of South Africa, Sri Lanka, 

United Arab Emirates, Vietnam. First record from Socotra Island. 

Comments. Morphology is somewhat variable throughout the range of the species. In 

particular, specimens from the United Arab Emirates and Socotra are often notably larger 

than specimens from Southeast Asia. Such differences may be directly related to the nature 

or amount of larval food. The only unquestionable hosts of B. nalandus are seeds of two 

Tephrosia species (Fabaceae: Millettieae), T. candida (Roxb.) DC. and T. purpurea (L.) 

Pers. (see ARORA 1977). In Vietnam, it was also reared on seeds of Crotalaria pallida Aiton 

(Fabaceae). There are several species of the genus Tephrosia growing in Socotra; at least on 

the locality Sheq B. nalandus was collected from the very common T. apollinea (Delile) Link 

(P. Kment, pers. comm.).


Callosobruchus rhodesianus Pic, 1902 

Material examined (5 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N 53°58′49″E, 190 m, 24.– 

26.xi.2003, 1 spec., D. Král leg. (CBAD); Sirhin area, Dixam Plateau, 12°31′08″N 53°59′09″E, 812 m, 1.–2.xii.2003, 

1 spec., P. Kabátek leg. (NMPC); Firmihin, 12°28′27″N 54°0′54″E, 400–500 m, at light, 6.–7.ii.2010, 1 spec., L. 

Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (NMPC); Aloove area, Hasan vill. env., 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 221 m, 9.–10.xi.2010, 1 spec., 

J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N 54°01.1′E, 490 m, 15.–16.xi.2010, 

1 spec., J. Hájek leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. Angola, Benin, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Senegal, Togo, Yemen, Zimbabwe. First 


Comments. Socotran specimens differ markedly from those from mainland Africa: prescutellar 

lobes are much less markedly convex, are covered with dense pale yellowish (instead 

of pure white) setation, and elytral vestiture is much less contrasted (almost uniformly pale 

fulvous in some specimens). Such differences in external morphology would possibly justify 

a separation at species level. Examination of male genitalia however shows that the aedeagus 

of Socotran specimens is perfectly identical with that of specimens from East Africa. The 

median pair of dented sclerites in the internal sac is clearly different in specimens from West 

Africa, so that populations from Socotra appear more closely related with Kenyan than with 

West African populations. 

Callosobruchus rhodesianus is a well-known pest of cowpeas, Vigna unguiculata (L.) 

Walp. (Fabaceae: Phaseoleae: Phaseolinae), both in the fi eld and in stores. According to TUDA 

et al. (2006), its wild populations favour dry areas with a long dry season, which explains 

the ability of this species to use dry and hard beans as a food source. It is also recorded from 

another Phaseolinae, Nesphostylis holosericea (Welw. ex Baker) Verdc. (GILLON et al. 1992), 

but its larvae can also attack members of the subtribe Cajaninae such as Cajanus cajan (L.) 

Millsp. AMEVOIN et al. (2005) showed that C. rhodesianus populations are outcompeted by 

Callosobruchus maculatus when both species coexist in the same stored seeds. 

Caryedon gonagra (Fabricius, 1798) 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38″N 53°58′49″E, 190 m, 24.– 

26.xi.2003, 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (NMPC); Aloove area, Hasan vill. env., 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 221 m, 9.–10.xi.2010, 

1 �, L. Purchart leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. From Egypt to Australia, including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, 

Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen. First record from Socotra Island. 

Comments. Caryedon gonagra used to be confused with the groundnut seed beetle, 

Caryedon serratus (Olivier, 1790) (differentiation in DELOBEL et al. 2003). Its larvae feed 

on seeds of various Caesalpinioideae, including tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.), Gleditsia 

triacanthos L., Senna didymobotrya (Fresen.) Irwin & Barneby, and various species of 

Cassia and Bauhinia; also reared on seeds of Mimosoideae such as Acacia farnesiana (L.) 

Willd., A. raddiana Savi, Dichrostachys cinerea Wight &Arn., and possibly also Prosopis 

julifl ora (Sw.) DC.

376 


Caryedon sp. pr. serratus (Olivier, 1790) 

(Figs. 1–4) 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Zemhon area, 12°30′58″N 54°06′39″E, 270–350 m, 

3.–4.ii.2010, 1 �, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (NMPC); same data, 1 �, V. Hula leg. (NMPC). 

Comments. These two specimens from Zemhon area show some similarity with C. sudanensis 

Southgate, 1971, but are of a darker and more reddish colour; pronotum is clearly less transverse, 

with lateral margin straight in basal three quarters. They obviously belong to a new 

species, but description has been postponed until a male specimen becomes available. Body 

colour is reddish brown, including antennae; anterior and median legs testaceous. Vestiture 

uniformly pale yellowish. Head with strong and shining median keel. Posterior femora with 

pecten made of one slightly stronger spine followed by 7–9 smaller spines. Body length 

3.5–4.7 mm. 

Female genitalia (Figs. 1–4) show strongly defi ned vaginal plates: dorsal vaginal plate 

long and narrow, ventral vaginal plate almost square, with posterior side almost straight, 

Figs. 1–4. Female genitalia of Caryedon sp. pr. serratus: 1 – dorsal view; 2 – lateral view, showing dorsal (d) and 

ventral sclerites of vagina (v), oviduct (o); 3 – spiculum gastrale; 4 – ovipositor.


pointed medially and with marked lateral angles; neck of bursa copulatrix with row of strongly 

pointed spines. 

General female genital structure is similar to C. gonagra, C. angeri (Semenov, 1896) 

or C. serratus (C. serratus species group). Dorsal vaginal plate is shorter and wider in C. 

serratus, posterior side of ventral vaginal plate is regularly rounded in C. serratus and C. 

gonagra; spines in anterior half of bursa copulatrix elongated, with narrow base (rounded 

base in C. gonagra). In C. angeri, the anterior rim of the ventral vaginal sclerite is deeply 

emarginated to accommodate the opening of the oviduct (ANTON & DELOBEL 2004), which 

is not the case here. 

On the other hand, because of the lack of maculation of its integument, the new species 

would fall into C. acaciae group in JOHNSON’s et al. (2004) key to the species groups of 

Caryedon Schönherr, 1823. It may be easily confused with dark specimens of C. sudanensis, 

a species with quite unrelated female genitalia (compare with Figs. 5–6). 

Similar also to C. furcatus Anton & Delobel, 2004, a species recorded in Saudi Arabia 

and mainland Yemen (ANTON 2010), but differs in larger and more transverse pronotum, and 

distinctive female genital plates. 

Caryedon sudanensis Southgate, 1971 

(Figs. 5–6) 

Material examined (89 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Qaareh waterfall, Noged Plain, 12°20′10″N 53°37′56″E, 

57 m, 5.–6.xii.2003, 1 spec., P. Kabátek leg. (NMPC); Homhil Protected Area, 360 m, 12°34′27″N 54°18′32″E, 

28.–29.xi.2003, 1 spec., P. Kabátek leg. (NMPC); same data, 4 spec., D. Král leg. (3 spec. in NMPC, 1 spec. in 

CBAD); same data, 11 spec., J. Farkač leg. (CULS); Dixam plateau, Wadi Esgego, 12°28′09″N 54°00′36″E, 300 m, 

2.–3.xii.2003, 5 spec., P. Kabátek leg. (NMPC); Dixam plateau, Wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08″N 53°59′09″E, 750 m, 3.xii.2003, 

1 spec., D. Král leg. (NMPC); Elhe nursery, 12°18′56.7″N 54°43′14.7″E, 90 m, 19.vi.2009, 4 spec., L. Purchart leg. 

(2 spec. in NMPC, 2 spec. in CBAD); Elhe nursery, 12°32′3969″N 54°04′4385″E, 19.vi.2009, 3 spec., V. Hula leg. 

(NMPC); Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE from Queysoh, 12°39.691′N 53°26.658′E, 4.–5.vi.2010, 1 spec., V. Hula 

& J. Niedobová leg. (NMPC); Deiqub cave env., 10.vi.2010, 1 spec., V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (NMPC); Zemhon, 

12°32′17″N 54°04′12″E, 260–320 m, 20.vi.2009, 6 spec., L. Purchart leg. (3 spec. in NMPC, 3 spec. in CBAD); Wadi 

Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m, 7.–8.xi.2010, 3 spec., J. Hájek leg. (2 spec. in NMPC, 1 spec. in CBAD); same 

data, 5 spec., J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Aloove area, Hasan vill. env., 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 221 m, 9.–10.xi.2010, 3 spec., 

J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); same data, 5 spec., J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Noged Plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env., 

12°21.9′N 54°05.03′E, 20 m, 10.–11.xi.2010, 1 spec., J. Bezděk leg. (CBAD); Delisha vill. env., Jatropha unicostata 

shrubland, 12°41.2′N 54°07.7′E, 36 m, at light, 8.vi.2012, 3 spec., J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, 

J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); Homhil Protected Area, open woodland with Boswellia & Dracaena trees, 

12°34.5′N 54°18.5′E, 360–500 m, 10.–11.vi.2012, 3 spec., J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, 

J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); Homhil Protected area, Ain Tsahrin spring, 12°34.2′N 54°18.5′E, 435 m, 

11.vi.2012, 11 spec, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (NMPC); 

Aloove area, Aloove vill. env., Jatropha unicostata shrubland with Boswellia elongate trees, 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 

221 m, 19.–20.vi.2012, 15 spec., J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart 

leg. (NMPC); Dixam plateau, Firmihin, Dracaena woodland, 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, 14.–15.vi.2012, 2 spec., 

J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. Restricted to Algeria, Egypt, Erithrea, Somalia, and Sudan. First record from 

Socotra Island. The mention of C. sudanensis in the United Arab Emirates (DELOBEL 2011) 

is erroneous and resulted from confusion with C. yemenensis Decelle, 1979. The latter is 

apparently absent from the African continent and Socotra Island.

378 


Figs. 5–7. 5–6 – Female genitalia of Caryedon sudanensis Southgate, 1971: 5 – dorsal view; 6 – lateral view of 

vagina, showing dorsal (d), anteroventral (av), posteroventral (pv), anterolateral (al), and posterolateral (pl) sclerites. 

7 – female genitalia of Caryedon yemenensis Decelle, 1979, dorsal view, with dorsal, posteroventral and anterior 

ventrolateral (avl) sclerites. 

Comments. A species long confused with C. pallidus (Olivier, 1790). The different vaginal 

sclerites of C. sudanensis are asymmetrical, and highly variable in size and shape, with irregular 

limits. There are usually four pairs of large sclerites (dorsal, anterolateral, anteroventral, 

posteroventral, see Figs. 5–6), and a pair of small rounded sclerites in posterolateral position, 

sometimes absent. A drawing of the vaginal sclerites of C. yemenensis, a closely related species, 

is provided for comparison (Fig. 7). As noted by YUS RAMOS (2010), the number of sclerite 

pairs in C. yemenensis is only three (dorsal, anterior ventrolateral and posteroventral). 

Larvae of C. sudanensis feed on the seeds of Senna alexandrina Mill. (Caesalpinioideae: 

Cassieae). In Socotra, Senna holosericea (Fresen.) Greuter is a common species, occurring 

on all sampled localities (P. Kment, pers. comm.). Cassieae are common in dry Sahelian areas 

of Africa and are hosts of several Caryedon species, such as C. cassiae (Gyllenhal, 1833), 

C. gonagra, and C. pallidus.


Conicobruchus medaniensis (Decelle, 1982) 

Material examined (4 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Noged plain, Abataro, border of sand dunes and shrubland, 

12°22.1′N 54°03.4′E, 20 m, 12.–13.vi.2012, 1 �� 3 ��, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. 

Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Tanzania, United Arab Emirates, Yemen. First 

record from Socotra. 

Comments. In Tanzania, Conicobruchus medaniensis was reared from Indigofera tanganyikensis 

Baker f. (Fabaceae) pods (B. Le Rü, pers. comm. 2012). At the sampled locality, 

two species of Indigofera represent the dominant plant species: I. oblongifolia Forssk. and I. 

pseudointricata Gillett (P. Kment, pers. comm.). 

Spermophagus monardi Decelle, 1975 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadiboh env., 12°65′02″N 54°02′04″E, ca. 10–100 m, 

21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 1 �, D. Král leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. Angola, Ethiopia, Sudan, Tanzania, Yemen. First record from Socotra 

Island. 

Comments. Members of the genus Spermophagus Schönherr, 1833 usually feed on the seeds 

of various Convolvulaceae and Malvaceae. The larval host plant of S. monardi is unknown. 


I express my most sincere thanks to Bruno Le Rü (IRD/ICIPE, Nairobi, Kenya) for biological 

information on C. medaniensis, and to Jan Bezděk (Brno, Czech Republic), Klaus- 

Werner Anton (Emmendingen, Germany) and Rafael Yus Ramos (Málaga, Spain) for help in 

preparing and fi nalizing this manuscript. 

References 

AMEVOIN K., GLITHO I. A., MONGE P. & HUIGNARD J. 2005: Why Callosobruchus rhodesianus causes 

limited damage during storage of cowpea seeds in a tropical humid zone in Togo. Entomologia Experimentalis 

et Applicata 116: 175–182. 

ANTON K.-W. 2010: Subfamily Bruchinae. Pp. 339–353. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue of 

Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 6. Chrysomeloidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 924 pp. 

ANTON K. -W. & DELOBEL A. 2004: Description of fi ve new species in the genus Caryedon Schoenherr, with a 

taxonomical note on C. angeri (Semenov) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae: Pachymerinae). Genus 15: 65–90. 

ARORA G. L. 1977: Taxonomy of the Bruchidae (Coleoptera) of Northwest India. Part I. Adults. Oriental Insects, 

Supplement 7: 1–132. 

DECELLE J. 1979a: Insects of Saudi Arabia. Coleoptera: Fam. Bruchidae. Fauna of Saudi Arabia 1: 318–330. 

DECELLE J. 1979b: Etude d’une collection de Coléoptères Bruchides de Somalie. Monitore Zoologico Italiano N. 

S., Supplement 12: 79–88. 

DELOBEL A. 2011: Order Coleoptera, family Chrysomelidae Subfamily Bruchinae. Pp. 274–285. In: HARTEN A. VAN 

(ed.): Arthropod fauna of the UAE. Volume 4. Multiply Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 816 pp. 

DELOBEL A., SEMBÈNE M., FÉDIÈRE G. & ROGUET D. 2003: Identity of the groundnut and tamarind seedbeetles 

(Coleoptera: Bruchidae: Pachymerinae), with the restoration of Caryedon gonagra (F.). Annales de la 

Société Entomologique de France 39: 197–206.

380 


GILLON Y., RASPLUS J.-Y. & BOUGHDAD A. M 1992: Utilisation des graines de Légumineuses par un peuplement 

de Bruchidae et d’Anthribidae (Coleoptera) en zone de mosaïque forêt-savane (Lamto: Côte-d’Ivoire). 

Journal de Zoologie Africaine 106: 421–443. 

JOHNSON C. D., SOUTHGATE B. J. & DELOBEL A. 2004: A revision of the Caryedontini (Coleoptera: Bruchidae: 

Pachymerinae) of Africa and the Middle East. Memoirs of the American Entomological Society 44: 1–120. 

TUDA M., RÖNN J., BURANAPANICHPAN S., WASANO N. & ARNQVIST G. 2006: Evolutionary diversifi cation 

of the bean beetle genus Callosobruchus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae): traits associated with stored-product pest 

status. Molecular Biology 15: 3541–3551. 

YUS RAMOS R. 2010: Los Caryedontini de la Peninsula Arabia (Coleoptera: Bruchidae). Boletin de la Sociedad 

Entomologica Aragonesa 47: 341–347.



Cassidinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) 


Jolanta ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA 1,2) & Lech BOROWIEC 1,3) 

1) Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Taxonomy, Zoological Institute, 

University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63/77, 51–148 Wrocław, Poland 

2) e-mail: sindiola@biol.uni.wroc.pl 

3) e-mail: cassidae@biol.uni.wroc.pl 

Abstract. Two Cassidinae species known from Socotra Island are discussed. Cassida 

rothschildi Spaeth, 1922 is redescribed, and its last instar larva is described 

for the fi rst time. Lycium socotranum Wagn. & Vierh. and L. shawii Roem. & 

Schult. (Solanaceae) are the fi rst host records for this species. Record of Oxylepus 

defl exicollis (Boheman, 1862) from Socotra is based on misidentifi ed specimen 

of Oxylepus kossmati Spaeth, 1901. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae, Cassida rothschildi, redescription, 

larva, new host record, new record, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Only seven species of the Cassidinae sensu stricto (tortoise beetles) are known from the 

Arabian Peninsula and adjacent islands, and only one has been recorded from Socotra Island 

but misidentifi ed: Aspidimorpha gruevi Borowiec, 1985, Cassida pellegrini Marseul, 1868, 

Cassida praetimida Spaeth, 1912, Cassida rothschildi Spaeth, 1922, Nabathaea pygmaea 

Spaeth, 1911, Oxylepus kossmati Spaeth, 1901 (the only species known from Socotra) and 

Seminabathea arabica (Spaeth, 1911) (WRANIK 2003, BOROWIEC & SEKERKA 2010). According 

to the attached photo, the record of Cassida liquefacta Spaeth, 1912 (junior synonym of 

Cassida praetimida) from the United Arab Emirates by LOPATIN (2008) belongs to Nabathaea 

pygmaea, although true Cassida praetimida was collected in Yemen. 

Among unidentifi ed material collected on Socotra by Czech expeditions we have found 

specimens of Cassida rothschildi, species hitherto not recorded from the island. It is redescribed 

along with the fi rst description of the last instar larva and the fi rst host plant record. Correct 

identifi cation for the second cassidine species known from Socotra is also given. 



382 

ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA & � BOROWIEC: Cassidinae from Socotra Island (Chrysomelidae) 


The locality data of the type material are cited verbatim; a slash (/) is used to divide the 

data on different rows of the same label, and double slash (//) to divide the data on different 

labels. 

Larvae initially killed and preserved in 75 % ethanol were removed and boiled in 10% 

NaOH solution, cleared in distilled water and then mounted on slides with Swan’s liquid 

(distilled water 20 g, gum arabic 15 g, chlorhydrate 60 g, glucose 3 g, glacial acetic acid 2 

g) and glycerine for light microcopy. Heads of the larvae were separated from the rest of the 

body and then mouthparts were dissected. 

Slides and measurements of larvae were made using a Nikon SMZ 1500 stereomicroscope. 

A Nikon ECLIPSE 80i microscope with phase contrast was used for specimen examination 

and drawing of fi gures. The photos of mature larvae were made using a Nikon COOLPIX 

MDC Lens camera and Nikon SMZ 1500 stereomicroscope. 

All studied specimens are deposited in the following collections: Department of Biodiversity 

and Evolutionary Taxonomy, University of Wrocław, Poland (DBET), National Museum 

Prague, Czech Republic (NMPC), Naturhistorisches Museum Basel (NHMB), Jan Bezděk 

collection, Brno, Czech Republic (JBCB), Jan Batelka collection, Prague, Czech Republic 

(JBCP) and Lukáš Sekerka collection, Liberec, Czech Republic (LSCL). 

Taxonomy 

Cassida (Tylocentra) rothschildi Spaeth, 1922 

(Figs. 1–27) 

Cassida Rothschildi Spaeth, 1922: 1002. 

Cassida rothschildi: BOROWIEC (1999): 277 (catalogue); BOROWIEC & SEKERKA (2010): 377 (catalogue). 

Type locality. Lasami in Randile region (northern Kenya, close to Turkana Lake). 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: ‘Afrique Orient. Angl. / Lesammise Rendile / Maurice de Rothschild 1906 // TYPE’ 

(preserved in Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France). 

Material examined (94 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Firmihin plato, Dracena tree forest, 12°28′465′′N 

54°00′89830′′E, 22.-25.vi.2009, 21 spec. and 2 larvae, V. Hula leg. (7 spec. and 2 larvae in DBET, rest in JBCB); 

Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N 54°01.1′E, 490 m, 15.-16.xi.2010, 28 spec., J. Bezděk leg. 

(JBCB); same data, but L. Purchart leg., 7 spec. (JBCB); same data, but J. Hájek leg., 8 spec. (NMPC); same data, 

but J. Batelka leg., 3 spec. (JBCP); Diksam plateau, 12°31′24′′N 53°58′29′′E, 850-920 m, 5.ii.2010, 20 spec., 

L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (JBCB, 10 spec. in LSCL); Wadi Zirik, 12°29.584′N 53°59.475′E, 12.vi.2010, 2 spec., 

V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (JBCB); Noged, Farmihin, Steroh, Wadi, 12°24′26′′N 54°08′40′′E, 24.x.2000, 1 spec., 

T. Van Harten leg. (NHMB). KENYA: Elsamere, 7.iv.1998, on Lycium shawii, 2 spec., ABD (DBET). SAUDI 

ARABIA: BAC Camp, Khamis Mushayt, 2000 m, 17.-18.iv.1976, 1 spec., Wittmer & Buettiker leg. (NHMB). 

SUDAN: Kassala, Abend Pass, 5.xii.1962, 1 spec., Linnavuori leg. (DBET). 

Redescription of imago. Length: 3.8–4.4 mm, width: 2.9–3.3 mm, length of pronotum: 1.4–1.5 

mm, width of pronotum: 2.4–2.8 mm, length/width ratio: 1.31–1.35, width/length ratio of 

pronotum: 1.72–1.83. Body broadly oval, sides distinctly converging posterad (Figs. 1, 2). 

Dorsum yellow (in fresh specimens green), basal impression of elytra and suture usually 

marked with reddish to brown spots. In palest specimens sides of basal impressions and close 

to scutellum, apex of disc, and suture in posterior half with few small, reddish spots (Fig. 2).


Figs. 1–6. Cassida rothschildi Spaeth, 1922. 1, 2 – habitus dorsal; 3 – habitus lateral; 4 – head and prosternum; 5 

– antenna; 6 – tarsal claw.

384 


In darkest specimens almost whole basal impression and along suture with irregular, dark 

brown spots, often margined with red (Fig. 1). Between palest and darkest form all intermediate 

forms were observed. Ventrites, legs and antennae uniformly yellow. 

Pronotum ellipsoidal, with subangulate sides, no basal corners, widest approximately in 

middle. Disc indistinctly bordered from explanate margin, moderately convex, with small 

but dense punctation, distance between punctures smaller than puncture diameter, interspaces 

shiny. Explanate margin with dense but very shallow punctation, appears rather irregular than 

punctate, transparent with honeycomb structure. 

Scutellum triangular, impunctate, without transverse sulci. Base of elytra only slightly 

wider than pronotum, humeral angles distinctly protruding anteriad, angulate. Disc strongly 

convex, subangulate in profi le (Fig. 3). Postscutellar impression well marked, lateral impressions 

not present. Punctation arranged in regular rows, only postscutellar impression with 

partly irregular punctures. Rows not impressed, punctures moderately coarse, distance between 

punctures mostly wider than puncture diameter. Marginal row distinct, its punctures not 

coarser than punctures in lateral rows. Intervals fl at, 1.5–2.0 times wider than rows, surface 

microreticulate but shiny. Marginal interval distinct, in anterior half twice wider than lateral 

intervals, without transverse folds. Explanate margins strongly declivous, in widest part approximately 

twice narrower than each elytron, their surface sparsely irregularly punctate, 

punctures approximately twice smaller than in rows. 

Eyes large, gena almost obsolete. Clypeus broad, approximately 1.4 times as wide as long. 

Clypeal lines distinct, running close to margin of eyes and converging in obtuse triangle. 

Surface of clypeal plate fl at, shiny, with several small, setose punctures. Labrum without 

median emargination (Fig. 4). Antennae stout, antennomeres IX and X approximately 1.2 

times as wide as long, length ratio of antennomeres: 100:65:72:43:57:50:52:57:64:66:118, 

antennomere II slightly shorter than antennomere III, antennomere III approximately 1.6 

times as long as antennomere IV (Fig. 5). 

Prosternal collar very short, forms narrow transparent margin. Prosternal process in middle 

slightly narrower than mid coxa, strongly expanded apically, rhomboidal apex twice wider than 

intercoxal space. Area between coxae fl at or shallowly impressed, without special sculpture, 

shiny; rhomboidal apex fl at or slightly convex, impunctate (Fig. 4). 

Legs stout, tarsi moderately elongate, claws segment not extending behind marginal setae. 

Claws simple, on inner side with distinct micropecten (Fig. 6). 

Description of mature larva. Measurements (n = 2). Length without head, from anterior 

border of pronotum to base of supra-anal processes: 4.10–4.30 mm; width of metathorax, 

without lateral scoli: 1.90–2.15 mm. Length of supra-anal processes, from base on abdominal 

segment IX to the top of processes: 1.55–1.70 mm. Width of head: 0.76–0.78 mm. 

Body elongate-oval, widest across meso- and metathorax, narrowed posteriorly (Figs. 

7–9). Anterior part of body convex (Fig. 10). Body of larvae preserved in alcohol yellowish 

with brown basal half of supra-anal processes. 

Body with 16 pairs of lateral scoli and a single pair of supra-anal processes (Figs. 7, 8). 

Lateral scoli short, stout, conical, approximately same size. All scoli covered with numerous 

caulifl ower-shaped sensilla (Figs. 17, 18). Scoli of thorax with short, stout lateral processes,


Figs. 7–10. Cassida rotschildi Spaeth, 1922, mature larva. 7 – dorsal aspect; 8 – ventral aspect; 9 – larva with 

previous larval skin, dorsal aspect; 10 – larva with previous larval skin, lateral aspect.

386 


Figs. 11–12. Cassida rotschildi Spaeth, 1922, mature larva, caulifl ower-like sensilla of head.


each armed apically with caulifl ower-shaped sensillum, scoli of abdomen simple without 

lateral processes. Scoli of fi rst two pairs placed very close to each other (Fig. 17). Scoli of 

thorax directed anteriorly, of abdomen posteriorly. Supra-anal processes long, approximately 

as long as half of body. 

Dorsal and ventral side of the body distinctly granulate (Figs. 13–16). Minute setae at 

anterior border of each tergites and sternites. Tergites covered with caulifl ower-shaped sensilla 

(Figs. 13, 14). Pro-, meso- and metasternum and fi rst two abdominal sternites with pointed 

setae medially and caulifl ower-shaped sensilla laterally (Fig. 15). Remaining abdominal 

sternites with caulifl ower-shaped sensilla (Fig. 16). 

Pronotum with numerous caulifl ower-shaped sensilla distributed regularly (Fig. 13). Meso-, 

metanotum and abdominal tergites with two irregular rows of numerous caulifl ower-shaped 

sensilla running across segment and two minute setae at anterior border medially (Fig. 14). 

Two minute setae at anterior border of pro-, meso- and metasternum. Pro-, meso- and 

metasternum also with two groups of around four setae antero-medially and pair of setae 

postero-medially (Fig. 15). Two minute setae at anterior border of each abdominal sternite 

(Fig. 16). First two abdominal sternites with numerous setae medially and numerous caulifl 

ower-shaped sensilla laterally. Abdominal sternites III-VIII with numerous caulifl owershaped 

sensilla distributed regularly. 

Anal turret distinctly consists of two segments. 

Nine pairs of distinctly elevated spiracles: one on thorax and eight on abdomen. Diameter 

of spiracles slightly decreasing posterad, spiracles of abdominal segment eight smallest. 

Head well sclerotised, hypognathous, retracted into pronotum (Figs. 8, 10). Median suture 

complete, connected with fronto-clypeal suture (Figs. 20, 21). Clypeus distinct, wider than 

long, with one seta and one campaniform sensilla on each lateral side (Fig. 20). Frontal and 

epicranial suture absent, fronto-clypeal and clypeo-labral suture well developed. 

Six stemmata on each side of head. 

Frontal side of head with four small, vertical, pointed setae (V 1–4); fi ve frontal rows of 

caulifl ower-shaped sensilla (Figs 11, 12) and setae: row Fa with three sensilla, Fb with four 

sensilla, Fc with three sensilla, Fd with single sensillum, Fe with two sensilla; and three 

campaniform sensilla above sensilla Fc1 and Fe1 (Fig. 20). Temporal side of head with two 

setae (T 2, T3) and two campaniform sensilla (Fig. 21). 

Antennae dimerous, set in membranous ring (Fig. 26). Antennomere I transverse, wider 

than antennomere II. Antennomere II stout, longer than wide, with small seta and a group of 

three peg-like sensilla at the apex: one prominent (sensory appendix) and two smaller. 

Labrum wider than long, anterior margin not emarginate (Figs. 22, 23). Anterior margin 

with six stout setae medially and two short setae on each side. Dorsally: four long setae placed 

in the middle in one row running across width, two setae close to anterior margin, and two 

pairs of campaniform sensilla medially. Mid part of ventral surface (epipharyngeal area) with 

pair of small setae, and two pairs of campaniform sensilla. Numerous small spines medially 

and on each lateral side. 

Mandibles heavily sclerotised, palmate, with fi ve apical teeth in one row and one tooth 

slightly moved back. Two setae and two campaniform sensilla at base dorsally (Figs. 24, 

25).

388 


Figs. 13–14. Cassida rotschildi Spaeth, 1922, mature larva. 13 – pronotum; 14 – sixth and seventh abdominal 

tergites. 

Maxillae and labium connate (Fig. 27). Each stipes (st) with two long setae. Palpifer (pp) 

with two setae and two campaniform sensilla ventrally and with numerous spines dorsally. 

Mala (mal) not distinctly bordered from palpifer, bearing six long pointed setae, one long 

blunt seta, and one short blunt seta (or peg like sensilla?). Maxillary palp one-segmented with 

three pointed setae, one blunt seta (digitiform sensillum – ds), two campaniform sensilla on 

sides, and a group of twelve small peg-like sensilla at the apex. Labial palp (lp) one-segmented 

with group of nine small peg-like sensilla at apex and one campaniform sensillum below 

apex. Hypopharynx (hyp) covered with numerous spines, and with four campaniform sensilla 

at base. Prementum (pre) with two long setae and four campaniform sensilla. Postmentum 

(post) with four setae.


Figs. 15–16. Cassida rotschildi Spaeth, 1922, mature larva. 15 – metasternum and fi rst three abdominal sternites; 

16 – sixth and seventh abdominal sternites. 

Legs stout, consist of three segments: coxa, femur and tibiotarsus (Fig. 19). Internal side of 

coxa with setae arranged in three groups: fi rst group with two short setae (placed close to border 

between coxa and body); second with three short setae; third with three short setae, and with 

one elongate and one short caulifl ower-shaped sensillum. Femur with eleven moderately long 

pointed or blunt setae and one short pointed seta placed dorsally close to the base. Basally on

390 


Figs. 17–21. Cassida rotschildi Spaeth, 1922, mature larva. 17 – fi rst two lateral scoli; 18 – third lateral scolus; 19 

– leg; 20 – head frontal side; 21 – head temporal side. 

internal side of femur a group of fi ve campaniform sensilla and one short pointed seta; at base 

ventrally one campaniform sensillum. Tibiotarsus apically with heavily sclerotised, curved, 

single and simple claw armed basally with a pointed seta. Claw and pointed seta surrounded 

by a complex of six long pointed setae. Tibiotarsus also with three long setae dorsally and 

two campaniform sensilla and small seta above claw.


Figs. 22–27. Cassida rotschildi Spaeth, 1922, mature larva. 22 – labrum dorsally; 23 – labrum, epipharyngeal area; 

24, 25 – mandibles; 26 – antenna; 27 – maxillae and labium ventrally. Abbreviations: ds – digitiform sensillum; 

hyp – hypopharynx; lp – labial palp; mal – mala; mp – maxillary palp; post – postmentum; pp – palpiger; pre – prementum; 

st – stipes. 

Diagnosis of larva. Mature larva of C. rotschildi is in general body shape very similar to the 

larva of another Tylocentra Reitter, 1926 species – C. turcmenica (Weise, 1892) described by 

MEDVEDEV & MATYS (1975). The description is superfi cial and we found only one distinctive 

character: body length. Mature larva of C. turcmenica is approximately 6 mm long while larva 

of C. rotschildi at most 4.3 mm, and it is correlated with body length of imagines: 5.0–6.5 

mm in C. turcmenica, 3.8–4.4 mm in C. rotschildi. Both larvae differ from the typical larva

392 


of the genus Cassida in very short and simple scoli and convex anterior part of body (ŚWIĘTO- 

JAŃSKA 2009). In these characters Tylocentra is at fi rst glance similar to larvae of Oxylepus 

Desbrochers, 1884 and Ischyronota Weise, 1891 but Ischyronota species distinctly differ in 

completely lacking thoracic and more or less reduced abdominal scoli, and Oxylepus larva 

differs in short supra-anal processes. In our opinion, the similarity is an effect of evolutionary 

parallelism correlated with feeding on saline plants. 

Host plant. Solanaceae: Lycium socotranum Wagn. & Vierh. (all specimens from Socotra were 

beated from L. socotranum – V. Hula, J. Bezděk & L. Purchart 2010 observ.), Lycium shawii 

Roem. et Schult. (based on label data from specimen collected in Kenya: Elsamere). 

Distribution. Kenya (SPAETH 1922, present paper), Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Yemen (BOROWIEC 

1999, present paper). BOROWIEC (1999) recorded it generally from Saudi Arabia and Sudan based 

on unpublished data, in this paper detailed data are given. First record from Socotra Island. 

Comments. BOROWIEC (1999) placed C. rothschildi within the subgenus Tylocentra. This 

placement is now supported by the structure of larva described in this paper and by association 

with plants of the family Solanaceae, especially various Lycium species. 

Cassida rothschildi is the only member of the subgenus Tylocentra known from Africa 

south of Sahara. The most related species is C. pellegrini Marseul, 1868 recorded from 

Cyprus, Israel, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia (SEKERKA & BOROWIEC 2011). Both taxa 

belong to the group of species with regularly punctate lateral rows on elytral disc but C. pellegrini 

distinctly differs in more elongate body and less convex elytral disc (see fi gs. 3 and 4 

in SEKERKA & BOROWIEC 2011). Cassida rothschildi is the smallest member of the subgenus 

with body length below 4.5 mm; other species usually have length above 4.7 mm, although 

the smallest specimens of C. pellegrini are 4.5 mm in length. 

Based on the structure of larva of C. turcmenica Weise, 1892, MEDVEDEV (1982) raised the 

subgenus Tylocentra to the genus rank, but he did so without discussion and only noted ‘traditionally 

it [Tylocentra] was included in Cassida as subgenus but study of larva showed that 

it should be raised to genus, although imago only indistinctly differs from members of other 

Cassida’. Larva of C. rothschildi is very similar to larva of C. turcmenica and has the same 

unique characters – strongly reduced lateral scoli and quite convex body. In other characters 

it is very similar to many other Cassida species of various subgenera, and reduction of scoli 

and body convexity is, in our opinion, distinctly correlated with feeding on semisucculent, 

saline–habitat plants. The tendency to scoli reduction and body convexity was observed also 

in other Cassidini genera associated with saline plants, e.g. Ischyronota spp. and Oxylepus 

defl exicollis (Boheman, 1862) (BORDY 2000; ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA & BOROWIEC 2007). Imagines 

of Tylocentra members have no unique characters, although they form monophyletic and 

morphologically and biologically coherent group (BOROWIEC 2007). However, treating it as a 

separate genus based only on homoplastic larval characters is unjustifed. 

Oxylepus kossmati Spaeth, 1901 

Oxylepus Kossmati Spaeth, 1901: 752. 

Oxylepus kossmati: BOROWIEC (1986): 804, (1999): 314 (catalogue), (2002): 180; BOROWIEC & SEKERKA (2010): 380 

(catalogue). 

Oxylepis Kossmati: SPAETH (1914): 87. 

Oxylepus defl exicollis (Boheman, 1862): WRANIK (2003): 361 and pl. 176: fi g. g (misidentifi cation).


Type locality. Yemen, Aden. 

Type material. SYNTYPES: 2 specimens, ‘Aden’ (preserved in Manchester Museum, Manchster, England). 

Comment. In book on animal life of the Socotra Archipelago WRANIK (2003) showed a photo 

of a cassidine beetle identifi ed as Oxylepus defl exicollis. Although we had no opportunity to 

study the specimen, in our opinion it was misidentifi ed. In this area the only species of this 

genus occurs – O. kossmati. It was recorded from Aden, Oman, Erythrea, Djibuti, Somalia 

and Tanzania (BOROWIEC 2002). The species was described based on maculate form, thus in 

key to the Palearctic Cassidinae (SPAETH & REITTER 1926) the main distinguishing character 

of O. kossmati from other species was maculate elytra. Recent material showed that it is a 

variable species and forms both maculate and immaculate morphs; thus immaculate specimens 

can be misidentifi ed with very similar O. delexicollis which differs only in distinctly 

shorter scutellum. Detailed redescription of O. kossmati and colour photos are available in 

BOROWIEC (2002). 


We thank to Jan Bezděk (Mendel University, Brno, Czech Republic) for sending us the 

specimens for the study and for photocopy of Wranik’s paper on fauna of the Socotra Archipelago. 

The paper was supported by University of Wrocław (project No. 1018/DS/IZ/11). 

References 

BOHEMAN C. H. 1862: Monographia Cassididarum. Tomus quartus. Ofi cina Norstediana, Holmiae, 504 pp. 

BORDY B. 2000: Coléoptères Chrysomelidae. Volume 3. Hispinae et Cassidinae. Faune de France 85: 1–250 + 

XXVI pls. 

BOROWIEC L. 1985: Aspidomorpha gruevi n. sp. (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae) from Yemen. Polskie 

Pismo Entomologiczne 55: 451–456. 

BOROWIEC L. 1986: Contribution to the knowledge of African Cassidinae, 3 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae). Polskie 

Pismo Entomologiczne 55 (1985): 791–809. 

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Wrocław, 476 pp. 

BOROWIEC L. 2002: A monograph of the Afrotropical Cassidinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Part III. Revision 

of the tribe Cassidini 1, except the genera Aethiopocassis Sp., Cassida L., and Chiridopsis Sp. Biologica Silesiae, 

Wrocław, 292 pp + 17 pls. 

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Madagascar and notes on subgenera of the genus Cassida. Zootaxa 1586: 47–58. 

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Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera, Volume 6, Chrysomeloidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 924 pp. 

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168–171. 

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fauna of the United Arab Emirates. Volume 1. Multiply Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 754 pp. 

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303 pp (in Russian). 

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Entomologische Zeitschrift (Neue Folge) 22: 137–143.

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SEKERKA L. & BOROWIEC L. 2011: New synonymy in Palearctic Cassidini (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae). 

Genus 22: 505–509. 

SPAETH F. 1901. Ueber Chelysida und Oxylepus als zwei verschiedene Cassiden-Gattungen. Verhandlungen der 

Zoologisch-botanischen Gesellschaft in Wien 51: 750–756. 

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Zoologisch-botanischen Gesellschaft in Wien 61: 239–277. 

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496–508. 

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Pars 62. W. Junk, Berlin, 182 pp. 

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Ethiopie et en Afrique Orientale Anglaise (1904–1905). Imprimerie Nationale, Paris, 1015 pp. 

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palaearktischen Region. E. Reitter, Troppau, 68 pp. 

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(Weise, 1890) and Ischyronota desertorum (Gebler, 1833) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae). Zootaxa 

1651: 43–56. 

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WRANIK W. 2003: Fauna of the Socotra Archipelago. Field Guide. Universitätsdruckerei Rostock, 542 pp.



Tituboea purcharti sp. nov., the fi rst representative 

of Clytrini from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cryptocephalinae) 

Jan BEZDĚK 

Mendel University, Department of Zoology, Zemědělská 1, CZ-613 00 Brno, Czech Republic; 

e-mail: bezdek@mendelu.cz 

Abstract. Tituboea purcharti sp. nov., the fi rst known species of Clytrini from 

Socotra Island (Yemen), is decribed and illustrated. The new species belongs to 

the group of larger species (above 7.0 mm) with not prolonged protarsi, glabrous 

elytra and not elevated posterior pronotal angles. It is closely related to T. arabica 

(Olivier, 1808) but differs in slender, fl at aedeagus with prolonged apex and in 

black pattern on elytra reduced to transverse fascia behind elytral midlength. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cryptocephalinae, Clytrini, Tituboea, 

new species, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The genus Tituboea Lacordaire, 1848, is distributed in the Palaearctic, Oriental and Afrotropical 

Regions. REGALIN & MEDVEDEV (2010) listed 62 species from the Palaearctic Region. 

Recently, additional new species, T. pindai Bezděk, 2011, was described from the United Arab 

Emirates (BEZDĚK & BATELKA 2011). The species from the Arabian Peninsula were reported 

and keyed by MEDVEDEV (1979, 1993, 1996, 1997). 

The chrysomelid fauna of Socotra Island is extremely insuffi ciently known. Until now, only 

fi ve species were reported: Eryxia socotrana Gahan, 1903, Colasposoma densatum Fairmaire, 

1887 (both Eumolpinae), Melixanthus melanocephalus Suffrian, 1857 (Cryptocephalinae), 

Oulema sp. (Criocerinae), and Oxylepus defl exicollis (Boheman, 1862) (Cassidinae) (see 

WRANIK 2003, SCHÖLLER et al. 2010). 

The material collected by Czech entomologists within 2000-2012 resulted in a series of 

papers which rapidly increase the number of chrysomelid species known from Socotra: Bruchinae 

with seven species (DELOBEL 2012), Eumolpinae with 16 species and subspecies, 15 of 

them new to science (ZOIA 2012), Cassidinae with two species (ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA & BOROWIEC 

2012), Galerucinae with six species, fi ve of them new to science (BEZDĚK 2012) and Alticinae 

with 17 species, four of them new to science (DÖBERL 2012). 



396 

BEZDĚK: The fi rst Clytrini from Socotra Island (Chrysomelidae) 

The tribe Clytrini was never reported from Socotra Island. During the short expedition to 

Hagher Mts. in central Socotra my dear friend Luboš Purchart collected three specimens of 

Tituboea; additional 18 specimens were subsequently found in NMPC. This species proved 

to be new to science and is described below. 


All measurements were made using an ocular grid mounted on the MBS-10 stereomicroscope 

(at 16× magnifi cation for the body length and 32× magnifi cation for the remaining 

measurements). The photograph was taken by Canon EOS 550D with Macro Lens MP-E65mm 

and mounted with Helicon Focus 5.1 software. 

The material is housed in the following collections: 

BMNH The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom (Sharon Shute, Maxwell V. L. Barclay); 

JBCB Jan Bezděk collection, Brno, Czech Republic; 

NHMB Naturhistorisches Museum, Basel, Switzerland (Eva Sprecher-Uebersax, Isabelle Zürcher-Pfander, Michel 

Brancucci); 

NMPC National Museum, Praha, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek). 

Exact label data are cited for all type specimens; a forward slash (/) separates different 

lines and a double slash (//) different labels of data. Other comments and remarks are placed 

in square brackets: [p] – preceding data are printed, and [w] – white label. 

Taxonomy 

Tituboea purchati sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–2, 6, 8–10) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., wadi Madar, 12°33.2Ń, 54°00.4É. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Island / Al Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m / 12°33.2Ń, 

54°00.4É, / L. Purchart leg., 12-14.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES: 2 ��, same data as holotype (JBCB); 12 

�� 6 ��, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., QAARIAH / vill. env., 28.xi.2003, N 12°38´ / 05´´ E 54°12´39´´, 11 m (GPS) / 

leg. P. Kabátek [w, p] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA / 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král [w, 

p]’ (NMPC, 1 � in JBCB, 1 � in BMNH, 1 � in NHMB). The specimens are provided with additional printed red 

labels: ‘HOLOTYPUS [or PARATYPUS] / Tituboea / purcharti sp. nov. / det. J. Bezděk 2011’. 

Description. Body length: �� 7.3–9.9 mm (holotype 9.6 mm); �� 8.3–10.3 mm. 

Male (holotype, Fig. 1). Body subcylindrical, parallel, glabrous, lustrous. Head including 

mouthparts orange, tips of mandibles darkened. Antennomeres I–IV orange, antennomeres 

V–XI black with pale bases. Pronotum orange with infuscate middle part of posterior margin. 

Scutellum black. Elytra orange, behind middle with black transverse fascia with irregular 

margins, near suture slightly widened and bent posteriorly. Legs orange, claws black with pale 

bases. Prosternum orange, mesosternum orange in the middle, laterally black, metasternum 

and abdomen including pygidium black. 

Head. Labrum short, transverse, almost impunctate, with several long pale setae along 

anterior margin, anterior angles widely rounded, anterior margin shallowly incised. Head 

distinctly constricted behind eyes. Anterior part of head lustrous, almost impunctate and


Fig. 1. Habitus of Tituboea purchati sp. nov. (holotype, 

male, 9.6 mm). 

glabrous, aside from antennal insertions with 

small shallow impressions; clypeus widely 

shallowly triangularly incised, with short fi ne 

pale setae along anterior margin. Frons wide, 

2.5 times as wide as diameter of eye, with 

transverse shallow impression in midpart, 

densely and coarsely punctured, covered with 

dense short setae (slightly longer near eyes). 

Vertex lustrous, densely covered with fi ne 

small punctures and short pale setae. Antennomere 

I club-shaped; antennomeres II and 

III very small, cylindrical; antennomere IV 

small, triangular; antennae distinctly serrated 

from antennomere V. 

Pronotum transverse, 1.71 times as wide 

as long, widest at two thirds, moderately 

convex, covered with extremely fi ne, almost 

invisible punctures, lustrous. Anterior half of 

lateral margins convergent, straight, posterior 

half widely rounded, anterior margin slightly 

concave, posterior margin nearly straight, 

distinctly thickened in scutellar area. Anterior 

angles rectangular with rounded tip, posterior 

ones almost imperceptible, widely rounded. 

All angles bearing setigerous pore with long 

pale seta. Lateral margins narrowly bordered, 

anterior margin bordered only laterally, border 

of posterior margin narrow laterally, broader at scutellar thickening. Scutellum triangular 

with sharply rounded apex, base covered with fi ne punctures and pale setae, apex lustrous, 

impunctate, scutellar apex elevated upon level of elytra. 

Elytra subcylindrical, 1.56 times as long as wide at humeral part, glabrous, lustrous, densely 

covered with small fi ne confused punctures. Basal margin narrowly bordered, lateral 

margin thinly bordered in anterior third, widely bordered in middle third and disappearing in 

posterior third. Epipleura glabrous, basally wide, gradually thinner posteriorly, disappearing 

in midlenght of elytra. In lateral view, lateral margin of elytra widely concave. 

Tarsi short and relatively slender. Protarsomere I short, subtriangular, 1.33 times as long 

as broad, 0.58 times as long as two following tarsomeres combined, protarsomere II subtriangular, 

almost as wide as long, protarsomere III very deeply incised (Fig. 6). 

Ventral part. Propleurae glabrous. Prosternal projection not visible between procoxae. 

Abdomen fl attened, last ventrite bent downwards. 

Male genitalia. Aedeagus (Fig. 2) slender, fl at, with distinctly prolonged apex. 

Female. Frons broader, pronotum slightly broader and elytra slightly longer than in males 

(see Variability). Tarsi slightly narrower than in males. Abdomen robust, convex, last ventrite

398 


Figs. 2–5. Aedeagus (a – dorsal view; b – lateral view). 2 – Tituboea purchati sp. nov.; 3 – T. arabica; 4 – Tituboea 

capensis (orig. MEDVEDEV 1987); 5 – T. obliquata (specimen from Yemen). Scale bar = 1 mm for Figs. 2, 3 and 5.


Figs. 6–10. 6–7 – Male protarsus. 6 – T. purchati sp. nov.; 7 – T. arabica. 8 – Spermatheca of T. purchati sp. nov. 

9–10 – Rectal sclerites of T. purchati sp. nov. 9 – ventral sclerites; 10 – dorsal sclerites. Scale bar = 2 mm for Figs. 

6–7, 0.5 mm for Fig. 8 and 1 mm for Figs. 9–10. 

with small round impression in middle. Spermatheca C-shaped with relatively sharp inner 

angle, spermathecal duct very long with numerous coils (Fig. 8). Rectal sclerites (Figs. 9, 10): 

dorsally 3 sclerites (two lateral, 1 central), ventrally 2 wing-shaped sclerites. 

Variability. The width of frons/diameter of the eye ratio varies between 2.40–2.70 in males 

and 2.65–2.85 in females. The width/length ratio of pronotum varies between 1.60–1.72 in 

males and 1.70–1.78 in females. The length/width ratio of elytra varies between 1.47–1.58 in 

males and 1.60–1.67 in females. The black fascia on elytra is somewhat variable in breadth, 

usually touching the lateral sides and suture, only in one male the lateral sides and suture are 

orange. One female has a small black spot surrounding inner margin of eyes posteriorly of 

canthus and three very small black spots on pronotum (two lateraly near hind angles, one in 

the middle nearly touching basal margin). 

Differential diagnosis. Tituboea purchati sp. nov. belongs to the group of larger species 

(above 7. mm) with not prolonged protarsi, glabrous elytra and not elevated hind pronotal 

angles, and is similar to T. arabica (Olivier, 1808). Both species can be distinguished by the 

structure of aedeagus which is slender, fl at and with distinctly prolonged apex in T. purcharti 

sp. nov., while robust and with shortly triangular apex in T. arabica (Figs. 2, 3). In the males 

of T. arabica, the protarsomeres are shortly elongated, not subtriangular as in T. purcharti 

sp. nov. Protarsomere III in T. arabica is incised ca. to its midlenght, while it is incised to the 

basal quarter in T. purcharti sp. nov. (Figs. 6, 7). All the specimens of T. arabica known to

400 


me also have a different coloration – they always have humeral and subscutellar black spots 

which are always missing in T. purcharti sp. nov. 

Two Afrotropical Tituboea species with not prolonged protarsi, glabrous elytra and not 

elevated hind pronotal angles, T. capensis Medvedev, 1993 (RSA) and T. obliquata (Lacordaire, 

1848) (Senegal, Yemen), can be distinguished by two large black spots on pronotum 

and by the black spots on humeral calli (T. obliquata) or on the anterior third of elytra (T. 

capensis). Pronotum of T. purcharti sp. nov. is uniformly orange (or, very rarely, with three 

very small black spots), and elytra are orange with black transverse fascia behind the middle. 

All mentioned species differ also in the structure of aedeagus which is triangularly prolonged 

in T. capensis (but less than in T. purcharti sp. nov.) while simply triangular in T. obliquata 

(Figs. 2, 4, 5). 

In habitus, T. purcharti sp. nov. resembles also some species of the genus Clytra Laicharting, 

1781. Procoxae are separated by a well visible prosternal projection in Clytra species, 

while it is not visible between procoxae in T. purcharti sp. nov. Aedeagus of T. purcharti sp. 

nov. with prolonged apex is also similar to that of Barybaena Lacordaire, 1848 species (see 

ERBER & MEDVEDEV 2003). However, Barybaena species differ in elytra without epipleural 

lobe and distinct sexual dimorphism (males with enlarged pronotum and fore legs). 

Etymology. The new species is dedicated to my friend Luboš Purchart (Czech Republic, 

Brno), specialist in Tenebrionidae, who collected a part of the type series. 

Collection circumstances and bionomy. Two specimens (male and female) were seen on 

Trichocalyx obovatus Balf.f. (Acanthaceae) at 1:00 p.m. and subsequently collected, another 

one female was fl ying in habitat with shrubs dominated by Trichocalyx obovatus and caught 

by a sweeping net at ca 11:00 a.m. (L. Purchart, pers. comm. 2010). Feeding on Trichocalyx 

obovatus was not observed; however, there is a possibility that it is the true host plant of 

T. purcharti sp. nov. 

Distribution. Socotra Island (Yemen). 


This study was supported by the Research plan No. MSM6215648905 ‘Biological and 

technological aspects of sustainability of controlled ecosystems and their adaptability to 

climate change’, and by the grant No. LA10036/MSMT ‘Participation of young scientists of 

MZLU Brno to the research activities of IUFRO – The Global Network for Forest Science 

Cooperation’ – both fi nanced by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech 

Republic. 

References 

BEZDĚK J. 2012: Galerucinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) of Socotra Island, with a review of taxa recorded from 



BEZDĚK J. & BATELKA J. 2011: Order Coleoptera, family Chrysomelidae. Additions and description of a new 

species. Pp. 250–273. In: HARTEN A. VAN (ed.): Arthropod fauna of the UAE. Volume 4. Multiply Marketing 

Consultancy Services, Abu Dhabi, 816 pp.







2): i–vi + 1–557. 

ERBER D. & MEDVEDEV L. N. 2003: A revision of the genus Barybaena Lacordaire, 1848 (Chrysomelidae, 

Clytrinae). Entomologica Basiliensia 25: 243–259. 

MEDVEDEV L. N. 1979: Insects of Saudi Arabia. Coleoptera: fam. Chrysomelidae subfam. Clytrinae. Fauna of 

Saudi Arabia 1: 295–298. 

MEDVEDEV L. N. 1987: Novye vidy (Clytrinae, Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) fauny Afriky. [New species of the 

Clytrinae (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) of the African fauna]. Trudy Zoologicheskogo Instituta AN SSSR (Leningrad) 

164: 130–141 (in Russian). 

MEDVEDEV L. N. 1993: Further records of Clytrinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) from Arabia. Fauna of Saudi 

Arabia 13: 130–136. 

MEDVEDEV L. N. 1996: The Chrysomelidae of Arabia. Fauna of Saudi Arabia 15: 211–263. 

MEDVEDEV L. N. 1997: New records and new species of Chrysomelidae from Arabia. Fauna of Saudi Arabia 

16: 319–326. 

REGALIN R. & MEDVEDEV L. N. 2010: Cryptocephalinae: Clytrini. Pp. 564–580. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. 

(eds.): Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 6. Chrysomeloidea. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 924 pp. 

SCHÖLLER M., LÖBL I. & LOPATIN I. K. 2010: Cryptocephalinae: Cryptocephalini (excl. Cryptocephalus). Pp. 

580–617. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera. Volume 6. Chrysomeloidea. 





WRANIK W. 2003: Fauna of the Socotra Archipelago. Field guide. Universität Rostock, Rostock, 542 pp. 



2): i–vi + 1–557.

402 




Galerucinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) of Socotra Island, 

with a review of taxa recorded from Yemen 

Jan BEZDĚK 

Mendel University, Department of Zoology, Zemědělská 1, CZ–613 00 Brno, Czech Republic; 

e-mail: bezdek@mendelu.cz 

Abstract. First data on Galerucinae from Socotra Island (Yemen) are presented. Six 

species are reported, among them a new genus and fi ve new species are described: 

Beenenia gen. nov. with B. scanticola sp. nov. as type species, B. kabateki sp. 

nov., Monolepta suchomeli sp. nov., Monolepta hlavaci sp. nov., and Monolepta 

kmenti sp. nov. A review of Galerucinae from continental Yemen based on the 

literature data and newly collected material is presented with fi ve new records: 

Aulacophora calva Anand & Cox, 1986, Galerudolphia arabica (Medvedev, 1996), 

Nymphius buettikeri (Medvedev, 1996), N. millingeni (Pic, 1915) and Madurasia 

obscurella Jacoby, 1896. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Beenenia, Monolepta, new 

genus, new species, taxonomy, new records, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The Galerucinae fauna of Yemen is unsuffi ciently known. Until now, only 17 species of 

Galerucinae were recorded from continental Yemen, many of them by BRYANT (1957) and 

MEDVEDEV (1996). Present knowledge of the beetle fauna (not only of Chrysomelidae) of 

Socotra Archipelago is inadequate although many expeditions have been conducted in the last 

150 years. So far only fi ve species of Chrysomelidae were reported from Socotra Archipelago: 

Eryxia socotrana Gahan, 1903, Colasposoma densatum Fairmaire, 1887 (both Eumolpinae), 

Melixanthus melanocephalus Suffrian, 1857 (Cryptocephalinae), Oulema sp. (Criocerinae), and 

Oxylepus defl exicollis (Boheman, 1862) (Cassidinae) (see WRANIK 2003, SCHÖLLER et al. 2010). 

However, the records of Colasposoma densatum and Oxylepus defl exicollis are probably based on 

misidentifi cation and refer to another species (ZOIA 2012, ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA & BOROWIEC 2012). 

The expeditions conducted by Mendel University in Brno within 2009-2012 supplemented 

with other recently collected material resulted in a series of papers dealing with various subfamilies: 

Bruchinae with seven species known from Socotra (DELOBEL 2012), Eumolpinae 



404 

BEZDĚK: Galerucinae of Socotra and continental Yemen (Chrysomelidae) 

with 16 species or subspecies, 15 of them new to science (ZOIA 2012), Cassidinae with two 

species (ŚWIĘTOJAŃSKA & BOROWIEC 2012), Clytrinae with one species new to science (BEZDĚK 

2012) and Alticinae with 17 species, four of them new to science (DÖBERL 2012). 

The subfamily Galerucinae was never reported from Socotra Island. In recently collected 

material six species were found, including fi ve species and one genus new to science. Their 

descriptions are given below. 


All measurements were made using an ocular grid mounted on the MBS-10 stereomicroscope 

(at 16× magnifi cation for the body length and 32× magnifi cation for the remaining 

measurements). The photographs were taken by Canon EOS 550D with Macro Photo Lens 

MP-E65mm and mounted with Helicon Focus 5.1. 

The examined material is housed in the following collections: 

BMNH The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom (Sharon Shute, Maxwell V. L. Barclay); 


JBCP Jan Batelka collection, Praha, Czech Republic; 

NHMB Naturhistorisches Museum, Basel, Switzerland (Eva Sprecher-Uebersax, Isabelle Zürcher-Pfander, Michel 

Brancucci); 

NMPC National Museum, Praha, Czech Republic (Jiří Hájek); 

RBCN Ron Beenen collection, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands; 

ZMHB Museum für Naturkunde der Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany (Johannes Frisch, Joachim Willers). 

Exact label data are cited for all type specimens; a double slash (//) divides data on different 

labels and a single slash (/) divides data in different rows. Other comments and remarks are 

placed in square brackets: [p] – preceding data are printed, and [w] – white label. 

All Chrysomelidae have fi ve tarsomeres on each leg but the fourth is almost invisible 

(pseudotetramerous tarsi). In this paper the tarsal formula is treated in older sense as 4-4-4, 

thus tarsomere V (the claw tarsomere) is indicated as IV. 

Taxonomy and faunistics of Galerucinae of Socotra Island 

Beenenia gen. nov. 

Type species. Beenenia scanticola sp. nov., by present designation. 

Description. Body elongate, dorsum metallic dark greenish to black or brownish with distinct 

metallic tint, antennae black, legs black with metallic tint, with pale coxae and trochanters (in 

B. kabateki sp. nov. also with pale knees), dorsum densely pubescent, semiopaque to shiny. 

Head large, measured with eyes slightly narrower or as wide as anterior margin of pronotum, 

eyes small, moderately projecting beyond head outline. Labrum transverse, with anterior 

margin shallowly incised, covered with several long setae. Anterior part of head very short, 

genae 0.30 times as long as diameter of eye. Nasal keel poorly developed but visible. Frontal 

tubercles large, convex, distinctly elevated, impunctate, with apices elongate, separated from 

each other by thin sulcus which continues through vertex. Frons shallowly depressed behind 

frontal tubercles but not grooved. Vertex large, moderately convex, densely covered with large


Figs. 1–2. Habitus. 1 – Beenenia scanticola sp. nov. (holotype, male, 6.0 mm); 2 – B. kabateki sp. nov. (holotype, 

male, 5.4 mm). 

punctures and setae. Antennae relatively robust, short, reaching slightly behind midlenght of 

body, antennomeres II–VI fl atenned and slightly impressed in basal part, apically extended, 

antennomeres VII–XI robust, gradually less fl attened, last two antennomeres subtubular. 

Pronotum transverse, 1.75–2.05 times as wide as long, narrower than base of elytra. 

Anterior margin thinly bordered only at sides or unbordered, lateral margin deeply and thinly 

bordered, posterior margin shallowly and thinly bordered. Surface of pronotum moderately 

convex, with shallow depressions laterally and in middle of both anterior and posterior part 

of pronotum, densely covered with fi ne to large punctures. All angles prominent, triangular, 

projecting laterally, anterior angles bearing 4 to 6 long pale setae, posterior angles with two or 

three long pale setae. Scutellum subtriangular, with widely rounded tip, subopaque, covered 

with microsculpture or indistinct fi ne punctures, and fi ne setae. 

Elytra with well developed humeral calli. Surface very densely covered with small confused 

punctures and with one or two types of setae. Interspaces between punctures narrower than 

diameter of each puncture. Postscutellar area slightly depressed. Epipleura not developed. 

Basal part of elytral lateral slope infl exed down inwards, towards apex more or less vertical. 

Humeral calli well developed. Macropterous.

406 


Legs moderately long and narrow, middle and posterior tibiae unarmed at apex. Tibiae 

even, without longitudinal ridges or furrows. Metatarsomere I as long as tarsomeres II–III 

combined. Anterior coxal cavities open posteriorly, prosternum very thinly visible between 

coxae. Claws bifi d with inner branch shorter than outer one (Fig. 8). 

Basal two third of aedeagus robust and more or less tubular, apical third slightly asymmetrical, 

fl at and bent downwards, apex widely rounded with distinct small process (Figs. 3, 

9). Spermatheca with C-shaped cornu, nodulus small, narrower than base of cornu, ductus 

receptaculi short (Figs. 7, 12). Vaginal palpi short and robust (Figs. 6, 11). 

Sexual dimorphism. Weakly indicated. Males on average smaller. Last ventrite in male 

with posterior margin widely triangularly impressed but not incised (Fig. 4), in female evenly 

rounded. 

Differential diagnosis. Beenenia gen. nov. belongs to the tribe Galerucini. Because of even 

tibiae without any longitudinal ridges or furrows, Beenenia gen. nov. has to be classifi ed in 

the section Atysites (CHAPUIS 1875, SEENO & WILCOX 1982). From all genera of the Atysites, 

Beenenia gen. nov. can be distinguished by the complete absence of epipleura. Externally 

similar genera Luperocella Jacoby, 1900; Galerucella Crotch, 1873; Pyrrhalta Joannis, 1865; 

Xanthogaleruca Laboissière, 1934 and Tarachodia Weise, 1902 can be separated also by thin, 

almost fi liform antennae. 

In habitus, Beenenia gen. nov. is similar also to several genera from the section Coelomerites 

(characterized by tibiae with longitudinal ridges). However, only in the genus Schematizella 

Jacoby, 1888 epipleura are signifi cantly reduced – visible in the basal fi fth and than extremely 

narrow or vanishing (Jacoby 1888; R. Beenen, pers. comm. 2011). Antennomeres II–VI are 

not fl attened in Schematizella. Other similar genera of Coelomerites differ in well developed 

epipleura and absence of pubescence on dorsal side of the body (Arimetus Jacoby, 1903) or 

in mucronate mid tibiae (Dircemella Weise, 1902; Hemiphracta Weise, 1902). 

Etymology. Dedicated to Ron Beenen (Nieuwegein, The Netherlands), an excellent specialist 

in Galerucinae. Gender: feminine. 

Beenenia scanticola sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1, 3–8) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., wadi Madar, 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m / 12°33.2′N, 

54°00.4′E, / J. Bezděk leg., 12-14.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES: 3 �� 4 ��, same data as holotype (JBCB); 

12 �� 9 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m / 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E, 

/ 13-14.xi.2010, L. Purchart lgt. [w, p]’ (4 �� 2 �� in JBCB, 3 �� 3 �� in NMPC, 2 �� 1 � in RBCN, 1 � 1 � 

in BMNH, 1 � 1 � in NHMB, 1 � 1 � in ZMHB). The specimens are provided with additional printed red label: 

‘HOLOTYPUS [or PARATYPUS], / Beenenia / scanticola sp. nov., / J. Bezděk det., 2011’. 

Description. Body length: males 5.7–6.1 mm (holotype 6.0 mm); females 5.9–7.3 mm. 

Male (holotype, Fig. 1). Body moderately fl at, parallel, densely pubescent, semiopaque. 

Dorsum metallic black with slight dark green tint. Labrum with brownish anterior margin. 

Head anterolaterally, genae and small transverse spot on clypeus brown. Pronotum with anterior 

and posterior margins brownish. Elytra with apical and lateral margins in posterior third 

brownish. Antennae completely black. Underside black. Mouthparts partly brownish, mid part 

of head brown. Mesoventrite with two brown spots in front of mesocoxae. Metaventrite with


Figs. 3–8. Beenenia scanticola sp. nov. 3 – aedeagus (a – dorsal view, b – lateral view); 4 – last male ventrite; 5 

– sternite VIII and tignum; 6 – vaginal palpi; 7 – spermatheca; 8 – claws. Scale bars: 1 mm for Figs. 3–5, 0.5 mm 

for Figs. 6–7, 0.25 mm for Fig. 8.

408 


brown posterior margin. All ventrites with brown posterior margins. Legs black, trochanters 

and apical parts of coxae of all legs brownish. 

Labrum transverse with lateral margins round and convergent, anterior margin widely 

shallowly concave, surface covered with 6–8 long pale setae in transverse row. Anterior part 

of head lustrous, impunctate, with long pale setae along anterior margin of antennal insertions. 

Interocular space wide, 3.70 times as wide as transverse diameter of eye. Frontal tubercles 

large, subtriangular, impunctate, moderately elevated, with anterior tips divergent. Tubercles 

separated from each other by thin sulcus, which shallowly continues through vertex. Frons 

slightly impressed behind frontal tubercles. Interantennal space 2.40 times as wide as transverse 

diameter of antennal socket. Vertex semiopaque, densely covered with large punctures, fi ne 

microsculpture and long pale setae adpressed on disc and erected near eyes. Lateral side of 

head behind eyes lustrous, covered with very fi ne wrinkles and sparsely with long pale setae. 

Antennae relatively robust, 0.60 times as long as body, length ratios of antennomeres I–IX 

equal 20-9-12-14-13-12-12-12-11-11-17. Antennomeres VI–X 1.20–1.30 times as long as 

wide. Antennomeres II–VI shiny, covered with long pale setae, with narrower bases, fl attened, 

antennomeres VII–XI semiopaque, covered also with dense short setae and microsculpture, 

gradually less fl attened, last two antennomeres almost tubular. Antennomeres IV–VII slightly 

impressed on inner side near base. 

Pronotum transverse, 1.86 times as broad as long, widest in middle. Surface semiopaque, 

densely covered with large punctures and short pale setae. Pronotal disc with shallow depressions 

laterally and in middle of both anterior and posterior part of pronotum. Both anterior 

and posterior margins with row of dense short setae directed anteriorly (posteriorly, resp.). 

Anterior margin nearly straight, with mid part slightly concave, posterior margin nearly 

straight in middle, lateral parts of posterior margin oblique, lateral margins slightly rounded. 

Anterior margin thinly bordered only at sides, in middle unbordered, lateral and posterior 

margins shallowly thinly bordered. Anterior angles prominent, swollen, slightly produced 

laterally, nearly rectangular, posterior angles distinct, obtusangulate. Anterior angles bearing 

four to six very long pale setae, posterior ones with two or three long pale setae. Scutellum 

wide, subtriangular, with widely rounded apex, covered with fi ne microsculpture and distinct 

punctures, pubescent. 

Elytra semiopaque, parallel, 0.70 times as long as body, 1.77 times as long as wide (measured 

at humeral calli), densely covered with small confused punctures and with two kinds 

of setae: shorter adpressed setae and longer semierected to erected setae. Humeral calli well 

developed. Elytral disc fl attened, distinctly impressed in postscutellar area. Lateral margins 

slightly explanate. Epipleura missing. Macropterous. 

Ventral surface semiopaque to shiny, covered with fi ne punctures and long pale setae, 

abdomen opaque covered also with microsculpture. Last ventrite wide and short, posterior 

margin widely shallowly concave, with wide and short triangular impression (Fig. 4). 

Legs moderately long and narrow, semiopaque to shiny covered with pale setae. Protarsomere 

I elongate, apically slightly dilated, 0.70 times as long as two following tarsomeres 

combined, as wide as protarsomere II. Length ratios of protarsomeres I–IV equal to 12-10-7- 

15. Metatarsomere I elongate, apically slightly dilated, as long as two following tarsomeres 

combined, slightly narrower than metatarsomere II. Length ratios of metatarsomeres I–IV 

equal to 18-11-7-17.


Basal two thirds of aedeagus robust, tubular, apical third fl at and bent downwards. Left side 

subapically with large lateral plate. Apex wide, slightly asymmetrical to right, with distinct 

small subtriangular tip (Fig. 3). 

Female. Antennae slightly shorter than in male, 0.50 times as long as body. Interocular 

space wider, 5.00–5.10 times as wide as transverse diameter of eye. Interantennal space 2.80 

times as wide as transverse diameter of antennal socket. Pronotum more transverse than 

in males, 1.90–2.05 times as broad as long. Elytra 1.75–1.85 times as long as wide. Last 

ventrite with evenly rounded posterior margin. Spermatheca with C-shaped cornu, nodulus 

small, narrower than base of cornu, ductus receptaculi short (Fig. 7). Tignum long with apical 

part slightly extended. Sternite VIII with posterior third covered with setae (Fig. 5). Vaginal 

palpi with wide base, anteriorly with subtriangular tip, posteriorly slightly divergent, each 

palp slightly narrowing posteriorly with rounded apex. Four setae placed at apex, additional 

2 setae subapically (Fig. 6). 

Variability. Pronotum in males 1.76–1.88 times as broad as long with lateral margins almost 

parallel to slightly rounded. 

Differential diagnosis. Beenenia scanticola sp. nov. can be distinguished from B. kabateki 

sp. nov. by the metallic black colouration (dark brown with metallic tint in B. kabateki sp. 

nov.), by pronotum covered with deeper punctures, and by two kinds of setae on elytra (shorter 

adpressed and longer semierected to erected setae in B. scanticola sp. nov., while short pale 

setae in B. kabateki sp. nov.). The apical third of aedeagus of B. scanticola sp. nov. is less 

turned to the left and less bent downwards than in B. kabateki sp. nov. (Figs. 3, 9). 

Etymology. Derived from Scant Mt., the highest mount of Hagher Mts. and of Socotra. 

Collection circumstances. All the specimens were beated from Trichocalyx obovatus Balfour 

(Acanthaceae) between 9 and 12 am. 

Distribution. So far known only from the type locality in Hagher Mts., Socotra, Yemen. 

Beenenia kabateki sp. nov. 

(Figs. 2, 9–12) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil protected area, 12°34′27′′N, 54°18′32′′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., HOMHIL / protected area, 28.-29.xi.2003 / N 12°34′27′′ E 

54°18′32′′, 364 / m (GPS), leg. P. Kabátek leg. [w, p] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA / 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr 

Kabátek & David Král [w, p]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES: 1 �, 1 �, same data as holotype (� in JBCB, � in NMPC). The 

specimens are provided with additional printed red label: ‘HOLOTYPUS [or PARATYPUS], / Beenenia / kabateki 

sp. nov., / J. Bezděk det., 2011’. 

Description. Body length: �� 4.7–5.4 mm (holotype 5.4 mm); � 5.6 mm. 

Male (holotype, Fig. 2) moderately fl at, parallel, pubescent, semiopaque. Head black with 

metallic tint, mandibles, clypeus and antennal insertions pale brown, vertex dark brown. 

Pronotum, scutellum and elytra dark brown with metallic tint, anterior and posterior margins 

of pronotum pale brown. Underside dark brown to black with metallic tint, lateral margins of 

meso- and metasternum paler, abdomen dark brown. Antennomere I dark brown, antennomeres 

II–XI black. Legs dark brown to black with apices of all femora pale brown. 

Labrum transverse with anterior margin widely shallowly concave, lateral margins rounded, 

surface covered with 6–8 long pale setae. Anterior part of head lustrous, impunctate, laterally, 

below antennal insertions and along nasal keel with several long pale setae. Interocular space

410 


Figs. 9–12. Beenenia kabateki sp. nov. 9 – aedeagus (a – dorsal view, b – lateral view); 10 – sternite VIII and tignum; 

11 – vaginal palpi; 12 – spermatheca. Scale bars: 1 mm for Figs. 9–10, 0.5 mm for Figs. 11–12.


wide, 3.00 times as wide as transverse diameter of eye. Frontal tubercles large, subtriangular, 

lustrous, impunctate, moderately elevated, with anterior tips divergent. Tubercles separated 

from each other by thin sulcus,which continues through vertex as indistinct impressed line. 

Frons slightly impressed behind frontal tubercles. Interantennal space 1.60 times as wide 

as transverse diameter of antennal socket. Vertex semiopaque, densely covered with large 

punctures, fi ne microsculpture and long pale setae. Lateral side of head behind eyes lustrous, 

covered with distinct wrinkles and sparsely with short pale setae. Antennae short, relatively 

robust, 0.60 times as long as body, length ratios of antennomeres I–XI equal 14-8-10-12- 

12-12-12-11-10-11-15. Antennomeres VI–X 1.20-1.40 times as long as wide. Antennomeres 

II–V shiny, covered with long pale setae, with bases slightly narrowed, fl attened in their 

basal halves, antennomeres VI–XI semiopaque, covered also with dense short setae and 

microsculpture, gradually less fl attened. 

Pronotum transverse, 1.74–1.82 times as broad as long, widest at anterior third, subparallel. 

Surface lustrous, densely covered with small punctures and short pale setae. Pronotal disc 

with small shallow impressions in middle of both anterior and posterior part of pronotum and 

laterally with two shallow oblique impressions. Both anterior and posterior margins with row 

of dense short setae directed anteriorly (posteriorly, resp.). Anterior margin nearly straight, 

posterior margin nearly straight in mid part with small shallow incision in middle, lateral 

parts of posterior margin oblique, lateral margins subparallel. Anterior margin unbordered, 

lateral and posterior margins shallowly thinly bordered. Anterior angles prominent, swollen, 

slightly produced laterally, nearly rectangular, posterior angles distinct, obtusangulate. Anterior 

angles with four long pale setae, posterior ones with one or two pale setae. Scutellum wide, 

subtriangular, with widely rounded apex, covered with fi ne punctures and short pale setae 

(partly abraded in holotype). 

Elytra shiny, 0.70 times as long as body, 1.78 times as long as wide (measured at humeral 

calli), very densely covered with small confused punctures (somewhat larger than on pronotum), 

and with short pale setae (partly abraded in holotype). Humeral calli well developed. 

Elytral disc fl attened, slightly impressed in postscutellar area. Lateral margins slightly 

explanate. Epipleura missing. Macropterous. 

Ventral surface shiny, covered with fi ne punctures and long pale setae, abdomen semiopaque 

covered also with microsculpture. Last ventrite wide and short, posterior margin widely 

shallowly concave, with wide and short subtriangular impression. 

Legs moderately long and narrow, semiopaque, densely covered with pale setae. Protarsomere 

I relatively narrow, apically slightly dilated, 0.68 times as long as two following 

tarsomeres combined, as wide as protarsomere II. Length ratios of protarsomeres I–IV equal 

to 11-9-7-14. Metatarsomere I elongate, narrow, apically slightly dilated, 0.95 times as long 

as two following tarsomeres combined, slightly narrower than metatarsomere II. Length ratios 

of metatarsomeres I–IV equal to 16-10-7-15. 

Basal two thirds of aedeagus robust, subtubular, apical third fl at, straight and directed 

downwards. Left side subapically with large lateral plate, behind this plate left side of aedeagus 

distinctly constricted. Apex wide, distinctly asymmetrical to right, with distinct small 

subtriangular tip (Fig. 9). 

Female. Antennae slightly shorter than in male, 0.55 times as long as body. Interocular

412 


space wider, 3.90 times as wide as transverse diameter of eye. Interantennal space 2.15 times 

as wide as transverse diameter of antennal socket. Pronotum 1.80 times as broad as long. Elytra 

1.85 times as long as wide. Last ventrite with evenly rounded posterior margin. Spermatheca 

with C–shaped cornu, nodulus small, narrower than base of cornu, ductus receptaculi short 

(Fig. 12). Tignum long, with apical part not extended, apex slightly bent laterally. Sternite 

VIII widest at base, with rounded lateral margins, posterior third covered with setae (Fig. 10). 

Vaginal palpi with wide base, anteriorly with subtriangular tip, posteriorly slightly divergent, 

each palp slightly extended subapically, apically narrowing with rounded apex. Several setae 

cummulated at apex (Fig. 11). 

Variability. The only known female specimen is relatively pale having pronotum with anterior 

and posterior margins widely paler, elytra brown with metallic tint, abdomen brown and 

legs brown with black tarsi. The shape of pronotum in the holotype is subparallel, but in both 

paratypes lateral margins are straight and slightly convergent posteriorly. 

Differential diagnosis. Beenenia kabateki sp. nov. is similar to B. scanticola sp. nov. but 

differs in the dark brown colouration with a metallic tint (metallic black in B. scanticola sp. 

nov.), in pronotum covered with fi ne punctures, and in elytra covered with short pale setae 

(in B. scanticola sp. nov. elytra are covered with two kinds of setae – shorter adpressed and 

longer semierected to erected setae). Apical third of aedeagus of B. kabateki sp. nov. is more 

turned to the left and more bent downwards than in B. scanticola sp. nov. (Figs. 3, 9). 

Etymology. Dedicated to Petr Kabátek (Prague, Czech Republic), specialist in Cerambycidae, 

who collected the type series. 

Distribution. So far known only from the type locality in Homhil area, Socotra, Yemen. 

Monolepta suchomeli sp. nov. 

(Figs. 13, 19–24) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Diksam plateau, 12°31′24′′N 53°58′29′′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Diksam plateau, 850-920m / N 12°31′24′′, E 53°58′29′′ / 

5.ii.2010 / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt. [w, p]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES: 2 ��, same data as in holotype (NMPC); 11 ��, 

9 ��, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Island / wadi Ayhaft / 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200 m / J. Bezděk leg., 7-8.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (7 

�� 5 �� in JBCB, 1 � 1 � in RBCN, 1 � 1 � in BMNH, 1 � 1 � in NHMB, 1 � 1 � in ZMHB); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, 

SOCOTRA Island / Diksam plateau, Bidehor, Digeila / Cave env., 920m, 8.ii.2010 / N 12°30′31′′, E 53°56′18′′ / L. 

Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt. [w, p]’ (JBCB); 3 ��, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., / Deiqub cave env. / 20.vi.2010, / V. Hula 

& J. Niedobová leg. [w, p]’ (JBCB); 1 �, 1 �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Dgisfu valley, 2.vi.2010, / N 12°28.444′, E 

054°08.596′ / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC); 1 �, 1 �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., / Zemhon area, 270-300 

m, / N 12°20.58′, E 054°06.39′ / 16.-17.6.2010, V. Hula leg. [w, p]’ (JBCB); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island E / 

Homhil area, 400-510 m / N 12°34′25′′, E 54°18′53′′ / 9.-10.ii.2010 / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt. [w, p]’ (NMPC); 1 

�, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / 410 m, 3.ii.2010 / N 12°29′41′′, E 54°09′30′′ / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt. [w, p]’ 

(NMPC); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island NW / Di Hamri, 20 m / N 12°37′59′′, E 54°15′40′′ / 27.ii.2010, L. Purchart 

lgt. [w, p]’ (NMPC); 1 spec. unsexed, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 2003 / 5-6/xii., Noged plain / QAAREH (waterfall), 57m 

/ N 12°20′10′′ E 53°37′56′′ / (GPS), David Král lgt. [w, p] // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, 

/ Petr Kabátek & David Král [w, p]’ (NMPC); 1 spec. unsexed, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / Shibhon plateau, / 

ESERHE, 13.vi.2012 / Croton socotranus shrubland / 12°25.2Ń 53°56.6É, 547 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 

2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC). 

The specimens are provided with additional printed red labels: ‘HOLOTYPUS [or PARATYPUS], / Monolepta / 

suchomeli sp. nov., / J. Bezděk det., 2012’; 1 spec. unsexed, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / Dixam plateau 14.- 

15.vi.2012 / Firmihin, Dracaena woodland / 12°28.6Ń, 54°01.1É, 490 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. 

Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC)


Figs. 13–18. Habitus. 13 – Monolepta suchomeli sp. nov. (paratype, male, 1.9 mm); 14 – M. hlavaci sp. nov. (paratype, 

male, 2.9 mm); 15 – M. hlavaci sp. nov. (black form) (paratype, female, 2.8 mm); 16 – M. kmenti sp. nov. (holotype, 

male, 3.1 mm); 17 – Madurasia obscurella Jacoby, 1896 (female, 2.7 mm); 18 – Medythia sp. (female, 3.3 mm).

414 


Figs. 19–24. Monolepta suchomeli sp. nov. 19 – aedeagus (a – dorsal view, b – lateral view); 20 – sternite VIII and 

tignum; 21 – vaginal palpi; 22 – ventral bursa sclerites; 23 – last male ventrite; 24 – spermatheca. Scale bars: 0.5 

mm for Figs. 19–23, 0.25 mm for Fig. 24.



Male (holotype). Body slender, fl attened, subparallel, glabrous. Body strawy yellow, labrum, 

maxillar palpi and apices of mandibles darkened, head behind frontal tubercles brownish, 

scutellum and extreme sutural margins darkened, last two tarsomeres of all legs infuscated, 

base of fi rst metatarsomere black. Antennomeres I–III yellow, antennomeres IV–V gradually 

darkened, antennomeres VI–XI black. 

Head as wide as anterior part of pronotum, lustrous, completely covered with microreticulation 

(including frontal tubercles). Labrum transverse, with four pale setae in transverse 

row, anterior margin almost straight. Anterior margin of clypeus with several long pale setae. 

Frontal tubercles subtriangular, slightly elevated, with anterior tips separated by even nasal 

keel. Both tubercles separated from each other by thin shallow furrow as well as posterior 

margin of frontal tubercles from frons. Interocular space wide, 2.10 times as wide as transverse 

diameter of eye. Frons slightly impressed just behind frontal tubercles. Frons and vertex 

with almost indistinct longitudinal median line. Antennae slender, 0.85 times as long as body, 

length ratios of antennomeres I–XI equal to 15-7-7-14-14-13-13-12-12-11-14. 

Pronotum lustrous, glabrous, transverse, 1.66 times as broad as long, widest at anterior 

third, slightly narrowed anteriorly and posteriorly, 0.75 times as broad as elytral base (measured 

at humeral calli). Surface densely covered with fi ne punctures, with two shallow oblique 

depressions. Lateral margins moderately rounded, anterior margin almost straight, posterior 

margin rounded. Anterior margin unbordered, lateral and posterior margins distinctly bordered. 

All angles with setigerous pore bearing long pale seta. Anterior angles nearly rectangular, 

posterior angles obtusely angulate. Scutellum subtriangular with rounded apex, lustrous, 

glabrous, covered with microsculpture. 

Elytra subparallel, lustrous, glabrous, very slightly divergent posteriad, with maximal 

width at apical third, 0.70 times as long as body and 1.86 times as long as wide. Humeral 

calli well developed. Elytral surface covered with small and very dense confused punctures. 

Epipleura wide in basal quarter, than gradually tapering and disappearing behind midlength 

of elytra. Macropterous. 

Legs slender, densely covered with short pale setae. Protarsomere I elongated, triangular, 

0.90 times as long as two following tarsomeres combined, length ratios of protarsomeres I–IV 

equal to 9-5-5-9. Metatarsomere I long, slender, twice as long as two following tarsomeres 

combined, length ratios of metatarsomeres I–IV equal to 20-6-4-9. Claws with small basal 

tooth. 

Ventral surface semiopaque, fi nely punctate and covered with pale setae. Anterior coxal 

cavities open posteriorly. Last ventrite with two incisions (Fig. 23). 

Aedeagus slender, parallel, slightly extended subapically, with apex widely rounded (Fig. 

19). 

Female. Sexual dimorphism weakly developed. Last ventrite regularly rounded, without 

incisions. Spermatheca with globular nodulus, cornu C-shaped with prolonged apex (Fig. 

24). Sternite VIII elongated, tignum very long, apically slightly dilated and bent (Fig. 20). 

Vaginal palpi with several long setae apically, basally forming long thin projection bifurcated 

posteriorly (Fig. 21). Ventral bursa sclerites sharp with two teeth at inner side (Fig. 22).

416 


Variability. Some specimens have completely yellow vertex or brown colour is reduced to 

the posterior part of vertex, scutellum and extreme sutural margins. Meso- and metaventrite 

sometimes infuscated. Antennae darkened from the fourth or fi fth antennomere. The width/ 

length ratio of pronotum varies between 1.60–1.70. 

Differential diagnosis. According to SCHLICH & WAGNER (2010), the only entirely yellow 

Monolepta Chevrolat, 1836 from the Arabian Peninsula is M. saudica Medvedev, 1996. It can 

be distinguished from M. suchomeli sp. nov. by larger body size (3.7–4.9 mm) and by aedeagus 

gradually tapering towards the apex. In addition, Monolepta suchomeli sp. nov. is very similar 

to the yellow West Palearctic species with anterior coxal cavities open, metatarsomere I more 

or less as long as the two following tarsomeres combined and its extreme base black, which 

are traditionally classifi ed in the genus Calomicrus Dillwyn, 1829 (see also Comments on 

classifi cation below): C. opthalmicus (Ogloblin, 1936) (Iran, 3.2 mm), C. syriacus (Weise, 

1924) (Syria, Turkey, 3.3–4.2 mm), C. wilcoxi Lopatin, 1984 (Iran, 2.7–4.5 mm), C. vanharteni 

Lopatin, 2001 (Yemen, 4.0 mm), C. arabicus Lopatin & Nesterova, 2006 (United Arab 

Emirates, 3.5 mm), C. fallax (Joannis, 1865) (northern Africa, 3.0–4.0 mm). With the body 

length 1.9–2.8 mm, M. suchomeli sp. nov. is the smallest species among them. Aedeagus of 

M. suchomeli sp. nov. is slender, parallel, with apex widely rounded, while it is wide, parallel 

and with rounded apex in C. fallax, distinctly constricted subapically in C. vanharteni, with 

strongly narrowed apical half in C. wilcoxi and C. arabicus, with apical third wide and slightly 

narrowed in C. syriacus, or slender and gradually narrowed in C. opthalmicus. 

Comments to classifi cation. Generic placement of M. suchomeli sp. nov. in the genus Monolepta 

is supported mainly by long fi rst metatarsomere with extreme base black and structure 

of spermatheca (Fig. 24) typical for Monolepta species (cf. WAGNER 2007). On the other 

hand, the base of vaginal palpi of M. suchomeli sp. nov. (Fig. 21) lacks the wing-shaped base 

known in Monolepta species (cf. WAGNER 2007). Although anterior coxal cavities are usually 

described as closed in the species-rich genus Monolepta (e.g. KIMOTO 1989, WARCHAŁOWSKI 

2010) (open in M. suchomeli sp. nov.), WAGNER (2003) doubted closed cavities as a constant 

character usable for identifi cation of the genus Monolepta, as they are variable from widely 

open to closed. Variability in the shape of coxal cavities, as well as variability in the length of 

metatarsomeres (cf. BEZDĚK 2007) could lead to the confusions between genera Calomicrus 

and Monolepta. The genus Calomicrus, distributed in the Old World, cumulates a large number 

of species in several habitually different groups. It is highly probable that Calomicrus in 

its current concept is paraphyletic, and it will be necessary to transfer at least some of these 

groups to other genera (see also KIMOTO 1989, BEZDĚK 2005, BEENEN 2010, and BEENEN & 

WARCHAŁOWSKI 2010). Unfortunately, the study of relationships of yellow Calomicrus species 

to Monolepta has been insuffi cient, and although I presume that in the future some of the 

yellow Mediterranean and Arabian Calomicrus species could be transferred to Monolepta, I 

refrain from doing it without a comprehensive phylogenetic study. 

Etymology. Dedicated to Josef Suchomel (Brno, Czech Republic), a participant in Socotra 

expedition. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens collected by me in Wadi Ayhaft were beated from 

Croton sulcifructus Balf.f. (Euphorbiaceae) between 9.00 and 13.00 of local time. 

Distribution. Socotra Island, Yemen.


Monolepta hlavaci sp. nov. 

(Figs. 14–15, 25–31) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts.,wadi Madar, 12°33.2′N 54°00.4′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m / 12°33.2′N 

54°00.4′E / J. Bezděk leg., 12-14.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES: 36 ��, 15 ��, 3 unsexed spec. (preserved in 

96% alcohol) same data as in holotype (JBCB, specimens in 96% in NMPC); 16 ��, 12 ��, same data as holotype, 

but P. Hlaváč leg. (NMPC); 12 ��, 4 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 

m / 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E, / 13-14.xi.2010, L. Purchart lgt. [w, p]’ (3 �� 1 � in RBCN, 3 �� 1 � in BMNH, 3 �� 1 

� in NHMB, 3 �� 1 � in ZMHB); 2 ��, 5 ��, ‘SOCOTRA Is. (YE) / Al Haghier Mts. Scant Mt. env. / 12°34.6′N, 

54°01.5′E, 1450 m / Jan Batelka leg. 12-13.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (2 �� 1 � in JBCB, 4 �� in JBCP); 2 ��, ‘YEMEN, 

SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / Scant Mt. env. / 12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, 1450 m / Jiří Hájek leg. 12-13.xi.2010 

[w, p]’ (NMPC); 15 spec. unsexed, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / Dixam plateau, TUDHEN / shrubland with 

Commiphora / planifrons, 18.+22.vi.2012 / 12°32.7Ń, 53°59.9É, 1135 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 

/ J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC); 11 

spec. unsexed, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Hagher Mts., Scand Mt. env. / montane evergreen woodland / 16.- 

18.vi.2012 / 12°34.6Ń, 54°01.5É, 1450 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. 

Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (JBCB). The specimens are provided with additional 

printed red labels: ‘HOLOTYPUS [or PARATYPUS], / Monolepta / hlavaci sp. nov., / J. Bezděk det., 2012’; 2 spec. 

unsexed, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND, 18.vi. / Hagher Mts., WADI MADAR, 2012 / montane shrubland with / 

Cephalocroton socotranus / 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E, 1170 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, 

V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC) 


Male (holotype). Body slender, fl attened, subparallel, almost glabrous. Body brownish 

black. Head black, scutellum and pronotum brownish black, elytra dark brown, distinctly paler 

than pronotum. Mandibles and anterior and lateral margins of clypeus brown. Legs yellow, 

two apical tarsomeres of all legs infuscated. Antennomeres I–III yellow, antennomeres IV 

gradually darkened, antennomeres V–XI black. 

Head slightly narrower than anterior part of pronotum, lustrous, completely covered with 

very fi ne microreticulation (including frontal tubercles). Labrum transverse, with six pale 

setae in transverse row, anterior margin almost straight, with indistinct incision in middle. 

Anterior margin of clypeus with several long pale setae. Frontal tubercles subtriangular, 

distinctly elevated, with anterior tips separated by even nasal keel. Both tubercles separated 

from each other by thin shallow furrow as well as posterior margin of frontal tubercles from 

frons. Interocular space wide, 2.90 times as wide as transverse diameter of eye. Frons distinctly 

impressed just behind frontal tubercles. Frons with setigerous pore behind eye bearing long 

seta. Vertex with indistinct longitudinal median line. Antennae slender, 0.95 times as long as 

body, length ratios of antennomeres I–XI equal to 10-5-5-10-10-10-10-10-9-9-10. 

Pronotum lustrous, glabrous, transverse, 1.68 times as broad as long, widest at anterior third, 

slightly narrowed anteriorly and posteriorly, 0.75 times as broad as elytral base (measured 

at humeral calli). Surface densely covered with fi ne punctures. Disc with large transverse, 

slightly rounded depression. Lateral margins moderately rounded, anterior margin almost 

straight, posterior margin rounded. Anterior margin unbordered, lateral and posterior margins 

distinctly bordered. Anterior angles nearly rectangular, posterior angles obtusely angulate. 

All angles with setigerous pore bearing long pale seta. Scutellum subtriangular with rounded 

apex, lustrous, glabrous, impunctate.

418 


Elytra lustrous, subparallel, slightly divergent posteriorly, with maximal width at last third, 

0.73 times as long as body and 1.77 times as long as wide. Humeral calli well developed. 

Elytral surface covered with small and very dense confused punctures and very sparsely with 

short setae, better visible in posterior third. Epipleura wide in basal quarter, then gradually 

tapering and disappearing behind midlength of elytra. Macropterous. 

Legs slender, densely covered with short pale setae. Protarsomere I elongated, slender, 

0.84 times as long as two following tarsomeres combined, length ratios of protarsomeres 

I–IV equal to 11-8-5-10. Metatarsomere I long, slender, 1.71 times as long as two following 

tarsomeres combined, length ratios of metatarsomeres I–IV equal to 24-9-5-10. Claws with 

small basal tooth. 


cavities open posteriorly. Last ventrite with two incisions, median lobe distinctly impressed 

(Fig. 30). 

Aedeagus slender, apical part gradually narrowed, apex subtriangular (Fig. 25). 

Female. Last ventrite regularly rounded, without incisions. Spermatheca with globular 

nodulus, cornu relatively robust, C–shaped (Fig. 31). Sternite VIII almost circular, tignum 

very long, apically slightly bent (Fig. 26). Vaginal palpi with several long setae apically, base 

wing-shaped (Fig. 27). Ventral bursa sclerites with two larger teeth apically and 7–8 small 

teeth on surface (Fig. 28). Dorsal bursa sclerites narrow, with four small teeth (Fig. 29). 

Variability. The colouration is variable. While head is almost always black, pronotum varies 

from dark brown to black, and elytra from pale brown (often with darker suture, anterior 

margin and epipleura) to completely black. The form with black head and pronotum and 

brown elytra is dominating. Only several specimens have completely black dorsum. The 

width/length ratio of pronotum varies between 1.62–1.69. Two females with black dorsum 

have distinctly shorter antennae (Fig. 15). 

Differential diagnosis. Due to the anterior coxal cavities open, fi rst metatarsomere slightly 

shorter than the two following tarsomeres combined, with its extreme base black, base of 

vaginal palpi wing-shaped, and the characteristic shape of spermatheca (Fig. 31), M. hlavaci 

sp. nov. is classifi ed in the genus Monolepta. The combination of black head, brownish black 

or black pronotum, and pale to dark brown elytra in M. hlavaci sp. nov. is unique within 

all Monolepta from the Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa. See also Comments on 

classifi cation under M. suchomeli sp. nov. 

Having a transverse depression on pronotum, Monolepta hlavaci sp. nov. is similar to Calomicrus 

foveolatus Rosenhauer, 1856 from Spain, but the depression is deeper in M. hlavaci 

sp. nov. Dominating form of M. hlavaci sp. nov. with brown elytra can be easily distinguished 

from completely black C. foveolatus. Rare black form of M. hlavaci sp. nov. differs from C. 

foveolatus also in the structure of tarsi (fi rst pro- and mesotarsomeres slender in M. hlavaci 

sp. nov., while more robust, subtriangular in C. foveolatus). 

Etymology. Dedicated to Peter Hlaváč (Košice, Slovak Republic), specialist in Pselaphinae 

and Scydmaeninae (Staphylinidae) and participant in Socotra expedition who collected a 

part of the type series. 

Collection circumstances. The specimens were collected by beating various shrubs and 

trees. 

Distribution. Socotra Island, Yemen.


Figs. 25–31. Monolepta hlavaci sp. nov. 25 – aedeagus (a – dorsal view, b – lateral view, c – ventral view); 26 

– sternite VIII and tignum; 27 – vaginal palpi; 28 – ventral bursa sclerites; 29 – dorsal bursa sclerites; 30 – last male 

ventrite; 31 – spermatheca. Scale bars: 0.5 mm for Figs. 25–30, 0.25 mm for Fig. 31.

420 


Monolepta kmenti sp. nov. 

(Figs. 16, 32–38) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Aloove vill. env., 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, ALOOVE vill. env. / Jatropha unicostata 

shrubland with / Boswellia elongata trees, / 19.-20.vi.2012, / 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 221 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA 

expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, 

p]’ (NMPC). PARATYPE: 1 �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Zemhon area, 270-300 m, / N 12°20,58′, E 054°06.39′E / 16.- 

17.6.2010, V. Hula leg. [w, p]’ (JBCB). The specimens are provided with additional printed red labels: ‘HOLOTYPUS 

[or PARATYPUS], / Monolepta / kmenti sp. nov., / J. Bezděk det., 2012’. 

Description. Body length: male (holotype) 3.1 mm; female 3.8 mm. 

Male (holotype, Fig. 16). Body elongate, glabrous, completely pale brown, mandibles 

and maxillar palpi dark brown. Legs pale brown, base of metatarsomere I black. Antennae 

gradually darkened from antennomere IV. 

Head lustrous, covered with very fi ne microreticulation (including frontal tubercles). Labrum 

transverse, with four pale setae in transverse row, anterior margin with indistinct incision 

in middle. Frontal tubercles subtriangular, slightly elevated, with anterior tips separated by 

even nasal keel. Interocular space 2.25 times as wide as transverse diameter of eye. Frons 

distinctly impressed posteriorly to frontal tubercles, posteriorly to eye with setigerous pore 

bearing long seta. Antennae slender, 0.85 times as long as body, length ratios of antennomeres 

I–XI equal to 12-5-6-12-12-11-11-11-10-9-10. 

Pronotum semiopaque, covered with fi ne punctures, transverse, 1.6 times as broad as long, 

widest in midlength, slightly narrowed anteriorly and posteriorly, 0.72 times as broad as elytral 

base (measured at humeral calli). Surface with two large lateral impressions. Lateral margins 

slightly rounded, anterior margin straight, posterior margin widely rounded. Anterior margin 

unbordered, posterior margin thinly bordered, lateral margins with border slightly wider than 

posterior one. Anterior angles rectangular, posterior angles obtusely angulate. All angles with 

setigerous pore bearing long pale seta. Scutellum triangular, lustrous, glabrous, impunctate. 

Elytra semiopaque, slightly divergent posteriorly, with maximal width behind middle, 0.71 

times as long as body and 1.57 times as long as wide. Humeral calli developed. Elytral surface 

densely covered with small confused punctures and very fi ne microreticulation. Epipleura 

wide in basal third, before middle tapering and disappearing in apical third. Macropterous. 

Legs slender, densely covered with short pale setae. Protarsomere I elongated, slender, 

slightly divergent, lateral margins straight, 0.9 times as long as two following tarsomeres 

combined, length ratios of protarsomeres I–IV equal to 9-6-4-6. Metatarsomere I long, slender, 

1.6 times as long as two following tarsomeres combined, length ratios of metatarsomeres 

I–IV equal to 16-6-4-7. Claws with distinct basal tooth. 


cavities open posteriorly. Apical ventrite with two incisions, median lobe distinctly impressed 

(Fig. 37). 

Apical half of aedeagus parallel, narrower than basal half, apex almost straight, ventral 

side apically with large impression disappearing in midlength of aedeagus (Fig. 32). 

Female. Last ventrite regularly rounded, without incisions. Spermatheca with small subglobular 

nodulus, cornu relatively thin, C–shaped, with apex bent (Fig. 38). Sternite VIII elongate,


Figs. 32–38. Monolepta kmenti sp. nov. 32 – aedeagus (a – dorsal view, b – lateral view, c – ventral view); 33 – sternite 

VIII and tignum; 34 – vaginal palpi; 35 – ventral bursa sclerites; 36 – dorsal bursa sclerites; 37 – last male ventrite; 

38 – spermatheca. Scale bars: 0.5 mm for Figs. 32–37, 0.25 mm for Fig. 38. 

laterally with 6 setae, tignum very long, apically slightly bent (Fig. 33). Vaginal palpi with 

several long setae apically, base triangularly widened (Fig. 34). Ventral bursa sclerites large, 

elongate, kidney-shaped (Fig. 35). Dorsal bursa sclerites small, slightly elongate (Fig. 36). 

Differential diagnosis. Monolepta kmenti sp. nov. is similar to M. saudica Medvedev, 1996 

from Saudi Arabia, Oman and Yemen, and can be distinguished by the following characters:

422 


colour pale brown (yellow in M. saudica), antennae darkened from antennomere IV (antennae 

yellow with darkened antennomere IX in M. saudica) and aedeagus with apical half parallel 

and apex almost straight (aedeagus gradually tapering towards the triangular apex in M. 

saudica) (cf. SCHLICH & WAGNER 2010). 

Within the African species, Monolepta kmenti sp. nov. can be compared with M. citrinella 

Jacoby, 1899 described from the RSA but widely distributed through Africa and occurring also 

in Ethiopia, Eritrea and Somalia (T. Wagner, pers. comm. 2012). Monolepta citrinella differs 

in yellow body and yellow antennae with the last two antennomeres darkened apically (body 

pale brown and antennae darkened from antennomere IV in M. kmenti sp. nov.). 

Etymology. Dedicated to Petr Kment (Prague, Czech Republic), specialist in Heteroptera and 

participant in Socotra expedition 2012 who collected the holotype of this new species. 

Distribution. Socotra Island, Yemen. 

Madurasia obscurella Jacoby, 1896 

(Fig. 17) 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m, 7.–8.xi.2010, 

1 � 1 �, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. A species occuring in India (e. g. MAULIK 1936), Nepal (TAKIZAWA 1990), Sri 

Lanka (MOHAMEDSAID 1997), and continetal Yemen (present paper). Recorded also from 

Sudan (LABOISSIÈRE 1926) under the name Neorudolphia bedfordi Laboissière, 1926. First 


Review of Galerucinae from continental Yemen 

with new faunistic data 

Afromaculepta decemmaculata (Jacoby, 1886) 

Distribution. African species. From Yemen listed by BEENEN (2010) without exact data. 

Apophylia cervenkai Bezděk, 2005 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: Al Hudaydah gov., Jabal Bura valley forest NP (stream valley), 15°52.4–5′N 

43°24.6–25.2′E, 240–350 m, at light, 4.xi.2010, 1 �, J. Hájek leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. Ethiopia, Oman, Yemen (BEZDĚK 2005). 

Asbecesta cyanipennis Harold, 1877 

Distribution. African species, reported from Yemen by BRYANT (1957) and MEDVEDEV 

(1996). 

Asbecesta signata (Kirsch, 1866) 

Distribution. African species, reported from Yemen by MEDVEDEV (1996) under the name 

Asbecesta senegalensis Allard, 1889.


Aulacophora calva Anand & Cox, 1986 

Material examined (2 spec.). YEMEN: Al Mahrah gov., Jabal al Fatk, Hawf NE of Al Ghaydah, 16°40′N 53°05′E, 

729 m, 12.–13.x.2005, 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB); Al Hudaydah gov., Jabal Bura, NEE of Al Hudaydah, 14°52′N 

43°24′E, 225–600 m, 30.x.–1.xi.2005, 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. India, Oman, Maldive Islands, Pakistan (ANNAND & COX 1986), Sri Lanka 

(ANNAND & COX 1986, MOHAMEDSAID 1997). First record from Yemen. 

Aulacophora cf. foveicollis (Lucas, 1847) 

(Figs. 39–41) 

Material examined (3 spec.). YEMEN: Sana’a gov., Beni Mansour vill. env. (stream valley), 15°06.1–4′N 

43°52.8–53.2′E, 1520–1550 m, 5.xi.2010, 1 �, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Sana’a gov., Wadi Moor (waterfall), 15°08.0′N 

43°36.4′E, 744 m, 5.xi.2010, 1 �, L. Purchart leg. (JBCB); Al Mahrah gov., Jabal al Fatk, Hawf NE of Al Ghaydah, 

16°40′N 53°05′E, 729 m, 12.–13.x.2005, 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. Aulacophora foveicollis is widely distributed in southern Palearctic, African and 

Oriental Regions. It was reported from Yemen by BRYANT (1957). However, re-examination 

of those specimens is necessary to decide if his specimens belong to the true A. foveicollis, 

A. calva or unclear species of Aulacophora (see below). 

Comments. All three recently collected specimens have yellow underside, only abdomen 

has black lateral margins. The median lobe of the male last visible ventrite is shallowly 

impressed but its apex has a deep transverse oval cavity (Fig. 40). The body lenght of three 

available males: 7.0–7.2 mm. The same colouration of underside was reported by MEDVE- 

DEV (1996) for specimens of A. foveicollis from Saudi Arabia. Although the aedeagus of 

the Yemeni specimens is very similar to that of A. foveicollis as published by BERTI (1990) 

(see Figs. 41, 42), I have some doubts that my and Medvedev′s specimens belong to A. 

foveicollis because this species has abdomen black with orange median lobe of the last 

male ventrite only. In my opinion specimens from the Arabian Peninsula may represent an 

undescribed species but I am unable to make a comprehensive revision of Aulacophora 

foveicollis material necessary for such decision at the moment. Moreover, I have not seen 

any female from the Arabian population whose structure of abdomen and pygidium can 

also help to unravel this problem. 

Calomicrus vanharteni Lopatin, 2001 

Distribution. A species endemic to Yemen (LOPATIN 2001). 

Diacantha dubia Gahan, 1896 

Distribution. A species endemic to Yemen (GAHAN 1896). 

Diorhabda sublineata (Lucas, 1849) 

Distribution. Iberian peninsula, North Africa, Yemen (TRACY & ROBBINS 2009).

424 


Figs. 39–42. 32–34. Aulacophora cf. foveicollis (Lucas, 1847). 39 – habitus of male (7.1 mm); 40 – male abdomen; 

41 – aedeagus (a – dorsal view, b – lateral view). 42 – aedeagus of Aulacophora foveicollis sensu BERTI (1990) 

(a – dorsal view, b – lateral view). Scale bar 1 mm for Fig. 41.


Diorhabda octocostata Gahan, 1896 

Distribution. Described from Yemen, Syria and Iraq (GAHAN 1896). From Yemen reported 

also by BRYANT (1957). 

Galerudolphia arabica (Medvedev, 1996) 

Material examined (39 spec.). YEMEN: Sana’a gov., Bait Bows (tank), 15°16.398′N 44°11.634′E, 2300 m, 

21.vi.2010, 14 �� 23 ��, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (JBCB, 3 �� 3 �� in NMPC); Sana’a gov., Bait Bows 

(tank), 15°16.3′N 44°12.1′E, 2410 m, 6.xi.2010, 1 �, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Haraz Mts., S slope of Al-lan Mt., 

2600 m, 23.vi.2010, 1 �, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. Saudi Arabia (MEDVEDEV 1996, BOLZ & WAGNER 2005). First record from 

Yemen. 

Lamprocopa delata (Erichson, 1843) 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: Al Hudaydah gov., Wadi Surdud (Sari), W of Sana’a, 15°15′N 43°30′E, 

627 m, 2.xi.2005, 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. African species, reported from Yemen by BRYANT (1957) and LOPATIN (2001). 

Leptaulaca fi ssicollis (Thomson, 1858) 

Distribution. African species, reported from Yemen by BRYANT (1957) under the name Leptaulaca 

festiva (Gerstaecker, 1862). 

Leptomona heydeni (Joannis, 1865) 

Distribution. Described from Egypt. Reported from Yemen by MEDVEDEV (1996). 

Comments. Generic position of this species is unclear. In the Catalogue of Palearctic Coleoptera, 

BEENEN (2010) followed opinions by BECHYNĚ (1958) and WILCOX (1973) who both classifi ed it 

in the genus Leptomona Bechyně, 1958. SCHLICH & WAGNER (2010) excluded it from the genus 

Monolepta with a notice that the correct generic placement will be published later. 

Madurasia obscurella Jacoby, 1896 


43°24.6–25.2′E, 240–350 m, at light, 4.xi.2010, 6 ��, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); same data, 1 �, L. Purchart leg. 

(NMPC); same data, 1 �, J. Hájek leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. A species occurring in India (e.g. MAULIK 1936), Nepal (TAKIZAWA 1990), Sri 

Lanka (MOHAMEDSAID 1997), and Socotra Island (present paper). Recorded also from Sudan 

(LABOISSIÈRE 1926) under the name Neorudolphia bedfordi Laboissière, 1926. First record 

from Yemen. 

Medythia quaterna (Fairmaire, 1880) 

Distribution. Widely distributed in Africa (BERTI 1983). Reported from Yemen by BRYANT 

(1957).

426 


Medythia sp. 

(Fig. 18) 


43°24.6–25.2′E, 240–350 m, at light, 4.xi.2010, 1 �, J. Hájek leg. (NMPC). 

Comments. Probably undescribed species, 3.3 mm long, characterised by completely orange 

body and legs (except of darkened apices of antennae and one longitudinal black stripe on 

each elytron). I am avoiding to describe it based on just one female. 

All other Afrotropical Medythia Jacoby, 1887 species have a black head (or head and 

pronotum), usually bicolorous legs, and more extended black pattern on elytra (usually with 

black lateral margins or at least epipleura). Two widely distributed African Medythia occur 

also in Northeast Africa: M. quaterna (Fairmaire, 1880) recorded also from Yemen, and M. 

exclamationis (Jacoby, 1900) (known also from Ethiopia and Kenya). Both species differ from 

the Yemeni specimen in black antennae with yellow antennomeres IX–X and in subquadrate 

pronotum (in the Yemeni specimen lateral margins are slightly rounded, posterior margin is 

straight only in the middle, laterally it is widely rounded). 

Monolepta arvensis Bryant, 1957 

Material examined (26 spec.). YEMEN: Sana’a gov., Jabal Haraz Mts., S of Manakhah vill., ca. 2510 m, 15°03.7′N 

43°44.6′E, 3.xi.2010, 2 �� 10 ��, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); same data, 9 spec. unsexed, J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); Sana’a 

gov., Wadi Anis, 60 km SW of Sana’a, 15°00′N 44°09′E, 1522 m, 7.x.2005, 1 spec., P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB); Lahij 

gov., N of Lahij, 13°10′N 44°49′E, 258 m, 23.x.2005, 2 spec., P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB); Ibb gov., Wadi Maytam, 12 

km SE of Ibb, 13°53′N 44°18′E, 1595 m, 27.x.2005, 2 ��, S. Kadlec leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. Saudi Arabia, Yemen (BRYANT 1957, SCHLICH & WAGNER 2010). 

Monolepta carsteni Schlich & Wagner, 2010 

Distribution. Yemen, Saudi Arabia (SCHLICH & WAGNER 2010). As M. bioculata (Fabricius, 

1781) published from Yemen also by BRYANT (1957) and LOPATIN (2001). 

Monolepta lepida Reiche & Saulcy, 1858 

Material examined (14 spec.). YEMEN: Sana’a gov., Bait Bows (tank), 15°16.3′N 44°12.1′E, 2410 m, 6.xi.2010, 

2 �� 4 ��, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Sana’a gov., Bait Bows (tank), 15°16.398′N 44°11.634′E, 2300 m, 21.vi.2010, 

1 � 1 �, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (JBCB); Sana’a gov., Wadi Dhahr (wasted gardens), 15°26.4′N 44°07.5′E, ca. 

2255 m, 2.xi.2010, 1 spec. unsexed, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Al Mahrah gov., Jabal al Fatk, Hawf NE of Al Ghaydah, 

16°40′N 53°05′E, 729 m, 12.–13.x.2005, 4 spec., P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB); Hadramaut gov., Wadi Daw′an, NW of Al 

Mukalla, 15°09′N 48°26′E, 946 m, 20.x.2005, 1 spec., P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Eritrea, Somalia (SCHLICH 

& WAGNER 2010). From Yemen published also by BRYANT (1957) under the names Monolepta 

pygidialis Jacoby, 1906 and M. rubricosa Gerstaecker, 1871. 

Monolepta saudica Medvedev, 1996 

Distribution. Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen (MEDVEDEV 1996, SCHLICH & WAGNER 2010).


Nymphius buettikeri (Medvedev, 1996) 


43°24.6–25.2′E, 240–350 m, 4.xi.2010, 1 � 3 ��, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); same data, 1 �, J. Hájek leg. (NMPC); Al 

Hudaydah gov., Jabal Bura, NEE of Al Hudaydah, 14°52′N 43°24′E, 225–600 m, 30.x.–1.xi.2005, 2 ��, S. Kadlec 

leg. (JBCB); same data, 2 �� 4 ��, S. Kadlec leg. (JBCB); Al Hudaydah gov., Wadi Surdud (Sari), W of Sana’a, 

15°15′N 43°30′E, 627 m, 2.xi.2005, 2 ��, P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB); Ta′iiz gov., Suq ad Dabab, SWW of Ta′iiz, 

13°32′N 43°57′E, 1208 m, 26.x.2005, 1 �, S. Kadlec leg. (JBCB); Sana’a gov., Wadi Anis, 60 km SW of Sana’a, 

15°00′N 44°09′E, 1522 m, 7.x.2005, 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. Saudi Arabia (MEDVEDEV 1996). First record from Yemen. 

Nymphius millingeni (Pic, 1915) 

Material examined (4 spec.). YEMEN: Hadramaut gov., Sunah, SE of Saywun, 15°41′N 48°52′E, 730 m, 10.x.2005, 

1 � 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB); Abyan gov., Lawdar, NE of Aden, 13°53′N 45°48′E, 1145 m, 22.x.2005, 2 ��, 

P. Kabátek leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. Oman (MEDVEDEV 2006, 2007), Saudi Arabia (PIC 1915, MEDVEDEV 2006, 2007). 

First record from Yemen. 


This study was supported by the Research plan No. MSM6215648905 ‘Biological and technological 

aspects of sustainability of controlled ecosystems and their adaptability to climate 

change’, and by the grant No. LA10036/MSMT ‘Participation of young scientists of MZLU 

Brno to the research activities of IUFRO – The Global Network for Forest Science Cooperation’ 

– both fi nanced by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic. 

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Alticinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) of Socotra Island 

Manfred DÖBERL 

Seeweg 34, 93326 Abensberg, Germany; e-mail: mdcol@t-online.de 

Abstract. Data on Alticinae from Socotra Island (Yemen) are presented for the fi rst 

time. Altogether, 17 species in ten genera are recorded including the following new 

taxa: Aphthona socotrana sp. nov., Bezdekaltica gen. nov. with B. socotrana sp. nov. 

as the type species, Luperomorpha biondii sp. nov., and Yemenaltica furthi sp. nov. 

Three species of Aphthona Chevrolat, 1836, two of Eriotica Harold, 1877, and one 

of Longitarsus Latreille, 1829 remain unidentifi ed. New synonymy is proposed: 

Hermaeophaga rufi collis (Lucas, 1847) = Lactica unicolor Jacoby, 1886, syn. nov. 

Lectotypes are designated for Lactica unicolor and Podagrica puncticollis Weise, 

1902. Aedeagi, spermathecae, and habiti are illustrated for all species. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Alticinae, new genus, new species, 

taxonomy, new records, new synonymy, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Alticinae of Socotra remained unknown until recently, up to the present no species has 

been reported. The material collected almost exclusively during the Czech expeditions to 

Socotra between the years 2000–2012 includes 17 species, six of which remain unidentifi ed 

to species level. 

The Socotran Alticinae are composed of the Palaearctic, African and endemic faunistic 

elements. The Palaearctic species are: Hermaeophaga (Orthocrepis) rufi collis (Lucas, 1847), 

Ph. procera L. Redtenbacher, 1849, and Psylliodes persica Allard, 1867. The African species 

are represented by Aphthona pusilla Laboissière, 1942, Longitarsus buettikeri Doguet, 1984, 

Phyllotreta cheiranthi Weise, 1903, two unidentifi ed species of Eriotica sp., and Podagrica 

puncticollis Weise, 1902. Four species are Socotran endemics: Aphthona socotrana sp. nov., 

Bezdekaltica socotrana gen. et sp. nov., Luperomorpha biondii sp. nov., and Yemenaltica furthi 

sp. nov. Further studies are necessary to fi nd out more about Socotran fl ea beetles. 


Descriptions and drawings were made using a WILD-binocular at 50 × magnifi cation. 

The habitus photographs were taken using a Canon MP-E 65mm/2.8 1-5x Macro on bellows 

attached to a Canon EOS 550D camera. Partially focused images of each specimen were 



430 

DÖBERL: Alticinae of Socotra Island (Chrysomelidae) 

combined using Helicon Focus 5.1 Pro software. The examined material is stored in the 

following collections: 


CULS Faculty of Forestry, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (Jan Farkač); 

MBCA Maurizio Biondi collection, L′Aquila, Italy; 

MCCI Museo civico di Storia naturale di Carmagnola, Italy (Gianni B. Del Mastro); 

MDCA Manfred Döberl collection, Abensberg, Germany; 

MSNG Museo Civico di Storia Naturale ‘Giacomo Doria’, Genova, Italy (Roberto Poggi); 


ZMHB Museum für Naturkunde der Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany (Johannes Frisch, Joachim Willers). 

Exact label data are cited for all type specimens; a double slash (//) divides data on different 

labels and and a single slash (/) divides data in different rows. Other comments, remarks and 

abbreviations are placed in square brackets: [p] – preceding data are printed, [h] – preceding 

data are handwritten, [w] – white label, and [r] – red label. 

In accordance with the sixth volume of Palaearctic Coleoptera (DÖBERL 2010) Alticinae 

are treated as a subfamily and not as a tribe within Galerucinae. 

Systematics 

Aphthona pusilla Laboissière, 1942 

(Figs. 1, 15, 26) 

Material examined (40 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Zemhon area, 10°30′58′′N 54°6′39′′E, 270-350 m, 

3.-4.ii.2010, 5 spec. unsexed, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (3 in JBCB, 2 in MDCA); Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt. 

env., 12°34.6′N 54°01.5′E, 1450 m, 12.-13.xi.2010, 2 spec. unsexed, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Al Haghier Mts., Wadi 

Madar, 12°33.2′N 54°00.4′E, 1180-1230 m, 12.-14.xi.2010, 2 spec. unsexed, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Aloove area, 

Hassan vill. env., 12°31.2′N 54°07.4′E, 221 m, 9.-10.xi.2010, 1 spec. unsexed, J. Bezděk leg. (JBCB); Sirhin area, 

Dixam plateau, 12°31.8′N 53°59.9′E, 812 m, 1.-2.xii.2003, 2 spec. unsexed, P. Kabátek leg. (NMPC); Hadiboh 

env., 12°65′02′′N 54°02′04′′E, 10-100 m, 21.xi.-12.xii.2003, 23 spec. unsexed, D. Král leg. (NMPC); Noged plain, 

Qaareh (waterfall), 12°20′10′′N 53°37′56′′E, 57 m, 5.-6.xii.2003, 2 spec. unsexed, D. Král leg. (NMPC); Dixam 

plateau, Wadi Zeeriq, 12°31′08′′N 53°59′09′′E, 750 m, 3.xii.2003, 2 spec. unsexed, D. Král leg. (NMPC); Shibhon 

plateau, Eserhe, 12°25.5Ń 53°56.6É, 547 m, 13.vi.2012, 1 spec. unsexed, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, 

I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. Aphthona pusilla is an African species described from Democratic Republic 

of Congo (LABOISSÈRE 1942), known also from Eritrea, Ethiopia, Guinea, Nigeria, Rwanda, 

Burundi and Sierra Leone (SCHERER 1972, BIONDI 1994). Possibly it occurs also in Oman 

– reported as ‘Aphthona sp. 1’ by DOGUET (1984a) (this record was repeated by MEDVEDEV 

1996, but erroneously attributed to Saudi Arabia). First record from Socotra Island. 

Aphthona socotrana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 2, 16, 27) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Zemhon area, 12°30′58′′N 54°06′39′′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Zemhon area, 270-350 m / N 12°30′58′′, E 

54°06′39′′ / 3.-4.ii.2010 / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. [w, p]’. PARATYPES: 1 �, ‘Republic of Yemen 4-5.6.2010 / 

Socotra Isl. / Qualentiah env. / slopes 5 km SE from Quaysoh / N 12°39,691′, E 053°26,658′ / lgt. V. Hula & Niedobová, 

J. [w, p]’ (JBCB); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Island / wadi Ayhaft / 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200 m / J. Bezděk 

leg., 7-8.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (MDCA). The specimens are provided with two additional labels: ‘Aphthona / socotrana 

mihi / des. Döberl 2011 [w, p]’ and ‘Holotypus [Paratypus, resp.] [r, p]’.


Figs. 1–9. Aedeagus (a – ventral view, b – lateral view). 1 – Aphthona pusilla Laboissière, 1942; 2 – A. socotrana sp. 

nov.; 3 – Bezdekaltica socotrana sp. nov.; 4 – Eriotica sp. B; 5 – Hermaeophaga rufi collis (Lucas, 1849) (specimen 

from Oman); 6 – Longitarsus buettikeri Doguet, 1984; 7 – Luperomorpha biondii sp. nov.; 8 – Phyllotreta cheiranthi 

Weise, 1903 (specimen from Yemen); 9 – P. procera (Redtenbacher, 1849). Scale bar: 0.5 mm.

432 


Figs. 10–12. Aedeagus (a – ventral view, b – lateral view). 10 – Podagrica puncticollis Weise, 1902; 11 – Psylliodes 

persica Allard, 1867 (specimen from Iran); 12 – Yemenaltica furthi sp. nov. Scale bar: 0.5 mm. 

Description. Body length/width: male (holotype) 2.0/0.9 mm; females 1.9/0.8 mm. 

Male (holotype, Fig. 27). Body subparallel, glabrous, semiopaque, pale brown. Vertex, 

meso-, metaventrite and most of abdomen dark brown. Antennae gradually darkened from 

antennomere IV. Legs pale brown. 

Head subquadratic, supracallinal sulcus bent upwardly at level of antennal insertions and 

running to posterior ocular margin. Antennal calli roundabout, well delimited by incised 

lines, oval, smooth, protruding, separated anteriorly by upper end of frontal ridge. Ratio of 

distances between inner and outer margin of eyes 1:1.7. Vertex and frons shining smooth. 

Antennae thin, 0.75 times as long as body, proportions of antennomeres are as follows: 

10:7:8:10:14:13:16:14:12:12:14 (1 = 0.01 mm). 

Pronotum subquadrate, 1.35 times as wide as long. Surface lustrous, indistinctly covered 

with fi ne punctures. Anterior margin nearly straight, lateral margins slightly rounded, posterior 

margin widely rounded. Lateral and posterior margins narrowly bordered. Anterior angles 

obliquely truncate, anterior setigerous pore bearing long pale seta placed on lateral margin 

close to anterior angle. Posterior angles rounded but indicated by small setiferous pore. 

Scutellum small, trigonate, with rounded tip. Elytra subparallel, 0.68 times as long as body, 

1.6 times as long as wide (measured at humeral calli). Surface fi nely chagreened and densely 

covered with fi ne shallowly impressed punctures in uncountable irregular rows, interstices 

form indistinct weak costae. Winged, humeral calli well developed. 

Protarsomere I elongate, dilated, with sides slightly rounded, as wide as protarsomere III. 

Length ratios of protarsomeres I–IV equal to 5-3-3-4. Metatarsomere I thin, 0.35 times as 

long as metatibia. Length ratios of metatarsomeres I–IV equal to 7-5-3-5. 

Aedeagus moderately bent in lateral view, ventrally with large spoon-shaped impression 

(Fig. 2). Apical ventrite with two small triangular incisions on posterior margin.


Female. Protarsomere I with sides straight, narrower than protarsomere III. Apical ventrite 

evenly rounded. Spermatheca (Fig. 16): nodulus globular, cornu thin, in middle bent in 

angle ca 45°. 

Variability. One specimen has indistinct dark spot on anterior part of each elytron near basal 

border between suture and humerus. 

Differential diagnosis. Aphthona socotrana sp. nov. is characterised by the unusually costate 

elytra; due to this character it cannot be confused with any other Aphthona species. Similar 

structure of elytra can be found also in the genera Anthobiodes and Yemenaltica, but species of 

these genera have metatarsomere I longer, nearly as long as half of the length of the metatibia 

(much shorter in Aphthona species). 

Etymology. Named after the patria of its origin, the Socotra Island. 

Distribution. Yemen: Socotra Island 

Aphthona sp. A 

(Fig. 28) 

Material examined: (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Dixam plateau, Wadi Esgego, 12°28′09′′N 54°00′36′′E, 

300 m, 2.-3.xii.2003, 1 �, J. Farkač leg. (NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Teneral female. Body glabrous, yellow, head black with brown mouthparts, antennae 

gradually darkened from antennomere VI, scutellum dark brown, meso-, metaventrite and 

abdomen darkened. Pronotum 1.40 times as wide as long, lustrous, impunctate, anterior margin 

straight, posterior margin moderately rounded, lateral margins almost straight, parallel. Elytra 

dull, 0.70 times as long as body, 1.80 times as long as wide, covered with microsculpture and 

fi ne indistinct confused punctures. Body length: 2.1 mm. 

Aphthona sp. B 

(Fig. 29) 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: ca. 5 km W of Hadibo, coastal road, shrubby area, 

13.vi.2009, 1 �, L. Purchart leg. (JBCB). 

Diagnosis. Body glabrous, completely pale brown, only mouthparts and three apical antennomeres 

apically slightly darkened. Pronotum 1.70 times as wide as long, covered with dense 

fi ne punctures, anterior margin straight, posterior margin rounded, lateral margins slightly 

rounded, distinctly convergent anteriorly. Elytra convex, subparallel, 0.70 times as long 

as body, 1.40 time as long as wide, densely covered with small confused punctures. Body 

length: 3.8 mm. 

Aphthona sp. C 

(Fig. 30) 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Thar area, pitfall trap, 24.ii.2009, 1 � (MCCI). 

Diagnosis. Teneral female. Body glabrous, brown with feeble metallic tint, antennae yellow, 

gradually darkened from antennomere VI, legs yellow, metafemora brown. Pronotum 1.43 

times as wide as long, distinctly covered with fi ne punctures, anterior margin straight, posterior

434 


margin rounded, lateral margins slightly rounded. Elytra convex, lateral margins rounded, 

widest in the middle, 0.63 times as long as body, 1.30 times as long as wide, sparsely covered 

with small confused punctures. Body length: 1.6 mm. 

Bezdekaltica gen. nov. 

Type species. Bezdekaltica socotrana sp. nov. 

Description. Body small, broadly oval, glabrous. Head hypognathous, slightly convex in 

lateral view. Frontal lines deeply incised, nearly straight, connecting in middle of frons. 

Antennal calli small, shining smooth, roundabout sharply delimited, separated from each 

other by upper part of anterofrontal ridge. Anterofrontal ridge gradually wider anteriorly. 

Antennae with 11 antennomeres, short. 

Pronotum transverse, distinctly wider than long, anteriorly convergent. Anterior angles 

beveled. In dorsal view, lateral margins visible only in posterior part. Basal margin broadly 

produced in middle part, with very faint short impression on both sides at level of 5 th elytral 

stria. 

Scutellum small, almost semicircular. Elytra glabrous, oval, widest nearly in the middle, 

elytral base broader than base of pronotum. Surface with 11 regular striae, including scutellar 

and outermost ones. Winged, humeral calli present. Lateral margins of elytra are well visible 

in dorsal view. Elytral apex widely rounded. Epipleurae vertical, disappearing near apex. 

Anterior coxal cavities open posteriorly. First ventrite as long as following ones combined. 

Apical ventrite in males with two small triangular incisions on posterior margin. All tibiae 

evenly straight and rounded, in apical third shallowly fl attened and on both sides with fi ne 

short setae. Metatibiae provided with fi ne short spine inserted in the middle of apex. Metatarsi 

inserted at end of tibia, much shorter than half of metatibial length. Metatarsomere IV not 

infl ated, claws appendiculate. 

Differential diagnosis. Genus Bezdekaltica gen. nov. is characterised by a cluster of primitive 

characters (see SCHERER 1961): (1) claw segment of metatarsi not infl ated, (2) spine at the 

end of metatibia simple, (3) metatibia without excavation, (4) pronotal disc without distinct 

impressions, (5) body not strikingly vaulted, (6) anterior coxal cavities open, (7) pronotum 

narrow, not twice as wide as long, (8) metatarsi much shorter than half of metatibial length, 

(9) winged, with developed humeral calli. 

The following Aethiopian and Palaearctic genera share all these characters, but can be 

distinguished by at least one additional special character (cf. also BECHYNÉ 1955, 1960, 

SCHERER 1961): Aphthona Chevrolat, 1836 – metatibia with broad furrow in apical part; 

Bangalaltica Bechyné, 1960 – antennomeres III–V strikingly long; Chirodica Germar, 1834 

– body elongate, subparallel, elytra confusedly punctate; Eugonotes Jacoby, 1897 and Hespera 

Weise, 1889 – dorsum pubescent; Gabonia Jacoby, 1893 – anterior angles of pronotum not 

obtuse, humeral calli distinctly potruding; Mniophilosoma Wollaston, 1854 – metafemora 

not infl ated; Nzerekorena Bechyné, 1955 – antennomere IV as long as antennomeres I-III 

combined; Phyllotreta Stephens, 1836 – elytra confusedly punctate. 

Genus Batophila Foudras, 1860, also sharing all above-mentioned characters, can be 

separated from Bezdekaltica gen. nov. as follows: body elongate, frontal lines missing, lateral 

margins of pronotum parallel or divergent, pronotal base straight or evenly rounded, elytral


striae impressed, without humeral calli, apterous, 1.6–2.1 mm (in Bezdekaltica gen. nov.: 

body oval, frontal lines present, lateral margins of pronotum convergent anteriorly, pronotal 

base widely produced in middle part, elytral striae not impressed, with humeral calli present, 

macropterous, body length 1.3–1.6 mm). 

Etymology. Dedicated to Jan Bezděk (Brno, Czech Republic), well known specialist in 

Galerucinae, who kindly gave me the opportunity to study interesting material of Alticinae 

from Socotra. Gender feminine. 

Bezdekaltica socotrana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 3, 13, 17, 31) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Diksam plateau, 12°31′24′′N 53°58′29′′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Diksam plateau, 850-920m / N 12°31′24′′, 

E 53°58′′29′′ / 5. ii. 2010 / L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt. [w, p]’. PARATYPES: 4 �� 8 �� and 10 spec. unsexed, 

same data as holotype (4 �� 8 �� in JBCB, 10 spec. unsexed in MDCA); 2 ��, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., / Deiqub 

cave env. / 10.vi.2010, / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [w, p]’ (JBCB); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., / Wadi Zirik, 

12.vi.2010, / N 12°29,584′, E 053°59,475′ / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [w, p]’ (JBCB); 1 �, ‘Republic of Yemen 

/ Socotra Isl., Firmihin plato, / Dracena tree forest / N12°28′465′′, E54°00′89830′′ / V. Hula lgt. 22.-25.6.2009 [w, 

p]’ (JBCB); 1 �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Zerik, / 25.-27.iii.2001, / leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný. [w, p]’ (JFCP); 1 �, 

‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / Scant Mt. env. / 12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, 1450 m / J. Bezdĕk leg., 

12.-13.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (JBCB); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Noged plain (sand dunes) / SHARET HALMA 

vill. env. / 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 20 m / J. Bezdĕk leg., 10.-11.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (JBCB); 10 �� 13 ��, ‘YEMEN, 

SOCOTRA Island / Dixam plateau / Firmihin (Dracaena forest) / 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m / J. Bezdĕk leg., 15.- 

16.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (7 �� 12 �� in JBCB, 3 �� 1 � in MBCA); same data but J. Hájek leg., 6 �� 4 �� (NMPC); 

same data but L. Purchart leg., 1 � (JBCB); 6 spec. unsexed, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / KAZAZHAN area / shrubland 

on limestone; sifting / 10.vi.2012 / 12°33.8′N 54°19.8′E, 540 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA Expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, 

J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC). The specimens are 

provided with two additional labels: ‘Bezdekaltica / socotrana mihi / des. Döberl 2010 [or 2011, or 2012] [w, p]’ 

and ‘Holotypus [Paratypus, resp.] [r, p]’. 

Description. Body length/width: males 1.3–1.6/0.8–0.9 mm (holotype 1.5/0.9 mm); females 

1.4–1.6/0.8–1.0 mm. 

Male (holotype). Black, lustrous, maxillar palpi yellow, antennae yellow with apex of 

antennomere XI darkened (Fig. 31). Legs with coxae and femora black (except yellow apices 

of pro- and mesofemora), trochanters brownish, tibiae and tarsi yellow. 

Head (Fig. 13) small. Anterior part of head smooth. Antennal calli small, trigonate-oval, 

shining and roundabout well delimited by impressions. Frontal lines nearly straight, deeply 

incised. Vertex smooth with several fi ne and scattered punctures above frontal lines, near 

the upper margin of each eye with two or three pores bearing pale seta. Ratio of distances 

between inner and outer margins of eyes 1:2.3. Antennae short, thin, 0.5 times as long as 

body, proportions of antennomeres are 8:5:6:4:7:6:8:8:9:8:11 (1 = 0.01 mm). All antennomeres 

bearing long setae apically. 

Pronotum 1.60 times as wide as long, widest in middle, moderately convex. Anterior margin 

nearly straight, lateral margins moderately rounded, anteriorly convergent. Anterior and 

posterior margins fi nely bordered, lateral margins narrowly and sharply bordered. Anterior 

angles shortly and obliquely truncate but not edged posteriorly, posterior corners rounded, with 

setigerous pore. Surface densely covered with large punctures but smaller than on elytra. 

Scutellum small, almost semicircular. Elytra glabrous, oval, 0.65 times as long as body,

436 


Figs. 13–25. 13 – head of Bezdekaltica socotrana sp. nov. 14 – left hind leg of Yemenaltica furthi sp. nov. 15–25. 

Spermatheca. 15 – Aphthona pusilla Laboissière, 1942; 16 – A. socotrana sp. nov.; 17 – Bezdekaltica socotrana sp. 

nov.; 18 – Hermaeophaga rufi collis (Lucas, 1847); 19 – Longitarsus buettikeri Doguet, 1984; 20 – Luperomorpha 

biondii sp. nov.; 21 – Phyllotreta cheiranthi Weise, 1903; 22 – P. procera (Redtenbacher, 1849); 23 – Podagrica 

puncticollis Weise, 1902; 24 – Psylliodes persica Allard, 1867; 25 – Yemenaltica furthi sp. nov. Scale bars: 0.5 mm 

for Figs. 14, 0.2 mm for Fig. 13 and 0.1 mm for Figs. 14–25.


1.10 times as long as wide. Surface with 11 regular striae of large punctures, well visible also 

on apex, scutellar row exceeding mid of elytra, distance between punctures ca. twice longer 

than their diameter; interstices plain and smooth. Humeral calli small but well developed. 

Prosternal process as wide as antennomere II, longitudinally sulcated, with posterior 

part somewhat broadened, densely punctured. Metaventrite and abdomen covered with fi ne 

scattered punctures bearing fi ne grey setae. Ventrite I as long as following ones combined. 

Apical ventrite with two small triangular incisions on posterior margin. 

Protarsomere I slightly dilated, with rounded sides, subtriangular, as wide as protarsomere 

III, length ratios of protarsomeres I–IV equal to 4-3-4-6. Metatibiae straight, with dorsal side 

slightly convex, in apical third more or less even and on both sides provided with row of fi ne 

setae, terminated with short simple spur inserted in middle of apex. Metatarsomere I shorter 

than half of metatibia length, metatarsomere III bilobed. Length ratios of metatarsomeres 

I–IV equal to 7-4-4-6. 

Aedeagus narrowed in middle part, moderately bent in lateral view, ventrally with large 

spoon-shaped impression (Fig. 3). 

Female. Protarsomere I narrower than in male, with sides straight, narrower than protarsomere 

III. Apical ventrite evenly rounded. Spermatheca (Fig. 17): nodulus elongate, posteriorly 

narrowed, cornu thin, in fi rst third bent in angle ca 45°. 

Differential diagnosis. See description of the genus. 

Etymology. Named after its patria, Socotra Island. 


Eriotica sp. A 

(Fig. 32) 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Zemhon area, 12°20.58′N 54°06.39′E, 270-300 m, 16.- 

17.vi.2010, 1 �, V. Hula leg. (JBCB). 

Diagnosis. Body fl avous, labrum and maxillar palpi dark, antennae with apical six antennomeres 

gradually darkened, elytra with large blackish-blue central spot. Pronotum subquadrate, 

with sides narrowed posteriorly and with transverse impression before the base. Elytra 

subparallel, with nine regular rows of large deep punctures, and with short scutellar row. 

Interstices densely covered with short semierect hairs. Body length: 3.8 mm. 

Eriotica sp. B 

(Figs. 4, 33) 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Ayhaft, 3.xi.2000, 1 �, V. Bejček & K. Štastný leg. 

(NMPC). 

Diagnosis. Body fl avous, labrum and maxillar palpi dark, apical two tarsomeres of all legs 

slightly infuscate, antennae gradually darkened from antennomere IV. Pronotum subquadrate, 

with sides narrowed posteriorly and with transverse impression before base. Elytra subparallel, 

with nine regular rows of large deep punctures, and with short scutellar row. Interstices densely 

covered with very short pale setae. Apex of each elytron with small cavity bearing one short 

thin spine. Body length: 3.0 mm.

438 


Hermaeophaga (Orthocrepis) rufi collis (Lucas, 1847) 

(Figs. 5, 18, 34) 

Lactica unicolor Jacoby, 1886: 124, syn. nov. 

Type material. Lactica unicolor: LECTOTYPE (by present designation): 1 �, ‘Aden I. 1880. / Doria Beccari [w, p] 

// Museo Civ. / Genova [orange label, p] // SYNTYPUS [p] / Lactica / unicolor / Jacoby, 1886 [pale red label, h] 

// Lactica / unicolor / Jac. [blue label, h] // Lectotype [r, p]’ (MSNG). PARALECTOTYPES: 1 � 2 ��, ‘Aden I. 1880. / 

Doria Beccari [w, p] // Museo Civ. / Genova [orange label, p] // SYNTYPUS [p] / Lactica / unicolor / Jacoby, 1886 

[pale red label, h] // Lactica / unicolor / Jac. [blue label, h] // Paralectotype [r, p]’ (MSNG). The lectotype is herein 

designated to fi x the name on single specimen. 

Additional material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: Socotra Island: Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m, 

7.-8.xi.2010, 1 �, J. Bezdĕk leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. Widely distributed in southern Europe, North, Central and West Africa, Central 

Asia, Southwest Asia, Afghanistan, India and Sri Lanka (SCHERER 1959, 1962a, 1962b, 1972, 

GRUEV & DÖBERL 1997, DÖBERL 2010). In the Arabian Peninsula it is reported from Saudi 

Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Yemen (MEDVEDEV 1996, LOPATIN 2001, BEZDĚK 

& BATELKA 2011). First record from Socotra Island. 

Longitarsus buettikeri Doguet, 1984 

(Figs. 6, 19, 35) 

Material examined (5 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N 

54°01.1′E, 490 m, 15.-16.xi.2010, 2 �� 2 ��, J. Bezdĕk leg. (1 � in JBCB, 1 � in NMPC, 1 � 1 � in MDCA); 

Hadibu, 12.652 N 54.024 E, 10 m, 11.-23.xi.2000, 1 �, Bejček & Šťastný leg. (MDCA). 

Distribution. Oman (MEDVEDEV 1997), Saudi Arabia (DOGUET 1984a, MEDVEDEV 1996), the 

United Arab Emirates (BEZDĚK & BATELKA 2011). First record from Socotra Island. 

Comments. BEZDĚK & BATELKA (2011) published records of L. buettikeri from the United Arab 

Emirates as ‘Longitarsus (s. str.) spec. 1’ (relevant specimens were examined in JBCB). 

Longitarsus sp. A 

(Fig. 36) 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Zirik, 12°29.584′N 53°59.475′E, 12.vi.2010, 1 �, 

leg. V. Hula & J. Niedobová (JBCB). 

Diagnosis. Body glabrous, brown, mouthparts dark brown, apical four antennomeres gradually 

darkened, tarsi slightly infuscate, elytra with thin brownish suture. Head with deep 

orbital lines, frontal tubercles feebly developed but visible, separated by fi ne furrows, vertex 

laterally with large deep punctures. Pronotum 1.35 times as wide as long, covered with very 

fi ne microsculpture and fi ne punctures, anterior margin straight, posterior margin moderately 

rounded, lateral margins slightly rounded, posterior angles with very long pale seta. Elytra 0.65 

times as long as body, 1.75 time as long as wide (measured at humeral calli), densely covered 

with small confused punctures. Protarsomere I elongate, subparallel, slightly narrower than 

protarsomere III, length ratios of protarsomeres I–IV equal to 6-3-3-5. Metatarsomere I long, 

thin, length ratios of metatarsomeres I–IV equal to 11-7-3-5. Body length: 2.3 mm.


Luperomorpha biondii sp. nov. 

(Figs. 7, 20, 37) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Skant Mt., 12°34.557′N, 54°01.514′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., / Hagher Mts., Skant, / N 12°34,557′, E 054°01,514′ / 

7.-8.vl.2010, / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [w, p] // collected on / Cephalocroton / socotranus [w, p]’. PARATYPES: 15 �� 

35 ��, same data as holotype (3 �� 12 �� in NMPC, 4 �� 15 �� in JBCB, 4 �� 4 �� in MDCA, 4 �� 4 �� in 

MBCA); 2 ��, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., / Deiqub cave env. / 10.vi.2010, / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [w, p]’ (JBCB); 

1 �, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., / Firmihin plato, 400-500 m, / N12°28′46′′, E054°00′89′′ / 18.-19.vi.2010, / V. Hula & J. 

Niedobová leg. [w, p]’ (JBCB); 6 �� 10 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / Dixam plateau, TUDHEN / shrubland 

with Commiphora / planifrons 18.+22.vi.2012 / 12°32.7’N, 53°59.9’E, 1135 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 

/ J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC); 1 � 1 �, 

‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND, 18.vi. / Hagher Mts., WADI MADAR, 2012 / montane shrubland with / Cephalocroton 

socotranus / 12°33.2’N, 54°00.4’E, 1170 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, 

/ P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND 

/ Aloove area, ALOOVE vill. env. / Jatropha unicostata shrubland with / Boswellia elongata trees, / 19.-20.vi.2012, / 

12°31.2’N, 54°07.4’E, 221 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, 

/ J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC); 12 �� 20 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND, 18.vi. 

/ Hagher Mts., WADI MADAR, 2012 / montane shrubland with / Cephalocroton socotranus / 12°33.2’N, 54°00.4’E, 

1170 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová 

& L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC) The specimens are provided with two additional labels: ‘Luperomorpha / biondii 

mihi / des. Döberl 2011 [or 2012] [w, p]’ and ‘Holotypus [Paratypus, resp.] [r, p]’. 


2.0–2.6/0.8–1.0 mm. 

Male (holotype). Body elongate, sparsely pubescent, dull (Fig. 37). Head orange, vertex 

with large dark brown spot. Antennae orange, gradually darkened from antennomere V. Pronotum 

orange. Scutellum black. Elytra orange with two large broad transverse dark brown 

bands connected in suture but not reaching lateral margins. Basal band covers also humeral 

calli. Both transverse bands are connected by sutural band. Underside orange. Legs orange, 

tarsi infuscate. 

Anterior part of head lustrous. Antennal calli well delimited, oval, oblique and smooth. Ratio 

of distances between inner and outer margin of eyes 1:1.7. Vertex very fi nely wrinkled and 

sparsely, almost indistictly punctured. Antennae thin, 0.72 times as long as body, proportions 

of antennomeres are 13:8:7:12:14:13:13:13:13:15:19 (1 = 0.01 mm). 

Pronotum transverse, 1.45 times as wide as long, widest in middle. Anterior margin straight, 

lateral margins rounded, posterior margin straight in midpart, laterally oblique. Anterior 

margin unbordered, lateral and posterior margins narrowly bordered. Anterior angles almost 

rectangular, posterior angles obtusely angulate, all angles with setigerous pore. Surface covered 

with very fi ne microsculpture. 

Scutellum small, subtriangular with rounded apex, semiopaque. Elytra dull, parallel, 0.66 

times as long as body, 1.63 times as long as wide (measured at humeral calli). Elytral disc 

fl attened. Winged, humeral calli well developed. Elytra covered with fi ne microsculpture, 

indistinct fi ne punctures and sparsely with long conspicuous raised pale setae. 

Underside more or less covered with fi ne punctures and short pale setae. Anterior coxal

440 


cavities open posteriorly, prosternal process narrow and visible between procoxae. Apical 

ventrite posteriorly with two short incisions, median lobe triangularly impressed. 

Protarsomere I short, subtriangular with slightly rounded sides, as wide as protarsomere 

III, length ratios of protarsomeres I–IV equal to 6-6-5-9. Metatarsomeres moderately thin, 

length ratios of metatarsomeres I–IV equal to 12-7-6-11. 

Aedeagus (Fig. 7) narrow, parallel, in lateral view moderately regularly bent, ventrally 

with broad gutter. 

Female. Elytra at least in basal part lustrous. Apical ventrite subtriangular, even posteriorly. 

Protarsomere I almost parallel, narrow. Spermatheca (Fig. 20): nodulus subglobular, cornu 

thin, C-shaped. 

Variability. The coloration is variable. The palest specimens have antennae orange with 

apical antennomeres infuscate; dark spot on vertex is reduced to two divergent elongate spots 

connected basaly; transverse band on elytra are reduced to thin stripes with irregular margins; 

sutural stripe connecting both transverse bands is very thin. On the other hand, the darkest 

specimens have antennae black except for four basal antennomeres, vertex has large circular 

dark brown spot and elytral bands are extended, covering most of elytral disc. 

Differential diagnosis. The genus Luperomorpha Weise, 1887 contains more than 85 

species mainly distributed in the Oriental region. Only one species is distributed in Africa: 

L. vittula (Weise, 1915) from Cameroon (BIONDI & D′ALESSANDRO 2010), and can be 

distinguished by black head, pronotum pale with black spot in the middle of anterior margin, 

and black elytra, each elytron with one pale longitudinal stripe. Western Palearctic 

Region includes only two Luperomorpha species, both with orange pronotum and bluish 

black elytra: L. arabica Doguet, 1979 from Saudi Arabia and Yemen (with orange head), 

and L. xanthodera (Fairmaire, 1888), a Chinese species recently introduced to the Central 

Europe (with black head). 

Collection circumstancies. Specimens from Scand and Wadi Madar were collected on the 

fl owers of Cephalocroton socotranus (Balf.) (Euphorbiaceae) (J. Bezděk & V. Hula, pers. 

comm. 2012). 

Etymology. Dedicated to Maurizio Biondi (L’Aquilla, Italy), an excellent specialist in 

Alticinae. 


Phyllotreta cheiranthi Weise, 1903 

(Figs. 8, 21, 38) 

Material examined (3 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Zemhon area, 12°30′58′′N 54°06′39′′E, 270-350 m, 

3.-4.ii.2010, 1 spec. unsexed, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (JBCB); Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 12°20′10′′N 

53°37′56′′E, 57 m, 5.-6.xii.2003, 2 spec. unsexed, D. Král leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. United Arab Emirates, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen (BRYANT 1957, DOGUET 

1979, 1984a, 1984b, MEDVEDEV 1996, LOPATIN 2001, DÖBERL 2009, BEZDĚK & BATELKA 2011). 

Known also from Algeria and tropical Africa: Congo, Guinea, Sudan, Tanzania (SCHERER 

1962a, 1972, POLLARD 1957, DOGUET 1984b, GRUEV & DÖBERL 1997). First record from 

Socotra Island.


Figs. 26–31. Habitus. 26 – Aphthona pusilla Laboissière, 1942 (unsexed, 1.6 mm); 27 – A. socotrana sp. nov. 

(holotype, male, 2.0 mm); 28 – A. sp. A (female, 2.1 mm); 29 – A. sp. B (female, 3.8 mm); 30 – A. sp. C (female, 

1.6 mm); 31 – Bezdekaltica socotrana sp. nov. (paratype, male, 1.6 mm).

442 


Figs. 32–37. Habitus. 32 – Eriotica sp. A (female, 3.6 mm); 33 – Eriotica sp. B (male, 2.9 mm); 34 – Hermaeophaga 

rufi collis (Lucas, 1847) (female, 2.9 mm); 35 – Longitarsus buettikeri Doguet, 1984 (male, 2.4 mm); 36 – Longitarsus 

sp. A (male, 2.3 mm); 37 – Luperomorpha biondii sp. nov. (paratype, male, 2.3 mm).


Figs. 38–42. Habitus. 38 – Phyllotreta cheiranthi Weise, 1903 (female, 1.9 mm); 39 – P. procera (Redtenbacher, 

1849) (male, 2.4 mm); 40 – Podagrica puncticollis Weise, 1902 (female, 3.7 mm); 41 – Psylliodes persica Allard, 

1867 (female, 2.3 mm); 42 – Yemenaltica furthi sp. nov. (holotype, male, 2.0 mm).

444 


Phyllotreta procera (Redtenbacher, 1849) 

(Figs. 9, 22, 39) 

Material examined (32 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N 

54°01.1′E, 490 m, 15.-16.xi.2010, 4 �� 1 �, J. Bezdĕk leg. (JBCB); same data but J. Hájek leg., 6 �� 5 �� 

(NMPC); same data but P. Hlaváč leg., 1 � (NMPC); Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE from Quaysoh, 12°39.691′N 

53°26.658′E, 4.-5.vi.2010, 1 �, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. (JBCB); Hadiboh env., 12°65′02′′N 54°02′04′′E, 

ca. 10-100 m, 21.xi.-12.xii.2003, 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (NMPC); same data but D. Král leg., 2 �� 1 � (NMPC); 

Homhil protected area, 12°34′27′′N 54°18′32′′E, 364 m, 28.-29.xi.2003, 1 �, P. Kabátek leg. (NMPC); Zerik, 

25.-27.iii.2001, 2 ��, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (JFCP); Dixam plateau, Wadi Dirhor, 12°28.0Ń 54°00.5É, 

340 m, 15.+22.vi.2012, 6 �� 1 �, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. 

Purchart leg. (NMPC). 

Distribution. Central and Southern Europe, Asia Minor, Near East, Caucasus, North Africa 

(WEISE 1910, HEIKERTINGER 1943, DOGUET 1984b, GRUEV & DÖBERL 1997, DÖBERL 2010). 


Podagrica puncticollis Weise, 1902 

(Figs. 10, 23, 40) 

Type material. LECTOTYPE (by present designation): 1 �, ‘Mombo [w, h] // Podagrica / puncticollis m. [w, h] // Syntype 

[r, p] // Lectotype [r, p]’ (ZMHB). PARALECTOTYPES: 2 �� 3 �� and 10 spec. unsexed, ‘Mombo [w, h] // Syntype [r, 

p] // Paralectotype [r, p]’ (ZMHB). The lectotype is herein designated to fi x the name on single specimen. 

Material examined (3 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m, 7.-8.xi.2010, 

1 � 2 ��, J. Bezdĕk leg. (1 � 1 � in JBCB, 1 � in MDCA). 

Distribution. Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Chad, Kenya, Niger, Sudan, Tanzania 

(WEISE 1910, BRYANT 1950, 1957, POLLARD 1955, 1957, SELMAN 1963, GRUEV & DÖBERL 1997, 

DÖBERL 2010). First record from Socotra Island. 

Psylliodes persica Allard, 1867 

(Figs. 11, 24, 41) 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Diksam plateau, 12°31′24′′N 53°58′29′′E, 850-920 m, 

5.ii.2010, 1 �, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (JBCB). 

Distribution. Widely distributed in Caucasus, Central Asia, Turkey, Near East and the Arabian 

Peninsula (DÖBERL 2010, NADEIN 2010). In the Arabian Peninsula reported from Saudi Arabia 

(DOGUET 1979, MEDVEDEV 1996). First record from Socotra Island. 

Yemenaltica furthi sp. nov. 

(Figs. 12, 14, 25, 42) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Wadi Madar, 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Al Haghier Mts. / wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m 

/ 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E, / J. Bezděk leg., 12-14.xi.2010 [w, p]’. PARATYPES: 2 ��, same data as holotype (MDCA); 

3 �� 1 �, same data as holotype but J. Hájek leg. (NMPC, 1 � in MDCA); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / 

Al Haghier Mts. / Scant Mt. env. / 12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, 1450 m / J. Bezdĕk leg., 12.-13.xi.2010 [w, p]’ (JBCB); 

1 �, same data but L. Purchart leg. (JBCB); 12 spec. unsexed, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND / Dixam plateau, 

TUDHEN / shrubland with Commiphora / planifrons 18.+22.vi.2012 / 12°32.7’N, 53°59.9’E, 1135 m [w, p] // 

SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart


leg. [w, p]’ (NMPC); 3 spec. unsexed, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA ISLAND, 18.vi. / Hagher Mts., WADI MADAR, 

2012 / montane shrubland with / Cephalocroton socotranus / 12°33.2’N, 54°00.4’E, 1170 m [w, p] // SOCOTRA 

expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [w, p]’ 

(NMPC). The specimens are provided with two additional labels: ‘Yemenaltica / furthi mihi / des. Döberl 2012 [w, 

p]’ and ‘Holotypus [Paratypus, resp.] [r, p]’. 


1.8–2.2/0.7–0.9 mm. 

Male (holotype, Fig. 42). Body subparallel, lustrous, brown. Anterior part of head pale, 

vertex and frons dark brown, labrum and maxillar palpi darkened. Antennomeres I–III brownish, 

remaining black. Elytra brown, around humeral calli and in apex paler. Legs fulvous, 

tarsi infuscate. Underside black, apex of apical ventrite paler. 

Antennal calli elongate, trigonate, separated by shallowly impressed line, laterally and 

posteriorly not delimited by dictinct lines, their anterior tip extending to interantennal 

space. Ratio of distances between inner and outer margins of eyes 1:1.75. Vertex and frons 

shining smooth. Antennae long, 0.9 times as long as body, proportions of antennomeres are 

16:9:11:19:18:17:17:16:16:16:16 (1 = 0.01 mm). 

Pronotum subquadrate, 1.4 times as wide as long. Anterior margin nearly straight, lateral 

margins straight, posterior margin rounded. Anterior angles almost rectangular with setigerous 

pore, posterior angles evenly rounded with setigerous pore and additional one or two short 

setae. Surface fi nely and shallowly punctured, fi ner near base, along pronotal base with weak 

shallow transverse impression. 

Scutellum small and trigonate. Elytra subparallel, 0.65 times as long as body, 1.55 times 

as long as wide (measured at humeral calli). Elytral disc fl attened. Winged, humeral calli 

well developed. Elytra densely covered with fi ne punctures forming numerous regular striae, 

interstices weakly raised. 

Anterior coxal cavities closed. Apical ventrite with two short incisions. Protarsomere I 

subtriangular, with rounded sides, as wide as protarsomere III, length ratios of protarsomeres 

I–IV equal to 6-3-3-4. Apical third of metatibia distinctly bent outwards, somewhat thickened 

and hollowed, apical margins provided with few stiff setae. Metatibial spur short, with 

undulate margins (Fig. 14). Metatarsomeres combined nearly as long as the tibia, very thin. 

Metatarsomere I long, length ratios of metatarsomeres I–IV equal to 11-7-3-4. 

Aedeagus (Fig. 12) ventrally with broad furrow, tapering to base. 

Female. Protarsomere I almost parallel, narrow, distinctly narrower than protarsomere III. 

Apical ventrite evenly rounded. Spermatheca (Fig. 25): nodulus elongate, gradually merged 

with cornu. 

Differential diagnosis. Yemenaltica furthi sp. nov. can be compared only with the second 

known Yemenaltica species – Y. scorteccii Scherer, 1985 from the Arabian Peninsula. Both 

species share the metatibial spur with undulate margins. In Y. scorteccii, this spur is long 

and broad while it is rather small in Y. furthi sp. nov. Pronotum is more transverse (about 1.7 

times as wide as long), dull and densely punctate in Y. scorteccii, while 1.4 times as wide as 

long, lustrous and fi nely punctate in Y. furthi sp. nov. Metatibia are channeled in almost whole 

length in Y. scorteccii, while only in apical third in Y. furthi sp. nov.

446 


Etymology. This species is dedicated to David G. Furth (Washington, USA), well known 

specialist of Alticinae, to whom I owe numerous specimens of Alticinae from Israel for 

comparison. 

Distribution. Socotra Island, Yemen. 


I give my hearty thanks to all collegues and friends for their willing help with this work. 

My special thanks go to Jan Bezděk (Brno, Czech Republic) who gave me the opportunity to 

study rich material from Socotra and also provided the excellent colour photos of all species. 

I give my thanks as well to Jan Farkač (CULS) and Jiři Hájek (NMPC) who made material in 

their care available. Thanks to the kindness of Roberto Poggi (MSNG) and Johannes Frisch 

and Joachim Willers (ZMHB) I could study the type material of Lactica unicolor Jacoby, 

1886 and Podagrica puncticollis Weise, 1902. Carlo Leonardi (Milano, Italy) and Joachim 

Mauser (Ballrechten-Dottingen, Germany) helped with the literature wanted, the latter also 

with identifi cation of the genus Eriotica. I am equally indebted to Maurizio Biondi (L’Aquila, 

Italy) who kindly helped with identifi cation of the questionable species as Luperomorpha 

and Yemenaltica. Last but not least I am very thankful to the reviewers Maurizio Biondi and 

Alexander Konstantinov (Washington, USA) for critical notes and valuable advices as well 

as linguistic help. 

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Alticinae): annotated catalogue and biogeographical notes. European Journal of Entomology 107: 

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Arabia 1: 308–316. 

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of Saudi Arabia 6: 361–366.


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Chrysomelidae: Alticinae). Scopolia 37: 1–496. 

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Albert, Mission G. F. de Witte (1933–1935) 39: 1–131. 

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16: 319–326. 

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aus dem Museum Frey 12: 251–289. 

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Garamba. Mission H. de Saeger 31(1): 1–86. 

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448 




Eumolpinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) 


Stefano ZOIA 

via Ponte Nuovo 109/4, I-20128 Milano, Italy; e-mail: stefano.zoia@chrysomelidae.it 

Abstract. Eumolpinae of Socotra Island are revised. Falsonerissus arabicus Pic, 

1951 is synonymized with Eryxia grandis Lefèvre, 1890 (syn. nov.), Falsonerissus 

Pic, 1951, stat. nov., is considered a subgenus of Colasposoma Laporte, 1833, and 

the following nomenclatural changes are proposed: Falsonerissus = Iranomolpus 

Lopatin, 1979 syn. nov. = Andosiomorpha Lopatin, 1981 syn. nov. = Bezdekia 

Warchałowski, 2005 syn. nov., Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) argentatum (Lopatin, 

1981) comb. nov., C. (F.) badium (Lopatin, 1979) comb. nov., C. (F.) coracinum 

(Lopatin, 1996) comb. nov., C. (F.) grande (Lefèvre, 1890) comb. nov., C. (F.) 

socotranum (Gahan, 1903) comb. nov. and C. (F.) tenebrosum (Warchałowski, 

2005) comb. nov. The following new taxa from Socotra are described: Colasposoma 

(Falsonerissus) grande insulare subsp. nov., C. (F.) distinguendum sp. nov., C. (F.) 

villosum sp. nov., C. (C.) austerum sp. nov., C. (C.) unicostatum sp. nov., C. (C.) 

purcharti sp. nov., C. (C.) hajeki sp. nov., C. (C.) atrocyaneum sp. nov., C. (C.) brevepilosum 

sp. nov., C. (C.) brevepilosum orientale subsp. nov., C. (C.) brevepilosum 

maritimum subsp. nov., Erythraella gen. nov. with type species E. bicuspidata sp. 

nov., Macrocoma niedobovae sp. nov., M. bezdeki sp. nov. and M. hulai sp. nov. A 

lectotype is designated for Eryxia grandis Lefèvre, 1890. All taxa are illustrated and 

keyed, and taxonomic and biogeographic remarks are provided. 

Key words. Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Eumolpinae, Colasposoma, Falsonerissus, 

Erythraella, Macrocoma, new genus, new species, new combinations, new 

synonym, lectotype designation, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Only two previous publications deal with Eumolpinae from Socotra: the original description 

of the endemic species Eryxia socotrana Gahan, 1903 (here moved to a different genus) and a 

record of E. socotrana and Colasposoma densatum Fairmaire, 1887 (WRANIK 2003), the latter 

possibly being a mistake (the author did not explain the origin of the data and occurrence of 

this species in Socotra is not confi rmed by the present study). 



450 

ZOIA: Eumolpinae of Socotra Island (Chrysomelidae) 

Thanks to Jiří Hájek (National Museum, Praha) and Jan Bezděk (Mendel University, Brno), 

I had the opportunity to study numerous material recently collected in Socotra supplemented 

by further specimens from other institutions and collections. A large part of the material 

examined can be ascribed to unknown taxa, here described. 


Length of specimens is measured with head in nearly vertical position; locality data of 

type specimens are reported as they are written on the labels; lists of localities are arranged 

in west to east and north to south order. 



BMNH The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom (Maxwell V. L. Barclay); 

CULS Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic (Jan 

Farkač); 

IRSN Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique, Bruxelles, Belgium (Pol Limbourg); 


MCSC Museo civico di Storia naturale di Carmagnola, Italy (Gianni B. Del Mastro); 

MNHN Musée National d’Historie Naturelle, Paris, France (Thierry Deuve, Antoine Mantilleri); 


PLCL Pietro Lo Cascio collection, Lipari, Messina, Italy; 

RBCN Ron Beenen collection, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands; 

SZCM Stefano Zoia collection, Milan, Italy; 

ZMUH Zoological Museum University of Helsinki, Finland (Olof Biström). 

Remarks on the tribal classifi cation of African Eumolpinae 

Already CHAPUIS (1874) pointed out and discussed the unsatisfactory choice of the characters 

he used in the tribal division of the Eumolpinae; several proposals were published later, usually 

based on a re-arrangement of, or giving a different weight to the same characters originally 

used by Chapuis, seldom adding different information (FLOWERS 1999). 

Proposed suprageneric arrangements in the twentieth and in the present century were 

usually given inside faunas of more or less wide territories, so usually not considering the 

subfamily Eumolpinae as a whole; tribes are frequently presented in keys without discussion, 

which leads to questionable placements of genera in a given tribe or group of supposedly 

related genera. Moreover, in some cases, authors possibly listed the presence of a particular 

character, or argued for taxonomical position of a genus based on literature only, without 

verifi cation, and thus adding further errors. This is the case, for instance, of the genera here 

synonymized with Falsonerissus Pic, 1951, as discussed below. 

Clearly, the present study is not an appropriate place for a discussion on the tribal division 

of the subfamily. Referring to the faunas of eastern Africa and southwestern Asia, the 

Eumolpinae of Socotra are clearly related to, I partly agree with SELMAN’s (1965) opinion, 

recognizing only Typophorini (‘Nodini’ of SELMAN (1965)) as a natural group, by means of a 

relatively large number of synapomorphies. The other tribes Euryopini, Eumolpini, Adoxini 

sensu auctorum (largely corresponding to Eumolpini, Colaspoidini, Adoxini sensu SELMAN 

(1965, 1972), respectively), are clearly polyphyletic and paraphyletic groups based on poorly


consistent characters, giving rise to many exceptions and erroneous placements. The problem 

is far from being resolved. 

Typophorini are not present in the material studied here. Colasposoma Laporte, 1833 with 

a relatively large number of taxa in the fauna of Socotra represents the Euryopini; Macrocoma 

Chapuis, 1874 and Erythraella gen. nov. belong to the ‘Adoxini’ sensu auctorum. 

A key to the genera of the subfamily Eumolpinae from Socotra 

1 Notosternal suture not evident; pronotum clearly narrower than base of elytra, without 

obvious lateral margins; prosternum more than 1.5 times longer than wide between the 

coxae. ............................................................................................................................... 2 

– Prosternum and hypomerae separated by a more or less deep notosternal suture, deeper 

near the anterior edge of the prothorax; pronotum wider, with evident and entire lateral 

margins; prosternum less than 1.5 times longer than wide between the coxae. ................. 

.............................................................................................. Colasposoma Laporte, 1833 

a. Claws shortly bifi d, division starting in their midlength or even more distally. ..... 

............................................................................. subgen. Falsonerissus Pic, 1951 

b. Claws either simple, appendiculate at base or bifi d, with the division starting near 

the base of the claw or in its basal half. .................... subgen. Colasposoma s. str. 

2 Antennomeres longer than wide, VII–XI not enlarged; genae oblong, only a little shorter 

than the diameter of the eye; prosternum nearly 2.5 times longer than wide between the 

coxae. ..............................................................................................Erythraella gen. nov. 

– Antennomeres VII–XI transverse, clearly enlarged; genae clearly shorter than the diameter 

of the eye; prosternum nearly 1.5 times longer than wide between the coxae. .................. 

................................................................................................ Macrocoma Chapuis, 1874 

Taxonomy 

Colasposoma Laporte, 1833 

Colasposoma subgen. Falsonerissus Pic, 1951, stat. nov. 

Falsonerissus Pic, 1951: 16. Type species: Falsonerissus arabicus Pic, 1951, by monotypy. 

Iranomolpus Lopatin, 1979: 588, syn. nov. Type species: Iranomolpus badius Lopatin, 1979, by monotypy. 

Andosiomorpha Lopatin, 1981: 623, syn. nov. Type species: Andosiomorpha argentata Lopatin, 1981, by monotypy. 

Bezdekia Warchałowski, 2005: 303, syn. nov. Type species: Bezdekia tenebrosa Warchałowski, 2005, by monotypy. 

MEDVEDEV (1996) suggested the synonymy Eryxia Lefèvre, 1890 = Iranomolpus Lopatin, 

1979 = Andosiomorpha Lopatin, 1981 based on a presumed synonymy of three taxa (Eryxia 

grandis Lefèvre, 1890; Iranomolpus badius Lopatin, 1979 and Andosiomorpha argentata 

Lopatin, 1981) and an erroneous assumption that Eryxia was described by LEFÈVRE (1890) 

with the type species E. grandis Lefèvre, 1890. In reality, Eryxia was erected by BALY (1865) 

for E. baikiei Baly, 1865 (type species) (= E. holosericea (Klug, 1835)) from ‘banks of Niger’. 

LOPATIN (2008) rejected MEDVEDEV’s (1996) opinion without any explanation. MOSEYKO & 

SPRECHER–UEBERSAX (2010) adopted MEDVEDEV’s (1996) arrangement, adding the following

452 


new synonymies: Eryxia Baly, 1865 = Bezdekia Warchałowski, 2005, and E. grandis = B. 

tenebrosa Warchałowski, 2005, based on the original descriptions and illustrations. Recently, 

WARCHAŁOWSKI (2010) considered Iranomolpus a valid genus with Andosiomorpha and 

Bezdekia being its synonyms, and he included the taxa argentatus, tenebrosus and badius in 

Iranomolpus as distinct species. He gave no explanation for this choice, and places this genus 

in Adoxini near Eryxia by means of characteristics that are not verifi ed. 

Eryxia is characterized by ‘...narrow subcylindrical form, ...squamose clothing of the 

body... absence of the sutural grooves between the prosternum and the anterior episterna...’ 

(BALY 1865). Besides the three mentioned taxa, alternatively placed in different genera, further 

13 species from the African Continent and Asia are assigned to Eryxia at present: in some 

cases, in particular the Asiatic species, their generic attribution needs to be reconsidered. As a 

matter of fact, E. grandis (type examined) does not match the characters of the genus Eryxia, 

particularly due to presence of well developed notosternal suture, the pronotum wide and not 

subcylindrical and the fi ne pubescence of the dorsum, and must be placed in a different genus. 

Moreover, in E. grandis the metatibiae are obliquely truncate at apex (while they are deeply 

excavate longitudinally between the raising borders in Eryxia), claws are more divaricated, 

prothoracic coxae are far apart and prosternum is only a little longer than wide between the 

coxae (in Eryxia the coxae are closer and the prosternum is narrow, more than four times 

longer than wide between the coxae). 

I examined the type of Falsonerissus arabicus Pic, 1951 (MNHN): it perfectly corresponds 

to the lectotype of Eryxia grandis Lefèvre, 1890, even in the type locality, and I 

can declare F. arabicus a new synonym of E. grandis. Iranomolpus badius (type examined: 

� ZMUH) is to be included in the same genus as E. grandis; following LOPATIN’S 

opinion (2008), I consider I. badius a distinct species. Andosiomorpha argentata must be 

re-evaluated as a distinct species, based on the original description and examination of 

specimens, and must be placed in the same genus as the above species. Eryxia socotrana 

Gahan, 1903 and Eryxia coracina Lopatin, 1996 are to be placed in the same genus as the 

above species, showing identical characteristics. Bezdekia tenebrosa must be regarded as 

a species distinct from Eryxia grandis, based on the illustrations of the aedeagus provided 

in the original description, if compared to those given here for E. grandis (Figs. 15–16). 

On the other hand, the two taxa clearly belong to the same genus. Based on the present 

knowledge, Eryxia seems diffused in continental Africa, with the only exception of E. 

gracilipes Lefèvre, 1890 from Yemen (Aden). 

The fi ve species mentioned above do not signifi cantly differ in their characteristics from 

the representatives of the large genus Colasposoma and I have no reason not to assign them 

to this genus; nevertheless, their peculiar habitus and distribution can justify, from my point 

of view, their placement in a separate subgenus Falsonerissus, identifi ed by the claws briefl y 

bifi d, with the division starting in their midlength or even more distally. In Colasposoma, 

claws can be either simple, appendiculate at base or bifi d, with the division starting near the 

base of the claw or in its basal half. The subparallel elytra and oblong body shape, the generally 

opaque, sometimes feebly metallic color and the close, usually short pubescence of the 

dorsum can distinguish Falsonerissus from Colasposoma at a fi rst glance; nevertheless, the 

taxonomic value of these characters must be considered with caution because of the shown


variability of these aspects within the very wide genus Colasposoma, although they are not 

present with equal characteristics in the same geographic area. 

Based on the above mentioned facts, the following nomenclatural changes are proposed: 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) argentatum (Lopatin, 1981) comb. nov. for Andosiomorpha argentata Lopatin, 

1981; 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) badium (Lopatin, 1979) comb. nov. for Iranomolpus badius Lopatin, 1979; 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) coracinum (Lopatin, 1996) comb. nov. for Eryxia coracina Lopatin, 1996; 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) grande (Lefèvre, 1890) comb. nov. for Eryxia grandis Lefèvre, 1890; 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) socotranum (Gahan, 1903) comb. nov. for Eryxia socotrana Gahan, 1903; 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) tenebrosum (Warchałowski, 2005) comb. nov. for Bezdekia tenebrosa Warchałowski, 

2005. 

All examined species of the subgenus Falsonerissus bear a likeness to each other, which 

possibly did not allow authors to distinguish them correctly based on the available descriptions. 

In particular, it is necessary to reconsider a large part of records of ‘Eryxia grandis’, 

which possibly refer not to a single species, but to a complex of closely related species. This 

will be the object of a future note. 

A key to species of the subgenus Falsonerissus from Socotra 

1 Scutellum wider, transverse, nearly rectangular, with lateral edges almost straight and 

feebly widened toward the rear, the distal border arched or with a wide angle in the middle 

(Fig. 7). Larger species (6–10 mm); pronotum usually with a median, oblong, thin, smooth, 

impunctate area; elytral pubescence relatively short; elytral punctation with three longitudinal 

thin stripes of only fi ner punctures; dorsum with evident coppery metallic hue. ..... 

.................................................................................... C. (F.) socotranum (Gahan, 1903) 

– Scutellum not so wide, its sides subparallel or convergent toward the rear (Figs. 14, 23, 

28), the distal border rounded, not or indistinctly angled with the lateral sides. ............ 2 

2 Elytral pubescence almost adpressed, relatively short, shorter than pronotal pubescence; 

median lobe of aedeagus in lateral view regularly bent dorsally from the ostium to the 

basal hood, ventral side with the main curvature nearly at 1/3 of the distance between the 

aperture of the basal hood and the apex, ostium relatively long (Fig. 9). .......................... 

.................................................................................. C. (F.) grande insulare subsp. nov. 

– Elytral pubescence longer, erected. ................................................................................. 3 

3 Smaller species (5.6 mm) with long elytral pubescence, nearly as long as on pronotal sides; 

pronotum with strong and close punctation; antennae reddish; apex of aedeagus in a short 

triangle (Fig. 19), ventral side of median lobe feebly curved in its distal portion (Fig. 20), 

ostium short, reaching nearly 1/3 of the distance between the apex of the median lobe and 

the basal hood. .. .............................................................. C. (F.) distinguendum sp. nov. 

– Larger species (6.6–7.2 mm) with longer elytral pubescence, particularly on the elytral sides 

where pubescence is longer than on the pronotal sides; pronotum with stronger and deeper 

punctation; antennae darkened starting from antennomere IV or V; apex of aedeagus in 

an oblong triangle (Fig. 24), ventral side of median lobe in lateral view almost straight in 

its distal half (Fig. 25), ostium long reaching nearly half way from the apex of the median 

lobe to the basal hood. ............................................................... C. (F.) villosum sp. nov.

454 


Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) socotranum (Gahan, 1903) comb. nov. 

(Figs. 1–7, 105–106, 139) 

Eryxia socotrana Gahan, 1903: 287. 

Type locality. ‘Sokotra: Hadibu plain’ [ca. 12°39′N 54°02′E]. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (BMNH), labeled: ‘Type [white printed label with red border]; Hadibu Plain Sokotra 

10–15Dec.98 W.R.O.Grant 99–85 [white label]’. 

Additional material examined (444 spec.). YEMEN: Socotra: Shuab Loc., Coast Line, Mangrove, 24.iii.2009, 

Saldaitis leg. (2 �� 1 � IRSN); Qalansiyah env., Khayrha mts., N slopes, N12°38′50″ E53°27′45″, 85–592 m [GPS], 

9.–10.xii.2003, D. Král leg. (3 �� 6 �� NMPC; 2 �� 1 � SZCM); same data, but P. Kabátek leg. (1 � 1 � NMPC); same 

data, but Jan Farkač leg. (9 �� 1 �� CULS; 1 � 1 � SZCM); Qalansiyah env., Ditwah (lagoon), N12°41′42″ E53°30′08″ 

[GPS], 23 m, 9.xii.2003, David Král leg. (2 �� NMPC); Calanthia, 29.–30.iii.2001, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (1 � 

CULS); 30 km E from Qalansiya, 6.iii.2008, A. Saldaitis leg. (1 � IRSN); Wadi Ayhaft, N12°36′38″ E53°58′49″ [GPS], 

190 m, 24.–26.xi.2003, David Král leg. (2 �� 2 �� NMPC); Wadi Ayhaft, N12°36′5″ E53°58′9″, 200 m, 7.–8.xi.2010, 

J. Bezděk leg. (2 �� JBCB; 1 � 1 � SZCM); same data, but L. Purchart leg. (2 �� NMPC); same data, but J. Hájek 

leg. (1 � 1 � NMPC); Wadi Ayaft, at light, 26.x.2010, Ron Felix leg. (2 �� 1 � RBCN); Ayhft valley, 22.xi.2008, 

Saldaitis leg. (17 �� 13 �� IRSN; 2 �� 1 � SZCM); Haghier Mts., Ayhaft loc., 4.iii.2008, 500 m, A. Saldaitis leg. 

(1 � IRSN); Haghier Mt., Ayhft valley, 20.iii.2009, Saldaitis leg. (4 �� IRSN); Wadi Ayhaft, N12°36′38″ E53°58′49″ 

[GPS], 190 m, 24.–26.xi.2003, Jan Farkač leg. (7 �� 12 �� CULS; 1 � 1 � SZCM); Hadiboh env., N12°65′02″ 

E54°02′04″ [GPS], ca 10–100 m, 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (1 � NMPC); Lahas, 17.xi.2000, B. Pražan leg. 

(9 �� 1 � CULS); Lahas, 17.–18.xi.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (1 � CULS); Lahas, N12°64.6′ E54°09.1′ 

[GPS], 69 m, 17.–18.xi.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (13 �� 8 �� CULS; 1 � 1 � SZCM); Di Hamri, N12°37′59″ 

E54°15′40″, 20 m, 27.ii.2010, L. Purchart leg. (1 � NMPC); Di Hamri env., 01.iii.2008, A. Saldaitis leg. (2 �� IRSN); 

Homhil protected area, N12°34′27″ E54°18′32″ [GPS], 364 m, 28.–29.xi.2003, P. Kabátek leg. (18 �� 12 �� NMPC; 

2 �� 2 �� SZCM); same data, but David Král leg. (3 �� 5 �� NMPC); Homhil, 23.–24.ii.2009, P. Lo Cascio & 

F. Grita leg. (1 � PLCL); Homhil area, N12°34′25″ E54°18′53″, 400–510 m, at light, 9.–10.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. 

Vybíral leg. (1 � NMPC); Homhil protected area, N12°34′27″ E54°18′32″ [GPS], 364 m, 28.–29.xi.2003, Jan Farkač 

leg. (1 � 1 � CULS); Hamadero, 20.–21.xi.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (1 � CULS); Homhil (= Hamaderon), 

N12°58.7′ E54°30.2′ [GPS], 330 m, 20.–21.xi.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (13 �� 7 �� CULS; 2 �� 1 � 

SZCM); W Da’arho 21.ii.2009, P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita leg. (1 � PLCL); Firmihin, N12°47.4′ E54°01.5′ [GPS], 530 

m, x.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (4 �� 2 �� CULS; 2 �� SZCM); Delisha vill. env., N12°41.2′ E 54°07.7′, 

36 m, Jatropha unicostata shrubland, at light, 8.vi.2012, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. 

Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (1 � NMPC); Zemhon area, N12°30.58′ E054°06.39′, 270–300 

m, 16–17.6.2010, V. Hula leg. (8 �� 7 �� JBCB; 33 �� 20 �� NMPC; 4 �� 3 �� SZCM); same data, at light, 

3.–4.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral leg. (2 �� NMPC); Aloove area, Hassan vill. env., N12°31.2′ E54°07.4′, 221 

m, 9.–10.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg. (26 �� 7 ��JBCB; 2 �� 1 � SZCM); same data, but L. Purchart leg. (6 �� 3 �� 

NMPC); same data, but J. Hájek leg. (3 �� 1 � NMPC; 1 � 1 � SZCM); same data, but J. Batelka leg. (13 �� 7 �� 

NMPC); Aloove area, Aloove vill. env., N12°31.2′ E54°07.4′, 221 m, Jatropha unicostata shrubland with Boswellia 

elongata trees, 19.–20.vi.2012, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. 

Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. (10 �� 11 �� NMPC; 2 �� 2 �� SZCM); Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), N12°20′10″ 

E53°37′56″ [GPS], 57 m, 5.–6.xii.2003, D. Král leg. (2 �� 2 �� NMPC; 1 � SZCM); Noged, N12°31.8′ E53°67.8′ 

[GPS], 250 m, 12.–13.xi.2000, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (1 � 1 � CULS); Dixam plateau, Firmihin, Dracaena woodland, 

N12°28.6′ E54°01.1′, 490 m, 14.–15.vi.2012, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. 

Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � NMPC); Noged plain: Wadi Ireeh, N12°23′11″ E53°59′47″ [GPS], 

95 m, 6.–7.xii.2003, Jan Farkač leg. (14 �� 17 �� CULS; 2 �� 2 �� SZCM); Wadi Faar, N12°43.3′ E54°19.5′ 

[GPS], 69 m, 1.iv.2001, V. Bejček & K. Šťastný leg. (2 �� CULS; 1 � SZCM). 

Additions to the original description. Habitus (Figs. 105–106); body length 6.0–10.0 mm 

(for a photo of the holotype see ZOIA 2012) 

Prothorax usually with a small, oblong median impunctate area. Scutellum (Fig. 7) moderately 

wide, nearly rectangular, with lateral sides almost straight and feebly widened from


base toward rear, distal border curved, or with very wide angle in middle. Elytral punctation 

fi ner than on prothorax, dense, confuse, partially confl uent, with exception of three more or 

less evident longitudinal thin stripes with fi ner punctures and smooth surface. Notosternal 

suture evident and deep anteriorly, scarcely visible posteriorly. Claws bifi d starting from their 

midlength, with short inner tooth. 

Aedeagus as in Figs. 1–2. 

Spermatheca as in Fig. 5; coxites (Fig. 6) moderately sclerotized in their distal portion, 

spiculum ventrale moderately long and thin, vagina without any sclerotization. 

Comments. The species is also reported from Abd el Kuri by GAHAN (1903). I had not the 

opportunity to examine material from that island, nevertheless the assertion that ‘the examples 

... differ slightly from those found in Socotra, in as much as they show no trace of the coppery 

tint present on the upperside in the latter’ gives rise to doubts that they might belong to 

a different species. 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) grande grande (Lefèvre, 1890) comb. nov. 

(Figs. 15–18, 107–108) 

Eryxia grandis Lefèvre, 1890: lvii. 

Falsonerissus arabicus Pic, 1951: 16, syn. nov. 

Type localities. Eryxia grandis: ‘Env. dÁden’; Falsonerissus arabicus: ‘Aden’. 

Type material. Eryxia grandis: LECTOTYPE (by present designation): �, ‘Aden [handwritten white label]; Type 

[printed white label]; Eryxia grandis Ed. Lef. [white handwritten label]; Ex Musaeo Lefèvre 1894 [printed white 

label]; Museum Paris 1952 Coll. R. Oberthür [white printed label]; Syntype [printed red label]; MNHN EC2230 

[printed white label]; Lectotypus Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) grande (Lefèvre, 1890) S. Zoia des. 2012 [printed 

red label]’ (MNHN). PARALECTOTYPES: 1 �, ‘Aden, ex Musaeo Lefèvre 1894, Museum Paris 1952 Coll. R. Oberthür, 

Eryxia grandis Lefèvre A. Mantilleri det. 2011, Syntype, MNHN EC2229’ (MNHN); 1 �, ‘Abyssinie Raffray, Ex 

Musaeo Lefèvre 1894, Museum Paris 1952 Coll. R. Oberthür, Eryxia grandis Lefèvre A. Mantilleri det. 2011, 

Syntype, MNHN EC2231’ (MNHN). 

Falsonerissus arabicus: HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Aden Arab. II [handwritten white label]; Type [handwritten red label]; 

Type [printed red label]; Falsonerissus arabicus n. sp. [handwritten white label]’ (MNHN). 

Additional material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: Al Hudaydah prov., Wadi Bura, 28.iii.2009, 1 �, A. Saldaitis 

leg. (IRSN). 

Comments. The number of the syntypes of Eryxia grandis is unknown. I designate a lectotype 

to fi x the identity of this species, as available taxonomic works do not allow an unambiguous 

identifi cation of specimens. A female specimen from the original type series from Abyssinia 

differs in several aspects from the other specimens of C. (F.) grande grande and possibly has 

to be assigned to a different species. 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) grande insulare subsp. nov. 

(Figs. 8–14, 109–110, 140) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Noged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env., 12°21.9′ N, 54°05.3′ E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Noged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env., 12°21.9′N, 

54°05.3′E, 20 m, 10-11.xi.2010, L. Purchart lgt. [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) 

grande ssp. insulare n. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (64 spec.): ‘Yemen, Socotra 

Island, Delisha vill. env., 8.vi.2012, Jatropha unicostata shrubland, at light, 12°41.2′N, 54°07.7′E, 36 m, Socotra 

expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 �

456 


JBCB); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Sheq vill. env., 8.vi.2012, Croton socotranus + Jatropha unicostata shrubland, 

12°39.7′N, 54°03.8′E, 15 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, 

J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island E, Kesa env., 220-300 m, N 12°39′37″, 

E 53°26′42″, 28-29.i.2010, L. Purchart lgt’ (1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., 4-5.vi.2010, Qualentiah env., 

slopes 5km SE from Quaysoh, N 12°39.691′, E 053°26.658′, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (1 � 1 � NMPC); 

‘Socotra, dint. Detwa lagoon, 26.II.09, leg. P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita’ (1 � PLCL); ‘N Sokotra, isld., Qadab loc., 

25–III–2009, Leg. Saldaitis / Achat Saldaitis I.G.31.268’ (1 � IRSN); ‘Sokotra Island N, Haghier Mts. Ayhaft 

loc., 04–III–2008 h–500m I.G.31.496 / Leg. A. Saldaitis’ (1 � IRSN); ‘N Sokotra Isld., Haghier Mt. Ayhft 

valley, 20–III–2009 / I.G.31.268, Leg. Saldaitis / Achat Saldaitis’ (1 � IRSN); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Wadi 

Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200m, J. Bezděk leg., 7-8.xi.2010’ (1 � JBCB); same data, but Jiři Hájek leg. 

(1 �, NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Lahas, GPS 12.646N, 54.091E, 69 m, 17.-18.xi.2000, leg. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný’ (1 �, JBCB; 1 � SZCM); ‘Sokotra Island N, Di Hamri env., 01–III–2008 – I.G.31.496, Leg. A. Saldaitis’ 

(1 � IRSN); ‘Yemen, Socotra, Gabbach di-Net, 28.x.2010, at light, Ron Felix’ (1 � 1 � RBCN); ‘W Sokotra, 

Shuab Loc., Coast Line, Mangrove, 24–III–2009/I.G.31.268, Leg. Saldaitis/Achat Saldaitis’ (5 �� 8 �� IRSN; 

2 �� 2 �� SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, ca. 3 km NE of Shuab, Avicennia marina mangrove; sand dunes, 

20.-21.vi.2012, 12°34.1′N, 53°23.9′E, 3 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. 

Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (2 �� 2 �� NMPC; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Halla 

area, Arher, freshwater spring in sand dune, 9.-10. + 15.vi.2012, 12°33.0′N 54°27.6′E, 5 m, Socotra expedition 

2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (2 �� NMPC; 1 

� SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Kaza Kazihon vill. env., 12°31′13″N, 53°55′36″E, 900 m, 5.vi.2012, V. Hula 

& J. Niedobová leg.’ (1 � NMPC; 1 � JBCB); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Noged plain, Abataro, border of sand 

dunes and shrubland, 12.-13.vi.2012, 12°22.1′N, 54°03.4′E, 20 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, 

V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � 1 � NMPC; 1 � JBCB; 1 � SZCM); 

‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Neet, x.2000, leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný’ (1 � 1 � NMPC; 2 �� 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, 

Socotra Isl., Hhalmi beach, N 12°21.324′, E 54°04.780′, 16.VI.2009, V. Hula lgt.’ (1 � NMPC); same data, but 

L. Purchart lgt. (1 � JBCB); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Noged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env., 12°21.9′ 

N, 54°05.3′E, 20 m, 10-11.xi.2010, L. Purchart lgt.’ (1 �, SZCM); same data, but J. Bezděk leg. (1 � JBCB); 

same data, but J. Batelka leg. (1 � NMPC); ‘Sokotra isld., Ayhft valley, 22–XI–2008, Leg. Saldaitis/I.G.31.268, 

Achat Saldaitis’ (1 � IRSN; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Sharet Halma vill. env., 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 

20m, Jiří Hájek leg., 10-11.xi.2010’ (1 � NMPC); ‘Sokotra Island N, Haghier Mts h–900m, Near Dicksam loc., 

05–III–2008 I.G.31.496 Leg. A. Saldaitis’ (1 � IRSN); ‘Yemen W Socotra Isl. 6.-24.ix.1999, leg. V. Bejček & 

K. Šťastný’ (1 � 2 �� CULS). 

Description. Habitus as in Figs. 109–110; body length of holotype 5.2 mm, of paratypes 

5.1–6.3 mm (��), 5.1–7.1 mm (��). 

Body dark brown to black; head, pronotum and elytra brown, usually with feeble metallic 

bronze refl ections which are sometimes more evident, head and pronotum darker; labrum 

and palpi reddish; antennae reddish at base, usually darkened starting from antennomere V 

or VI; mandibles dark brown to black; legs dark brown. 

Frons weakly convex, with confuse punctures and relatively long silvery pubescence; 

clypeus not divided from frons, with fi ner and more spaced punctures and shorter pubescence. 

Antennomere I one fourth longer than antennomere II and nearly twice as wide; antennomere 

II 2.5 times longer than wide, feebly bent; antennomere III one third longer than antennomere 

II; antennomeres IV and V slightly shorter than antennomere III and longer than antennomere 

VI; antennomeres VII–X feebly widened, antennomere VII slightly longer than the following 

ones; antennomeres VI–X 1.6–1.7 times longer than wide; antennomere XI nearly 2.5 times 

longer than wide. 

Pronotum 1.6–1.7 (��), 1.7–1.8 (��) times wider than long (2.4 × 1.4 mm in holotype), 

at base nearly as wide as or little wider than at distal border; sides regularly arched and mar-


gined throughout, widest in middle; surface densely punctate, sometimes with longitudinal 

not punctured short stripe on disc; surface between punctures smooth and shiny, narrower than 

diameter of punctures; pubescence moderately long, fi ne, silvery, in large part recumbent. 

Scutellum wider than long, rounded distally (Fig. 14), pubescent. 

Hypomeron punctured throughout, with moderately long pubescence; prosternum with 

moderately long pubescence; mesepimera bare, not punctured; metanepisterna fi ve times 

longer than wide, with short pubescence. 

Elytra oblong, 1.3 times longer than wide at humeri (3.6 × 2.7 mm in holotype), feebly 

impressed dorsally in basal fi fth; sides subparallel in basal half (�) or feebly widened toward 

rear till three fourths of their length (�), then regularly curved to elytral apices, which are in 

right angle; humeri weakly prominent; punctation slightly fi ner than on pronotum, irregular, 

fi ner on apical slope; pubescence shorter than on pronotum, fi ne, suberect. Epipleura gradually 

tapering toward rear, reaching elytral apices. 

Legs moderately long; femora with very small median tooth, sometimes unarmed, moderately 

swollen; tibiae nearly straight, sometimes protibiae feebly bent; pro– and mesotarsomere 

I feebly widened in �. Claws bifi d, starting from their midlength, with short internal tooth. 

Abdomen dorsally poorly sclerotized, with exception of last visible segment. 


Spermatheca as in Fig. 12; coxites (Fig. 13) moderately sclerotized in their distal portion, 

spiculum ventrale moderately long and thin, vagina without any sclerotization. 

Variability. Some examined specimens (Socotra: Gabbach di-Net and Sharet Halma vill.) show 

a shorter and more recumbent dorsal pubescence and shorter antennomeres, although other characteristics 

(genitalia included) perfectly match with those of specimens from other localities. 

Differential diagnosis. Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) grande insulare subsp. nov. is characterized 

by shorter antennomeres VII–XI (twice longer than wide in C. (F.) grande grande), 

stronger punctation of the pronotum, elytral sides subparallel in the proximal half (feebly 

widened toward rear in the basal half in C. (F.) grande grande) and apex of aedeagus more 

elongated (Figs. 8–9, 15–16). 

Etymology. The name underlines the differentiation of the population of Socotra from the 

nominal form in Yemen mainland. 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) distinguendum sp. nov. 

(Figs. 19–23, 111–112, 140) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Noged plain Qaareh (waterfall), 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 2003 5-6/xii, Noged plain Qaareh (waterfall), 57m, N12°20′10″ 

E53°37′56″ [GPS], David Král lgt. [printed white label]; Yemen–Soqotra 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek 

& David Král [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) distinguendum n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 

[printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (4 spec.): ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 2003 5-6/xii, Noged plain Qaareh (waterfall), 

57m, N12°20′10″ E53°37′56″ [GPS], David Král lgt’ (1 �, SZCM); ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 5.-6.xii.2003, Noged plain: 

Qaareh (waterfall) N12°20′10″ E53°37′56″, 57 m [GPS], Jan Farkač lgt.’ (1 �, NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Noged, 

Mokhar, 31.iii.2001, leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný’ (1 �, JBCB); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Lahas, GPS 12.646N, 54.091E, 

69 m, 17.-18.xi.2000, leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný’ (1 �, SZCM). 


5.3–5.7 mm.

458 


Body dark brown; head, pronotum and elytra brown, head and pronotum darker with feeble 

metallic refl ections; labrum, palpi and antennae reddish; mandibles dark brown to black; legs 

dark brown, with dorsal part of meso– and metafemora paler. 

Frons weakly convex, with confused and close punctures and relatively long silvery 

pubescence, punctation is deeper and confl uent near clypeus; clypeus convex and with fi ner 

punctation. Antennomere I one fourth longer than II and more than twice as wide; antennomere 

II 2.5 times longer than wide, feebly bent; antennomere III one third longer than II; 

antennomeres IV and V a little shorter than antennomere III and longer than VI; antennomeres 

VII –X feebly widened, VII a little longer than the following ones; antennomere XI nearly 

three times longer than wide. 

Pronotum 1.7 times wider than long (2.6 × 1.5 mm in holotype), at base nearly as wide 

as at distal border; sides regularly arched and margined throughout, widest in basal third; 

surface closely punctate, a paratype with a longitudinal impunctate short stripe on pronotal 

disc; surface between punctures smooth and bright, narrower than diameter of punctures; 

pubescence long, fi ne, silvery, suberected on disc, erected at sides. 

Scutellum a little wider than long, rounded distally (Fig. 23), pubescent. 


long pubescence; mesepimera bare, not punctured; metanepisterna three times longer than 

wide, pubescent. 


impressed dorsally at basal fi fth; sides subparallel in basal half, then regularly curved to apices, 

which form right angle; humeri poorly prominent; punctation fi ner than on pronotum, 

irregular, fi ner on apical slope; pubescence long, as long as on pronotal sides, fi ne, erect. 

Epipleura gradually tapering toward rear, reaching elytral apices. 

Legs moderately long; femora unarmed, moderately swollen; pro– and mesotibiae feebly 

bent, metatibiae nearly straight; pro– and mesotarsomere I feebly widened in �. Claws bifi d 

starting from their midlength, with short internal tooth. 



Female unknown. 

Differential diagnosis. Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) distinguendum sp. nov. is related to 

C. (F.) grande and C. (F.) villosum sp. nov., and is mainly characterized by a different shape 

of the median lobe of aedeagus; length of pubescence of the dorsum is nearly intermediate 

between those of the mentioned species. 

Etymology. The name distinguendum (to be distinguished) refers to its likeness to other species 

of the subgenus Falsonerissus. 

Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) villosum sp. nov. 

(Figs. 24–28, 113–114, 140) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil area, 12°34′25″N, 54°18′53″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE, � (NMPC), labeled: ‘Yemen, Socotra Island E, Homhil area, 400-510 m, N12°34′25″ 

E54°18′53″, 9-10.ii.2010, at light, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Fal-


sonerissus) villosum n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’. PARATYPE: ‘Yemen, Socotra Island E, Homhil area, 

400-510 m, N12°34′25″ E54°18′53″, 9-10.ii.2010, at light, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt’ (1 � SZCM). 

Description. Habitus as in Figs. 113–114; body length of holotype 6.6 mm, of paratype 7.2 

mm. 

Body dark brown; head, pronotum and elytra brown, head and pronotum darker with feeble 

metallic refl ections; labrum and palpi reddish; antennae reddish at base, darkened starting 

from antennomere IV (holotype) or antennomere V (paratype); mandibles black; legs dark 

brown. 

Frons weakly convex, feebly impressed in middle, with confused and close punctures and 

relatively long silvery pubescence; punctation confl uent near clypeus; clypeus almost fl at in 

holotype, feebly convex in paratype, and with punctation as strong as on frons. Antennomere 

I one fourth longer than antennomere II and more than twice as wide; antennomere II 2.5 

times longer than wide, feebly bent; antennomere III one third longer than II; antennomeres 

IV and V nearly as long as antennomere III and longer than VI; antennomeres VII–X feebly 

widened, VII a little longer than the following ones; antennomere XI nearly three times 

longer than wide. 

Pronotum 1.6 times wider than long (2.9 × 1.8 mm in holotype), at base only little wider 

than at distal border; sides regularly arched and margined throughout, widest in midlength; 

surface strongly and densely punctate; punctures close to each other but not confl uent, surface 

between punctures smooth and bright; pubescence long, fi ne, silvery, suberect on disc, 

erect on sides. 

Scutellum a little wider than long, rounded distally (Fig. 28), pubescent. 


long pubescence; mesepimera bare, not punctured; metanepisterna three times longer than 

wide, pubescent. 


impressed in basal fi fth; sides subparallel in basal half, then regularly curved to apices, which 

form right angle; humeri weakly prominent; punctation fi ner than on pronotum, irregular, 

fi ner on apical slope; pubescence long, on elytral sides clearly longer than on pronotal sides, 

fi ne, erect. Epipleura gradually tapering to rear, reaching elytral apices. 

Legs moderately long; femora unarmed, moderately swollen; protibiae feebly bent, 

meso– and metatibiae nearly straight; pro- and mesotarsomere I poorly widened. Claws bifi d 

starting from their midlength, with short internal tooth. 




Differential diagnosis. Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) villosum is related to C. (F.) grande 

and C. (F.) distinguendum sp. nov., and characterized by very long dorsal pubescence and 

different shape of median lobe of aedeagus. 

Etymology. The name villosum (hairy) refers to the relatively long setae covering the dorsum 

in this species.

460 


Colasposoma subgen. Colasposoma Laporte, 1833 

A key to species of the subgenus Colasposoma from Socotra 

1 Claws simple, arcuate; antennomere XI reddish; femora and tibiae clearly bicolored; dorsum 

with very short and dense pubescence; habitus as in Figs. 115–116; length 5.7–8.9 mm. 

................................................................................................. C. (C.) austerum sp. nov. 

– Claws bifi d, the inner tooth more or less short; other characters different. ..................... 2 

2 Hypomeron shiny, with only a few punctures on margins, bare; dorsum uniformly metallic 

dark blue, more rarely green; habitus as in Figs. 121–122; length 4.3–5.7 mm. ............... 

............................................................................................ C. (C.) atrocyaneum sp. nov. 

– Hypomeron punctured throughout. ................................................................................. 3 

3 Punctures of pronotum and elytra more superfi cial, surface pubescent at least on sides of 

pronotum and elytra. ........................................................................................................ 5 

– Pronotum and elytra with strong and dense punctation, bare. ......................................... 4 

4 Dorsum dark, metallic, unicolored; legs reddish, dark, with more or less evident metallic 

hue; claws bifi d in about their midlength, with inner tooth short; habitus as in Figs. 119–120; 

length 3.6–4.9 mm. .................................................................. C. (C.) purcharti sp. nov. 

– Head and pronotum metallic green, elytra yellowish; legs yellowish; claws appendiculate, 

shortly divided in about their midlength; habitus as in Figs. 129–130; length 5.0–5.8 

mm. ................................................................................................ C. (C.) hajeki sp. nov. 

5 Elytral punctation fi ne and superfi cial, surface nearly bare on elytral disc, with fi ne pubescence 

on sides; elytral side (�) with a raised carina going from humerus to apical slope 

(Fig. 36); large part of legs reddish; habitus as in Figs. 117–118; length 9.3 mm. ............ 

.............................................................................................. C. (C.) unicostatum sp. nov. 

– Elytral surface more strongly punctate, pubescent throughout; elytral side with a low, 

rounded carina, which starts from humeral callus and reaches apical slope (Fig. 72); a 

second, shorter carina is near elytral apex; legs metallic. ............................................... 6 

6 Punctation in the middle of the frons moderately strong, dense and scarcely confl uent; 

punctures on the pronotal disc more superfi cial, surface between two punctures usually 

wider than diameter of a puncture, shiny; elytral pubescence short, uniform, evident; apex 

of aedeagus as in Fig. 59; habitus as in Figs. 123–124; length 5.5–8.0 mm. ..................... 

..................................................................... C. (C.) brevepilosum brevepilosum sp. nov. 

– Punctation in the middle of the frons strong, dense, largely confl uent; punctures on the 

pronotal disc stronger, surface between two punctures narrower than diameter of a puncture; 

elytral pubescence very short, on the disc scarcely exceeding the depth of the punctures; 

apex of aedeagus as in Fig. 66; habitus as in Figs. 127–128; length 5.8–6.8 mm. ............ 

................................................................... C. (C.) brevepilosum maritimum subsp. nov. 

– Punctation in the middle of the frons strong, dense, largely confl uent; punctures on pronotal 

disc stronger, surface between two punctures narrower than diameter of a puncture; 

elytral pubescence short, uniform, evident; apex of aedeagus as in Fig. 63; habitus as in 

Figs. 125–126; length 5.7 mm (�). ............. C. (C.) brevepilosum orientale subsp. nov.


Colasposoma (Colasposoma) austerum sp. nov. 

(Figs. 29–34, 115–116, 141) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin, 12°28′27″N, 54°0′54″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin, 400-500 m, N 12°28′27″, E 54°0′54″, 6.-7.ii.2010, 

at light, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma austerum n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 

[printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (4 spec.): ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Zemhon area, 270-300 m, N 12°30.58′, E 

054°06.39′, 16.-17.vi.2010, V. Hula leg.’ (1 � SZCM); ‘Sokotra Islan N, Haghier Mts. Ayhaft loc., 04–III–2008, 

h–500 m, I.G.31.496 / Leg. A. Saldaitis’ (1 �, IRSN); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Zerik, 25.-27.iii.2001, leg. V. Bejček & 

K. Šťastný’ (1 � NMPC; 1 � JBCB). 


5.7–7.7 mm (��), 7.2 mm (�). 

Body metallic green, ventrites reddish along median line (partially immature specimens?); 

coxae reddish; head (dorsally), pronotum and elytra dark, with evident cupreous and green 

metallic refl ections on head and distal part of pronotum, less evident on elytra; labrum reddish, 

mandibles black, palpi yellowish; antennomeres I–IV (or V) reddish, antennomeres 

V(VI)–IX(X) more or less widely black, antennomere XI reddish; legs reddish with distal 

part of femora, base and apex of tibiae and tarsi black. 

Frons nearly fl at, on whole surface with confused strong and close punctures, and fi ne, 

moderately long pubescence; clypeus almost fl at, smooth, with a few very fi ne punctures, 

bare; last palpomere conical, nearly one third longer than penultimate. Antennomere I one 

third longer than II and nearly twice as wide; antennomere II two times longer than wide; 

antennomere III two times longer than II and 4 times longer than wide; antennomeres IV–VI 

little longer than III; antennomeres VII–X dull, poorly widened, VII longer than following 

ones; antennomere XI slightly longer than X in �, nearly as long as X in �. 

Pronotum 1.8 times wider than long in � (4.3 × 2.4 mm in holotype), 2 times wider than 

long in �, at base clearly wider than at distal border; sides arched and margined throughout, 

widest in basal third; angles prominent, tooth-like, with bristle; surface strongly and densely 

punctate, punctures partially confl uent, two small raised smooth not punctured areas present 

in basal third of disc; feeble impression of surface present distally along median line; base of 

pronotum bisinuate; pubescence short, dense, fi ne, golden, suberected. 

Scutellum wider than long, rounded distally (Fig. 34), bare, not punctured. 

Hypomeron punctured throughout, with moderately long pubescence; distal border of 

prosternum concave and strongly margined in middle, almost straight on sides; prosternum 

clearly divided by deep notosternal suture from the hypomeron; prosternum nearly 1.5 times 

longer than wide between procoxae, convex along median line, closely and fi nely punctured, 

with moderately long setae. Mesepimera with few short setae, not punctured; metanepisterna 

3.5 times longer than wide, pubescent. Mesoventrite narrower than prosternum between 

coxae, pubescent; metaventrite nearly as wide as mesoventrite, pubescent, its distal border 

concave. 

Elytra oblong, 1.3–1.4 times longer than wide at humeral level (6.2 × 4.9 mm in holotype); 

elytra impressed in basal fi fth, laterally with another oblong impression reaching elytral 

slope, externally limited by low carina; sides subparallel in basal half, then regularly curved 

to apices, which form right angle; humeri prominent, covering elytral sides in dorsal view;

462 


punctation bigger than on pronotum, irregular, unpunctured thin longitudinal stripe evident 

on each elytron (Figs. 33, 115); pubescence short, golden, close, suberected, equal on whole 

elytral surface (Fig. 33). Epipleura nearly perpendicular to elytral surface, wide at base and 

reaching the elytral apices, pubescent. 

Legs long and slender; femora unarmed, feebly swollen; tibiae straight; tarsomeres slender; 

protarsomere I in � widened, nearly 1.4 times longer than wide. Claws simple. 

Abdomen dorsally poorly sclerotized, with exception of last visible segment; abdominal 

ventrites pubescent throughout. 


Spermatheca as in Fig. 32; coxites short, subcylindrical, moderately sclerotized; spiculum 

ventrale long and thin; vagina without any sclerotization. 

Differential diagnosis. Colasposoma (Colasposoma) austerum sp. nov. is of large size, 

with a peculiar habitus and the following combination of characters: simple claws, oblong 

antennomeres, elongated legs with straight and slender tibiae. Somewhat resembling C. (C.) 

varicolor Fairmaire, 1887 from eastern Africa, but differing in the above mentioned characters 

and color. 

Etymology. The name ‘austere’ refers to the dark coloration of the dorsum. 

Colasposoma (Colasposoma) unicostatum sp. nov. 

(Figs. 35–36, 117–118, 143) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., wadi Madar, 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., wadi Madar, 1180-1230 m, 12°33.2′N 

54°00.4′E, P. Hlaváč leg. 12-14.xi.2010 [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Colasposoma) unicostatum 

n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). 

Description. Habitus as in Figs. 117–118; body length 9.3 mm. 

Body black, prosternum, meso– and metaventrite with cupreous metallic hue; head, pronotum 

and elytra dark, with some metallic refl ections: cupreous on head, sides of pronotum, 

scutellum and elytral base and sides, mainly metallic green on elytral disc; labrum dark, mandibles 

black, palpi yellowish; antennae reddish, antennomeres VII–XI somewhat darkened; 

legs reddish, knees somewhat darkened, tarsi black. 

Frons with weak median impression, on whole surface with confused fi ne and close 

punctures, surface between punctures with very fi ne microreticulation; frons almost bare in 

middle, with fi ne pubescence on sides; clypeus not separated from frons, punctured, bare, 

anterior border concave. Two apical palpomeres reddish, oblong, penultimate a little shorter 

than last one, 1.5 times longer than wide. Antennomere I nearly twice as long and nearly twice 

as wide as II; antennomere II two times longer than wide; antennomere III twice as long as 

antennomere I and 3 times longer than wide; antennomeres IV–V subequal to III; antennomere 

VI shorter; antennomeres VII–X dull, weakly widened, VII longer than the following ones; 

antennomere XI nearly as long as X. 

Pronotum 2.2 times wider than long (4.0 × 1.8 mm); sides arched and margined throughout, 

widest in basal third; angles poorly prominent, tooth-like, with bristle; surface with fi ne and 

confused punctation, punctures stronger and confl uent into short striae on pronotal sides; 

pubescence very short and fi ne, hardly visible.


Scutellum wider than long, rounded, punctured. 

Hypomeron with strong and spaced punctures, bare; distal border of prosternum almost 

straight on sides, concave in middle, margined; prosternum divided from hypomeron by 

deep suture; prosternum in midline nearly as long as wide between procoxae, feebly convex 

transversally, fi nely punctate-rugose, with very fi ne hyaline pubescence. Mesoventrite narrower 

than prosternum between coxae, its distal edge straight, surface fi nely punctured, fi nely 

rugose, pubescent; mesepimera not punctured, bare. Metaventrite fi nely punctured, with fi ne 

pubescence, distal border concave between coxae; metacoxae nearly as spaced as mesocoxae; 

metanepisterna nearly 3.5 times longer than wide, with very fi ne and close pubescence. 

Elytra oblong, 1.4 times longer than wide at humeri (6.9 × 5 mm); smooth tubercle near 

basal edge separated from humeral callus and limited distally by semicircular impression; 

strong carina from humerus to apical slope, limited on both sides by oblong impressions (Fig. 

36); elytral apices in right angle; humeri moderately prominent, carinate, scarcely covering 

elytral sides in dorsal view; punctation fi ne, superfi cial and spaced on the elytral disc, stronger 

on elytral sides and apices; pubescence very fi ne and short, hardly visible. Epipleura wide, 

strongly angulated with elytral surface, subparallel proximally, gradually tapering along their 

distal half length, with very short and fi ne pubescence. 

Legs long and slender; femora unarmed, feebly swollen; tibiae straight; tarsomeres slender. 

Claws appendiculate. 

Dorsal side of abdomen scarcely sclerotized, with exception of pygidium which is subtriangular, 

with rounded apex, punctate and fi nely rugose in distal half, fi nely pubescent; 

abdominal ventrites fi nely punctured and pubescent; 

Spermatheca as in Fig. 35; coxites short, subcylindrical, more sclerotized at base; spiculum 

ventrale long and thin; vagina without any sclerotization. 

Male unknown. 

Differential diagnosis. A species of Colasposoma (Colasposoma) of relatively large size, 

seemingly with no close relatives among known species; the habitus, somewhat resembling 

Galerucinae in appearance, with relatively small head and prothorax and fi nely punctate and 

large elytra, characterizes the species. Appearance of elytra somewhat reminds of Colasposoma 

(C.) zavattarii Pic, 1938 from Ethiopia, which clearly differs in any other aspect (a photo of 

the type of C. (C.) zavattarii is in ZOIA 2012). 

Etymology. The name refers to the single longitudinal carina present on each elytron. 

Colasposoma (Colasposoma) purcharti sp. nov. 

(Figs. 37–44, 119–120, 143) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin, 12°28′27.9″N, 54°0′54.2″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Firmihin, 400-500 m, N 12°28′27.9″, E 54°0′54.2″, 22.-25.vi.2009, 

L. Purchart lgt. [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Colasposoma) purcharti n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 

[printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (73 spec.): ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., Homhil protected area, 28.-29.xi.2003, N 

12°34′27″ E 54°18′32″, 364 m [GPS], leg. P. Kabátek’ (1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N, 

53°58.9′E, 7-8.xi.2010, L. Purchart lgt’ (1 � JBCB); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′E, 200 

m, J. Bezděk leg., 7-8.xi.2010’ (1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen. Socotra Island, Hagher Mts, wadi Madar, montane shrubland 

with Cephalocroton socotranus, 18.vi.2012, 12°33.2′N, 54°00.4′E, 1170 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, 

J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (4 �� 1 � NMPC; 1 � JBCB; 1 �

464 


SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, wadi Zerig, 2.vi.2012, 12°29.6′N, 53°59.5′E, 655 m, V. Hula & 

J. Niedobová leg.’ (13 �� 9 �� NMPC; 3 �� 3 �� JBCB; 4 �� 4 �� SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam 

plateau, wadi Zerig, pools, Juncus marsh; Dracaena trees; cave, 13.-14.vi.2012, 12°29.6′N, 53°59.5′E, 655 m, 

Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ 

(8 �� 4 �� NMPC; 1 � 1 � JBCB; 2 �� 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen. Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, 14.-15.vi.2012, 

Firmihin, Dracaena woodland, 12°28.6’N, 54°01.1”E, 490 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. 

Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Shibhon, 

680 m, N 12°28′1.5″, E 53°58′31.4″, 13.vi.2009, L. Purchart lgt.’ (2 �� NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Zemhon 

area, 270-300 m, N 12°30.58′, E 054°06.39′, 16.-17.6.2010, V. Hula leg.’ (1 �, NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., 4.- 

5.vi.2010, Qualentiah env., slopes 5 km SE from Quaysoh, N 12°39.691′, E 053°26.658′, V. Hula & J. Niedobová 

leg.’ (1 �, JBCB; 1 �, SZCM); ‘Sokotra isld., Ayhft valley, 22–XI–2008, Leg. Saldaitis / I.G.31.268 Achat A. 

Saldaitis’ (2 ��, IRSN; 1 �, SZCM); ‘W Sokotra, Shuab Loc., Coast–Line, Mangrove, 24–III–2009 / I.G.31.268, 

Leg. Saldaitis, Achat Saldaitis’ (1 �, IRSN). 


3.6–4.6 mm (��), 3.6–4.9 mm (��). Body dark metallic cupreous with some greenish 

refl ections, seldom completely green; head, pronotum and elytra dark, metallic, with some 

cupreous (dorsum) and greenish (mostly on head and elytral sides) refl ections, seldom totally 

metallic green; labrum reddish, mandibles black, palpi yellowish; antennae reddish, antennomeres 

VII–XI slightly darkened; legs, including tarsi, dark reddish, with some metallic 

refl ections. 

Frons regularly convex, on whole surface with confused, moderately strong punctures and 

fi ne pubescence, surface between punctures smooth, shiny; punctation stronger and confl uent 

between eyes; clypeus not separated from frons, bare, with punctation fi ner than on frons, its 

distal border concave. Two apical palpomeres oblong, penultimate nearly two thirds of ultimate 

in length, 1.5 times longer than wide. Antennomere I nearly 1.5 times as long as II and 

nearly twice as wide, feebly bent on outer side; antennomere II two times longer than wide; 

antennomere III nearly as long as I and more than 3 times longer than wide; antennomeres 

IV and V subequal to III; antennomere VI shorter; antennomeres VII–X dull, feebly widened, 

VII a little longer than the following ones; antennomere XI one fourth longer than X. 

Pronotum 1.8–1.9 times wider than long (2.2 × 1.2 mm in holotype); sides arched and 

margined throughout, widest in basal third; angles with small tooth with bristle; surface with 

relatively strong, spaced punctation, punctures stronger and partially confl uent on pronotal 

sides in females; pubescence fi ne, usually absent on pronotal disc. 

Scutellum a little wider than long, rounded, punctured, usually bare. 

Hypomeron with spaced punctures and fi ne pubescence; distal margin of prosternum almost 

straight at sides, concave at middle, margined; prosternum separated from hypomeron by deep 

notosternal suture; prosternum in midline nearly as long as wide between procoxae, almost 

fl at, fi nely punctate, with long whitish pubescence. Mesoventrite narrower than prosternum 

between coxae, its distal edge nearly straight, surface fi nely punctured, pubescent; mesepimera 

not punctured, with fi ne microreticulation, bare. Metaventrite fi nely punctured, with 

long pubescence, distal border concave between metacoxae, incised in middle; metacoxae 

little more spaced than mesocoxae; metanepisterna nearly 3.6 times longer than wide, fi nely 

punctured, rugose, with fi ne and close pubescence. 

Elytra oblong, only little longer than wide at humeral level (2.5 × 2.4 mm in holotype); 

surface regularly convex in males, with elytral punctation moderately strong, spaced, partially


arranged in longitudinal rows, leaving three narrow, not well defi ned stripes which are not 

punctured; surface between punctures smooth, fl at, with secondary very fi ne punctation; in 

females elytral surface feebly impressed on basal third and with low carina on sides of apical 

slope (Fig. 44), elytral punctation somewhat stronger than in males, particularly on elytral 

sides where it is confl uent, rugose; apices at right angle; humeri not prominent, smooth, not 

punctured in males, moderately prominent and with scarcely visible punctation in females; 

elytral surface bare in both sexes. Epipleura strongly angled with elytral surface, not punctured, 

bare and smooth, wide at base and gradually tapering to elytral apices. 

Legs moderately long; femora unarmed, feebly swollen; tibiae straight, protibial surface 

rough in distal half (Fig. 43); pro- and mesotarsomere I–III, and metatarsomere I–II widened 

in males. Claws bifi d in about their midlength, with inner tooth very short. 

Dorsal side of abdomen scarcely sclerotized, with exception of pygidium which has more 

or less rounded and pubescent apex; abdominal ventrites roughly punctured and pubescent. 

Aedeagus as in Figs. 37–38; internal sac without any evident sclerotization. 

Spermatheca as in Fig. 42; coxites short, conical, sclerotized; spiculum ventrale relatively 

long and thin; vagina without any sclerotization. 

Differential diagnosis. Colasposoma (Colasposoma) purcharti sp. nov. is a smaller species 

with dark metallic coloration, related to C. (C.) blandum Weise, 1904 from Kenya, C. (C.) 

subcostatum Gerstaecker, 1871 from Eastern Africa, and C. (C.) atrocyaneum sp. nov. From 

C. (C.) blandum, the new species differs mainly in fi ner punctation of dorsum, shorter elytral 

carina in female (in C. (C.) blandum, carina starts from the elytral humeri and is made by a 

series of irregular tubercles), and stronger punctures of hypomera. From C. (C.) subcostatum 

it mainly differs in smaller size, pubescent metanepisterna, more convex pronotum and 

stouter antennomeres VI–X. From C. (C.) atrocyaneum sp. nov. it differs in the pubescent 

and punctured metanepisterna and in smaller body size. 

Etymology. I am pleased to name this species after Luboš Purchart (Brno, Czech Republic) 

who collected a part of the material studied. 

Colasposoma (Colasposoma) hajeki sp. nov. 

(Figs. 45–52, 129–130, 143) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, Firmihin, 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, 14.-15.vi.2012, Firmihin, Dracaena woodland, 

12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m. [printed white label]; Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, 

I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Colasposoma) hajeki 

n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (5 spec.): same data as holotype (2 �� NMPC; 1 �, 

JBCB; 1 � 1 � SZCM). 

Description. Habitus as in Figs. 129–130; body length of holotype 5.0–5.2 mm (��), of 

paratypes 4.8–5.8 mm (��). Body red-yellowish, with slightly greenish metallic coloration 

of hypomerae, meso– and metanepisterna, and partially darkened abdominal ventrites I–IV; 

head, pronotum and scutellum metallic green, with slightly visible yellowish background; 

elytra yellowish; labrum reddish, mandibles dark brown, palpi yellowish; antennae reddish, 

antennomeres VII–XI slightly darkened; legs including tarsi yellowish. 

Frons nearly fl at in middle, on whole surface with confused, moderately strong punctures 

which are stronger and partially confl uent at mid frons, bare; surface between punctures

466 


smooth, shiny; clypeus not separated from frons, bare, with punctation slightly fi ner than on 

frons, its distal border concave. Two apical palpomeres oblong, penultimate nearly four fi fths 

of ultimate one in length, two times longer than wide. Antennomere I nearly 1.6 times longer 

than II and nearly 1.5 times wider, feebly bent on outer side; antennomere II two times longer 

than wide; antennomere III nearly as long as I and nearly three times (�) to four times (�) 

longer than wide; antennomeres IV and V subequal to III; antennomere VI shorter; antennomeres 

VII–X dull, feebly widened, VII little longer than the following ones; antennomere XI 

1.2 times longer than, and as wide as antennomere X. 


margined throughout, widest in basal third; angles with small tooth with bristle; surface with 

relatively strong, partially confl uent punctation on pronotal disc, punctures stronger and 

confl uent on pronotal sides, bare. 

Scutellum almost two times wider than long, rounded, fi nely punctured at base, bare. 

Hypomeron with spaced punctures, bare; distal border of prosternum concave, margined; 

notosternal suture moderately deep, reaching the distal border of hypomeron; prosternum (Fig. 

52) in midline nearly 1.7 times as long as wide between procoxae, almost fl at, fi nely punctate, 

with long thin whitish pubescence. Mesoventrite (Fig. 52) narrower than prosternum between 

coxae, its distal edge convex, with a light impression in middle, surface with a few fi ne punctures, 

pubescent; mesepimera not punctured, with fi ne microsculpture, bare. Metaventrite 

(Fig. 52) fi nely punctured, with moderately long thin pubescence, distal border with a small 

rounded incision in middle; metacoxae nearly as spaced as mesocoxae; metanepisterna nearly 

3.6 times longer than wide, punctured, fi nely rugose, with fi ne pubescence. 

Elytra oblong, 1.2–1.3 times longer than wide at humeral level (3.6 × 2.9 mm in holotype); 

surface regularly convex in males, elytral punctation moderately strong and confused; surface 

between punctures smooth, convex; in females elytral surface feebly impressed on basal third 

and with low carina on sides of apical slope, punctation on elytral sides trasversally confl uent, 

subrugose (Fig. 50); apices at nearly right angle; humeri moderately prominent, smooth, not 

punctured, covering elytral border in dorsal view; elytral surface bare. Epipleura impunctate, 

bare and smooth, gradually tapering to elytral apices. 

Legs long and slender; femora unarmed, feebly swollen; tibiae straight, protibial surface 

rough in distal half; pro-, meso- and metatarsomere I slightly widened in males. Claws appendiculate, 

shortly divided in about their midlength with a small acute tooth (Fig. 51). 

Dorsal side of abdomen scarcely sclerotized, with exception of pygidium which has rounded 

and pubescent apex; abdominal ventrites roughly punctured and pubescent. 


Spermatheca as in Fig. 49; spermathecal gland distally divided into two small terminal 

chambers (two dissected specimens); coxites short, conical, sclerotized; spiculum ventrale 

relatively long and thin; vagina without any sclerotization. 

Differential diagnosis. Colasposoma (Colasposoma) hajeki sp. nov. is characterized by appendiculate 

claws and different coloration of pronotum and elytra, with the latter being yellowish, 

non metallic. The new species somewhat resembles C. (C.) subcostatum Gerstaecker, 1871, 

described from Tanzania and subsequently reported from other countries of Eastern Africa 

(Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda/Democratic Republic of Congo border); both species


clearly differ in many aspects: claws (which are bifi d with a relatively long inner tooth in C. 

(C.) subcostatum), color and body length (see photos of C. (C.) subcostatum in ZOIA 2012). 

I observed appendiculate claws in a few African Colasposoma species not related with C. 

(C.) hajeki; nevertheless the character does not seem to be frequent in this genus. Claw conformation 

in this genus is rarely described by the authors, yet a careful check of the character 

in a signifi cant number of species could give useful information for species discrimination 

and relationships recognition (see also occurrence of simple claws in C. (C.) austerum sp. 

nov.). 

Etymology. I am pleased to name this species after Jiří Hájek (NMPC) who collected a part 

of the material studied and helped me facilitate my studies at the NMPC. 

Collection circumstances. Three specimens were collected after the twilight sitting on a 

Dracaena trunk, additional three specimens were collected at light (J. Hájek, pers. comm 

2012). 

Colasposoma (Colasposoma) atrocyaneum sp. nov. 

(Figs. 53–58, 121–122, 141) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin plato, Dracaena tree forest, 12°28′27″N, 54°00′53″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Republic of Yemen, Socotra Isl., Firmihin plato, Dracena tree forest, N 12°28′465″, 

E 54°00′89830″ [sic!], V. Hula lgt. 22-25.6.2009 [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Colasposoma) 

atrocyaneum n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (145 spec.): ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., 

Calanthia, 29.-30.iii.2001, leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný’ (3 �� 3 �� CULS; 2 �� 2 �� NMPC, 3 �� 1 � SZCM); 

‘Yemen, Socotra Island, wadi Keso, 120 m a.s.l., Adenium obesum fl owers; 12°39’32”N; 53°28’12”E 22.V.2004 

lgt. A. Reiter’ (2 �� 3 �� NMPC; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., Qaariah vill. env., 28.xi.2003, N 12°38′05″ E 

54°12′39″, 11 m [GPS] leg. P. Kabátek’ (1 � 1 � NMPC; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil protected 

area, open woodland with Boswellia and Dracaena trees, 10.-11.vi.2012, 12°34.5′N, 54°18.5′E, 360-500 m, Socotra 

expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 

� NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl, Zemhon, 260-320 m, N 12°32′17.5″, E 54°4′12.7″, 20.vi.2009, L. Purchart lgt.’ 

(1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Mot Zhadeten Dbaha spring, 12°31′43″N, 54°10′41″E, 269 m, 6.vi.2012, 

V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (10 �� 15 �� NMPC; 2 �� 2 �� JBCB; 3 �� 3 �� SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra 

Island, Aloove area, Aloove vill. env., Jatropha unicostata shrubland with Boswellia elongata trees, 19.-20.vi.2012, 

12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. 

Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.‘ (21 �� 11 �� NMPC; 3 �� 2 � JBCB; 3 �� 3 �� SZCM); ‘Republic of Yemen, 

Socotra Isl., Firmihin plato, Dracena tree forest, N 12°28′465″, E 54°00′89830″, V. Hula lgt. 22-25.6.2009’ (9 �� 

7 �� NMPC; 2 �� 1 � JBCB; 3 �� 2 �� SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, 14.-15.vi.2012, Firmihin, 

Dracaena woodland, 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, 

P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (4 �� 5 �� NMPC; 1� 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra 

Isl., Firmihin, 400-500 m, N 12°28′27.9″, E 54°0′54.2″, 22-25.vi.2009, L. Purchart lgt.’ (1 � 1 � NMPC; 1 � 1 � 

JBCB; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Wadi Kilisan, 24.ii.2008, malaise trap (M 30)’ (1 � MCSC); ‘Yemen, S 

– Socotra Isl., 6.-24.ix.1999, leg. V. Bejček & K. Šťastný’ (1 � NMPC). 


4.3–5.3 mm (��), 4.6–5.7 mm (��). 

Body dark metallic blue or greenish, sometimes with some cupreous refl ections; head, 

pronotum and elytra dark blue or dark greenish, metallic; labrum reddish, mandibles black, 

palpi yellowish, last palpomere somewhat darkened; antennomeres I–V reddish, antennomere 

VI in large part black, antennomeres VII–XI dull black; legs reddish, apex of tibiae and tarsi 

usually somewhat darkened.

468 


Frons convex proximally, fl at distally; whole surface with confused, moderately strong 

punctures, closer near eyes; fi ne pubescence present at sides and near clypeus; surface between 

punctures smooth, shiny; clypeus not separated from frons, bare, with punctures gradually 

fi ner to distal border, distal border concave. Two apical palpomeres oblong, the penultimate 

nearly three fourths to four fi fths of the ultimate one in length, 1.4 times longer than wide. 

Antennomere I nearly 1.4 times longer than II and nearly twice as wide, feebly bent on the 

outer side; antennomere II two times longer than wide; antennomere III nearly as long as I and 

more than 3 times longer than wide; antennomere IV and V subequal to III; antennomere VI 

subequal to V, partially dull; antennomeres VII–X dull, feebly widened, subequal in length; 

antennomere XI 1.3 times longer than X. 


margined throughout, more regularly bent in males, widest in basal third; angles with very 

small tooth bearing bristle, distal angles hardly visible from above; surface with relatively 

strong, spaced punctation, punctures stronger and partially confl uent on pronotal sides in 

females; surface bare, short pubescence usually present on pronotal sides. 

Scutellum 1.6–1.7 times wider than long, rounded, punctured, bare. 

Hypomeron shiny, with only few punctures at margins, bare; distal border of prosternum 

strongly concave on sides (at level of suture at base of hypomerae), regularly concave in 

middle, margined; prosternum divided from hypomeron by deep suture; prosternum between 

procoxae little wider than long in midline, almost fl at, punctate, with long whitish pubescence. 

Mesoventrite narrower than prosternum between coxae, its distal edge incised in middle, 

surface fi nely punctured, pubescent; mesepimera impunctate, shiny, bare. Metaventrite fi nely 

punctured, with long, spaced pubescence, distal border feebly concave between coxae, incised 

in middle; metacoxae as spaced as mesocoxae; metanepisterna nearly three times longer than 

wide, punctured, fi nely rugose, with fi ne and close pubescence. 

Elytra nearly as long as wide at humeral level in males (2.9 × 2.9 mm in holotype), 1.2 

times longer than wide in females; surface regularly convex in males, with evident subhumeral 

impression on sides and feeble impression on basal third on sides of disc; elytral punctation 

moderately strong in males, spaced, partially arranged in longitudinal rows, leaving three 

narrow, not well defi ned impunctate stripes; surface between punctures smooth, fl at, narrower 

than diameter of puncture, with some micropunctures; in females, elytral surface with a more 

evident impression in basal third and rounded carina on sides of apical slope (Fig. 58), elytral 

punctation on disc as in males, stronger on sides, confl uent, moderately rugose; apices at right 

angle; humeri not prominent, smooth, with very fi ne punctation in males, prominent and with 

scarcely visible punctation in females; elytral surface bare in both sexes. Epipleura wide at 

base, gradually tapering from base to elytral apices, strongly angled with elytral surface, not 

punctured, bare, smooth, shiny. 

Legs moderately long; profemora with small, or very small, acute median tooth, meso– and 

metafemora unarmed, feebly swollen; tibiae straight, protibial surface rough in distal half; 

pro– and mesotarsomeres I–III, and metatarsomere I feebly widened in males. Claws of all 

legs bifi d in about one third of their length, with inner tooth short. 

Dorsal side of abdomen moderately sclerotized, pygidium sclerotized with apex rounded 

and pubescent; abdominal sternites roughly punctured and pubescent.


Aedeagus as in Figs. 53–54; internal sac without any evident sclerotization. 



Differential diagnosis. Colasposoma (Colasposoma) atrocyaneum sp. nov., related to C. (C.) 

blandum, C. (C.) subcostatum and C. (C.) purcharti sp. nov., is characterized by dark blue 

(or green) metallic coloration of the dorsum and by hypomera smooth, punctured only on 

their sides. From C. (C.) blandum, the new species differs mainly in its legs without metallic 

hue and in shorter elytral carina in female. It differs from C. (C.) subcostatum mainly in its 

wider pronotum and shorter elytra, non-metallic legs, and longer and denser pubescence of 

the metaventrite. From C. (C.) purcharti sp. nov. it differs in bare metanepisterna, punctured 

only on sides, and in larger body size. 

Etymology. The name refers to the uniform dark blue coloration of nearly all the specimens 

examined. 

Collection circumstances. Many specimens were observed and collected feeding on fl owers 

and leaves of Adenium socotranum Vierh. (Apocynaceae) (J. Bezděk, pers. comm. 2012). 

Colasposoma (Colasposoma) brevepilosum sp. nov. 

(Figs. 59–62, 70–72, 123–124, 142) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin plato, Dracaena tree forest, 12°28′27″N, 54°00′53″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Republic of Yemen, Socotra Isl., Firmihin plato, Dracena tree forest, N12°28′465″, 

E54°00′89830″ [sic!], V. Hula lgt. 22.-25.6.2009 [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Colasposoma) 

brevepilosum n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (149 spec.): ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, 

Aloove area, Aloove vill. env., Jatropha unicostata shrubland with Boswellia elongata trees, 19.-20.vi.2012, 

12°31.2’N, 54°07.4’E, 221 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. 

Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � 2 �� NMPC; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Zemhon area, 270–350 

m, N12°30′58″, E54°06′39″, 3.-4.ii.2010, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’ (2 �� 1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., 

Zemhon area, 270-300 m, N12°30,58′, E054°06,39′, 16.-17.6.2010 V. Hula leg.’ (43 �� 13 �� NMPC; 2 �� 1 � 

JBCB; 4 �� 4 �� SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, wadi Zerig, pools, Juncus marsh; Dracaena 

trees; cave, 13.-14.vi.2012, 12°29.6’N, 53°59.5’E, 655 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, 

P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (3 �� 1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam 

plateau, wadi Zerig, 2.vi.2012, 12°29.6’N, 53°59.5’E, 655 m, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (1 � 2 �� NMPC); 

‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Wadi Zirik, 650-670 m, N12°29′35.1″, E53°59′28.5″, 16.vi.2009, L. Purchart lgt.’ (1 � NMPC); 

‘Socotra: W. Da’arho, 21.II.2009, leg. P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita’ (1 � PLCL); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, 

14.-15.vi.2012, Firmihin, Dracaena woodland, 12°28.6’N, 54°01.1’E, 490 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, 

J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (11 �� 10 �� NMPC; 3 �� 3 �� 

JBCB; 3 �� 3 �� SZCM); ‘Republic of Yemen, Socotra Isl., Firmihin plato, Dracena tree forest, N12°28′465″, 

E54°00′89830″, V. Hula lgt. 22.-25.6.2009’ (8 �� NMPC; 1 � JBCB; 1 � 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., 

Firmihin plato, 400-500 m, N12°28′46″, E54°00′89″, 18.–19.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (2 �� 2 �� 

NMPC; 1 � 1 � JBCB); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Firmihin, 400-500 m, N12°28′27.9″, E54°0′54.2″, 22.-25.vi.2009, L. 

Purchart lgt.’ (1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra isl., Firmihin, GPS 12.474N, 54.015E, 530 m, x.2000, leg. V. Bejček & 

K. Šťastný’ (3 �� 2 �� CULS; 1 � 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 2003 2-3/xii, Dixam plateau, Wadi Esgego, 

300 m, N12°28′09″ E54°00′36″ [GPS], David Král lgt.’ (2 �� NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, 

15.+22.vi.2012, wadi Dirhor, open woodland with Boswellia ameero trees, 12°28.0’N, 54°00.5’E, 340 m, Socotra 

expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � 2 �� 

NMCP); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Shibhon plateau, Eserhe, 13.vi.2012, Croton socotranus shrubland, 12°25.2’N, 

53°56.6’E, 547 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová 

& L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � 1 � NMPC).

470 


Additional material examined. ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Hagher Mts., Skant, N12°34,557′, E54°01,514′, 7.-8.vi.2010, V. 

Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (1 � 1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen. Socotra Island, Hagher Mts, Scand Mt. env. montane evergreen 

woodland, 16.–18.vi.2012, 12°34.6’N, 54°01.5’E, 1450 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. 

Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (2 �� 3 �� NMPC; 1 � JBCB; 1 � 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen. 

Socotra Island, Hagher Mts, wadi Madar, montane shrubland with Cephalocroton socotranus, 18.vi.2012, 12°33.2’N, 

54°00.4’E, 1170 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. 

Purchart leg.’ (1 � 1 � NMPC; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, Tudhen, shrubland with Commiphora 

planifrons, 18. + 22.vi.2012, 12°32.7′N, 53°59.9′E, 1135 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. 

Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (2 �� 2 �� NMPC; 1 � 1 � JBCB; 1 � 1 � SZCM). 

Description. Habitus as in Figs. 123–124; body length of holotype 6.3 mm, paratypes 5.5–7.3 

mm (��), 6.1–8.0 mm (��). 

Body dark brown to black with some bronze metallic refl ections; head, pronotum and 

elytra dark bronze, metallic; labrum dark brown to black, mandibles black, lightly metallic, 

palpi yellowish; antennomeres reddish, antennomere I partially metallic dorsally, antennomeres 

VII–XI dull, somewhat darkened; legs blackish with metallic bronze refl ections, last 

tarsomere usually little paler. 

Frons feebly convex, with median impression between eyes, bare on whole surface; punctation 

confused, moderately strong, punctures closer and partially confl uent near eyes and 

sometimes also in median impression of frons; surface between punctures smooth, shiny; 

clypeus not separated from frons, bare, punctate proximally, with fi ne microreticulation, 

nearly impunctate distally, distal border concave. Antennomere I nearly 1.6 times longer 

than II and nearly twice as wide, feebly bent on outer side; antennomere II two times longer 

than wide; antennomere III nearly as long as antennomere I and nearly four times longer 

than wide; antennomeres IV and V subequal to III; antennomere VI shorter than V; antennomeres 

VII–X dull, feebly widened, VII a little longer and wider than the following ones; 

antennomere X oblong, two times longer than wide; XI 1.3 times longer than X and nearly 

of the same width. 

Pronotum 2.2–2.3 times wider than long (3.3 × 1.5 mm in holotype); convexity of surface 

interrupted before distal border by transversal impression, more evident in males; pronotal 

sides arched and margined throughout, widest in basal fourth; base wider than distal border; 

angles with small tooth bearing bristle, distal corners visible from above; surface with relatively 

fi ne, spaced punctation, punctures stronger and partially confl uent on pronotal sides; 

transversal impunctate stripe on basal third of pronotal disc; pubescence fi ne, relatively short, 

usually absent on pronotal disc of males. 

Scutellum 1.5 times wider than long, rounded, punctured, fi nely pubescent. 

Hypomeron shiny, with relatively strong and spaced punctation, bare; distal border of prosternum 

regularly concave throughout, fi nely margined; prosternum divided from hypomeron 

by evident notosternal suture, strongly impressed distally; prosternum in midline nearly as 

long as wide between procoxae, feebly convex, punctate, with long whitish pubescence. 

Mesoventrite one third narrower than prosternum between coxae, its distal edge feebly incised 

in middle, surface fi nely punctured, pubescent; mesepimera not punctured, bare. Metaventrite 

transversely rugose, fi nely punctured on sides, with long and thin pubescence, distal border 

shortly incised in middle; metacoxae as spaced as mesocoxae; metanepisterna nearly four 

times longer than wide, with fi ne and close pubescence.


Elytra 1.1–1.3 times longer than wide at humeri (4.4 × 3.9 mm in holotype); surface 

almost regularly convex in males, with subhumeral impression on sides and feeble impression 

on sides of the disc in basal third; elytral punctation relatively fi ne and close in males, 

stronger and partially confl uent only on elytral sides; surface between punctures smooth, 

fl at on elytral disc, distance between two punctures as wide as diameter of puncture; elytral 

surface in females more evidently impressed in basal third, with rounded lateral carina from 

humeral callus up to apical slope and with second shorter and lower carina near elytral apex 

(Fig. 72); elytral punctation somewhat stronger in females than in males, confl uent on elytral 

sides; elytral apices at right angle; humeri lightly prominent in males, more evident in 

females, fi nely punctured; pubescence short and thin on disc, more evident on elytral sides. 

Epipleura wide at base, gradually tapering from base to elytral apices, strongly angulated 

with elytral surface, not punctured, almost bare, smooth, shiny. Epipleural width subject to 

some individual variability. 

Legs moderately long; femora unarmed, feebly swollen, more so in male profemora; tibiae 

straight, protibial surface rough in distal half (Fig. 70); protarsomeres I–II more or less widened 

in males. Claws bifi d in about one third of their length, with inner tooth short. 

Dorsal side of abdomen poorly sclerotized, pygidium sclerotized with apex rounded and 

pubescent; abdominal ventrites roughly punctured and pubescent. 

Aedeagus as in Figs. 59–60; two very large tracheae enter median lobe from basal hood. 



Differential diagnosis. A species of Colasposoma (Colasposoma) of medium size, possibly 

related to C. (C.) zavattarii (Ethiopia) from which it can be easily distinguished by dark 

legs, presence of an impunctate transversal strip at the base of pronotal disc, and by evident 

pubescence on dorsum. Development of the longitudinal carina on the elytral sides of females 

is similar in the two species. 

Comments. Specimens collected at altitudes above 1100 m a.s.l. are excluded from type 

material. They differ from typical form in wider epipleura, strongly restricted only at level 

of the penultimate abdominal ventrite; the epipleural surface is slightly folded longitudinally 

in an obtuse angle, instead of being almost fl at. Dorsal pubescence is somewhat shorter, leaving 

lustrousness of integuments more evident. No other remarkable differences have been 

observed, nor in the exoskeletal characters, neither in the aedeagus. They could be considered 

as a montane form of the present species. 

Colasposoma (C.) brevepilosum sp. nov. had been collected in the inner Socotra, at altitudes 

from 220 to 670 m a.s.l., with the exception of the above mentioned specimens collected 

at higher altitude (above 1100 m a.s.l.). Related populations found in localities at a lower 

altitude, along the coast and in eastern Socotra (Fig. 142), clearly differ in a few exoskeletal 

characters and in the aedeagi. I prefer to describe them as a subspecies and not to separate 

them at a higher level, to underline the morphological uniformity in this group of taxa. 

The presence of two large tracheae entering the base of the median lobe of aedeagus, often 

easily visible also through the wall of the median lobe, is a common and unusual feature of 

these taxa, which underlines their close relationship. 

Etymology. The name refers to the short pubescence of the dorsum.

472 


Colasposoma (Colasposoma) brevepilosum orientale subsp. nov. 

(Figs. 63–65, 73, 125–126, 142) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Homhil protected area, 12°34′27″N, 54°18′32″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., Homhil protected area, 28.-29.xi.2003, N12°34′27″ E54°18′32″, 

364 m [GPS], leg. P. Kabátek [printed white label]; Yemen – Soqotra 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek 

& David Král [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Colasposoma) brevepilosum ssp. orientale n. S. Zoia 

det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). 

Description. Habitus as in Figs. 125–126; body length of holotype 5.7 mm. 

Body dark brown with some bronze metallic refl ections; head, pronotum and elytra dark 

bronze, metallic; labrum dark brown, mandibles black, palpi yellowish; antennomeres reddish, 

antennomeres VII–XI dull; legs dark brown with some metallic refl ections beneath. 

Frons feebly convex, fi nely pubescent, with median glabrous impression between eyes; 

punctation moderately strong, punctures closer and partially confl uent near eyes and in median 

impression of frons; surface between punctures convex, shiny; clypeus not separated from 

frons, punctate, distally with fi ne microreticulation and fi ner punctures, distal border concave. 

Antennomere I nearly 1.6 times longer than II and nearly twice as wide, feebly bent on outer 

side; antennomere II two times longer than wide; antennomere III nearly as long as antennomere 

I and nearly 4 times longer than wide; antennomeres IV and V subequal to III; antennomere 

VI shorter than V; antennomeres VII–X dull, feebly widened, VII little longer and wider than 

following ones; antennomere XI 1.3 times longer than the X, nearly of the same width. 

Pronotum 2.1 times wider than long (2.8 × 1.3 mm); convexity of surface interrupted 

before distal border by transversal impression; sides arched and margined throughout, widest 

in basal fourth; base wider than distal border; angles with small tooth with bristle, distal 

angles visible from above; surface with moderately strong punctation, punctures stronger and 

partially confl uent on sides; small transversal zone without punctation on basal third of disc; 

pubescence fi ne, relatively short, central area of pronotum almost bare. 


Hypomeron shiny, with relatively strong and spaced punctation, almost bare; distal border 

of prosternum regularly concave throughout, fi nely margined; prosternum divided from 

hypomeron by evident notosternal suture, strongly impressed distally; prosternum in midline 

little longer than wide between coxae, punctate, with long whitish pubescence. Mesoventrite 

one third narrower than prosternum between procoxae, its distal edge feebly incised in 

middle, surface fi nely punctured, pubescent; mesepimera not punctured, bare. Metaventrite 

transversely rugose, fi nely punctured on sides, with long and thin pubescence; metacoxae as 

spaced as mesocoxae; metanepisterna nearly 4 times longer than wide, punctate, with fi ne 

and close pubescence. 

Elytra 1.2 times longer than wide at humeri (4.0 × 3.2 mm); surface almost regularly 

convex, with subhumeral impression on sides and impression laterally on basal third of the 

disc; elytral punctation relatively fi ne and close, stronger on sides; surface between punctures 

smooth, fl at on disc, with some micropunctures; pubescence short and thin on disc, more evident 

on sides. Epipleura wide at base, gradually tapering from base to elytral apices, strongly 

angulated with elytral surface, not punctured, almost bare, smooth, shiny. 

Legs (holotype damaged, only two legs are present: Fig. 125) moderately long; femora


unarmed, feebly swollen; tibiae straight, protibial surface rough in distal half (Figs. 73); 

protarsomeres I–II feebly widened. Claws of protarsi bifi d in about one third of their length, 

with inner tooth short. 

Dorsal side of abdomen poorly sclerotized; pygidium sclerotized, its apex rounded and 

pubescent; abdominal sternites roughly punctured and pubescent. 

Aedeagus as in Figs. 63–64; two very large tracheae enter the median lobe from basal 

hood. 

Female unknown 

Differential diagnosis. A subspecies of C. (C.) brevepilosum sp. nov. characterized by stronger 

punctation of frons and pronotum and different shape of the apex of aedeagus. 

Etymology. The specimen studied was collected in the easternmost area of Socotra. 

Colasposoma (Colasposoma) brevepilosum maritimum subsp. nov. 

(Figs. 66–69, 74–75, 127–128, 142) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 12°20′10″N, 53°37′56″N. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 2003 5-6/xii, Noged plain, Qaareh (waterfall), 57 m, N12°20′10″ 

E53°37′56″ [GPS], David Král lgt. [printed white label]; Yemen – Soqotra 2003 Expedition; Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek& 

David Král [printed white label]; Holotypus Colasposoma (Colasposoma) brevepilosum ssp. maritimum n. S. Zoia 

det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (2 spec.): ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 24-26/xi.2003, Wadi Ayhaft, 190 

m, N12°36′38″ E53°58′49″ [GPS], David Král lgt.’ (1 � NMPC; 1 � SZCM). 

Description. Habitus as in Figs. 127–128; body length of holotype 6.8 mm, of paratypes 6.7 

mm (�), 5.8 mm (�). 

Body dark brown to black with some bronze and greenish metallic refl ections; head, 

pronotum and elytra dark bronze, metallic; labrum brown, mandibles black, lightly metallic, 

palpi yellowish; antennomeres reddish, VII–XI dull, somewhat darkened in � specimen; legs 

dark brown with some metallic refl ections. 

Frons convex, with light median impression between eyes, with very fi ne pubescence in 

holotype, almost bare in other specimens, with close, moderately strong punctures, partially 

confl uent near eyes and in median impression of frons; surface between punctures convex, 

shiny; clypeus not separated from frons, bare, punctate, with fi ne microreticulation and fi ner 

punctation distally, distal border concave. Antennomere I nearly 1.6 times longer than II and 

nearly twice as wide, feebly bent on outer side; antennomere II two times longer than wide; 

antennomere III nearly as long as I and nearly three times longer than wide; antennomeres 

IV and V subequal to III; antennomere VI shorter than V; antennomeres VII–X dull, feebly 

widened, VII little longer and wider than following ones; antennomere XI 1.2 times longer 

than X, little wider. 

Pronotum 2.1– 2.2 times wider than long (3.5 × 1.7 mm in holotype); convexity of surface 

interrupted before distal border by transversal impression, more evident in males; pronotal 

sides arched and margined throughout, widest in basal fourth in males, in basal third in female; 

base wider than distal border; angles with small tooth with bristle, distal angles visible from 

above; surface with moderately strong, close punctation, punctures stronger and in large part 

confl uent on sides; small longitudinal area without punctures on basal third of disc, in two 

paratypes this area feebly raised; pubescence very fi ne, short, more evident on sides.

474 



Hypomeron shiny, with relatively strong and spaced punctation, bare; distal border of 

prosternum regularly concave throughout, fi nely margined; prosternum divided from hypomera 

by evident notosternal suture, more impressed distally; prosternum in midline little 

longer than wide between procoxae, feebly convex, punctate, with long whitish pubescence. 

Mesoventrite one third narrower than prosternum between procoxae, its distal edge concave, 

surface fi nely punctured, pubescent; mesepimera not punctured, bare. Metaventrite fi nely 

transversely rugose, fi nely punctured on sides, with long and thin pubescence, distal border 

shortly incised in middle; metacoxae as spaced as mesocoxae; metanepisterna nearly 4 times 

longer than wide, with close punctation and fi ne pubescence. 

Elytra 1.2–1.3 times longer than wide at humeri (4.8 × 4.1 mm in holotype); surface almost 

regularly convex in males, with subhumeral impression on sides and feeble impression on 

basal third laterally on disc; in males punctation relatively fi ne and close, stronger only on 

sides; surface between punctures smooth, fl at, with some micropunctures on disc; in females 

surface more strongly impressed in basal third, with rounded low lateral carina, from humeral 

callus up to apical slope, and with second shorter carina near elytral apex; punctation in 

females not signifi cantly different from that of males; apices at slight acute angle; humeri 

lightly prominent in males, stronger in females, fi nely punctured; elytral pubescence very 

short and thin on disc, more evident on sides. Epipleura wide at base, moderately wide till 

base of third abdominal sternite, then gradually tapering to elytral apices, strongly angulated 

with elytral surface, not punctured, smooth, shiny, almost bare except for fringe of very small 

setae along outer border. 

Legs moderately long; femora unarmed, feebly swollen, more so in male profemora; tibiae 

straight, protibial surface rough in distal half in males (Fig. 74); protarsomeres I II widened 

in males. Claws bifi d in about one third of their length, with short inner tooth. 

Dorsal side of abdomen poorly sclerotized; pygidium sclerotized, its apex rounded and 

pubescent; abdominal ventrites roughly punctured and pubescent. 

Aedeagus as in Figs. 66–67; two very large tracheae enter the median lobe from basal 

hood. 



Differential diagnosis. A subspecies of C. (C.) brevepilosum sp. nov. characterized by stronger 

punctation of frons and pronotum, shorter pubescence on dorsum and different shape of 

the apex of aedeagus. 

Etymology. Collecting localities are at low altitude, not far from the sea; the name maritimum 

emphasizes the altitude different from the localities of the nominal form. 

Erythraella gen. nov. 

Type species. Erythraella bicuspidata sp. nov., by present designation. 

Description. Body oblong, dorsum pubescent; head with relatively long genae, only little 

shorter than diameter of eyes; eyes prominent, inner border feebly emarginate, without supraocular 

sulci; antennae robust, with four apical segments relatively short, feebly widened;


pronotum little wider than long, subglobose, with only traces of margins at sides, narrower 

than elytra; prosternum oblong, nearly 2.5 times longer than wide between coxae; notosternal 

suture not evident; elytra oblong, punctation arranged into regular longitudinal rows; 

humeral callus present, wings completely developed; legs long, profemora swollen, clearly 

wider than the meso- and metafemora which are weakly widened, femora with small, acute, 

median tooth; meso- and metatibiae not emarginate near apex, obliquely truncate apically; 

claws bifi d; abdominal tergites poorly sclerotized, with exception of pygidium which is not 

grooved and shows two symmetrical patches of microsetae. 

Diagnosis. A genus related to Fidia Motschulsky, 1860 (= Lypesthes Baly, 1863) and 

Trichotheca Baly, 1860, characterized by short antennae with stocky antennomeres VIII–XI, 

relatively short and wide tarsomeres, and oblong head with genae only a little shorter than 

the diameter of eye. 

Comments. The new genus is close to the genera Fidia Motschulsky, 1860 (nec Fidia Walsh, 

1867) and Trichotheca. A large part of the representatives of this group of genera is known 

from the southeastern and eastern Palaearctic, but they are not reported from Arabia, Iran or 

Iraq. In the Afrotropical Region, only two species are known: Fidia (Lypesthinia) multidentata 

(Pic, 1939) from Ethiopia which is geographically closer, and Fidia (Fidia) bicoloripes (Pic, 

1936), doubtfully reported from Algeria by PIC (1936): ‘provenance évidemment fausse’ he 

stated, as at that time no other representatives of this genus were known from Africa. 

Erythraella clearly differs from all representatives of this group of genera, as reported 

above, and it looks quite characteristic and is geographically isolated from its relatives. 

Etymology. From the Latin name of the Arabian Sea: “mare Erythraeum”. Gender feminine. 

Erythraella bicuspidata sp. nov. 

(Figs. 76–83, 131–132, 144) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Zemhon area, 12°30.58′N, 54°06.39′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Zemhon area, 270-300 m, N 12°30,58′, E 054°06,39′, 16.- 

17.6.2010, V. Hula leg. [printed white label]; Holotypus Erythraella n. gen. bicuspidata n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed 

red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (2 spec.): ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, 15.+22.vi.2012, wadi Dirhor, open 

woodland with Boswellia ameero trees, 12°28.0′N, 54°00.5′E, 340 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, 

V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � JBCB; 1 � SZCM). 

Description. Body length of holotype 3.5 mm, of paratypes 3.0 mm, 3.6 mm. Habitus as in 

Figs. 131–132. 

Body black, not metallic; head reddish; in holotype, pronotum reddish with median oblong 

blackish spot, hypomerae blackish, elytra blackish with proximal border, suture anteriorly, 

humeri and epipleura reddish; in paratypes, pronotum, hypomerae and elytra largely reddish; 

labrum, palpi and mandibles reddish; antennomeres I–VI reddish, antennomere VII darkened 

distally, antennomeres VIII–XI black; legs reddish, tarsi somewhat darkened distally. 

Frons (Fig. 82) almost fl at, with median thin longitudinal sulcus, moderately strong punctures 

and relatively long translucid pubescence; clypeus almost bare, feebly convex and 

punctured between antennae, concave and without punctures distally. Palpomere II short, 

transverse, nearly one third of palpomere I in length, palpomere III conical, somewhat thinner

476 


than II and nearly twice as long. Antennomere I less than two times longer than wide, nearly 

twice as long as II; antennomere II nearly as long as wide; antennomere III twice as long as 

II, three times longer than wide; antennomeres IV and V subequal to III and longer than VI; 

antennomeres VII–X moderately widened, VII longer than VI, VIII–X one third shorter than 

VII and nearly 1.5 times longer than wide; antennomere XI 1.5 times longer than X and as 

wide (Fig. 81). 

Pronotum 1.2 times wider than long (1.2 × 1.0 mm in holotype), at base nearly as wide as 

at distal border; sides with only trace of margin, regularly arched if seen from above, widest 

shortly behind midlength; surface strongly and confusedly punctate; punctures close to each 

other but not confl uent, surface between punctures smooth and shiny; pubescence long, fi ne, 

semiadpressed, with feeble golden refl ections. 

Scutellum longer than wide, subtriangular, pubescent. 

Hypomeron punctured throughout, with moderately long pubescence; prosternum (Fig. 

83) oblong, nearly 2.5 times longer than wide between the coxae, somewhat transversely 

prominent medially, punctured, scarcely pubescent; coxal cavities wide, equally distant from 

front and posterior border of prosternum; mesoventrite between mesocoxae as wide as prosternum 

between procoxae, punctured, bare, with deeply concave distal border; metaventrite 

not punctured, bare in middle, with few fi ne setae on sides, distal border almost straight 

between metacoxae which are slightly more spaced than mesocoxae; mesepimera almost 

bare; metanepisterna four times longer than wide, fi nely pubescent. 

Elytra oblong, 1.5 times longer than wide at humeri (2.3 × 1.5 mm), weakly impressed in 

basal fi fth; sides subparallel up to distal third, then regularly curved to apices, forming slightly 

acute angle; humeri prominent, concealing elytral sides in dorsal view; punctation strong, also 

on apical slope, arranged in 11 longitudinal regular rows; pubescence of interstriae long, erect 

and with weak golden refl ections. Epipleura gradually tapering from base to elytral apices, 

with single row of short setae. 

Legs long; profemora swollen (Fig. 81), clearly wider than meso– and metafemora; femora 

with small, acute, median tooth; pro– and mesotibiae feebly bent, metatibiae straight; protarsomere 

I slightly narrower than protarsomere II, both slightly wider than long; apical tarsomere 

nearly twice the III in length. Claws bifi d from near their base, with inner tooth shorter. 

Dorsal side of abdomen poorly sclerotized, with exception of pygidium which is nearly 

1.7 times wider than long and not grooved. First abdominal ventrite with moderately strong 

punctation, 2nd to 5th gradually more fi nely punctured and with fi ne whitish setae. 



Etymology. The Latin name refers to the double point of the apex of aedeagus. 

Macrocoma Chapuis, 1874 

A key to the species from Socotra 

1 Pronotal sides with a low, rounded or oval small tubercle near the anterior edge, which can 

be seen only in lateral view of pronotum (Fig. 104); the tubercle with a single puncture in 

its middle; length 2.0–2.6 mm; habitus as in Figs. 137–138. ................ M. hulai sp. nov.


– Pronotal sides without tubercle, surface uniformly punctured (Fig. 95). ........................ 2 

2 Larger species: length 2.6–3.1 mm; pronotum slightly wider than long, more widened in 

middle; scutellum wider, usually with 5 or more punctures; pubescence usually longer and 

closer; habitus as in Figs. 133–134. ............................................ M. niedobovae sp. nov. 

– Smaller species: length 2.3–2.4 mm; pronotum as wide as long, subcylindrical, slightly 

widened in middle; scutellum smaller, with 3–4 punctures; pubescence usually thinner and 

shorter; habitus as in Figs. 135–136. ................................................. M. bezdeki sp. nov. 

Macrocoma niedobovae sp. nov. 

(Figs. 84–89, 133–134, 144) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Deiqub cave env. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Deiqub cave env., 10.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg. [printed 

white label]; Holotypus Macrocoma niedobovae n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES 

(114 spec.): ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Deiqub cave env., 10.vi.2010, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (3 �� 1 � NMPC; 1 

� 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., S, Noged plain, Deiqyub cave env., 16.vi.2009, L. Purchart lgt.’ (1 � NMPC; 

1 � 1 � JBCB; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island S, Noged plain, Deiqyub Cave, 16.vi.2009, L. Purchart lgt.’ 

(1 � NMPC; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Deiqub cave, 12.vi.2012, cave & Croton socotranus + Jatropha 

unicostata shrubland, 12°23.1′N, 54°00.9′E, 115 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, 

I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (56 �� 24 �� NMPC; 5 �� 4 �� JBCB; 8 �� 5 �� SZCM). 


2.6–3.1 mm (��), 2.6–3.1 mm (��). 

Body black with metallic refl ections; head, pronotum and elytra dark with bronze metallic 

refl ections; labrum black, mandibles dark brown to black, palpi dark brown; antennomeres 

I–VI reddish, scape partially darkened, antennomeres VII–XI dull, blackish; legs with some 

metallic refl ections, femora black, tibiae dark reddish to blackish, tarsi reddish with distal 

portion of each segment usually darkened. 

Frons convex, with thin longitudinal median sulcus; pubescence of frons and clypeus 

relatively long, silvery, absent along median sulcus; punctation strong, close; surface between 

punctures convex, shiny; clypeus not separated from frons, its distal border concave, V-shaped. 

Two apical maxillary palpomeres oblong, penultimate nearly two thirds of ultimate one in 

length, 1.5 times longer than wide. Antennomere I nearly 1.2 times longer than II and nearly 

1.2 times as wide, feebly bent on outer side; antennomere II two times longer than wide; 

antennomere III one third shorter than II, one third longer than wide; antennomeres IV and 

V subequal to III; antennomere VI slightly wider; antennomeres VII–X dull, widened, VII 

the widest, nearly two times wider than VI, antennomeres VIII–X transverse; antennomere 

XI 1.2 times longer than wide. 

Pronotum 1.1–1.2 times wider than long (1.1 × 0.9 mm in holotype), sides regularly 

curved in males, widest in middle, more cylindrical and widest in basal third in females; 

base as wide as distal border; lateral margin absent; surface with strong, close punctation; 

pubescence long, silvery. 

Scutellum subquadrate, sides feebly concave, distal border either straight or feebly convex, 

punctured, with relatively long silvery pubescence. 

Hypomeron shiny, with strong and close punctation and long silvery pubescence; distal 

border of prosternum regularly concave, of hypomerae nearly straight; notosternal suture

478 


nearly vanished; prosternum 1.5 times longer than wide between procoxae, nearly fl at, 

strongly punctate, with long silvery pubescence. Mesoventrite short, slightly wider than 

prosternum between procoxae, its distal edge nearly straight, surface regularly punctured, 

with fi ne pubescence; mesepimera fi nely punctured, pubescent. Metaventrite incised along 

median line, with strong punctures and moderately long silvery pubescence, distal border 

shortly incised medially; metacoxae little more spaced than mesocoxae; metanepisterna 

lightly tapering toward rear, nearly 4.5 times longer than wide, punctured and fi nely 

pubescent. 

Elytra 1.3–1.4 times longer than wide at humeri (1.8 × 1.4 mm in holotype); surface 

regularly convex, humeri distinct; sides subparallel from humeri up to half (�) or three fi fths 

(�) of their length, then regularly curved to apex; apices at slightly acute angle; punctation 

relatively strong, arranged in nearly regular rows alternating with lines of recumbent fi ne 

silvery setae (10 rows on each elytron, the tenth along lateral elytral margin) and lines of 

erected wider setae (10 rows on each elytron) (Fig. 89). Epipleura gradually tapering toward 

rear, relatively strongly punctured, pubescent. 

Legs moderately long; femora with small median tooth, moderately swollen; pro– and 

metatibiae nearly straight, mesotibiae feebly arched, with fi ne silvery pubescence. Pro– and 

mesotarsi slightly widened in males, with tarsomere I wider than tarsomere II. Claws bifi d, 

with long, subparallel inner tooth, division starting near base of claw. 

Dorsal side of abdomen sclerotized, dark in color, with some metallic refl ections, pygidium 

fully covered by elytra; abdominal ventrites punctured and pubescent. 




Differential diagnosis. Macrocoma niedobovae sp. nov. is a small species characterized 

by elytral pubescence with alternate rows of scale-like setae and thin setae. It is close to M. 

hulai sp. nov. from which it differs mainly in its larger size and the absence of a small and 

fl at tubercle on pronotal sides. A related species from Eastern Africa, Macrocoma fuscoaenea 

(Chapuis, 1879), differs in reddish antennae and legs, more cylindrical prothorax, fi ner elytral 

punctation, and sparser dorsal pubescence. 

Etymology. I am pleased to name this species after Jana Niedobová (Brno, Czech Republic), 

who collected part of the specimens studied. 

Macrocoma bezdeki sp. nov. 

(Figs. 90–97, 135–136, 144) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Aloove vill. env., 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Aloove area, Aloove vill. env., Jatropha unicostata shrubland 

with Boswellia elongata trees, 19.-20.vi.2012, 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m [printed white label]; Socotra expedition 

2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg. [printed white 

label]; ‘Holotypus Macrocoma bezdeki n. sp. S. Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (3 spec.): 

‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Aloove area, Aloove vill. env., Jatropha unicostata shrubland with Boswellia elongata trees, 

19.-20.vi.2012, 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. 

Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � NMPC; 1 � JBCB; 1 � SZCM).



2.3–2.4 mm (��), 2.5 mm (�). 

Body black with metallic refl ections; head, pronotum and elytra dark with bronze metallic 

refl ections; labrum black, mandibles dark brown to black, palpi dark brown; antennomere I 

blackish, II–VI reddish or partially darkened, antennomeres VII–XI dull, blackish; legs including 

tarsi black, with slightly metallic refl ections. Slightly teneral specimen with antennae 

and legs reddish. 

Frons (Fig. 96) nearly fl at in middle, without longitudinal median sulcus; pubescence of 

frons and clypeus relatively long, silvery, sometimes absent along median line; punctation 

strong, close; surface between punctures convex, shiny, narrower than diameter of puncture; 

clypeus not separated from frons, its distal border concave, V-shaped. Two apical maxillary 

palpomeres oblong, penultimate nearly two thirds of ultimate one in length, 1.5 times longer 

than wide. Antennomere I nearly 1.2 times longer than II and nearly 1.2 times as wide, feebly 

bent on outer side; antennomere II two times longer than wide; antennomere III one third 

shorter than II, one third longer than wide; antennomere IV shorter than III, subequal to V; 

antennomere VI the shortest; antennomeres VII–X dull, widened, VII subtriangular, nearly 

two times wider than VI, antennomeres VIII–X transverse; antennomere XI 1.2 times longer 

than wide. 

Pronotum as wide as long (1.4 × 1.4 mm in holotype); base as wide as distal border; lateral 

margin absent; surface with strong, close punctation; pubescence long, silvery (Fig. 95). 

Scutellum subquadrate, sides and distal border nearly straight, with 2–4 relatively strong 

punctures bearing short silvery pubescence. 

Hypomeron shiny, with strong and close punctation and long silvery pubescence (Fig. 95); 

distal border of prosternum regularly concave, continuous with that of hypomerae; notosternal 

suture nearly vanished; prosternum 1.5 times longer than wide between procoxae, nearly 

fl at, strongly punctate, with long silvery pubescence. Mesoventrite short, slightly wider than 

prosternum between procoxae, its distal edge straight, surface punctured, with fi ne pubescence; 

mesepimera fi nely punctured, pubescent. Metaventrite incised along median line, with 

moderately strong punctures and moderately long silvery pubescence, distal border shortly 

incised medially; metacoxae nearly as spaced as mesocoxae; metanepisterna lightly tapering 

toward rear, nearly 4.5 times longer than wide, punctured and pubescent. 

Elytra 1.2–1.3 times longer than wide at humeri (1.4 × 1.1 mm in the holotype); surface 

regularly convex, humeri distinct; sides subparallel from humeri up to half (�) or three fi fths 

(�) of their length, then regularly curved to apex; apices at slightly acute angle; punctation 

relatively strong, arranged in nearly regular rows alternated with lines of recumbent fi ne 

silvery setae (10 rows on each elytron, the tenth along lateral elytral margin) and lines of 

erected wider setae (10 rows on each elytron) (Fig. 97). Epipleura gradually tapering toward 

rear, relatively strongly punctured, fi nely pubescent. 

Legs moderately long; femora with small median tooth, moderately swollen; tibiae nearly 

straight, with fi ne silvery pubescence. Pro– and mesotarsi slightly widened in males, with 

tarsomere I wider than tarsomere II. Claws bifi d, with long, subparallel inner tooth, division 

starting near base of claw.

480 







Differential diagnosis. Macrocoma bezdeki sp. nov. is a small species characterized by elytral 

pubescence with alternate rows of scale–like setae and thin setae. It is close to M. niedobovae 

sp. nov. from which it differs mainly in its smaller size and more cylindrical, as long as wide 

pronotum. From M. hulai sp. nov. it differs mainly in the absence of a small and fl at tubercle 

on pronotal sides. 

Etymology. I am pleased to name this species after Jan Bezděk (Brno, Czech Republic), a collector 

of the specimens studied and well known specialist in Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae. 

Collection circumstances. Specimens from Aloove were collected beating Croton socotranus 

Balf. f. (J. Bezděk, pers. comm. 2012). 

Macrocoma hulai sp. nov. 

(Figs. 98–104, 137–138, 144) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Diksam plateu, Bidehor, Digeila Cave env., 12°30′31″N, 53°56′18″E, 920 

m. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Diksam plateu, Bidehor, Digeila Cave env., 920 m, 8.ii.2010, 

N 12°30′31″, E 53°56′18″, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt. [printed white label]; Holotypus Macrocoma hulai n. sp. S. 

Zoia det. 2012 [printed red label]’ (NMPC). PARATYPES (49 spec.): ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Diksam plateu, Bidehor, 

Digeila Cave env., 920 m, 8.ii.2010, N 12°30′31″, E 53°56′18″, L. Purchart & J. Vybíral lgt.’ (2 �� NMPC; 1 � 

SZCM); ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 1.-2.xii.2003, Dixam plateau: Sirhin area, N12°31′08″ E53°59′09″, 812 m [GPS]; Jan 

Farkač lgt.’ (1 � CULS; 1 � JBCB; 1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Wadi Zirik, 12.vi.2010, N 12°29,584′, E 

053°59,475′, V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (1 � SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Isl., Thar area, 24.II2009, pitfall trap (TR 

92)’ (1 � MCSC); ‘Yemen. Socotra Island, Dixam plateau, 14.-15.vi.2012, Firmihin, Dracaena woodland, 12°28.6′N, 

54°01.1′E, 490 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & 

L. Purchart leg.’ (10 �� 13 �� NMPC; 3 �� 4 �� JBCB; 3 �� 6 �� SZCM); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Dixam 

plateau, 15.+22.vi.2012, wadi Dirhor, open woodland with Boswellia ameero trees, 12°28.0′N, 54°00.5′E, 340 m, 

Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ 

(1 � NMPC); ‘Yemen, Socotra Island, Deiqub cave, 12.vi.2012, cave & Croton socotranus + Jatropha unicostata 

shrubland, 12°23.1′N, 54°00.9′E, 115 m, Socotra expedition 2012, J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, P. Kment, I. Malenovský, 

J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.’ (1 � NMPC). 


2.0–2.5 mm (��), 2.0–2.6 mm (��). 

Body, including head, pronotum and elytra, metallic, dark green with golden refl ections; 

labrum, mandibles and palpi reddish; antennomeres I–VI reddish, antennomere I dorsally 

darkened, antennomeres VII–XI dull, blackish; legs bicolored, femora metallic, dark greenish 

with golden refl ections, tibiae reddish, darkened proximally; tarsomeres reddish, the ultimate 

one darkened distally. 

Frons almost regularly convex; pubescence of frons and clypeus relatively long, silvery; 

punctation strong, close; surface between punctures convex, shiny; clypeus not separated from 

frons, distal border of clypeus concave, V-shaped. Two apical palpomeres oblong, penultimate 

nearly two thirds of ultimate one in length, nearly as long as wide. Antennomere I nearly 1.2 

times longer than II and nearly 1.2 times as wide, feebly bent on outer side; antennomere II


Figs. 1–7. Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) socotranum (Gahan, 1903) (� and �: wadi Ayhaft): 1 – aedeagus, apex, 

dorsal view; 2 – aedeagus, lateral view; 3 – tegmen; 4 – ventral sclerite of sternite IX; 5 – spermatheca; 6 – coxite; 

7 – scutellum.

482 


Figs. 8–18. 8–14 – Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) grande insulare subsp. nov. (8–11, 14: � holotype; 12–13: �, 

Shuab): 8 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 9 – aedeagus, lateral view; 10 – tegmen; 11 – ventral sclerite of sternite 

IX; 12 – spermatheca; 13 – coxite; 14 – scutellum. 15–18 – Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) grande grande (Lefèvre, 

1890) (Lectotype): 15 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 16 – aedeagus, lateral view; 17 – ventral sclerite of sternite 

IX; 18 – scutellum.


Figs. 19–28. 19–23 – Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) distinguendum sp. nov. (19, 20, 22, 23: � holotype; 22: �, Noged 

Plain, Qaareh): 19 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 20 – aedeagus, lateral view; 21 – tegmen; 22 – ventral sclerite of 

sternite IX; 23 – scutellum. 24–28 – Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) villosum sp. nov. (24, 25, 27, 28: � holotype; 26: 

�, Homhil area): 24 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 25 – aedeagus, lateral view; 26 – tegmen; 27 – ventral sclerite 

of sternite IX; 28 – scutellum.

484 


Figs. 29–34. Colasposoma (Colasposoma) austerum sp. nov. (29–31, 33–34: � holotype; 32: �, Zemhon area): 29 

– aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 30 – aedeagus, lateral view; 31 – tegmen; 32 – spermatheca; 33 – elytral punctation 

and pubescence; 34 – scutellum.


Figs. 35–43. 35–36 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) unicostatum sp. nov. (� holotype): 35 – spermatheca; 36 – side 

of elytron. 37–43 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) purcharti sp. nov. (37–39, 43: � holotype; 40–41: �, Qualentiah; 

42: �, wadi Ayhaft): 37 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 38 – aedeagus, lateral view; 39 – aedeagus apex, lateral view; 

40 – tegmen; 41 – ventral sclerite of sternite IX; 42 – spermatheca; 43 – protibia and tarsus.

486 


Figs. 44–52. 44 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) purcharti sp. nov. (� holotype): elytron, lateral view. 45–52 – Colasposoma 

(Colasposoma) hajeki sp. nov. (45–48: � holotype; 49–52: �, Firmihin): 45 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal 

view; 46 – aedeagus, lateral view; 47 – tegmen; 48 – ventral sclerite of sternite IX; 49 – spermatheca; 50 – elytron, 

lateral view; 51 – claws of metatarsi; 52 – prosternum, meso– and metaventrite.


Figs. 53–58. Colasposoma (Colasposoma) atrocyaneum sp. nov. (53–54, 58: � holotype; 55–56: �, Firmihin; 57: 

�, Firmihin): 53 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 54 – aedeagus, lateral view; 55 – tegmen; 56 – ventral sclerite of 

sternite IX; 57 – spermatheca; 58 – elytron, lateral view.

488 


Figs. 59–69. 59–62 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) b. brevepilosum sp. nov. (59–60: � holotype; 61–62: �, Firmihin): 

59 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 60 – aedeagus, lateral view; 61 – tegmen; 62 – ventral sclerite of sternite 

IX. 63–65 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) brevepilosum orientale subsp. nov. (� holotype): 63 – aedeagus, apex, 

dorsal view; 64 – aedeagus, lateral view; 65 – ventral sclerite of sternite IX. 66–69 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) 

brevepilosum maritimum subsp. nov. (66–67, 69: � holotype; 68: �, wadi Ayhaft): 66 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 

67 – aedeagus, lateral view; 68 – tegmen; 69 – ventral sclerite of sternite XI.


Figs. 70–75. 70–72 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) brevepilosum brevepilosum subsp. nov. (70: � holotype; 

71–72: �, Zemhon area): 70 – protibia and tarsus; 71 – spermatheca; 72 – elytron, lateral view. 73 – Colasposoma 

(Colasposoma) brevepilosum orientale subsp. nov. (� holotype): protibia and tarsus. 74–75 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) 

brevepilosum maritimum subsp. nov. (74: � holotype; 75: �, wadi Ayhaft): 74 – protibia and tarsus; 

75 – spermatheca.

490 


Figs. 76–83. Erythraella bicuspidata gen. et sp. nov. (� holotype): 76 – aedeagus, dorsal view; 77 – aedeagus, 

apex, ventral view; 78 – aedeagus, lateral view; 79 – tegmen; 80 – ventral sclerite of sternite IX; 81 – fore leg and 

antenna; 82 – head; 83 – prosternum.


Figs. 84–89. Macrocoma niedobovae sp. nov. (84–85, 87, 89: � holotype; 86: �, Deiqub cave; 88: �, Deiqub cave): 

84 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 85 – aedeagus, lateral view; 86 – tegmen; 87 – ventral sclerite of sternite IX; 88 

– spermatheca; 89 – elytral punctation and pubescence.

492 


Figs. 90–97. Macrocoma bezdeki sp. nov. (90–91, 93, 96–97: � holotype; 92: �, Aloove vill. env.; 94–95: �, Aloove 

vill. env.): 90 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 91 – aedeagus, lateral view; 92 – tegmen; 93 – ventral sclerite of sternite 

IX; 94 – spermatheca; 95 – pronotum, lateral view; 96 – head; 97 – elytral punctation and pubescence.


Figs. 98–104. Macrocoma hulai sp. nov. (98–99, 101, 103–104: � holotype; 100: �, wadi Zirik; 102: �, Bidehor, 

Digeila cave): 98 – aedeagus, apex, dorsal view; 99 – aedeagus, lateral view; 100 – tegmen; 101 – ventral sclerite of 

sternite IX; 102 – spermatheca; 103 – elytral punctation and pubescence; 104 – tubercle on pronotal side.

494 


Figs. 105–116. Habitus, dorsal and lateral view of: 105–106 – Colasposoma (Falsonerissus) socotranum (Gahan, 

1903) (�, wadi Ayhaft); 107–108 – C. (F.) grande grande (Lefèvre, 1890) (� lectotype); 109–110 – C. (F.) grande 

insulare subsp. nov. (� holotype); 111–112 – C. (F.) distinguendum sp. nov. (� holotype); 113–114 – C. (F.) villosum 

sp. nov. (� holotype); 115–116 – C. (Colasposoma) austerum sp. nov. (� holotype).


Figs. 117–128. Habitus, dorsal and lateral view of: 117–118 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) unicostatum sp. nov. (� 

holotype); 119–120 – C. (C.) purcharti sp. nov. (� holotype); 121–122 – C. (C.) atrocyaneum sp. nov. (� holotype); 

123–124 – C. (C.) brevepilosum sp. nov. (� holotype); 125–126 – C. (C.) brevepilosum orientale subsp. nov. (� 

holotype); 127–128 – C. (C.) brevepilosum maritimum subsp. nov. (� holotype).

496 


Figs. 129–138. Habitus, dorsal and lateral view of: 129–130 – Colasposoma (Colasposoma) hajeki sp. nov. (� holotype); 

131–132 – Erythraella bicuspidata gen. et sp. nov. (� holotype); 133–134 – Macrocoma niedobovae sp. nov. 

(� holotype); 135–136 – Macrocoma bezdeki sp. nov. (� holotype); 137–138 – M. hulai sp. nov. (� holotype).


two times longer than wide; antennomere III slightly shorter than II, nearly two times longer 

than wide; antennomeres IV–VI subequal, shorter than III; antennomere VI slightly wider, 

subquadrate; antennomeres VII–X dull, widened, VII longest, nearly as wide as following 

ones, VIII–X transverse; antennomere XI 1.2 times longer than wide. 

Pronotum nearly as long as wide (0.8 × 0.8 mm in holotype); base as wide as distal border; 

lateral margin absent; sides near anterior edge with small rounded or oval, low, smooth 

tubercle (Fig. 104) with single median puncture; pronotal surface with strong, close punctation; 

pubescence relatively long, silvery. 

Scutellum quadrate, not punctured, with few relatively long silvery setae. 

Hypomeron shiny, with strong and close punctation and long silvery pubescence; distal 

margin of prosternum and hypomerae regularly concave; notosternal suture vanished; prosternum 

1.4 times longer than wide between procoxae, nearly fl at, strongly punctate, with long 

silvery pubescence. Mesoventrite short, nearly as wide as prosternum between procoxae, its 

distal edge nearly straight, surface regularly punctured, with long pubescence; mesepimera 

fi nely punctured, pubescent. Metaventrite with strong punctures and moderately long silvery 

pubescence, median line impressed, distal border shortly incised in middle; metacoxae little 

more spaced than mesocoxae; metanepisterna lightly tapering toward rear, nearly 4.5 times 

longer than wide, punctured and densely pubescent. 

Elytra 1.3–1.4 times longer than wide at humeri (1.4 × 1.1 mm in the holotype); surface 

regularly convex, humeri distinct; sides subparallel from humeri up to two thirds in �, feebly 

widened up to three fi fths of their length in �, then regularly curved to apex; apices at slight 

acute angle; punctation relatively strong, partly irregular, with alternate lines of recumbent 

fi ne silvery setae (10 rows on each elytron, the tenth along elytral lateral margin) and lines of 

erected wide setae (10 rows on each elytron) (Fig. 103). Epipleura wide proximally, gradually 

tapering toward rear, relatively strongly punctured, pubescent. 

Legs moderately long; femora with small median tooth, moderately swollen; metatibiae 

nearly straight, mesotibiae feebly arched, with fi ne silvery pubescence. Pro– and mesotarsi 

slightly widened in males, pro– and mesotarsomere I wider than II. Claws bifi d, with long, 

subparallel inner tooth, division starting near base of claw. 






Differential diagnosis. Macrocoma hulai sp. nov. is a small species characterized by elytral 

pubescence with alternate rows of scale-like setae and thin setae. It is close to M. niedobovae 

sp. nov. from which it differs mainly in its smaller size and the presence of a small and fl at 

tubercle on the pronotal sides. A related species from Eastern Africa, Macrocoma fuscoaenea, 

differs in completely reddish antennae and legs, more cylindrical prothorax, fi ner elytral 

punctation, and sparser dorsal pubescence. 

Etymology. I am pleased to name this species after Vladimír Hula (Brno, Czech Republic), 

who collected part of the specimens studied. 

Collection circumstances. Specimens from Firmihin were collected on fl owers of Launaea 

crepoides Balf. f. (Compositae) (J. Bezděk, pers. comm. 2012).

498 


Macrocoma sp. 

Material examined (1 spec.). YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Kesa env., 220-300 m, yellow traps, N12°39′37″ 

E53°26′42″, 28.–29.i.2010, 1 �, L. Purchart lgt. (NMPC). 

Comments. Related to Macrocoma hulai sp. nov., from which it differs mainly in smaller 

size (1.8 mm), black labrum, black legs, shorter antennomeres III–VI, absence of a tubercle 

on the pronotal sides near the anterior edge. I prefer not to describe this species based on a 

single female specimen, since I do not have the possibility to verify the range of variations 

of the mentioned characteristics. 

Taxonomic and biogeographic remarks 

Socotra’s Eumolpinae fauna is well differentiated from the fauna of adjacent continental 

areas at species level, all the taxa examined being endemic elements; also, what is striking 

is the relatively high number of taxa, and the presence of groups of closely related, although 

clearly differentiated, taxa (the four species of the subgenus Falsonerissus, the three subspecies 

of Colasposoma (C.) brevepilosum s. l., the species of Macrocoma). On the other side, only 

three genera are present on the Island. This suggests the hypothesis of an in-loco speciation 

process starting from a small group of ancestors. 

To my knowledge, Erythraella gen. nov. is endemic to Socotra; it quite differs from the 

genera supposedly related to it, as discussed above. Further investigations in Socotra, Arabia 

and nearby countries could provide further information for a more satisfactory taxonomic 

and biogeographic approach to this genus. 

The other two genera are in common with the adjacent regions. Colasposoma includes a 

large part of the species here reported for Socotra Island; the genus (over 200 described species) 

is widespread in the Afrotropical, Palaearctic and Oriental Regions.The nominal subgenus is 

poorly represented in Arabia and southwestern Asia. All known species of Colasposoma s. 

str. from Socotra are endemic to this island and are related to the northeastern Afrotropical 

fauna (sensu BIONDI & D’ALESSANDRO 2006). A polytypic species (C. brevepilosum sensu lato) 

shows clear differentiation in different areas of the island, possibly in relation to altitude and 

ecological factors. Subspecies are taxonomically supported by slight but clear differences 

in morphological characters (morphology of median lobe of aedeagus, pronotal and elytral 

punctation etc.), while wider epipleura seems to characterize the population of the higher 

mountains (Fig. 142). 

Colasposoma subgenus Falsonerissus is diffused from Aden area to Pakistan with several 

poorly differentiated species. Known taxa look closely related to each other and a taxonomic 

revision of the whole group is needed to determine their distribution. All citations of C. grandis, 

other than the original description, are hardly credible and must be referred to different, 

unrecognized taxa. Subgenus Falsonerissus is present in Socotra Island with four endemic 

taxa. Falsonerissus is poorly differentiated from Colasposoma s. str., nevertheless its peculiar 

habitus and its well defi ned distribution can justify a distinction of the two subgenera. 

Macrocoma is present in Socotra with a few related species of small body size and similar 

habitus. They are possibly related to species belonging to the eastern African fauna, such as 

Macrocoma fuscoaenea (Chapuis, 1879). Genus Macrocoma Chapuis, 1874 (106 taxa from


Figs. 139–144. Distribution maps of the species based on the studied material (in Fig. 142, question marks indicate 

a possible montane form of C. (C.) brevepilosum sensu lato, see species description). 

the Palaearctic and Afrotropical Regions) is poorly diversifi ed from Pseudocolaspis Laporte, 

1833 (86 taxa in the Afrotropical Region), and the two genera were sometimes considered 

synonyms by a few authors. As a matter of fact, distinction based on the ‘largely exposed’ vs. 

‘not or poorly exposed’ pygidium (see SELMAN 1965, 1972), or the shape of prosternal edge, 

does not apply to all cases, and at present several species are not arranged according to these 

characters. It is my opinion that in the future when our knowledge is better, it will be better 

to put the two taxa together in a single large genus again. 


I am indebted to Jiří Hájek (NMPC) and Jan Bezděk (Brno, Czech Republic) for giving me 

the opportunity to study the material for the present study and for their help and suggestions. 

Greetings are due to Thierry Deuve (MNHN), Antoine Mantilleri (MNHN), Pol Limbourg 

and Alain Drumont (both IRSN) and Olof Biström (ZMUH) for loan of type specimens, to

500 


Ron Beenen (Nieuwegein, The Netherlands) and Pietro Lo Cascio (Lipari, Italy) for sending 

material from their own collections, and to Mauro Daccordi for his help. This research was 

partially supported by the Synthesys Project (http://www.synthesys.info/) which is fi nanced 

by the European Community Research Infrastructure Action under the FP7. 

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BALY J. S. 1863: An attempt at a classifi cation of the Eumolpidae. Journal of Entomology 2: 143–163. 

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H. de Saeger 55: 1–95. 

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(Insecta: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Annales Zoologici 55: 303–304. 

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html

502 




Description of a new species of Aglycyderes 

(Coleoptera: Belidae: Oxycoryninae) 

Miloš KNÍŽEK 

Department of Forest Protection Service, Forestry and Game Management Research Institute, 

Jíloviště – Strnady, CZ-156 04 Praha 5 – Zbraslav, Czech Republic; e-mail: knizek@vulhm.cz 

Abstract. A new species of Aglycyderes Westwood, 1864 from Socotra Island 

(Yemen), United Arab Emirates and Pakistan is described. Comparison with 

other related species and differential diagnosis are provided. Whereas the other 

two known species of the genus are endemic to Canary Islands and Morocco 

respectively, the newly described species seems to be more widespread in Southwest 

Asia. 

Key words. Belidae, Oxycoryninae, Aglycyderes, new species, Yemen, Socotra, 

United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Palaearctic Region 

Introduction 

The genus Aglycyderes Westwood, 1864 is recently placed within the tribe Aglycyderini 

of the subfamily Oxycoryninae and family Belidae (Curculionoidea) (MARVALDI et al. 2006). 

It contains two species, A. setifer Westwood, 1864 from Canary Islands and A. tavakiliani 

Menier, 1974 from Morocco. Both these species are endemic in their regions and occur in 

Euphorbia L. plants (Euphorbiaceae). They are rather rare in museum material. Aglycyderes 

lives under the bark of dead and dry branches of Euphorbia spp. (e.g. E. canariense L., author’s 

unpublished data). Generally they do not move after the bark is removed and can thus 

easily be overlooked by collectors. In addition to the two species mentioned above, SHARP 

(1876) described Aglycyderes wollastoni Sharp, 1876 from New Zealand, but this species 

was transferred to the genus Aralius Kuschel, 1990 by KUSCHEL (1990), and is, together with 

A. olivieri (Montrouzier, 1861), A. gemellus Kuschel, 2008 and A. dispar Kuschel, 2008 

from New Caledonia (MONTROUZIER 1861, KUSCHEL 2008), closely morphologically related 

to Aglycyderes. The third related genus, Proterhinus Sharp, 1878, contains about 170 species 

occurring in the Pacifi c Region (LEGALOV 2009). A key to these genera, with a list of all 

included species, was published by LEGALOV (2009). The higher classifi cation of Coleoptera 



504 

KNÍŽEK: A new Aglycyderes from Socotra Island (Belidae) 

and Curculionoidea respectively, including these genera, was published by LAWRENCE & 

NEWTON (1995), KUSCHEL (1990, 1995, 2003) and BOUCHARD et al. (2011). Aglycyderes 

remains the only representative genus of the tribe Aglycyderini in the Palaearctic Region 

(ALONZO-ZARAZAGA 2011). The newly described species has a wider geographic range than 

other members of the tribe. 

Material and Methods 

Specimens of newly discovered species were compared to the representatives of all known 

genera within the tribe Aglycyderini. Basic information about the particular species within the 

genera was taken from the literature cited above, and particularly from the original descriptions 

of the species and genera (MONTROUZIER 1861, WESTWOOD 1864, SHARP 1876, MENIER 

1974). Specimens were studied by binocular microscope under magnifi cation up to 100×. 

Body length, because of the prognathous head type, was measured between the very anterior 

margin of the head (closed mandibles) and the elytral apex. Body proportions are given of 

the smallest and the longest specimens, plus ten randomly chosen specimens, of each sex. 

Intraspecifi c variability is shown within the description of the new species. Internal characters 

except male and female genitalia were not studied. 

Exact label data are cited for the type and other material; a forward slash (/) separates 

different lines and a double slash (//) different labels of data. Holotype, allotype and 105 

paratypes are deposited in the collection of Národní muzeum, Prague (Czech Republic), 20 

paratypes in the author’s collection, 10 paratypes in Faculty of Forestry, Czech University 

of Life Sciences, Prague (Czech Republic); 2 paratypes in Naturhistorisches Museum Wien 

(Austria), 2 paratypes in Muséum d’histoire naturelle, Genève (Switzerland), 2 paratypes in 

Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde, Stuttgart (Germany), 2 paratypes in Natural History 

Museum, London (UK), 2 paratypes in the United Arab Emirates Invertebrate Collection, 

and 2 paratypes in the collection of Rudolph Schuh, Vienna (Austria). 

Systematics 

Aglycyderes ornatus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–7; 10–13) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, wadi Ayhaft, 12°36′38′′N, 53°58′49′′E, 190 m a.s.l. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, glued on mounting board, with labels as follows: Yemen, Soqotra Is. / 24-26/xi.2003 / 

WADI AYHAFT, 190m / N12°36’38”E53°58’49” / [GPS], David Král lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition 

/ Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král. ALLOTYPE: �, same data as holotype. PARATYPES (147 specimens): 

same data as holotype, 11 �� 18 ��; same data, but Jan Farkač lgt., 2 ��; YEMEN: SOKOTRA / Hadibo 100- 

300m / Leg. Petr Zábranský I.’93, 2 �� 2 ��; Yemen, Soqotra Is. / 6.-7.xii.2003 / Noged plain: WADI IREEH / 

N 12°23’11” E 53°59’47” / 95 m [GPS] / Jan Farkač lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition / Jan Farkač, 

/ Petr Kabátek & David Král, 1 �; Yemen, Soqotra Is., HOMHIL / protected area, 28.–29.xi.2003 / N 12°34’27” E 

54°18’32”, 364 / m [GPS], leg.P.Kabátek // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition / Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek 

& David Král, 7 �� 4 ��; Yemen, Soqotra Is., 10km W / HADIBOH, 23.xi.,11.xii.2003 / ca 10-70 m [GPS] / 

leg.P.Kabátek, ex larve // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition / Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král, 2 

�� 6 ��; YEMEN, SOCOTRA / Aloove area, HASSAN vill. / env. 221 m / 12°31,2’N, 54°07,4’E/ 9- / 10.xi.2010 P. 

Hlaváč, 21 ��, 33 ��; YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, HASSAN vill. env. / 12°31.2’N, 54°07.4’E, 221 m


/ Jiří Hájek leg. 9-10.xi.2010, 8 �� 13 ��; YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / wadi Ayhaft / 12°36,5’N, 53°58,9’E, 200 

m / 7-8.xi.2010 L. Purchart lgt., 6 �� 8 ��; YEMEN, SOCOTRA / wadi Ayhaft / 12°36,5’N, 53°58,9’E / 200 m, 

7-8.xi.2010 / P. Hlaváč lgt., 2 �� 1 �. 

Additional non-type material examined. S Pakistan, W Sind / KARCHAT, 25.2.-4.3. / Kirthar N.P. 1995 / 

D.Hauck & L.Čížek, 1 � (in the author’s collection); UA EMIRATES Wadi Maidaq, 23.03.2010, hand-collected, 

leg. K. Mahmood, 1 � (in the United Arab Emirates Invertebrate Collection); UA EMIRATES Wadi / Safad, 31.I.- 

21.II.2006 / leg. AvH, Nr. 5910, 2 �� (1 � in the author’s collection, 1 � in Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde, 

Stuttgart); UA EMIRATES Wadi / Safad, 115.-22.IV.2006 / leg. AvH, Nr. 8246, 1 � (in Staatliches Museum für 

Naturkunde, Stuttgart). 

Note. These additional specimens from Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates are not included in the type material 

for practical reasons. They correspond well with the specimens from Socotra in morphology and fall within 

the intraspecifi c variability of A. ornatus sp. nov. However, mainly because only few specimens are available, the 

geographic distribution of the species is not adequately known, and the future, e.g. genetic study, can reveal differences 

between populations, I prefer not to include them within the type material. 

Description. Male (Figs. 1, 3–7): Body length 2.4–3.6 mm (3.4 mm in holotype), 2.70–2.89 

times longer than wide (2.89 in holotype). Colour dark brown to black. 

Head. Dorso-ventrally fl attened, chisel-shaped; frons longitudinally and transversely fl attened 

from epistoma margin to vertex and through whole width between eyes, wider than 

long, in middle (below eye level) with broad but shallow depression; lateral margins between 

the epistoma and anterior edge of eyes strongly produced into broadly rounded thin dorsoventrally 

fl attened projections, hooked backward (horns), the length of these projections differing 

among specimens, reaching anterior edge of eyes in less developed specimens (Fig. 3) 

or exceeding the posterior edge of eyes in well developed specimens (up to well behind eyes 

in extreme cases) (Fig. 4), their apex rounded, lateral margins of these projections acutely 

elevated forming sharp costa; fl attened area of vertex developed into posteriad projections 

with strongly convex margins extending over the anterior margin of the pronotum, these 

projections longitudinally parallel and slightly convergent in apexes, their lateral margins 

acutely elevated into sharp costa; middle third of vertex (between horns) not developed; 

whole surface of frons including both anterior and posterior projections smooth, uniformly 

fi nely shagreened and very densely fi nely punctate, matt or semi-shining; vestiture consists of 

longitudinal scale-like setae, very sparsely distributed on fl attened area of frons except lower 

part of shallow depression, setae becoming longer and more conspicuous in lower part of frons, 

and very dense on sharp costal edges of anterior and posterior projections; eyes protruding, 

hemispherical, displaced latero-ventrally due to fl attened frons, coarsely faceted and with 

conspicuous scale-like setae. Antennae dark brown, straight, rather short, slightly exceeding 

base of elytra when turned backward, with 11 antennomeres, inserted laterally in excavation 

below fl attened anterior projections, scape slightly longer than three following antennomeres 

together, exceeding lateral edge of anterior projection, antennomeres of antennal funicle of 

similar length and shape (including pedicel), longitudinally oval, antennal club not marked or 

specially developed, all antennomeres bearing sparse long scale-like setae, becoming slender 

and more hair-like on distal antennomeres (apical three or four antennomeres). 

Pronotum 0.78–0.87 times longer than wide (0.78 in holotype), widest in midlength, weakly 

convex longitudinally from lateral view, central area marked by rather deep longitudinal 

depression on its whole length except short interruption approximately in middle, shallow 

lateral depressions near antero-lateral pronotal angles, anterior margin straight and transverse,

506 


partly covered by posterior head projections, lateral margins broadly rounded, very slightly 

undulating, constricted anteriorly, posterior margin convex, not ornamented, straight in the 

middle part; whole surface rather strongly punctato-granulate, semi-shining; vestiture of two 

kinds, sparse long scale-like erected setae, becoming conspicuous on lateral margins, and 

fi ne hair-like adjacent setae. 

Scutellum visible, semi-shining, small, fl at, deeply sparsely punctuate, slightly depressed 

from elytral surface. 

Elytra 1.52–1.61 times longer than wide (1.56 in holotype), 2.17–2.45 times longer than 

pronotum (2.33 in holotype), 1.13–1.26 times wider than pronotum (1.17 in holotype), dark 

brown, matt, subparallel, slightly converging apicad on basal three-quarters, jointly rounded at 

apex, basal margin of elytra straight, with conspicuous humeral angles, elytral striae as wide 

as interstriae, very deeply densely uniseriately punctuate on their whole length, interstriae 

smooth, transversally convex, shagreened; elytral declivity regularly rounded, lateral margins 

elevated into costa, which becomes more conspicuous posteriad toward apex; vestiture 

of very sparse long scale-lake setae on sutural interstria and on odd interstriae, microscopic 

scale-like setae on even interstriae and in-between the other setae. 

Legs. Dark brown. Procoxae separated more widely than width of scape, mesocoxae and 

metacoxae separated more than procoxae, approximately double width of scape. Pro- and 

mesotibiae slightly widened apically, metatibiae slender, more or less cylindrical, all tibiae 

without any remarkable tubercles. All pairs of legs sparsely ornamented by erect long scalelike 

setae, becoming more conspicuous on outer lateral edges of pro-, meso- and metatibiae 

as well as on outer lateral margins of femurs. 

Aedeagus as on Figs. 5–7. 

Female (Fig. 2). Of same appearance as male in all body parts, except shape of frons. Body 

length 2.4–3.7 mm (3.3 mm in allotype), 2.77–2.97 times longer than wide (2.90 in allotype). 

Head with frons longer than wide, lateral margins from epistoma to anterior edges of eyes 

simply rounded, laterally not well developed, reaching maximally middle of eye width and 

covering just antennal insertion from dorsal view, vertex not developed into posteriad projections, 

just slightly developed into closely rounded (not sharp) costa, forming posterior lateral 

angles of frons, not extending over the anterior margin of the pronotum. Pronotum 0.87–0.94 

times longer than wide (0.94 in allotype). Elytra 1.55–1.69 times longer than wide (1.59 in 

allotype), 1.99–2.34 times longer than pronotum (1.99 in allotype), 1.17–1.29 times wider 

than pronotum (1.17 in allotype). Female genitalia as on Figs. 10–13. 

Differential diagnosis. The newly described taxon differs from the other genera of the tribe 

Aglycyderini by the main generic morphological characters for Aglycyderes (e.g. LEGALOV 

2009 and others): scape elongated; antennomeres of fl agellum of the same or similar shape 

and length; clavus not developed; ventrites I–IV without impressions or grooves; sides of 

pronotum with protuberances; rostrum short in both sexes. From the other species of Aglycyderes 

it differs mainly by: the shape of the antennae, which are shorter in the new species, just 

about 1.5 as long as length of pronotum (nearly twice as long as pronotum in other species); 

lateral anterior projections of male frons curved backward and not directed simply laterally; 

posterior projections of male frons much more developed and overlapping the anterior margin 

of pronotum; lateral margins of pronotum broadly rounded from dorsal view, nearly not 

undulating (Figs. 1–2, 8–9).


Figs. 1–9. 1–7 – Aglycyderes ornatus sp. nov.: 1 – male, dorsal view; 2 – female, dorsal view. 3 – male, head with 

less developed lateral projections; 4 – male, head with fully developed lateral projections; 5 – male genitalia, dorsal 

view; 6 – same in lateral view; 7 – same in ventral view. 8–9 – A. setifer Westwood, 1864: 8 – male, dorsal view; 

9 – male, head.

508 


Figs. 10–13. Aglycyderes ornatus sp. nov., female genitalia: 10 – sternite VIII; 11 – tergite VIII; 12 – ovipositor; 

13 – spermatheca. 

Fig. 14. Habitat of Aglycyderes ornatus sp. nov. Socotra Island, Aloove area; broken Boswellia elongata tree in the 

middle (photo: J. Hájek, xi. 2010).


Etymology. The name of this new species, ornatus (lat.), meaning ornate, but also armed 

– is derived from the morphology of its male head bearing anterior and posterior “strong” 

projections. 

Biology. Type specimens from Socotra Island were collected under the bark of dead and 

dry stems and branches of the Socotran endemic incense tree Boswellia elongata Balf. f. 

(Burseraceae) (Fig. 14: dead and broken Boswellia in the middle of the photo; J. Hájek, pers. 

comm.). They were mostly under bark and did not move after bark removal. This behaviour 

corresponds with that observed when collecting A. setifer on the Canary Islands (author’s 

unpublished observation). Larvae of species of Aglycyderes, presumably of the whole tribe 

Aglycyderini, very probably develop under the bark of recently dead trunk and branches of 

the host plant where adults occur later (MAY 1993). 

Distribution. So far known from Socotra Island, the United Arab Emirates and southern 

Pakistan. Compared to other species of the genus, the newly described species appears to 

have much bigger geographical distribution. 


Author would like to express cordial thanks to David Král, Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek, Jiří 

Hájek (all Prague), Petr Zábranský (Vienna), David Hauck (Brno), and Antonius van Harten 

(Vaiamonte, Portugal), collectors of the specimens, and Rudolph Schuh (Vienna, Austria) and 

Wolfgang Schawaller (Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart, Germany) for providing 

undetermined material from different localities. Many thanks also to Maxwell Barclay and 

Chris Lyal (both The Natural History Museum, UK) for critical review of the manuscript 

and Rolf Oberprieler, Robert Anderson and Adriana Marvaldi for support by literature. This 

study was partly supported by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic, Project 

No. MZe 002070203 ‘Stabilization of forest functions in anthropologically disturbed and 

changing environmental conditions’. 

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A new species of Halystus from Socotra Island 

(Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae: Polygraphini) 

Miloš KNÍŽEK 

Department of Forest Protection Service, Forestry and Game Management Research Institute, 

Jíloviště – Strnady, CZ-156 04 Praha 5 – Zbraslav, Czech Republic; e-mail: knizek@vulhm.cz 

Abstract. A new species of Halystus Schedl, 1982 from Socotra Island (Yemen) 

is described. Comparisons with other related genera and species, and differential 

diagnosis are provided. 

Key words. Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Polygraphini, Halystus, new species, 


Introduction 

The last revision of the tribe Polygraphini by WOOD (1986) includes eight genera, but recently 

one more genus, Dolurgocleptes Schedl, 1965, was added (JORDAL 2009). Some genera, 

such as the nearly world-wide Polygraphus Erichson, 1836, and the Holarctic Carphoborus 

Eichhoff, 1864 include numerous species. The other genera include only one to seven species 

(WOOD & BRIGHT 1992; BRIGHT & SKIDMORE 1997, 2002). Species of these latter genera are 

not frequently collected and few specimens are available. 

A new species of Polygraphini was collected by Czech entomologists during several trips 

to Socotra Island (Yemen), and found to be morphologically distinct from all other species 

in the tribe. Based on external morphology, particularly the antennal club, it can be included 

within the monotypic genus Halystus Schedl, 1982. This genus was inadvertently described 

for a second time by WOOD (1984) under the name Phloeographus, but subsequently synonymised 

by WOOD (1988). The newly described species is the fi rst representative of the genus 

in the Northern hemisphere (cf. KNÍŽEK 2011). The new species also has similarities with 

two other Polygraphine species, recently placed in the genus Carphoborus: C. boswelliae 

(Stebbing, 1903) and C. lautus Wood, 1988, with which it also shares related host plants 

(ROONWAL 1971, WOOD 1988). 



512 

KNÍŽEK: A new Halystus species from Socotra Island (Curculionidae) 


Specimens of the newly discovered species were compared to representatives of all known 

genera within the tribe Polygraphini (WOOD 1986, ALONSO-ZARAZAGA & LYAL 2009, JORDAL 

2009). The morphological terminology used corresponds to other recent taxonomic studies 

on Scolytinae (e.g. WOOD 1986). Basic information about polygraphine species was taken 

from the literature cited above, and particularly from the original descriptions of the species 

and genera (STEBBING 1903; SCHEDL 1982; WOOD 1984, 1988). Specimens were studied using 

a binocular microscope with magnifi cation up to 100×. Body length was measured between 

the anterior margin of the pronotum and the elytral apex. The head was not included, as it 

can be hidden inside the pronotum or exposed far beyond it. Internal characters, except for 

the aedeagus, were not studied. 

Exact label data are cited for the types and other material; a forward slash (/) separates 

different lines and a double slash (//) different labels. The holotype, allotype and 49 paratypes 

are deposited in the collection of the Národní muzeum, Prague (Czech Republic), 26 paratypes 

in the author’s collection. 

Taxonomy 

Halystus bimaculatus sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–11) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Aloove area, Hassan vill. env., 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m a.s.l. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, glued on card mount, with labels as follows: ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Aloove area, 

Hassan vill. Env. / 12°31.2′N, 54°07.4′E, 221 m / Jiří Hájek leg. 9-10.xi.2010’. ALLOTYPE: �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., 

2003 / 3.xii., Dixam plateau, / WADI ZEERIQ, 750m / N12°31’08”E53°59’09” / [GPS], David Král lgt. // YEMEN 

– SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král’. PARATYPES (75 specimens): same data as 

holotype, 1 � 1 �; same data, but P. Hlaváč lgt., 1 � 5 ��; ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island, / wadi Ayhaft, / 12°36,5’N, 

53°58,9’E, 200 m / L. Purchart lgt., 7-8.xi.2010’, 3 ��; ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is. / HOMHIL protected area / 28.–29/ 

xi.2003, 364 m / N12°34’27”E54°18’32” / [GPS], David Král lgt. // YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan 

Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král’, 1 �; ‘Yemen, Soqotra Is., SIRHIN area / Dixam plateau, 1. -2.xii.2003, N / 

12°31’08” E 53°59’09”,812m / [GPS], leg. P. Kabátek // YEMEN – SOQOTRA / 2003 / Expedition, Jan Farkač, / 

Petr Kabátek & David Král’, 1 �; ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl. / Firmihin plato, 400-500m / 18.-19.vi.2010, / N 12°28’46” 

E 54°00’89” / V. Hula & J. Niedobová lgt.’, 1 � 2 �� 1 unsexed spec. (body without head); ‘YEMEN, Sana’a env., 

2500m, / Bait Bows dam, 28.v.2010 / N 15°16’168”, E 44°12’244” / Hula V. & Niedobová J. lgt.’, 1 �; ‘YEMEN, 

Socotra Island / Aloove area, Aloove vill. env. / Jatropha unicostata shrubland; / with Boswellia elongata trees / 

19.-20.vi.2012 / 12°31.2’N, 54°07.4’E, 221 m // SOCOTRA expedition 2012 / J. Bezděk, J. Hájek, V. Hula, / P. 

Kment, I. Malenovský, / J. Niedobová & L. Purchart leg.2010’, 24 �� 33 ��. 

Description. Male (Figs. 1–2, 4–5, 11): Body length 2.1–3.1 mm (2.8 mm in holotype), 

2.02–2.24 times longer than wide (2.11 in holotype). Colour generally brown with lighter 

or darker, blackish or reddish areas visible dorsally, and two dark longitudinally oval spots 

dorso-laterally on the upper elytral declivity. 

Head. Frons (Figs. 4–5) convex on upper two thirds, shallowly concave in lower part, transversally 

fl attened just above epistomal margin; width of concavity three-fourths of distance 

between eyes; lateral and upper margins of concavity armed with series of small tubercles, of 

which two lateral and one central blunt tubercles are distinctly larger and form a fl at triangle


Figs. 1–11. Halystus bimaculatus sp. nov. 1 – male, dorsal view; 2 – male, lateral view; 3 – female, dorsal view; 4 

– male frons, dorsal view; 5 – male frons, frontal view; 6 – female frons, frontal view; 7 – antenna; 8 – protibia; 9 

– mesotibia; 10 – metatibia; 11 – aedeagus.

514 


between eyes, central tubercle often twice or more larger than lateral ones. Concavity with 

its lateral and upper margins shining, punctate; punctation becoming less dense centrally, a 

longitudinal shining keel, slightly but not acutely elevated, between upper edge of fl attened 

part and reaching base of central tubercle; lateral and upper parts of frons punctato-tuberculate, 

with concentric, tuberculate sculpture around prominent central tubercle. Vertex semi-matt, 

shagreened, densely and rather deeply punctate. Eyes relatively big, deeply emarginated on 

anterior margin in upper half, emargination nearly reaching middle of eye width. Vestiture of 

frons consists of rather stout hair-like sparse semierect setae directed medially; setae around 

prominent central tubercle directed towards top of tubercle. Setae on epistomal margin four 

to fi ve times longer than those on frons, directed towards mandibles. Antennae (Fig. 7) light 

brown, antennal funicle pentamerous, antennal club asymmetrical, elongate, rather big, approximately 

as long as scapus; dorsoventrally fl attened, sharply pointed at apex, widest at 

its base, with three transverse sutures marked by rows of setae, fi rst two sutures transverse, 

straight, apical suture procurved, apex of antennal club curved laterally. 

Pronotum. 0.73–0.82 times longer than wide (0.82 in holotype), brown, often with dark 

brown frontal half and/or reddish posterior half; widest basally, weakly convex longitudinally 

from lateral view with summit in basal third. Whole surface rather regularly densely punctate, 

with very narrow, but distinct central impunctate longitudinal strip extending whole pronotal 

length; small oval impunctate spots occur laterally from middle in basal half; anterior margin 

rounded from dorsal view, simple; lateral margins broadly rounded from dorsal view, nearly 

parallel in basal third, developed into sharp costa in basal two thirds; posterior margin nearly 

straight, transverse, slightly and broadly recurved in middle. Whole pronotum shining, slightly 

shagreened; vestiture of very short, dense scale-like setae, more conspicuous laterally and 

on base of pronotum. 

Scutellum. Invisible, marked by dense brush of short stout hair-like setae not extending 

over elytral basal margin. 

Elytra. 1.26–1.44 times longer than wide (1.31 in holotype), 1.64–2.09 times longer than 

pronotum (1.64 in holotype), 1.00–1.08 times wider than pronotum (1.03 in holotype), brown, 

usually with dark brown or blackish longitudinally oval areas on base of elytral declivity and 

between third and fi fth interstriae, [triangular tuberculate area near elytral base as well as sutural 

interstriae from elytral base to dark areas on elytral declivity could be also similarly dark coloured, 

or elytra could be unicoloured, yellowish or brownish]; shining, parallel on basal three-fourths, 

broadly rounded apically, jointly rounded at apex; basal margin of elytra slightly procurved, 

armed with one row of small blunt tubercles; similar tubercles occur mainly near suture on 

basal fi fth of elytra, forming a triangular tuberculate area near elytral base; elytral striae barely 

perceptible, marked by uniseriate, shallow, irregularly and densely placed punctures; interstriae 

smooth, transversely fl at, approximately three times as wide as striae, very fi nely densely irregularly 

punctate, punctures half the size of those on striae; elytral declivity regularly rounded 

from lateral view, odd interstriae ornamented by sparse microscopic tubercles, which are more 

conspicuous on interstriae 1 and 3; lateral margins elevated into sharp costa; vestiture similar 

to that on pronotum, consisting of very short, nearly round scale-like setae organized more or 

less regularly in two or more usually three rows on each interstria, setae becoming much more 

dense on tuberculate elytral base.


Legs. Brown, procoxae narrowly separated, mesocoxae and metacoxae separated by more 

than antennal club width. Protibiae slightly fl attened antero-posteriorly (Fig. 8), very slightly 

widened in basal third, nearly cylindrical; ornamented with two strong sharply pointed socketed 

teeth on outer lateral margin in apical half, and a row of much smaller lateral tubercles 

along this margin. Meso- and metatibiae (Figs. 9–10) more strongly widened in apical half 

where fl attened, then rounded and narrowed toward apex; outer lateral margin ornamented 

by fi ve sharply pointed narrow socketed teeth displaced apically on widened part. All tibiae 

sparsely ornamented by semierect, long hair-like setae, becoming more dense and conspicuous 

on outer lateral margins and anterior side. 

Aedeagus as shown in Fig. 11. 

Female (Fig. 3, 6) of same appearance as male in all body parts, except shape of frons. 

Body length 2.0–3.0 mm (2.5 mm in allotype), 2.09–2.30 times longer than wide (2.09 in allotype). 

Head with frons broadly shallowly concave on lower two thirds, concavity rounded, 

semicircular on lateral and upper margins, smooth, shining, very densely punctate, surface 

covered by brush of very abundant short hair-like darkly ferruginous setae; lateral and upper 

margins ornamented by long hair-like yellowish setae incurved towards centre of concavity, 

other parts of frons shining and shallowly punctate and with very sparse semi-erect, short 

hair-like setae; vertex semi-matt, shagreened, sparsely shallowly punctate. 

Pronotum. 0.68–0.82 times longer than wide (0.69 in allotype). Elytra 1.36–1.52 times 

longer than wide (1.42 in allotype), 1.94–2.29 times longer than pronotum (2.20 in allotype), 

1.02–1.10 times wider than pronotum (1.07 in allotype). 

Differential diagnosis. The newly described species differs from Halystus namibiae Schedl, 

1982, the only other known species of the genus, mainly in general body shape, which is much 

more slender, and cylindrical in H. namibiae. In H. namibiae, 1) the long yellowish hair-like 

setae surrounding the frontal concavity in females are much longer and reach the central part 

of frons (touching each other); 2) a small central rounded tubercle just above epistomal margin 

is present; 3) the frons lacks tubercles and is nearly glabrous in the male; 4) the pronotum is 

less convex longitudinally, and its surface is smooth, very shining in-between the punctation; 

5) the elytra are also more shining, the interstriae marked by one more or less regular row of 

punctures, interstriae II on elytral declivity are slightly impressed and the tubercles on odd interstriae 

are more conspicuous and pointed. SCHEDL (1982) mentioned in his generic description 

‘two transverse septa’ on the antennal club and WOOD (1984) mentioned ‘two clearly marked, 

slightly procurved, aseptate sutures’. Based on the study of the type specimen it is evident that 

there are in fact three aseptate sutures marked by rows of hair-like setae, which corresponds 

to the newly described species. From the morphologically similar species Carphoborus lautus 

Wood, 1988, and probably also C. boswelliae (Stebbing, 1903) (the latter species was not seen 

and information is taken from WOOD (1988)), the new species differs mainly in the shape of 

antennal club, which has a broadly rounded apex in both named species of Carphoborus. In 

addition, the colouration is more uniform without any colourful spots or areas in the Carphoborus 

species. Finally, the frons is ornamented by only one small median tubercle in the male 

of C. lautus, and in the female of C. lautus, the shining surface of the frontal concavity has not 

a dense brush of short, hair-like setae fully covering the surface. In C. boswelliae, there are 

apparently no distinct tubercles on the frons, and declivital tubercles are absent.

516 


Etymology. The name of the new species, bimaculatus, is derived from the presence of the 

two dark spots on the dorso-lateral part of the elytral declivity. 

Biology. The species lives and develops within the phloem of weakened and/or dying 

Boswellia elongata Balf. f. (Burseraceae) (J. Hájek, pers. comm.). The host is endemic to 


Distribution. So far known only from Socotra Island. The specimen from continental Yemen 

(Sana’a) is of doubtful origin, and was very probably mis-labelled. The known host does not 

occur on the Arabian mainland. 


The author would like to express cordial thanks to David Král, Petr Kabátek, Jan Farkač and 

Jiří Hájek (all Prague, Czech Republic), for providing me with specimens for the study, and to 

Heinrich Schönmann (Naturhistorisches Museum Wien, Austria) for allowing me to study the 

museum material of related species and genera. Many thanks also to Roger Beaver (Chiangmai, 

Thailand) for support through literature and fruitful discussion during this taxonomic and systematic 

study. Part of the material from Socotra Island (collected in 2003) was obtained during 

the implementation of the Czech project ‘Socotra 2000’ which was realised between 1999 and 

2003 within the framework of the bilateral Foreign Developmental Assistance provided by the 

Czech Republic to the Republic of Yemen. This study was partly supported by the Ministry of 

Agriculture of the Czech Republic, Project No. MZe 002070203 ‘Stabilization of forest functions 

in anthropologically disturbed and changing environmental conditions’. 

References 

ALONSO-ZARAZAGA M. A. & LYAL C. H. C. 2009: A catalogue of family and genus group names in Scolytinae 

and Platypodinae with nomenclatural remarks (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Zootaxa 2258: 1–134. 

BRIGHT D. E. & SKIDMORE R. E. 1997: A catalog of Scolytidae and Platypodidae (Coleoptera), Supplement 1 

(1990–1994). NRC Research Press, Ottawa, vii + 368 pp. 

BRIGHT D. E. & SKIDMORE R. E. 2002: A catalog of Scolytidae and Platypodidae (Coleoptera): Supplement 2 

(1995–1999). NRC Research Press, Ottawa, viii + 523 pp. 

JORDAL B. H. 2009: The Madagascan genus Dolurgocleptes Schedl (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae): 

description of the new species and transfer to the tribe Polygraphini. Zootaxa 2014: 41–50. 

KNÍŽEK M. 2011: Subfamily Scolytinae. Pp. 204–251. In: LÖBL I. & SMETANA A. (eds.): Catalogue of Palaearctic 

Coleoptera. Volume 7. Curculionoidea I. Apollo Books, Stenstrup, 373 pp. 

ROONWAL M. L. 1971: Taxonomical and biological observations on bark beetles of genus Carphoborus (Coleoptera: 

Scolytidae) from West Pakistan, Western Himalayas and Central India. Zeitschrift für angewandte Entomologie 

67: 305–316. 

SCHEDL K. E. 1982: Scolytoidea (Coleoptera), mainly from South Africa. Annals of the Transvaal Museum 33: 

277–286. 

STEBBING E. P. 1903: Departmental notes on insect that affect forestry. 2. Offi ce of the Superintendent of Government 

Printing, Calcutta, pp. 151–334, pls. VII–XIX. 

WOOD S. L. 1984: New generic synonymy and new genera of Scolytidae (Coleoptera). Great Basin Naturalist 

44: 223–230. 

WOOD S. L. 1986: A reclassifi cation of the genera of Scolytidae (Coleoptera). Great Basin Naturalist Memoirs, 

Number 10. Brigham Young University, Provo, 126 pp. 

WOOD S. L. 1988: Nomenclatural changes and new species of Scolytidae (Coleoptera), Part II. Great Basin Naturalist 

48: 188–195. 

WOOD S. L. & BRIGHT D. E. 1992: A catalog of Scolytidae and Platypodidae (Coleoptera), Part 2: Taxonomic 

Index. Great Basin Naturalist Memoirs, Number 13. Brigham Young University, Provo, 1553 pp.



Description of male of Leucospis insularis 

(Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Leucospidae) 

with new records and check-list of Chalcidoidea 


Petr JANŠTA 

Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Viničná 7, 

CZ-128 44 Praha 2, Czech Republic; e-mail: petr.jansta@natur.cuni.cz 

Abstract. A check-list of the Chalcidoidea of Socotra Island based on published 

data and newly collected material is presented. The male of the endemic species 

Leucospis insularis Kirby, 1900 (Leucospidae) is described for the fi rst time. 

The following fi ve species are recorded from the Socotra Island for the fi rst time: 

Eupelmus orientalis (Crawford, 1913) (Eupelmidae); Cryptoprymna atra (Walker, 

1833), Cyrtoptyx latipes (Rondani, 1874), Dinarmoides spilopterus Masi, 1924 

(all Pteromalidae); and Torymoides kiesenwetteri (Mayr, 1874) (Torymidae). 

Altogether 11 species from fi ve families are currently known from Socotra, four 

species of which are considered to be endemic to the island. 

Key words. Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Agaonidae, Eupelmidae, Leucospidae, 

Pteromalidae, Torymidae, Leucospis, description, new records, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

Some papers concerning the fauna of Chalcidoidea of continental Yemen have been published 

recently. Altogether, data about seven out of 19 currently recognized Chalcidoidea 

families have been published, e.g. Agaonidae – VAN NOORT & HARTEN (2006), Eulophidae 

– YEFREMOVA (2007), YEFREMOVA & YEGORENKOVA (2009), Eurytomidae – ZEROVA et al. (2008), 

Mymaridae – JESU & VIGGIANI (2007), Ormyridae – ZEROVA et al. (2006), Perilampidae – HERA- 

TY & DARLING (2007), Pteromalidae – VAN NOORT & HARTEN (2006), NARENDRAN & HARTEN 

(2007) and NARENDRAN et al. (2007). 

However, the fauna of Chalcidoidea of Socotra Island remains very poorly known. MAYR 

(1885) was the fi rst who mentioned some chalcid wasps from Socotra Island. He described 

fi ve species of fi g wasps (family Agaonidae and Pteromalidae) reared from Ficus tree fruit 

collected at an unspecifi ed locality on Socotra Island and sent to him from the collection 



518 

JANŠTA: Chalcidoidea of Socotra Island 

of Dr. Schweinfurth (Cairo, Egypt). Later, KIRBY (1900) described one new species of the 

family Leucospidae, collected during an expedition to Socotra Island organised partly by 

the Liverpool Museum in the years 1898–1899 (FORBES 1899). This was the last mention of 

chalcids from Socotra for the next 100 years, until VAN NOORT & HARTEN (2006) published 

new data on fi g wasps collected by Malaise traps and by light traps. 

The aim of this study is to supplement the current knowledge of the Chalcidoidea fauna 

of Socotra Island, based on material collected during two Czech expeditions in 2003 and 

2010. 


The dry mounted specimens were examined under Leica MZ16 stereoscopic microscope. 

Photographs were taken using a Canon 60D digital camera, equipped with Canon MP-E 65/2.8 

MACRO lens with 5:1 optical magnifi cation. Partially focused images of each specimen were 

combined using Zerene photo stacker software, version 1.04. 

Terminology used in the text follows that of GIBSON et al. (1997) including all abbreviations 

of the mophological structures: 

OD lateral ocellus diameter; 

OOL distance between posterior ocellus and eye; 

POL distance between posterior ocelli; 

Gt gastral tergum 1–n; 

1–n 

Fl fl agellomeres 1–7. 

1–7 

The specimens included in this study are deposited in the following collections: 


CNCI Canadian National Collection of Insects, Ottawa, Canada; 

CUPC Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic; 

NMPC National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic. 

Taxonomy 

Leucospis insularis Kirby, 1900 

(Figs. 1–5) 

Leucospis insularis Kirby, 1900: 13 (original description). 

Leucospis insularis: SCHMID-EGGER (2010): 324 (key to Leucospis species from Arabian Peninsula). 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (BMNH), ‘Sokotra: Jena-agahan (1200 ft, 12. I. [18]99)’ [not studied]. 

Material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadiboh env., N 12°65′02′′ E 54°02′04′′, ca. 10–100 m, 21.xi.–12.xii.2003, 

P. Kabátek leg., Yemen – Soqotra 2003 expedition, Jan Farkač, Petr Kabátek & David Král, 1 � (CUPC). 

Description of male. Body length 5.9 mm. Head black, antenna including scape and pedicel, 

base of mandibles and maxillolabial complex rusty red; tooth on mandibles, pedicel, anellus, 

F3–F7 and clava partly black (Figs. 1–3). Pronotum rusty red with transverse yellow line in 

middle; nearly whole mesonotum, dorsellum, propleuron and mesopleuron black; tegulae, 

prepectus, extreme side of lateral lobe of mesoscutum, acropleuron, metapleuron, frenal area 

of scutellum, distal part of dorsellum and propodeum rusty red; on scutelum yellow transverse 

line between black and rusty red part of scutellum. All legs rusty red except yellow


Figs. 1–5. Leucospis insularis Kirby, 1900, male. 1 – habitus, lateral view; 2 – head, frontal view; 3 – antenna, dorsal 

view; 4 – forewing, dorsal view; 5 – femur, lateral view. 

mesotibiae, dorsoapical part of metacoxae, basoventral part of metafemora and black teeth 

on metafemora (Figs. 1, 5). Abdomen almost completely rusty red, Gt3 behind its basal half 

with yellow transverse line interrupted in middle. Wings slightly infumate but hyaline on 

disc; wing venation and setae brown with hardly infumate region of disc below wing venation 

(Figs. 1, 4). 

Head dense but fi nely punctured, meso- and metasoma with coarse punctuation, pubescens 

of body very long, thin and white. Head 1.05 times as broad as mesosoma and about 2.24 

times as broad as long. Temples converging, about 0.19 times of length of head. Head 1.24

520 


times as broad as high, mouth 3.06 times as wide as malar space, latter 0.28 times of length 

of eye. Eyes with distinct setae (clearly visible using 20–30x magnifi cation), 1.67 times as 

long as wide. Ocelli large: POL : OOL 2.45, OOL : OD 1.57. Posterior margin of middle 

ocellus reaches imaginary line joining lateral ocelli. Scrobal depression deep and distinctly 

transversely rugose on whole surface, outer margins of scrobal depression margined by sharp 

carina. Interantennal process well developed, reaching 1/3 of scape. Lower margin of clypeus 

bilobed, median tooth small but conspicuous. Antenna as follows: pedicel plus fl agellum as 

long as head, scapus 1.6 times as long as wide, not reaching anterior ocellus, 0.27 times as 

long as length of eye. Pedicel 1.29 times as long as long, not as wide as annellus in broadenest 

part. Scapus and pedicel more or less shiny, covered with dense setation, setae are longer than 

those on rest of antenna. Anellus 1.25 times as long as wide. Flagellum stout, F 3 –F 7 transverse 

(ratio of measurements of F 1 –F 7 : 11/10, 12/12, 11/12, 11/13, 11/14, 11/15, 10/14), clava 1.5 

times as long. Flagellum dull, covered with short dense setation. 

Pronotal collar convex, sides subparallel, disc of pronotum with three distinct cuticular 

carina, slightly angulate in middle – discal carina just behind and not longer that yellow 

transverse line on collar, weak and slightly lower than submarginal one; submarginal carina 

(carina between discal and marginal carina) of same length as marginal carina and as yellow 

transverse line. Pronotum 1.60 times as wide as long, mesonotum 0.85 times as wide as long, 

propodeum 1.90 times as wide (measured in widenest part) as long (measured in medial carina 

area). Propodeum without medial carina. Fore wing 3.45 times as long as wide; relative measurements 

– marginal:postmarginal:stigmal vein as 15:23:88. Metafemur relatively slender, 

2.18 times as long as wide with nine gradually reduced teeth on posterior side; fi rst tooth 

broadly triangular, twice as long as second tooth, all teeth except fi rst one slender triangular, 

third tooth 0.75 times as long as fi rst tooth. 

Metasoma nearly as long as head plus mesosoma, metasoma moderatelly clavate, 2.11 times 

as long as wide, fi rst gastral segment (Gt1) as long as wide and 0.50 times as wide as Gt3. 

Diagnosis. The recently collected male fi ts well to the female type in the key by BOUČEK 

(1974), i.e. couplet 9. The species is easily recognizable due to the unusually long and thin 

pubescence, slender metafemora and weak discal carina. 

Bionomy. Unknown. 

Distribution. Species endemic to Socotra Island, so far known from two specimens only. 

New records 

Eupelmidae 

Eupelmus (Eupelmus) orientalis (Crawford, 1913) 

Material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: Noged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env, 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 20 

m, at light, 10.–11.xi.2010, J. Bezdĕk leg., G. Gibson det., 1 � (CNCI); Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest); 

12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, sweeping, 15.–16.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg., P. Janšta det., 1 � (CUPC). 

Distribution. The species was described from Bangalore (India) (CRAWFORD 1913). According 

to NOYES (2012) database, it is known also from Iraq, Niger, West and South Africa. First 

record from Socotra Island.


Pteromalidae 

Cryptoprymna atra (Walker, 1833) 

Material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt. env., 12°34.6′N, 54°01.5′E, 1450 m, 12.– 

13.xi.2010; J. Bezděk leg., 1 � (CUPC). 

Distribution. This species is widely distributed throughout Europe (Belgium, Czech Republic, 

France, Germany, Greenland, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, 

Sweden, United Kingdom) (NOYES 2012). First record from Socotra Island. 

Remarks. Biology of this species is unknown, but it is probably associated with some host on 

coniferous trees (GRAHAM 1969). However, there are no conifers growing on Socotra Island 

(MILLER & MORRIS 2004). 

Cyrtoptyx latipes (Rondani, 1874) 

Material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, 

sweeping, 15.–16.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg., 2 �� (CUPC). 

Distribution. The species is widely distributed in the Palearctic region (Azerbaijan, China, 

Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, Europe, Greece, India, Italy, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Libya, Pakistan, 

Spain, Syria, Turkey, former Yugoslavia); known also from India, and one record comes also 

from Afrotropical Eritrea (NOYES 2012). First record from Socotra Island. 

Dinarmoides spilopterus Masi, 1924 

Material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: Noged plain (sand dunes), Sharet Halma vill. env., 12°21.9′N, 54°05.3′E, 20 

m, sweeping, 10.–11.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg., 1 � (CUPC); Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N, 

54°01.1′E, 490 m, sweeping, 15.–16.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg., 3 �� 2 �� (CUPC). 

Distribution. It is a species widely distributed in Europe (Croatia, Czech Republic, Italy, 

Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden and Serbia), Canary Islands, and also reported from 

Turkmenistan (NOYES 2012). First record from Socotra Island. 

Remarks. I have seen many specimens in the collection of NMPC identifi ed by Zdeněk 

Bouček in 1960’s and it seems that this species is very polymorphic or there is a complex 

of species. To validate this statement it is necessary to examine more specimens from the 

whole area of distribution. 

Torymidae 

Torymoides kiesenwetteri (Mayr, 1874) 

Material examined. SOCOTRA ISLAND: Dixam plateau, Firmihin (Dracaena forest), 12°28.6′N, 54°01.1′E, 490 m, 

sweeping, 15.–16.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg., 1 � (CUPC). 

Distribution. It is a very common species in Europe (Andorra, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, 

Croatia, Czech Republic, Egypt, Europe, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Macedonia, 

Madeira, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, United 

Kingdom, former Yugoslavia) and Turkey (NOYES 2012). Known also from Nepal and India 

(NOYES 2012). First record from Socotra Island.

522 


Check-list of Socotran Chalcidoidea 

Specimens marked with asterisk are considered to be endemic to Socotra Island. 

Agaonidae 

Elisabethiella socotrensis (Mayr, 1885) 

Platyscapa awekei Wiebes, 1977 

Eupelmidae 

Eupelmus (Eupelmus) orientalis (Crawford, 1913) 

Leucospidae 

*Leucospis insularis Kirby, 1900 

Pteromalidae 

Crossogaster triformis Mayr, 1885 

Cryptoprymna atra (Walker, 1833) 

Cyrtoptyx latipes (Rondani, 1874) 

Dinarmoides spilopterus Masi, 1924 

*Otitesella serrata Mayr, 1885 

*Sycoryctes coccothraustes Mayr, 1885 

*Sycoscapter truncatus Mayr, 1885 

Torymidae 

Torymoides kiesenwetteri (Mayr, 1874) 

Conclusion 

Including the new faunistic records mentioned above, 11 species of Chalcidoidea wasps 

are currently known from Socotra Island. Four of these species are, according to the current 

knowledge, endemic to the island. The total number is still very low in comparison to the 

Chalcidoidea species recorded from continental Yemen – 153 species (NOYES 2012). We can 

suppose that the number of chalcids wasps known from Socotra will increase with more 

intensive surveying. In particular, we can expect more species occurring in the Afrotropical 

region, although the fauna of Socotra Island (and Yemen) is formed also by several widely 

distributed Palaearctic species, e.g, eulophids of continetal Yemen (YEFREMOVA & YEGORENKOVA 

2009), or the above mentioned pteromalids and eupelmids from Socotra. Finally, discovery 

of more species endemic to Socotra Island cannot be excluded. 


I am grateful to Jan Bezděk (Mendel University, Brno, Czech Republic) and Petr Kabátek 

(Prague, Czech Republic) for providing me with the material studied. I would like to thank 

Gary. P. Gibson (CNCI) for identifi cation of part of the specimens. This research was supported 

by grant SVV–2012–265 206.


References 

BOUČEK Z. 1974: A revision of the Leucospidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) of the world. Bulletin of the British 

Museum (Natural History) Entomology, Supplement 23: 1–241. 

CRAWFORD J. C. 1913: Descriptions of new Hymenoptera, no 6. Proceedings of the United States National 

Museum 45: 241–260. 

FORBES H. O. 1899: The expedition to Sokotra. Bulletin of the Liverpool Museums 1: 1–2. 

GIBSON G. A. P., HUBER J. T. & WOOLLEY J. B. 1997: Annotated keys to the genera of Nearctic Chalcidoidea 

(Hymenoptera). National Research Council Research Press, Ottawa, 794 pp. 

GRAHAM M. W. R. DE VERE 1969: The Pteromalidae of north-western Europe (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea). 

Bulletin of the British Museum (Natural History) Entomology, Supplement 16: 1–908. 

HERATY J. M. & DARLING D. C. 2007: A new genus and species of Perilampidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) 

with uncertain placement in the family. Journal of the Entomological Society of Ontario 138: 33–47. 

JESU R. & VIGGIANI G. 2007: The Anagrus Haliday (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) from Yemen, with description of 

two new species and note on Gonatocerus vanharteni Jesu et Viggiani. Bollettino del Laboratorio di Entomologia 

Agraria ‘Filippo Silvestri’, Portici 61:71–77. 

KIRBY W. F. 1900: [The expedition to Sokotra.] XII. Description of new Hymenoptera. Bulletin of the Liverpool 

Museums 3: 13–24. 

MAYR G. 1885: Feigeninsecten. Verhandlungen der Zoologisch-Botanischen Gesellschaft in Wien 35: 147–250. 

MILLER A. G. & MORRIS M. 2004: Ethnofl ora of the Soqotra Archipelago. Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, 

759 pp. 

NOYES J. S. 2012: Universal Chalcidoidea Database. The Natural History Museum London. http://www.nhm. 

ac.uk/entomology/chalcidoids (accessed March 5, 2012). 

NARENDRAN T. C. & HARTEN A. VAN 2007: Five new species of Pteromalidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) 

from Yemen. Journal of Experimental Zoology India 10: 113–119. 

NARENDRAN T. C., SANTHOSH S. & PETER A. 2007: A review of Pachyneuron species (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) 

of the Middle East. Journal of Environment & Sociobiology 4: 119–138. 

SCHMID-EGGER C. 2010: Order Hymenoptera, family Leucospidae. Pp. 319–324. In: HARTEN A. VAN (ed.) 

2010: Arthropod fauna of the United Arab Emirates, Volume 3. Multiply Marketing Consultancy Services, Abu 

Dhabi, 700 pp. 

VAN NOORT S. & HARTEN A. VAN 2006: The species richness of fi g wasps (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Agaonidae, 

Pteromalidae) in Yemen. Fauna of Arabia 22: 449–472. 

YEFREMOVA Z. A. 2007: The subfamilies Eulophinae, Euderinae and Entedoninae (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) 

in Yemen. Fauna of Arabia 23: 335–368. 

YEFREMOVA Z. A. & YEGORENKOVA E. N. 2009: A review of the subfamily Tetrastichinae (Hymenoptera: 

Eulophidae) in Yemen, with descriptions of new species. Fauna of Arabia 24: 169–210. 

ZEROVA M. D., SERYOGINA L. Y. & HARTEN A. VAN 2006: A new species of the genus Ormyrus (Hymenoptera, 

Chalcidoidea, Ormyridae) from Yemen. Vestnik Zoologii (Kiev) 40: 469–471.

524 




New species and new records of mutillid wasps 

from the Socotra Archipelago (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae) 

Pietro LO CASCIO 1) , Marcello ROMANO 2) & Flavia GRITA 1) 

1) Associazione Nesos, via Vittorio Emanuele 24, 98055 Lipari (ME), Italy; 

e-mails: plocascio@nesos.org, fgrita@gmail.com 

2) Piazza A. Cataldo 10, 90040 Capaci (PA), Italy; e-mail: marcellr@libero.it 

Abstract. The present paper provides new data on the mutillid fauna of the Socotra 

Archipelago (Yemen). The genera Myrmilla Wesmael, 1851, Strangulotilla Nonveiller, 

1979, Macromyrme Lelej, 1984, and Dentilla Lelej, 1980 are recorded for 

the fi rst time. Four new species are described: Strangulotilla dioscoridea sp. nov., 

Macromyrme bezdeki sp. nov., Dentilla purcharti sp. nov., and Dentilla socotrana 

sp. nov. On the whole, seven specifi c taxa have been listed for Socotra Island, two 

of which inhabit also Samha Island. The archipelago harbours mainly Ethiopian, 

but also some Palaearctic elements, confi rming its signifi cance as crossroad of 

these biogeographical realms. 

Key words. Hymenoptera, Mutillidae, Dentilla, Macromyrme, Myrmilla, Strangulotilla, 

taxonomy, new species, new records, biogeography, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

The Socotra Archipelago is well-known to be characterized by high degree of endemism 

and species richness, and its biological diversity has been appropriately considered as a priority 

complex at global level (DI MICCO DE SANTO & ZANDRI 2004). During the last decade, 

Socotra has received an increasing attention by several researchers, aiming to defi ne both 

faunal consistence and diversity, as well as its conservation efforts (see DAMME & BANFIELD 

2011). However, some zoological groups are still virtually unexplored, and among these the 

hymenopteran family of Mutillidae is included: the single record reported from the main island 

in the recent review by LELEJ & HARTEN (2006) is indeed striking if compared to the remarkable 

richness of species documented by the same authors for the continental Yemen. This evident 

gap in knowledge has stimulated our interest in studying the material collected by two of us 

(PLC & FG) during a trip to the islands in February-March 2009, as well as that collected 

by Aidas Saldaitis in 2008 and now included in the collection of MR. Other material was 

added with the specimens collected by Bruno Massa (University of Palermo, Italy) during a 



526 

LO CASCIO et al.: New species and records of Mutillidae from Socotra Archipelago 

scientifi c trip to Socotra in 2008, but especially with those sent to us by Jan Bezděk and Luboš 

Purchart (Mendel University, Brno, Czech Republic), Petr Bogusch (University of Hradec 

Králové, Czech Republic), and Jiří Hájek (National Museum, Prague, Czech Republic). The 

examined material includes six genera and seven species, among which there are four genera 

and two species previously unrecorded for the study area, and four new species belonging to 

the subfamily Mutillinae, whose description are given in the present paper. 


To identify the examined material, monographs on both Ethiopian and Palaearctic mutillids 

(ANDRÉ 1899–1903; BISCHOFF 1920, 1921; NONVEILLER 1979; LELEJ 1985, 1995) and a wide 

relevant literature (see References) was consulted; also, studied specimens were compared to 

types and/or specimens kept in public and scientifi c institutions (see below for acronyms), and 

in the authors’ collections. Examination of external features and genitalia and measurements 

of specimens were done using Optika SZM-2 stereo-binocular microscope with a micrometer 

eyepiece and Dino-Lite AM2011 digital microscope supported by DinoCapture 2.0 software. 

Examined male genitalia were clarifi ed in a weak solution of potassium hydroxide (KOH), 

then mounted on labels and put in water soluble dimethyl hydantoin formaldehyde resin 

(DMHF) or preserved in glycerine and stored in a small plastic vial. Pictures were made 

using Canon Eos 450D digital camera equipped with Canon MPE-65 lens and mounted on 

Manfrotto micro-slider movement system; images were then processed with Zerene Stacker 

1.0.32 software. Systematic placement follows the proposals of LELEJ (2002, 2005). Terms 

in morphological and surface sculpture descriptions follow, respectively, HUBER & SHARKEY 

(1993) and HARRIS (1979); malar space indicates the shortest distance from lower ocular margin 

to mandibular base. Abbreviations used in the text are: LOD, interocellar distance between 

lateral ocelli measured from above; OOD, ocellocular distance between lateral ocellus and 

compound eye measured from above; F, antennal fl agellomere; S, sternum; T, tergum; these 

are followed by a number indicating the relative segment (e.g. F1, F2, etc.: fi rst, second, etc. 

fl agellomeres). 

Acronyms of the collections are: 

BMNH The Natural History Museum (former British Museum of Natural History), London, United Kingdom; 

IMCT Iziko Museums of Cape Town, South Africa; 

MRCI Marcello Romano private collection, Capaci, Italy; 

MSNG Museo Civico di Storia Naturale of Genoa, Italy; 

MZUF Zoological Section ‘La Specola’, Museo di Storia Naturale dell’Università di Firenze, Italy; 

NMPC National Museum of Prague, Czech Republic; 

PBHK Petr Bogusch private collection, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic; 

PLFG Pietro Lo Cascio and Flavia Grita private collection, Lipari, Italy; 

ZMAN Zoological Museum of the University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands. 

Since toponymic transcriptions are often highly variable, data from labels of the examined/ 

typical specimens are reported in their original form; a forward slash (/) separates different 

lines of data. Collecting sites detectable on the map are listed and shown in Fig. 1, according 

to the toponymic indications given by WRANIK (2003) and MILLER & MORRIS (2004).


Fig. 1. Sites of collection of the examined material at Socotra Island. Toponyms follow WRANIK (2003) and MILLER 

& MORRIS (2004) and are progressively numbered from East to West. Samha Island is not indicated in the map. 

1 – Homhil; 2 – Di Hamri; 3 – Wadi Kam; 4 – Rokeb (S of Di Hamri); 5 – Di Ishal; 6 – Wadi Di-Fa’rhoh; 7 – Di 

Zumhum; 8 – Haggeher; 9 – Diksam plateau (Firmihin); 10 – Wadi Da’arho; 11 – hills near Hadibu; 12 – Wadi 

Ayheft; 13 – Diksam canyon; 14 – Wadi Zerig; 15 – Quadheb; 16 – unnamed place 30 km East from Qalansiyah; 

17 – Qa’arah; 18 – Detwa lagoon; 19 – Qalansiyah. 

Systematics 

Subfamily Pseudophotopsidinae Bischoff, 1920 

Genus Pseudophotopsis André, 1896 

Pseudophotopsis aurea (Klug, 1829) 

Mutilla aurea Klug, 1829: 18, tab. 4, fi g. 3. 

Mutilla kassalina Magretti, 1898: 42. 

Pseudophotopsis kassalina: MAGRETTI (1906: 40); BISCHOFF (1920: 99); NONVEILLER (1974: 105). 

Pseudophotopsis kassalina f. semiaurata Bischoff, 1920: 99 (unavailable name). 

Ephutomma continua var. aurea: MAGRETTI (1906: 37). 

Ephutomma continua ssp. aurea: BISCHOFF (1920: 151); INVREA (1956: 301). 

Pseudophotopsis continua ssp. arabica Hammer, 1962: 2. 

Pseudophotopsis aurea: NONVEILLER (1974: 105); LELEJ & HARTEN (2006: 7). 

Type localities. Mutilla aurea: ‘Ex Habissinia et Arabia deserta’ [Ethiopia and Arabia]; Mutilla kassalina: ‘Kassala’ 

[Sudan]; Pseudophotopsis continua ssp. arabica: ‘Sufean, Lahej, Aden’ [SW Yemen]. 

Type material. Mutilla kassalina: ‘Coll.e P. Magretti / Kessala / Fatigati 18[…]’ ‘Mutilla / (Pseudophotopsis) / 

kassalina, Magrt.’ ‘TYPUS’ (MSNG). Pseudophotopsis kassalina f. semiaurata: ‘Coll.e P. Magretti / C.a Eritrea / 

Arafati 1901’ ‘kassalina Magr.’ ‘semiaurata / Bisch. Type / det. Bischoff’ (MSNG). 

Additional material examined. ‘Sokotra Isld. / Di Hamri / 20-21.xi.2008 / Saldaitiene & Saldaitis leg.’, 1 � (PLFG); 

‘SOCOTRA is. (YE) / Wadi Ayhaft 12°36.5′ N / 53°58.9′ E, 200 m / Jan Batelka leg., 7-8.xi.2010’, 1 � (NMPC); 

‘Sokotra Island N. / Di Hamri env. / 01.iii.2008 / leg. A. Saldaitis’, 1 � (MRCI); ‘N. Sokotra / Island, / Wadi Kam 

/ 13.i.2010 / Saldaitis leg.’, 1 � (MRCI). 

Notes. Mutilla kassalina Magretti, 1898, described from Kessala (= Kassalā, Sudan), was 

recently treated as a junior synonym of Pseudophotopsis aurea (Klug, 1829) by LELEJ & 

HARTEN (2006); this synonymy is based on the overlapping distribution areas and on common

528 


morphological characters in both sexes. However, the status of Pseudophotopsis kassalina f. 

semiaurata Bischoff, 1920, described based on a male from Eritrea, has not yet been clarifi ed. 

BISCHOFF (1920: 96) based the distinction of this taxon from the typical form on the absence of 

the apical fringe of golden pubescence on T1. After the examination of the types of both taxa, 

we can confi rm their morphological identity, as well as that in both specimens fringe on T1 is 

lacking. Furthermore, according to the original description (MAGRETTI 1898: 42), the fringe 

has not been indicated as occurring on M. kassalina; that suggests that the distinction of the 

Bischoff’s taxon may have been based on a misinterpretation of the diagnostic characters truly 

given by Magretti. In any case, Bischoff expressly gave it an infrasubspecifi c rank; therefore, 

according to the articles 45.5 and 45.6.4 of ICZN (1999), the name is unavailable. 

Distribution. Pseudophotopsis aurea is known from Eritrea, Djibouti and Somalia, and has 

been recently recorded also from continental Yemen (LELEJ & HARTEN 2006). First record 

from the Socotra Island. 

Pseudophotopsis maura Bischoff, 1920 

Pseudophotopsis kokpetica maura Bischoff, 1920: 98. 

Pseudophotopsis maura: INVREA (1965: 62); NONVEILLER (1974: 103); LELEJ & HARTEN 2006: 9. 

Type locality. Gabes, Tunisia. 

Material examined. ‘SOCOTRA: dint. Detwa / lagoon 26.ii.2009 leg. P. Lo / Cascio & F. Grita’, 1 � (PLFG); ‘S. 

Sokotra Island, / Wadi Difarroha / south side / 15.i.2010 / Saldaitis leg.’, 1 � (MRCI). 

Notes. This species is known only from the male sex. 

Distribution. Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Israel, Chad, and Yemen (including Socotra Island) 

(NONVEILLER 1974, LELEJ & HARTEN 2006). 

Subfamily Myrmillinae Bischoff, 1920 

Genus Myrmilla Wesmael, 1851 

Myrmilla (Pseudomutilla) sp. 

Material examined. ‘YEMEN: Soqotra / Zum Hum, 8.iv.2008 / B. Massa leg.’, 1 � (PLFG). 

Notes. The only examined female clearly differs from the congenerics recorded from Yemen 

(see LELEJ & HARTEN 2006), while it shows a remarkable similarity to Myrmilla capitata (Lucas, 

1848) in the structure and shape of clypeus, mandibles, mesosoma, and sternal carina, as well 

as in the general pattern of punctuation, colour and pubescence. However, it is characterized 

by the occurrence of some light erect setae on T4 and T5, while the same are usually black 

in the latter species. This character was considered of diagnostic importance in the keys of 

Myrmillinae given by LELEJ (1985: 96) to distinguish the latter species from a large group that 

includes M. mavromoustakisi Hammer, 1950, M. tenuitruncata Skorikov, 1935, M. vutshetitshi 

Skorikov, 1927, M. badchysiana Lelej, 1980, M. atalanta Nagy, 1967, M. fi lippovi Lelej, 1985, 

M. meda Skorikov, 1927, and M. skorikovi Lelej, 1985. The identity of the studied specimen 

can be defi nitively confi rmed only by examination of Myrmilla males from Socotra. In fact, 

M. capitata was not previously recorded from Yemen by LELEJ & HARTEN (2006), and so far 

has been known only from the Mediterranean area (LELEJ 2002).


Subfamily Mutillinae Latreille, 1802 

Genus Strangulotilla Nonveiller, 1979 

Strangulotilla dioscoridea sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–2) 

Type locality. YEMEN, Socotra Island, Di Hamri, 12°37′59″N, 54°15′40″E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘Socotra Island: NW, Di Hamri, 20 m a.s.l. / N 12°37′59″ – E 54°15′40″ / 

27.ii.2010, L. Purchart leg.’. PARATYPE: �, ‘Samha Island: W[est] / N 12°09′ – E 52°59′ / 23-24.ii.2008 / A. Saldaitis 

leg.’ (MRCI). 

Diagnosis. A female of Strangulotilla mainly characterized by a median hourglass-shaped 

belt of white sparse pubescence on T2 and by a weakly striated pygidial area. 

Holotype description. Body length: 7.1 mm. Habitus as in Fig. 2. Head pale red, subrectangular, 

1.24 broader than long and 1.15 wider than pronotum, with rounded posterior angles, 

slightly depressed in occipital area. Surface densely punctate, with punctuation large and 

shallow, but smaller on frons and completely lacking on frontal carina, which gives head 

vaguely rugulose appearance. Eyes oval, moderately convex, slightly protruding from profi le 

of head; maximum orbital diameter 0.6 of interocular distance; ratio between maximum and 

minimum orbital diameter 1 : 0.53. Clypeus arcuate and slightly prominent, with small, shiny 

basal median tubercle and two small protruded and darkened tubercles at ends of clypeal 

carina. Mandibles ferruginous, curved, with prominent tooth on inner margin at basal third, 

then narrower and darkish in apical third. Antennae entirely pale reddish, with scape slightly 

curved; ratio between scape, pedicel and F1 is 1 : 0.23 : 0.38. 

Mesosoma pale red, 1.09 longer than broad, slightly enlarged in anterior third, broader 

in posterior one; pronotum moderately arched, with obtuse anterior angles; lateral margins 

indefi nably jagged, with concave profi le; on basal margin row of fi ve prominent denticles 

above propodeal declivity, median ones longer than lateral; posterior angles feebly rounded. 

Surface moderately rugulose, irregularly and densely punctate, with punctuation larger than 

that of head. Scutellar scale indistinct; metanotal carina consisting of just two weak furrows 

converging backwards but not connected to each other, where mesosoma is enlarged posteriorly. 

Pleurae weakly concave, with smooth and shiny surface; upper margin of mesopleurae 

marked by darkish suture. Propodeum strongly truncated, with shiny surface; angle between 

propodeal and dorsal surface of mesosoma is 95°. 

Legs entirely pale red, except calcaria and spurs which are white, without salient characteristics. 

Metasoma black except for T1 which is slightly reddish on its anterior face, 1.32 broader 

than mesosoma in its maximum width; T1 as broad as hind width of mesosoma. T2 dorsally 

with fi ne and shallow punctuation, which laterally becomes more spaced and foveolate. Pygidial 

area weakly striated, with impressions arranged in herring-bone pattern coming down 

from inner to outer upper half, and horizontally disposed in lower half (Fig. 3). 

Pubescence on head whitish, sparse and recumbent, backward facing, except on genae 

where it is forward facing; few scattered erect, long setae close to eye margin; dense erect, 

long setae on occipital side. Short and yellowish erect setae occur on clypeus and on basal half 

of mandibles, as well as on scapes, while all following fl agellomeres are fi nely covered by

530 


very short pubescence. Mesosoma dorsally covered by whitish, sparse and recumbent setae; 

scattered erect setae, mainly whitish but mixed with reddish ones, occur along anterior and 

lateral margins. Very short and almost evanescent pubescence sparsely covers the meso- and 

metapleuron surface. T1 with erect and long whitish setae, densely distributed on anterior 

side, toward propodeum, and black sparse setae covering surface, except for whitish fringe 

on posterior margin; T2 dorsally and laterally covered by recumbent black setae mixed with 

few scattered, erect whitish setae on sides, and crossed by median hourglass-shaped belt of 

white sparse pubescence starting from T1 fringe and merging in T2 basal fringe; T3 almost 

entirely covered by whitish pubescent belt; T4 and T5 covered by sparse and black pubescence 

and with scattered erect whitish setae, which occur also around pygidial area. Felt lines 

whitish and barely visible; distance from basal margin 1.37 longer than their distance from 

posterior margin of T2. 

Male. Unknown. 

Variability. The paratype from Samha Island is slightly reddish, stronger and longer (length: 

7.6 mm) than the holotype, with head 1.37 broader than long and 1.16 wider than pronotum, 

mesosoma as broad as long, seven denticles irregularly spaced on epinotal row, more dense 

pubescence on head and mesosoma, more abundant sparse recumbent pubescence on T2. 

Maximum orbital diameter 0.5 of interocular distance, and ratio between maximum and 

minimum orbital diameter 1 : 0.57; ratio between scape, pedicel and fi rst fl agellomere 1 : 

0.21 : 0.39. 

Differential diagnosis. According to NONVEILLER (1979), Strangulotilla is distinguished 

from the closely related genera Ctenotilla Bischoff, 1920, Cephalotilla Bischoff, 1920, and 

Chaetomutilla Nonveiller, 1979 by having the pygidial plate not sculptured, and from Montanomutilla 

Nonveiller, 1979, which is characterized by the mesosoma strongly restricted 

anteriorly by the propodeum. Surface of the pygidial plate in Strangulotilla is smooth or fi nely 

shagreened, with the only exception of S. bechuana (Hesse, 1935) from Botswana, where the 

basal half is covered by little-pronounced striae. The striated feature of the pygidial plate of 

S. dioscoridea sp. nov. therefore excludes any possibility of this species being identical to 

any other species of this genus; at the same time, its occurrence exclusively in this species 

and S. bechuana represents the only morphological character which suggests a certain affi nity 

among them within the genus. Although the type of S. bechuana has not been examined by 

us, we compared our material with two female specimens of this species respectively kept 

at IMCT (labelled ‘Mr Stone / Bechuanaland [beneath] May-June / 1930’ ‘Strangulotilla / 

bechuana / det. Nonvll. 1978’; images of this specimen are available at: www.waspweb.org) 

and at BMNH (labelled ‘L. Ngami / 12 mls NE Sehitwa / 16/17-IV-1972’ ‘Southern Africa / 

Exp. B. M. 1972 – I’ ‘Strangulotilla / bechuana / det. Nonvll. 1978’). Also according to the 

descriptions given by HESSE (1935: 517, fi g. 4, sub Ctenotilla) and by NONVEILLER (1979: 56, 

fi g. 5c), S. bechuana remarkably differs from the new species by having metasoma pale reddish 

except for a narrow black basal belt on T2, head 1.3 wider than pronotum, ratio between 

maximum and minimum orbital diameter 1 : 0.73, T1 narrower than hind margin of mesosoma 

and T2 signifi cantly wider than T1, different pattern of pubescence on T2 and striae pattern 

on pygidial plate and, fi nally, small size. Another species, S. samharica (Magretti, 1906), has


Figs. 2–4. Socotran Mutillidae. 2–3 – Strangulotilla dioscoridea sp. nov.: 2 – habitus of holotype (a – dorsal view, 

b – lateral view, scale bar = 1 mm), 3 – pygidial plate of the holotype (scale bar = 200 μm). 4–5 – Macromyrme 

bezdeki sp. nov.: 4 – habitus of the holotype (a – dorsal view, b – lateral view, scale bar = 1 mm), 5 – pygidial plate 

of the holotype (scale bar = 300 μm).

532 


been recently recorded for continental Yemen (LELEJ & HARTEN 2006), but it can be easily 

distinguished from S. dioscoridea sp. nov. due to smooth pygidial area, different pattern of 

pubescence on T2, as well as entirely black head; NONVEILLER (1979: 52) assigned to this 

species the form clariceps, described based on a female from Sudan and characterized by 

reddish head, however, resembling the nominal form in all the above mentioned characters. 

Etymology. The species epithet is intended to recall one of the ancient names of Socotra, 

Dioscorida, mentioned in the Historia Naturalis by Pliny the Elder and in the Periplus Mari 

Erythraei by Anonymous (both dating to the 1 st century A.D.). 

Biological notes. Data from the labels indicated the occurrence of Strangulotilla dioscoridea 

sp. nov. in arid coastal areas of the islands of Socotra and Samha, both characterized by sandy-rocky 

mixed substrate and covered by sparse dwarf scrubland. Other traits of its biology 

are still unknown. 

Zoogeographical notes. The genus Strangulotilla currently includes one species from Sri 

Lanka (LELEJ 2005) and seventeen species from Africa (NONVEILLER 1979), some of them 

previously assigned to Ctenotilla, Mutilla Linnaeus, 1758 or Smicromyrme Thomson, 1870 

(see ANDRÉ 1902, 1905; MAGRETTI 1906; CAMERON 1908; BISCHOFF 1920, 1921; BRADLEY 

& BEQUAERT 1928; HESSE 1935). Most part of these species occurs in the Ethiopian realm, 

including the Cape subregion; among them, S. samharica (Magretti, 1906), also recorded 

for continental Yemen (LELEJ & HARTEN 2006), was considered as a vicariant of the widely 

distributed S. thoracosulcata (Magretti, 1906) in the arid Eastern African areas by NONVEILLER 

(1979). Although the phylogenetic relationships within this genus need to be clarifi ed, the 

occurrence of a Strangulotilla that is supposedly related to African species in the Socotra 

Archipelago can be explained by palaeogeographic data that show that these islands defi nitively 

detached from Africa about six million years ago (BEYDOUN & BICHAN 1970, FLEITMANN 

et al. 2004); moreover, the so far known distribution of S. dioscoridea sp. nov. suggests that i) 

the species is probably endemic to the archipelago, ii) that land connections between Samha 

and Socotra, that occurred during the Last Glacial Maximum (about 18,000 years ago: see 

FLEITMANN et al. 2004, DAMME 2006), undoubtedly contributed to the present distribution 

pattern. Insular endemics, such as Strangulotilla minor (André, 1905) from São Tomé Island 

(Gulf of Guinea, W Africa), and S. krombeini Lelej, 2005 from Sri Lanka (NONVEILLER 1979, 

LELEJ 2005), are already known within this genus. 

Genus Macromyrme Lelej, 1984 

Macromyrme bezdeki sp. nov. 

(Figs. 4–5) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island (without detailed data). 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘Socotra / 1.iv.1997 / B. Pražan lgt.’. 

Diagnosis. A female of Macromyrme closely related to M. chrysophthalma (Klug, 1829), from 

which it differs mainly in the width ratio of head and mesosoma, the shape of pronotum, the 

occurrence of scutellar scale, and the pattern of tergal pubescence and punctuation, as well 

as of the pygidial streaks. 

Holotype description. Body length: 10.1 mm. Habitus as in Fig. 4. Head dark red, considerably 

darkened both in malar and occipital region, roundish, 1.09 broader than long and


1.12 broader than pronotum. Sculpture uniformly distributed on whole head, with large and 

appressed lacunose punctuation, whose inner surface and interpunctual spaces are shiny. Eyes 

oval, fl attened and totally visible from above; maximum orbital diameter 0.47 of interocular 

distance; ratio between maximum and minimum orbital diameter 1 : 0.89; malar space 0.38 

of maximum orbital diameter. Clypeus with deeply concave median area, triangular and 

delimited by slightly prominent lateral margins, clypeal anterior margin straight, laterally 

distinctly tuberculate. Mandibles dark red, black in apical two thirds, robust, slightly blunt 

apically, with tooth on inner margin at apical third. Antennae entirely dark red, with scape 

slightly curved; ratio between scape, pedicel and F1 6.25 : 1 : 2.5; ratio between F1, F2 and 

F3 1 : 0.6 : 0.6. 

Mesosoma dark red, slightly darker on pronotal and lateral margins, rectangular and just 

enlarged anteriorly, 1.18 longer than broad; in lateral view, the profi le of the mesosoma is 

arched; pronotum almost straight, with rounded angles; lateral edges irregularly serrated. 

Surface punctuation areolate, elongated and often merged, forming irregular longitudinal 

rows; interpunctual spaces smooth and shiny. Scutellar scale very small but visible. Pleurae 

smooth, feebly punctate on the propleural and metapleural area, with just wider punctuation 

on this latter. Propodeum with areolate and dense punctuation on the upper part that becomes 

more spaced and variolate on lower one, whose interpunctual spaces along lateral margins 

resemble small but prominent denticles. 

Legs entirely red-brown, darker than mesosoma. 

Metasoma entirely dark red, 1.44 broader than mesosoma. T1 0.58 narrower than T2. 

Surface of T1 sparsely and superfi cially punctate; very small tooth at each side of anterior 

articulation of T1; T2 substrigulate on whole surface, with foveolate-puncticulate feeble 

punctuation occurring on spaces among striae, this latter more evident near posterior tergal 

margin. S1 with large blunt tooth; S2 smooth and shiny, with small and spaced variolate 

punctuation. Pygidial area as in Fig. 5. 

Silvery-yellow sparse pubescence with short and erect setae on head and antennae; same 

occurs dorsally on mesosoma, where there are also very short and erect reddish-brown setae, 

and on legs. T1 forward with scattered, long and erect silvery-yellow setae; posterior margin 

covered by belt of black recumbent setae, interrupted on middle by small, just visible silveryyellow 

spot. T2 with scattered erect brown setae and covered by black recumbent pubescence 

with long and thick setae; two ovoidal spots with scattered and short orange-gold recumbent 

pubescence, separated by distance equal to half of their width, extending from anterior margin 

to two thirds of tergal surface; scattered and sparse silvery-yellow setae covering the posterior 

margin; long silvery-yellow setae, visible in lateral view, covering laterally T2 and S2. 

Pubescence of T3-T5 consisting of silvery, sparse and long setae. Felt lines barely visible, 

1.42 longer than their distance from posterior margin of T2. 

Male. Unknown. 

Differential diagnosis. Thanks to the courtesy of our colleague Arkady Lelej, who provided 

us with an unpublished list of the African species identifi ed by him as belonging to the genus 

Macromyrme Lelej, 1984 (see LELEJ 1984, LELEJ & BROTHERS 2008) and previously placed 

within the genus Pycnotilla Bischoff, 1920, it was possible to exclude any identicality between 

the specimen from Socotra and its congenerics distributed in the Ethiopian realm. In fact, 

according to the keys given by BISCHOFF (1920: 182), the occurrence of features such as the

534 


uniformly red colour of head and mesosoma and the light-coloured pubescence on T3-T5 is 

indicated just for Mutilla rufoguttata Magretti, 1892 (now Macromyrme). We examined the 

type of this species, collected at Ogaden (Ethiopia) (MAGRETTI 1892) and kept at MSNG, and 

found it to differ strongly from M. bezdeki sp. nov. in the shape of mesosoma, particularly with 

regard to the distinguishing, irregular conformation of the lateral edges, as well as in the pattern 

of pubescence on T2, which is characterized by two smaller and more distanced silvery spots 

and by a posteromedially triangular silvery spot; also, a large silvery spot occurs on the posterior 

margin of T1, and the head is slightly narrower than mesosoma. The only representative 

of this genus so far known for Yemen is Macromyrme chrysophthalma, described based on a 

female collected at ‘Arabia felici’ (KLUG 1829: 19, Tab. 5, Fig. 3, as Mutilla; see also ANDRÉ 

1901: 283–285 for a detailed description of the species) and also recently recorded by LELEJ 

& HARTEN (2006). This species, a specimen of which kept at ZMAN (labelled ‘Yemen: near 

Sanaa / iii-iv.1998, PT / A. van Harten leg.’) has been examined, differs from M. bezdeki sp. 

nov. in the following main features: head remarkably broader than mesosoma; F1 as long as 

F2 and F3 together; pronotum less arched with well-marked angles; scutellar scale absent; T1 

without spot of pubescence in the middle of its posterior fringe; space between the two spots 

on T2 equal to one quarter of the width of each spot; golden-whitish pubescence forming 

spots on T2; T2 densely punctate; pygidial plate more widely striate longitudinally. 

Etymology. We are pleased to dedicate the new species to our colleague Jan Bezděk, who 

has greatly facilitated the study of the signifi cant entomological material collected during the 

Czech expeditions to Socotra. 

Zoogeographical notes. Although many uncertainties remain about the taxonomic affi nities 

within this genus, both Macromyrme bezdeki sp. nov. and M. chrysophthalma differ remarkably 

from the Palaearctic Macromyrme (see EL-TORKEY et al. 2011) and seem to be more 

related to the Ethiopian species. 

Genus Dentilla Lelej, 1980 in LELEJ & KABAKOV (1980) 

Dentilla purcharti sp. nov. 

(Figs. 6–10, 12) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Firmihin (Diksam plateau), 12°28.5′N, 54°01.1′E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Dixam plateau / Firmihin (Dracaena forest) / 12°28.5′ 

N, 54°01.1′ E, 490 m / J. Bezděk leg., 15-16.xi.2010’. PARATYPES: 6 ��, ‘YEMEN, Socotra island / Wadi Ayhaft / 

12°36.5′ N, 53°58.9′ E, 200 m / Jiří Hájek leg. 7-8.xi.2010’ (NMPC); 4 ��, ‘Socotra is. (YE) / Wadi Ayhaft 12°36.5′ N 

/ 53°58.9′ E, 200 m / J. Batelka leg. 7-8.xi.2010’ (NMPC); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Dixam plateau / Firmihin 

(Dracaena forest) / 12°28.5′ N, 54°01.1′ E, 490 m / Jiří Hájek leg., 15-16.xi.2010’ (NMPC); 3 ��, YEMEN, SOCOTRA 

Island / Dixam plateau / Firmihin (Dracaena forest) / 12°28.5′ N, 54°01.1′ E, 490 m / J. Bezděk leg., 15-16.xi.2010’ 

(NMPC); 2 ��, YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / Wadi Ayhaft / 12°36.5′ N, 53°58.9′ E, 200 m / J. Bezděk leg., 7-8.xi.2010’ 

(NMPC); 3 ��, ‘Republic of Yemen / Socotra isl., Firmihin plato / Dracena tree forest / N12°28′475″, E54°00′89830″ 

/ V. Hula lgt. 22-25.vi.2009’ (NMPC); 3 ��, ‘YEMEN, Socotra Isl., 4-5.vi / Qualentiah env., 2010 / slopes 5 km SE 

from Quaysoh / N 12°39.691′, E 053°26.658′ / V. Hula & J. Niedobová leg.’ (NMPC); 4 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island 

/ Dixam plateau / Firmihin (Dracaena forest) / 12°28.5′ N, 54°01.1′ E, 490 m / J. Bezděk leg., 15-16.xi.2010’ (NMPC); 

6 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA island / Kesa env., 220-300 m / N 12°39′37″, E 55°26′42″ / 28-29.i.2010 L. Purchart 

lgt.’ (NMPC); 2 ��, ‘Yemen, Socotra isl., Wadi Faar / GPS 12 433N, 54 195E, 65 m / 1.iv.2001 / leg. V. Bejček & K. 

Šťastný’ (NMPC); 1 �, ‘Yemen: Soqotra is., 21.xi-12.xii.2003 / HADIBOH env. / N 12°65′02″ E 54°02′04″ / 10-100 m 

[GPS]; Jan Farkač lgt.’ ‘YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král’ (NMPC);


Fig. 6. Habitus of Dentilla purcharti sp. nov. (holotype) in dorsal view. Scale bar = 1 mm. 

1 �, ‘Yemen: Soqotra is., 9-10.xii.2003 / Qalansiyah env. / N 12°38′50″ E 53°27′45″ / 85-592 m [GPS]; Jan Farkač lgt.’ 

‘YEMEN – SOQOTRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král’ (NMPC); 1 �, ‘Yemen Soqotra 

is., 24-26.xi.2003 / WADI AYHAFT / N 12°36′38″ E 53°58′49″ / 190 m [GPS]; Jan Farkač lgt.’ ‘YEMEN – SOQO- 

TRA 2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král’ (NMPC); 1 �, ‘Yemen, Soqotra is.; / 5-6.xii.2003 / 

Noged plain; QAAREH / (waterfall) / N 12°20′10″ E 53°37′58″ / 57 m [GPS]; Jan Farkač lgt.’ ‘YEMEN – SOQOTRA 

2003 / Expedition; Jan Farkač, / Petr Kabátek & David Král’ (NMPC); 2 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA Island / wadi Ayhaft 

/ 12°36.5′N 53°58.9′E, 200 m / P. Hlaváč leg., 7-8.xi.2010’ (NMPC); 11 ��, ‘N. Sokotra isld. / S. from Di Hamri / 

Rocap loc. / 26.iii.2009 / Saldaitis leg.’ (MRCI); 6 ��, ‘E. Sokotra Island, / Dishaall loc. / (Shey) / 16.i.2010 / Saldaitis 

leg.’ (MRCI); 12 ��, ‘N. Sokotra / Island, / Wadi Kam / 13.i.2010 / Saldaitis leg.’ (MRCI); 2 ��, ‘Sokotra Isld. / 

Ayhft valley / 22.xi.2008 / Saldaitiene & Saldaitis leg. ’ (MRCI); 8 ��, ‘N. Sokotra isld. / Qadab loc. / 25.iii.2009 / 

Saldaitis leg.’ (MRCI); 5 �� ‘N. E. Sokotra / Island / Wadi Difarroha / North side / 19.i.2010 / Saldaitis leg.’ (MRCI); 

2 �� ‘Sokotra isld. / Di Hamri loc. / 20-21.xi.2008 / Saldaitiene & Saldaitis leg. ’ (MRCI); 1 �, ‘Sokotra Island N. / 

Di Hamri env. / 1.iii.2008 / Saldaitis leg.’ (MRCI); 2 ��, ‘N. Sokotra / isld., Hills near / Hadibu / 21.iii.2009/ Saldaitis 

leg.’ (MRCI); 1 �, ‘Central part of / Sokotra Island, / Diksam loc. / 14.i.2010 / Saldaitis leg.’ (MRCI); 1 �, ‘Sokotra 

(Yemen) / Zam Hom / 7.iv.2008 at lamp / leg. A. Carapezza’ (MRCI); 4 ��, ‘N. Sokotra / isld., Haghier Mt. / Ayhft 

val[l]ey / 20.iii.2009 / Saldaitis leg.’ (MRCI); 1 �, ‘Sokotra Island N. / Haghier Mts. / h 900 m / near Dicksam loc. / 

05.iii.2008 / leg. A. Saldai[tis]’ (MRCI); 1 �, ‘Sokotra / Island W. / 30 km E. from / Qalansiya / 06.iii.2008 / leg. A. 

Saldaitis’ (MRCI); 1 �, ‘C. Sokotra / isld., Diksam / canyon / 23.iii.2009 / Saldaitis leg.’ (MRCI); 6 ��, ‘YEMEN,

536 


Figs. 7–14. 7 – Fore wing of Dentilla purcharti sp. nov. (holotype). Scale bar = 1 mm. 8–10 – Genitalia of D. purcharti 

sp. nov. (holotype) in dorsal, lateral and ventral view. Scale bar = 200 μm. 11 – Mandibles of D. ehrenbergi 

Lelej, 2006 (paratype). Scale bar = 200 μm. 12 – Mandibles of D. purcharti sp. nov. (paratype from Wadi Da’arho). 

Scale bar = 200 μm. 13 – Pygidial plate of D. arabica (Hammer, 1962). Scale bar = 200 μm. 14 – Pygidial plate of 

D. socotrana sp. nov. (holotype). Scale bar = 200 μm.


Socotra isl. / Zemhon area, 270-300 m / N12°20′56″, E054°06′39″ / 16-17.vi.2010 V. Hula leg.’ (PBHK); 1 �, ‘YEMEN, 

SOCOTRA island / Zemhon area, 270-350 m / N 12°30′58″, E 54°06′39″ / 3-4.ii.2010 / L. Purchart & J. Vybiral lgt.’ 

(PBHK); 7 ��, ‘YEMEN, SOCOTRA island E / Firmihin, 400-500 m / N 12°28′27″, E 54°00′54″ / 6-7.ii.2010, at 

light / L. Purchart & J. Vybiral lgt.’ (PBHK); 3 ��, ‘SOCOTRA: W. Da’arho / 21.ii.2009 – leg. P. Lo / Cascio & F. 

Grita’ (PLFG, MZUF); 1 �, ‘SAMHA I. (Socotra / Archipel.) 27.ii.09 leg. / P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita’ (PLFG); 3 ��, 

‘SOCOTRA: W. Ayheft / 28.ii-1.iii.2009 leg. P. / Lo Cascio & F. Grita’ (PLFG). 

Diagnosis. A male of Dentilla closely related to D. ehrenbergi Lelej, 2006, from which it 

differs mainly in the size of ocelli and their distance from occipital carina, the shape of eyes, 

mandibles, and apical margin of T7, the darkening spot on the fore wings, as well as in the 

colour of body and pubescence, and conformation of genitalia. 

Holotype description. Body length: 11.9 mm. Habitus as in Fig. 6. Head, including antennae, 

mandibles (except for the darkish apex) and palpi pale red, 1.14 wider than long and 0.88 

narrower than mesosoma, with strongly rounded posterior angles. Eyes large and bean-shaped, 

clearly protruding from head profi le and strongly convex, with small and blunt indent along 

inner margin, anteriorly reaching base of mandibles; posterior margin of eyes weakly but 

distinctly concave; ratio between maximum and minimum orbital diameter 1 : 0.74. Genae 

densely and irregularly punctate. Vertex surface densely punctate around ocelli, sparsely and 

irregularly punctate laterally and posteriorly, rugose forward the median ocellus. Ocelli large 

and globose; ratio between LOD and OOD 0.75 : 1; LOD 0.93 of maximum diameter of lateral 

ocellus; distance between lateral ocelli and occipital carina 1.73 LOD. Frontal carina almost 

unperceivable in upper part, forming straight and acute ridge between toruli. Scape slightly 

curved and compressed in third quarter, distinctly bicarinate beneath; ratio between scape, 

pedicel, F1, F2 and F3 1 : 0.19 : 0.41 : 0.77 : 0.70. Antennal sockets with arcuate carina. 

Clypeus deeply concave except in middle, with transversal carina close to lower margin and 

protruded in short and acute median tubercle; clypeal surface densely and fi nely punctate. 

Mandibles quadridentate with curved upper carina and large tooth beneath base. Both labial 

and maxillar palpi fl attened. 

Legs including calcaria and spurs red, paler than head and mesosoma, without salient 

characteristics. 

Mesosoma pale red. Pronotum with anterior margin slightly arched; maximum pronotal 

width 1.22 propodeal width on spiracle line. Scutum with well-developed parascutal carinae; 

surface sparsely foveolate. Propodeum surface areolate. Metasternal process with denticles. 

Metacoxae with inner carina. Tegulae slightly projecting over mesoscuto-scutellar suture; 

surface barely punctate, shining and very fi nely wrinkled. Wings hyaline with brown veins; 

fore wings as in Fig. 7, with infuscate belt at distal margin of veins, darker toward anterior 

margin, not reaching distal margin of wing; hind wings not infuscate. 

Metasoma black except for S1 and anterior part of T1 which are reddish, and S2 which is 

irregularly reddish streaked. T1 1.04 wider than its maximal length, 0.45 narrower than T2; 

surface sparsely but deeply punctate except for smooth median longitudinal narrow strip. T2 

surface shiny and punctate, with basal punctuation larger than apical one. T3–T6 sparsely 

punctate. Apical margin of T7 polygonal with rounded angles; surface almost scabrous with 

double punctuation, larger punctures arranged in groups, smaller widely and fi nely sparse. 

S1 with strongly punctate longitudinal carina, whose edge is irregularly shaped. S2 densely 

and regularly punctate.

538 


Head, mesosoma and metasoma with long scattered yellowish setae; fl agellomeres clothed 

by dense and very short yellow pubescence, scape with just longer yellow-reddish erect setae; 

clypeus densely covered by recumbent and short pubescence and with setae tuft on tubercle; 

mandibles with short and recumbent setae along edges; legs covered with long scattered yellowish 

setae, denser on median and posterior ones, and with dense and very short recumbent 

yellowish pubescence. Short and recumbent black setae on scutum, tegulae and T2. Mesosoma 

ventrally with erect yellowish setae, shorter than dorsal ones. T2–T6 and S2–S6 with yellowwhitish 

apical fringes of appressed setae. Felt lines on T2 and S2 golden; tergal felt lines 2.65 

longer than their distance from posterior margin and 2.4 than the sternal ones. 

Genitalia as in Figs. 8–10. 


Variability. The averages of length and proportions taken from paratypes from Socotra (N 

= 10) are shown in Tab. 1. Ratio between scape, pedicel, F1, F2 and F3 of the same sample 

ranges as 1 : 0.18–0.19 : 0.37–0.41 : 0.74–0.77 : 0.70. There are no substantial differences 

from the holotype, except for the occurrence of a small tubercle on metanotum which is more 

or less developed in some specimens. The small closed cell (oblongum) between the second 

medial and second radial sector occurring in the fore wings of holotype (see Fig. 7) is an 

inconstant character in this species. The length of paratype from Samha Island is 11.0 mm; 

head 1.09 wider than long; LOD 0.91 OOD; distance between lateral ocelli and occipital 

carina 1.27 LOD; T1 1.04 wider than long and 0.5 narrower than T2. 

Differential diagnosis. Dentilla purcharti sp. nov. is morphologically comparable with D. 

ehrenbergi, recently described from continental Yemen (LELEJ & HARTEN 2006). A paratype 

of the latter, kept at ZMAN and labelled ‘Yemen, Al Kowd / vii.2000 / A. v. Harten & S. Al 

Haruri, light trap’, has been compared with the specimens from Socotra. D. ehrenbergi differs 

from the new species in having ocelli slightly smaller and less globose, the lateral ones more 

distanced from occipital carina, and LOD equal to the maximum diameter of lateral ocellus; 

indent of the eye’s inner margin deeper and wider; eyes with posterior margin straight or just 

slightly concave; different shape of mandibles and their upper carina (Figs. 11–12; upper 

carina is indicated by the arrow); frons with deep longitudinal median furrow; T1 slender 

and thin; apical margin of T7 weakly rounded. Furthermore, the fore wings are infuscate on 

Table 1. Average length and ratios of some morphological characters in paratypes of D. purcharti sp. nov. A – length 

(in mm); B – ratio width/length of head; C – ratio width/length of T1; D – ratio LOD/OOD; E – ratio distance between 

lateral ocelli and occipital carina/LOD. SD = standard deviation; SE = standard error. 

A B C D E 

No. of specimens 10 10 8 10 10 

Average 9.80 1.21 1.13 0.74 1.33 

SD 1.80 0.12 0.13 0.09 0.23 

SE 0.60 0.04 0.05 0.03 0.07 

Minimum 6.90 1.10 0.91 0.57 0.90 

Maximum 12.30 1.50 1.33 0.93 1.66


their distal fourth; the red colour of head and mesosoma is paler; the tibial spurs are whitish; 

the pubescence is entirely silvery-whitish, and tegulae are glabrous and impunctated. Another 

species known from Yemen is D. testacea (Klug, 1829), of which we have examined a specimen 

kept at ZMAN (labelled ‘Yemen, Al Kowd, ii.2001 / A. v. Harten & S. Al Haruri / in 

light trap’), fi nding strong differences from D. purcharti sp. nov. such as shape and size of 

the head and the mandibles, pubescence pattern and uniform pale yellowish colour. Other two 

species, D. rasnitsyni Lelej, 2011 and D. zarudnyi Lelej, 1985, have been recently found in 

southern Arabian Peninsula (LELEJ & HARTEN 2011); both are characterized by T7 with straight 

apical margin, and the fi rst also by the distinguishing darkened apical half of fore and hind 

wings. Together with several others, the above mentioned morphological characters allow to 

exclude any affi nity with the new species. 

Etymology. The new species is dedicated to our colleague Luboš Purchart, authority in darkling 

beetles taxonomy and active researcher of the entomofauna of the Socotra Archipelago, 

as a token of esteem and friendship. 

Biological notes. Dentilla purcharti sp. nov. is undoubtedly the most common and widespread 

mutillid at Socotra, both geographically and phenologically. The species occurs from the 

coastal belt up to 1000 m a.s.l. and has been found in several different habitats, including 

sandy or rocky coastal plains, succulent and open deciduous shrublands of inland sheltered 

valleys, and Dracaena woodlands. Most of the collected specimens were attracted by light 

or captured in light traps; mutillids are in fact mainly nocturnal and crepuscular in the arid 

areas (see LELEJ & HARTEN 2011). Other traits of its biology are still unknown. 

Zoogeographical notes. The genus Dentilla has a Palaearctic distribution which is extended 

in the Oriental region to western India (Rajasthan), and its probable centre of speciation lies 

between the Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean (see LELEJ 2002, 2005). Its occurrence 

in southern Arabian Peninsula remained undetected until the recent contributions of LELEJ 

& HARTEN (2006, 2011), where new records for Arabia, Yemen, Oman and UAE are given, 

including some newly described species. The morphological affi nity between the new species 

and D. ehrenbergi from continental Yemen suggests that the differentiation between the two 

taxa can be due to an allopatric speciation originated from the geographic isolation. Its simultaneous 

occurrence on the islands of Socotra and Samha, for which it is known on the basis 

of a single specimen, can be explained by the same hypothesis expressed for Strangulotilla 

dioscoridea sp. nov., that involves the palaeogeographic relationships among both islands. 

Dentilla socotrana sp. nov. 

(Figs. 14–15) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Wadi Ayhaft, 12°36.5′N, 53°58.9′ E. 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: � (NMPC), ‘Socotra Is. (YE), Wadi Ayhaft / 12°36.5′ N – 53°58.9′ E, 200 m / Jan Batelka 

leg., 7-8.xi.2010’. PARATYPES: �, ‘Socotra: Homhil / 23-24.ii.2009 / leg. P. Lo Cascio & F. Grita’ (PLFG); �, ‘Yemen: 

Soqotra / Wadi Zerig, 8.iv.2008 / leg. B. Massa’ (PLFG). 

Diagnosis. A female of Dentilla belonging to the group that includes species without spots 

of pubescence on T2, head and mesosoma red. 

Holotype description. Body length: 5.6 mm. Habitus as in Fig. 15. Head pale red, roundish, 

1.14 broader than long and 0.9 narrower than pronotum. Surface of vertex shiny, with wide

540 


Fig. 15. Habitus of Dentilla socotrana sp. nov. (holotype) in dorsal and lateral view. Scale bar = 1 mm. 

and irregularly lacunose punctuation, while on occipital area surface is matt and rugose and 

punctuation is smaller; genae fi nely punctate. Eyes oval, large, clearly protruding from head 

profi le and strongly convex; maximum orbital diameter 0.6 of interocular distance; ratio 

between maximum and minimum orbital diameter 1 : 0.69. Clypeus with prominent upper 

carina, clearly visible from above, ending in shiny basal tubercle. Mandibles ferruginous, 

weakly curved, darkish in apical half. Antennae entirely pale reddish, with curved scapes. 

Mesosoma pale red, subrectangular, 1.14 longer than broad; pronotum just slightly arched, 

with sharp angles, less rounded and evanescent than posterior ones; lateral margins straight. 

Surface shiny, with punctuation larger and denser than head; in posterior half, interpuctual 

spaces very small but protruding in jagged denticles, aligned in arcuate rows parallel to back 

edge. Scutellar scale large and rounded. Pleurae with slightly rugose surface on mesopleural 

area. Propodeum feebly arched, without a distinct angle between propodeal and dorsal surface 

of mesosoma. 

Legs including calcaria pale red, without salient characteristics. 

Metasoma in holotype has lost the original black colour (see Variability) and became 

brown due to permanence in alcohol; metasoma 1.30 broader than mesosoma on its maximum 

width. T1 0.34 narrower than T2. Surface of T2 sparsely and fi nely punctate, dorsally


with variolate punctures that laterally are larger, denser, and sometime confl uent. Pygidial 

area as in Fig. 14. 

Pubescence on head yellowish, with recumbent and backward-facing short setae mostly 

on vertex; erect setae uniformly occurring, longer ones close to eyes and on occipital side; 

shorter erect setae occur also on clypeal margin and around upper carina, as well as on scapes, 

pedicels and F1, while all following fl agellomeres are just clothed by short pubescence. 

Mesosoma dorsally covered with recumbent pubescence, with long erect setae on lateral and 

posterior margins, shorter setae occur on dorsum and on pronotal margin. T2 with long erect 

scattered yellowish setae and black recumbent setae, sparsely covering surface; posterior 

margin covered by continuous yellowish-whitish fringe with short and recumbent setae, just 

slightly forward extended in middle. Pubescence of T3–T5 mixed between long erect and 

short recumbent yellowish-whitish setae. Felt lines golden, 1.35 longer than their distance 

from posterior margin of T2. 

Male. Unknown (see Remarks). 

Variability. Length range of paratypes 5.5–5.6 mm. Head 1.09–1.19 broader than long and 

0.87–0.91 narrower than pronotum. There are no substantial differences from the holotype, 

except for the colour of metasoma, which is black, and for the occurrence of long erect setae 

also on legs. 

Differential diagnosis. Dentilla socotrana sp. nov. is morphologically comparable only with 

D. arabica (Hammer, 1962), originally described from continental Yemen as Smicromyrme 

(HAMMER 1962) and recently placed in Dentilla by LELEJ & HARTEN (2006). After the examination 

of a specimen of D. arabica kept at ZMAN (labelled ‘Yemen, Wadi Bana / 24.X.1992 / 

A. van Harten’, det. A. Lelej), we can exclude with certainty the identicality between the new 

and the latter species, which differs in the following features: larger eyes, both in relation to 

the head size and in maximum orbital length; clypeus less pronounced and protruding; head 

in a lateral view truncated forward (more round-shaped in D. socotrana); mesosoma slightly 

narrowed in the anterior margin; surface of mesosoma fi nely and densely punctate; scutellar 

scale small and evanescent; propodeum more clearly truncated, with concave propodeal face; 

T2 less globose and slightly fl attened; small pubescent spot on basal fringe of T2; different 

streaks pattern on pygidial area (Fig. 13). 

Etymology. The specifi c epithet is based on the current name of the island where the species 

has been found. 

Biological notes. Data from labels indicate a broad phenology for this species, extended at 

least from November to April, and a wide distribution on the island. One of the specimens 

was collected at Homhil (about 1000 m a.s.l.) in a stony area subject to intensive grazing. 

Other traits of its biology are still unknown. 

Remarks. Dentilla socotrana sp. nov. is the only female belonging to this genus found at 

Socotra so far. Therefore, it cannot be excluded that it could represent the opposite sex of the 

above-described D. purcharti sp. nov. Since the faunistic knowledge of the Mutillidae of the 

study area is not exhaustive, however, further studies could reveal the occurrence of other 

species. Furthermore, as males and females of this family are highly dimorphic, it is strongly 

recommended to establish their proper association after a direct observation of mating pairs 

under natural conditions (see ROMANO 2004, MANLEY & PITTS 2007), rather than based on the 

assumption of their sympatry.

542 


Discussion 

The species list includes seven taxa, six of which are new for the archipelago. This result 

does not sound unexpected because, as already noted in the introduction, the faunal knowledge 

on Mutillidae was rather incomplete, even though they do not seem to be rare on the 

island as evidenced by the remarkable number of captured specimens belonging to Dentilla 

purcharti sp. nov. This family is characterized by a remarkable level of endemism, confi rming 

once more the importance of biological diversity of Socotra. Four of seven species (all those 

belonging to the subfamily Mutillinae) are likely to be endemic to this archipelago, even 

though a female species, Dentilla socotrana sp. nov., could represent the complementary 

sex of the male D. purcharti sp. nov., and in this case it would be treated as synonym of the 

latter. Conversely, further taxonomic studies are needed to clarify the status of the species 

within the genus Myrmilla recorded from Socotra. Endemics amounted to 57% of the whole 

fauna, a signifi cant percentage compared with data for the neighbouring continental areas 

(southern Arabian Peninsula, including Yemen, Oman, southern Saudi Arabia and UAE: 44%; 

Somalia: 37%; data extrapolated from LELEJ & HARTEN 2006, 2010, 2011; NONVEILLER 1996). 

A zoogeographic assessment of the mutillid fauna would be premature, based on current 

knowledge. Anyway, this group constitutes a fi tting example of the widely accepted zoogeographic 

views that consider the Socotran fauna more closely linked to the Ethiopian realm 

(WRANIK 2003): both Pseudophotopsidinae (Pseudophotopsis aurea and P. maura; the latter 

as Eremic element) and two Mutillinae (belonging to genera Strangulotilla and Macromyrme) 

can be clearly ascribed to this origin. On the contrary, Palaearctic elements seem to be surely 

represented only by species belonging to the genus Dentilla, which nevertheless includes 

also taxa exclusively distributed in the Eremic Zone (see LELEJ 2002). Further investigations 

may clarify some still unresolved taxonomic issues and improve the faunal knowledge, also 

with respect to the probable occurrence of mutillid wasps on the westernmost island of Abd 

al Kuri that so far has not been detected. 


We are sincerely grateful to the colleagues Sandrine A. Ulemberg and Willem Hogenes 

(ZMAN), Gavin Broad (BMNH), Roberto Poggi and Fabio Penati (MSNG), and Simon 

Van Noort (IMCT), who in various ways facilitated the examination of specimens for 

comparison; Bruno Massa (DEMETRA Department, University of Palermo, Italy), for 

giving us the specimens collected during his trip to the island; Petr Bogusch (University 

of Hradec Králové, Czech Republic), Jiří Hájek (NMPC), Luboš Purchart and Jan Bezděk 

(Mendel University, Brno, Czech Republic), who kindly sent us all the mutillids collected 

during the Czech entomological expeditions to Socotra; once more Jan Bezděk, for inviting 

us to publish here the results of our study. We thanks also Arkady S. Lelej (Institute 

of Biology and Soil Science, Vladivostok, Russia) and Toshko Ljubomirov (Institute of 

Zoology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofi a, Bulgaria) for their useful suggestions that 

improved the manuscript.


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A new species of the genus Gondwanoscurus, and 

two new records of non-biting moth fl ies (Diptera: 

Psychodidae: Psychodinae) from Socotra Island 

Jan JEŽEK 1) & Michal TKOČ 1,2) 


e-mail: jan.jezek@quick.cz 

2) Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Viničná 7, CZ-128 43 Praha 2, 

Czech Republic; e-mail: michaltkoc@gmail.com 

Abstract. Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. is described and fi gured. Specimens 

were collected on Socotra Island, Yemen. The genus Gondwanoscurus Ježek, 2002, 

with seven species (two from Peninsular Malaysia, two from Thailand and three from 

Sabah, North Borneo), was previously recorded only from the Oriental Region. In 

addition, two common species of moth fl ies are newly recorded for Socotra Island: 

Tinearia acanthostyla (Tokunaga, 1957) and T. alternata (Say, 1824). 

Key words. Paramormiini, Psychodini, Gondwanoscurus, Tinearia, new species, 

taxonomy, new records, Yemen, Socotra 

Introduction 

In general, non-phlebotomine Psychodidae from the Afrotropical Region remain very poorly 

known. DUCKHOUSE & LEWIS (1980) catalogued 100 species, and within the past 25 years, 

45 species were added (JEŽEK 2004). KVIFTE (2012) produced a catalogue of Afrotropical 

Psychodidae (exclusive of Phlebotominae) with 174 species. JEŽEK (2002) described the 

genus Gondwanoscurus from the Oriental Region including G. malaysiensis Ježek, 2002 

and redescribed the newly combined type species of the genus, G. mcclurei (Quate, 1962) 

from Malaysia (QUATE 1962). CURLER (2009) recognized the proposed genus and included 

additional new species: two from Thailand – G. cruciferus Curler, 2009 and G. ornithostylus 

Curler, 2009. He also transferred three species from the genus Telmatoscopus Eaton, 1904 to 

Gondwanoscurus: G. ejundicus (Quate, 1962), G. eximius (Quate, 1962) and G. praecipuus 

(Quate, 1962) – all from northern Borneo (Malaysia, Sabah). His revision of the genus Gondwanoscurus 

includes keys to males of the seven known species and females of four species. 



546 

JEŽEK & TKOČ: Non-biting moth fl ies from Socotra Island (Psychodidae) 

Here we describe Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. as the fi rst known representative of 

this genus from the Afrotropical Region. In addition we add two new records of Psychodidae 

for Socotra Island. 


Socotra Island is treated as part of the Aftropical Region here following the geographical 

delimitation of the zoogeographical regions used in the BioSystematic Database of World 

Diptera and the Afrotropical Diptera Catalogue (PAPE & THOMPSON 2010, DUCKHOUSE & LEWIS 

1980). Adults of Gondwanoscurus were collected by J. Hájek and J. Bezděk during 12.−13. 

xi.2010 using a non-automatic light trap and preserved in 70% EtOH. Specimens of Tinearia 

Schellenberg, 1803 were obtained by individual collecting with hands and an aspirator (J. Hájek 

and J. Bezděk; A. van Harten). Captured moth fl ies were mounted on slides (Canada balsam). 

The material is deposited in the National Museum, Natural History Museum, Department of 

Entomology, Prague, Czech Republic (NMPC). Slides were numbered in the NMPC with two 

separate series of numbers: Inv. No. = Inventory Slide Number of the family Psychodidae and 

Cat. No. = Catalogue Number of the slide. The catalogue numbers are used for the type material 

and historical specimens deposited in the NMPC Diptera collection. Microphotographs were 

captured with a digital camera mounted on a Nikon TS-100F trinocular eclipse microscope 

and printed. Outlines of pertinent characters were integrated into calligraphic pen pictures with 

Indian ink. The photographs were combined from multiple layers using Helicon Focus Pro 

5.2. The drawings and photographs were edited in CorelDRAW 12 and Corel PHOTO-PAINT 

12 graphic software. Wing indices are based on distances between the following points: A 

= tip of R 5 , B = radial fork, C= medial fork, D = tip of CuA 2 ; the distances are indicated by 

both extreme points. Maximum wing length is approximately equal to the distance from the 

line connecting the bases of the basal costal node and neala to the wing apex. Ratios of the 

lengths of the femur, tibia and fi rst tarsomere, and one of the fore, middle and hind legs are 

indicated by P 1 , P 2 and P 3 , respectively. Terminology used here follows STARK et al. (1999), 

JEŽEK et al. (2011) and OMELKOVÁ & JEŽEK (2012a,b). 

Taxonomy 

Gondwanoscurus Ježek, 2002 

Telmatoscopus auct., partim. (nec Eaton, 1904); QUATE (1962: 227); DUCKHOUSE (1973: 232). 

Gondwanoscurus Ježek, 2002: 6 (type species: Telmatoscopus mcclurei Quate, 1962); CURLER (2009: 21); CURLER 

& MOULTON (2012). 

The genus Gondwanoscurus was diagnosed by JEŽEK (2002) and consequently extended 

by CURLER (2009). The phylogenetic relationships in the tribe Paramormiinii are far from 

resolved, even the new molecular studies do not provide any fi nal resolution (see Discussion). 

Consequently, current generic relationships are also rather artifi cial and far from reality. 

The sister genus of Gondwanoscurus is thus unknown, however we provide comparison of 

important diagnostic characters with four other of many potentially related genera (Tab. 1).

arcuate 

number of retinacula 11−12 7−23 4−18 8−30 3−9 

surstylus (ratio means 

proportions of basal 

width to length) 

short (1:3), cone-shaped, 

straight 

from main stalk) 

short or long (1:4−10), 

cylindrical, mostly 

arcuate 

short or long (1:2.2−6), 

sometimes subequal 

in length to gonopods, 

conical, straight or 

short (1:1.8−4), arcuate short or long (1:3.5−6), 

arcuate 


Perakomyia 

Gondwanoscurus Neotelmatoscopus Nototelmatoscopus Eutelmatoscopus 

Ježek, 2010 

Ježek, 2002 

Tonnoir, 1933 

Satchell, 1953 


Type species Perakomyia sifneri Telmatoscopus mcclurei Telmatoscopus horai Telmatoscopus obscurus Telmatoscopus spiralifer 

Ježek, 2010 

Quate, 1962 

Tonnoir, 1933 


Tonnoir, 1953 

number of rows of setae two one one one one or two very closely 

alveoli above dorsal 

touched 

margins of eyes 

eye bridge not contiguous contiguous contiguous not contiguous not contiguous 

neck of the second short (as long as neck long (as long as two short (as long as neck short (as long as neck long (as long as two 

fl agellomere 

diameter) 

neck diameters) diameter or one half diameter) 

neck diameters) or very 

diameter) 

short, inconspicuous 

ascoids of fl agellomeres needle-shaped threadlike, multi- two to fi ve branched needle-shaped branch simple, sinuate 

branched 

insertions of ascoids paired multiple, arranged in multiple, arranged in multiple, arranged in paired 

a ring 

a ring 

a ring 

fl agellar nodes slightly asymmetrical conspicuously excentri- symmetrical slightly asymmetrical excentrically bulbous 

cally bulbous (a great 

width of one side) 

subcostal and cubital enlarged with a costal enlarged without a only sometimes broad enlarged without a not enlarged, costal cleft 

area of wing 

cleft behind; not broad costal cleft behind; very and enlarged, without a costal cleft behind; missing 

broad 

costal cleft behind broad or very broad 

placement of radial fork CuA basal to radial fork radial fork basal to CuA CuA basal to radial fork radial fork basal to CuA CuA basal to radial fork 

2 2 2 2 

2 

in relation to the apex 

or in the same level 

of CuA2 relative position of behind a level of the in a level of half of behind or before a level in a level of a half or slightly behind or before 

medial fork to the apex apex of CuA CuA of the apex of CuA one third of CuA a level of the apex of 

2 

2 

2 

2 

of CuA CuA 2 

2 

gonostylus simple, gradually ta- modifi ed from simple simple or bifurcate, simple, gradually simple, gradually 

pered from base to apex gonostylus (with swol- shape variable among tapered, sometimes with tapered, conspicuously 

len parts or basal-, medi- species 

two or three projections long and thin 

al- or apical bifurcation 

on the end 

Table 1. Intergeneric comparison of fi ve selected genera of subtribe Paramormiina with pertinent diagnostic characters (males).

548 


List of the Word species of the genus Gondwanoscurus 

G. cruciferus Curler, 2009 – Thailand 

G. ejundicus (Quate, 1962) (Telmatoscopus) – Malaysia: Sabah 

G. eximius (Quate, 1962) (Telmatoscopus) – Malaysia: Sabah 

G. malaysiensis Ježek, 2002 – Malaysia & Thailand 

G. mcclurei (Quate, 1962) (Telmatoscopus) – Malaysia 

G. ornithostylus Curler, 2009 – Thailand 

G. praecipuus (Quate, 1962) (Telmatoscopus) – Malaysia: Sabah 

G. socotrensis sp. nov. – Socotra Island, Yemen 

Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. 

(Figs. 1–33) 

Type locality. Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt., 1450 m a.s.l., 12°34.6′N 54°01.5′E (Fig. 34). 

Type material. HOLOTYPE: �, Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt., 1450 m a.s.l., 12°34.6′N 

54°01.5′E. 12.−13.xi.2010, at light, J. Hájek and J. Bezděk leg. (NMPC, slide Cat. No. 34568, Inv. No. 19769). 

PARATYPES: 14 �� and 13 ��, same data as holotype (NMPC), slides Cat. No. 34569−34595, Inv. No. 19770– 

19796 (allotype 34583/19784); Al Haghier Mts., wadi Madar, 1180−1230 m a.s.l., 12°33.2′N 54°00.4′E, 12.−14. 

xi.2010, at light, 3 �� and 23 ��, J. Hájek and J. Bezděk leg. (NMPC, slides Cat. No. 34596−34621, Inv. No. 

19797–19822). 

Description. Male. Eyes contiguous (Figs. 3, 4), touching for more than three facet diameters, 

facets hardly hexagonal or inconspicuously globular, eye-bridge of four facet rows, ratio of 

facet diameter to the width of basis of scape 1 : 3, vertex pyramidal, rounded, vertex ratio 

(width versus high) 2.4 : 1. Only one row of sockets of side setae above dorsal apices of 

eyes. Frontoclypeus with oval area of insertions of setulae, setula patch has dorso-ventral 

cleft. Antenna with 16 antennomeres. Scape cylindrical, 2.4 times as long as pedicel, pedicel 

almost globular (Fig. 24); fl agellomeres 2–13 with long necks, fl agellomere 1 amphora-shaped 

(Fig. 24), fl agellar nodes (2−12) conspicuously excentrically bulbous with great width of one 

side (Figs. 16, 24, 25), last two fl agellomeres with conical nodes, apical fl agellomere with 

asymmetrical side protuberance and terminal long digit (Fig. 16). Sensory fi laments (ascoids) 

of fl agellomeres multiple, arranged in ring (Fig. 25), threadlike, multibranched (3–6 arms). 

Length ratios of maxillary palpomeres 1.0 : 2.0 : 1.8 : 2.4, palpomere 4 thinest, cylindrical, 

annulate (Fig. 17), scales of maxillary palpomeres maculated (compare as well the scales 

of wing on Fig. 1, P 1 on Fig. 12, haltere on Fig. 19, surstylus on Fig. 31). Terminal lobes of 

labium bulbous (Fig. 5), with many sensory setae. Cibarium, labrum and epipharynx as in 

Fig. 18. Thoracic sclerites and spiraculum as in Figs. 10 and 11. 

Wings broadly lancet-shaped, 2.9 mm long (holotype), paratypes 2.4–3.0 mm, slightly 

clouded, rounded at apex, with well developed and enlarged cubital area (Fig. 1), membrane 

bare, with conspicuous infuscation patches at apices of longitudinal veins, in area between 

R 1 and C, at basis of R 2+3 , and between CuA 2 and hind margin of the wing. Radial fork 

complete, medial one incomplete (very faint connection of M 1 to M 2 ). Following veins or 

their parts strengthened: R 2+3 and R 2 , CuA 1 and CuA 2 , A 1 distad. Some parts of basal cell


Figs. 1–2. Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov., wing (1 – male; 2 – female). 

are more sclerotized. Basal costal wing node distinct, Sc uninterrupted, straight. CuA 1 

basally without connection to M 3 and to CuA 2 . R 5 extending distally and reaching wing 

margin slightly below wing apex. Veins r-r, r-m and m-m not developed. Wing 1.8 times 

as long as wide. Haltere 2.7 times as long as wide (Fig. 19). Length ratios of femora, tibiae 

and fi rst tarsomeres: P 1 = 1.7 : 2.0 : 1.0; P 2 = 1.9 : 2.5 : 1.2; P 3 = 2.0 : 2.9 : 1.2. Fore claws 

as in Fig. 27. 

Basal apodeme of male genitalia straight and narrow in dorsal view (Fig. 28), bent in 

lateral and diagonal view (proximal end rounded – Figs. 20, 29). Aedeagus simple with 

internal structures of characteristic shape (Figs. 20, 28, 29). Gonocoxites long and thin,

550 


Figs. 3–6. Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. 3 – head, male; 4 – frontal suture and facets, male; 5 – terminal 

lobes of labium, male; 6 – terminal (fourth) palpomere, female. 

Figs. 7–9. Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov., female. 7 – genital chamber ventrally; 8 – same, laterally; 9 – same, 

anteriorly.


Figs. 10–14. Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. 10 – lateral view of thoracic sclerites, male; 11 – thoracal spiracle, 

male; 12 – connection of tibia and fi rst tarsomere of P 1 with a botka laterally, male; 13 – ovipositor ventrally (from 

a slide), female; 14 – subgenital plate and genital chamber ventrally, female.

552 


Figs. 15–23. Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. 15 – head, female; 16 – apical antennomeres, male; 17 – maxilla 

and palpus maxillaris, male; 18 – cibarium, labrum and epipharynx, male; 19 – haltere, male; 20 – aedeagus and 

gonopod diagonally, male; 21 – end of surstylus ventrally (some retinaculi omitted), male; 22 – subgenital plate 

(from a slide, pressed), female; 23 – same laterally, female.


Figs. 24–33. Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. 24 – basal antennomeres, male; 25 – sensory area of a middle 

antennomere in detail, male; 26 – apical antennomeres (some ascoids on the empty sockets intentionally not fi gured), 

female; 27 – claw of P 1 , male; 28 – aedeagus and gonopods dorsally, male; 29 – aedeagus and gonopod laterally, 

male; 30 – epandrium and surstyli (ends with retinacula omitted), male; 31 – same laterally, male; 32 – surstylus 

laterally, male; 33 – cercus laterally, female.

554 


almost straight, gonostyli elongate, 1.2 times as long as gonocoxites, gradually tapering 

to apex, little bent, bifurcate, slightly tapered, digitiform, subequal in length (Figs. 20, 28, 

29). Epandrium with two irregularly formed fi elds of caudal insertions of setulae on both 

sides, hardly connected caudally, and two central circular openings (apertures) (Figs. 30, 

31). Caudal epandrial notch deep. Sclerotized remainders of 10th segment inside of epandrium 

developed and safely indicated, triangular from dorsal view (Fig. 30). Hypandrium 

little widened medially (Figs. 20, 28, 29). Epiproct linear, fold-shaped, hardly visible, 

hypoproct longly triangular, rounded, both parts with microtrichia (Fig. 30). Surstylus 

cylindrical, 3.7 times as long as its basal diameter (with a small protuberance), bent from 

lateral view, straight from dorsal one (Figs. 30, 32), 23 retinacula subapically, not frazzled 

(Figs. 21, 32). 

Female. Eyes contiguous (Fig. 15), vertex pyramidal, vertex ratio (width and high) 2.6 : 

1, frontoclypeal area of insertions of setulae as in male, however, near tentorial pits expanding 

to small obtuse corners. Sensory fi laments (ascoids) of fl agellomeres multiple (Fig. 26). 

Palpomere 4 annulate, scales maculate (Fig. 6). 

Wings narrowly lancet-shaped, 3.0 mm long (allotype 2.5 mm, paratypes 2.2–3.0 mm), 

slightly clouded, rounded at apex, cubital area not enlarged (Fig. 2), membrane bare, with 

conspicuous infuscation patches at apices of longitudinal veins, in area between R 1 and C, 

at basis of R 2+3 . Radial fork complete, longly triangular, medial one with almost very imperceptible 

wide connection of M 1 to M 2 . Following veins or their parts strengthened: Sc, CuA 1 

and CuA 2 , A 1 distad. Some parts of basal cell are more sclerotized. Basal costal wing node 

distinct, Sc uninterrupted, straight. CuA 1 basally without connection to M 3 and to CuA 2 . R 5 

extending distally and reaching wing margin slightly below wing apex. Wing 2.1 times as 

long as wide. 

Genitalia as fi gured (Figs. 7−9, 13−14, 22−23, 33). Subgenital plate bilobed (Figs. 14, 

22−23), with deep caudal concavity, with microtrichia, many scales and setae; complicated 

sclerotized forms of genital chamber with wartlike structures (Figs. 7−9, 14). Cerci short, 

triangular, rounded caudaly, setose (Figs. 13, 33), connected by wrinkled membrane (Fig. 

13). 

Differential diagnosis. Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. (�) has vertex ratio 2.4 : 1 

(width and high); the end of R 4 is above rounded wing apex; scales of palp segments, wings, 

legs, halteres and surstyli are maculated; hypandrium widened medially; gonostyli elongate, 

gradually tapering to apex, bifurcate apically, rami digitiform, subequal in length; aedeagus 

simple, with one short pointed part inside of a sheath. G. malaysiensis differs by vertex ratio 

1.8 : 1; the end of R 4 is in pointed apex of wing; scales of palpomeres, wings, legs and surstyli 

are without maculation; hypandrium narrow; gonostyli with broad semiglobular basal portion, 

cylindrical medial portion, and abruptly narrowed at the beginning very narrow terminal 

portion; aedeagal complex composed from three free long pointed parts, trowel-shaped in 

lateral view. 

Etymology. The new species name (adjective) is based on the name of the island where it 

was collected. 

Biology and collecting circumstances. Unknown. The individuals were caught at light. 

Distribution. Socotra Island.


Figs. 34–35. Socotran localities. 34 – Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., Scant Mt., 1450 m a.s.l., 12°34.6′N 

54°01.5′E, type locality of Gondwanoscurus socotrensis sp. nov. 35 – Yemen, Socotra Island, Al Haghier Mts., 

wadi Madar, 1180–1230 m a.s.l., 12°33.2′N 54°00.4′E, a detail of the habitat, a typical dry shrubby slopes, biotopes 

suitable for light trapping. Photos by J. Suchomel (November 2010).

556 


New records 

Tinearia acanthostyla (Tokunaga, 1957) 

Material examined. YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadibo, 1 �, 3.–6.x.1998, A. van Harten leg., slide Inv. No. 8826 

(NMPC). 

Distribution. Cape Verde Islands, India, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Ryukyu Islands, Malaysia, 

‘Borneo’, Philippines, New Guinea, New Ireland, Micronesian Islands. First record from 


Tinearia alternata (Say, 1824) 

Material examined. YEMEN: SOCOTRA ISLAND: Hadibo, 1 �, 3.–6.x.1998, A. van Harten leg., slide Inv. No. 

8825 (NMPC); same, Hadibo, Taj Socotra Hotel (WC), 13 �� 5 ��, 8.–17.xi.2010, J. Bezděk leg., slides Inv. No. 

19823–19840 (NMPC). 

Distribution. Cosmopolitan species. First record from Socotra Island. 

Discussion 

The Psychodidae fauna of Socotra Island is currently represented by three species. Futher 

new records are still possible, because the records mentioned here are rather occasional. Tinearia 

acanthostyla and T. alternata are facultative synantrophic species, while Gondwanoscurus 

socotrensis sp. nov. was found in the presumably obligatory natural habitat. 

Gondwanoscurus was included with select other psychodine genera in a phylogenetic analysis 

of psychodid subfamilies by CURLER & MOULTON (2012). Relationships of Gondwanoscurus 

to other Paramormiine genera were discussed, and it was suggested that Gondwanoscurus is 

a sister group of other Paramormiini included in the analysis. 


Thanks are due at fi rst to Jiří Hájek (NMPC) and Jan Bezděk (Mendel University, Brno, 

Czech Republic) who kindly gave us their material on moth fl ies collected in Socotra. Gregory 

R. Curler (the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA) and Rüdiger Wagner (University 

of Kassel, Germany) are greatly acknowledged for their comprehensive rewiev. We are also 

obliged to our friend Antony van Harten (Vaiamonte, Portugal) for an additional material of 

moth fl ies from Socotra Island. For sending copies of important literature we thank Gunnar 

Kvifte (University of Bergen, Norway). Petr Kment (NMPC) provided constructive comments 

on the manuscript. Habitat photographs were provided by Josef Suchomel (Mendel University, 

Brno, Czech Republic). This work was fi nancially supported by Ministry of Culture of 

the Czech Republic (DKRVO 00023272) and by Institutional Research Support grant No. 

SVV-2012-265 206 (to Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in 

Prague).


References 

CURLER G. R. 2009: A revision of the genus Gondwanoscurus Jezek (Diptera: Psychodidae). Zootaxa 2169: 

21–34. 

CURLER G. R. & MOULTON J. K. 2012: Phylogeny of psychodid subfamilies (Diptera: Psychodidae) inferred 

from nuclear DNA sequences with a review of morphological evidence for relationships. Systematic Entomology 

37: 603–616. 

DUCKHOUSE D. A. 1973: Family Psychodidae. Pp. 226–244. In: DELFINADO M. D. & HARDY D. E. (eds.): 

A catalog of the Diptera of the Oriental Region. Volume I. Suborder Nematocera. The University Press of Hawaii, 

Honolulu, 618 pp. 

DUCKHOUSE D. A. & LEWIS D. J. 1980: 3. Family Psychodidae. Pp. 93–105. In: CROSSKEY R. W. (ed.): Catalogue 

of the Diptera of the Afrotropical Region. British Museum (Natural History), London, 1437 pp. 

EATON A. A. 1904: New genera of European Psychodidae. Entomological Magazine 15: 55–59. 

JEŽEK J. 2002: New and interesting moth fl ies (Diptera, Psychodidae) from Malaysia. Časopis Národního Muzea, 

Řada přírodovědná 170 (2001): 3–18. 

JEŽEK J. 2004: New taxa of non-biting moth fl ies (Diptera, Psychodidae, Psychodinae, Paramormiini) from Madagascar. 

Pp. 57–68. In: BITUŠÍK P. (ed.): Dipterologica Bohemoslovaca, Vol. 12. Acta Facultatis Ecologiae 

12(Supplementum 1): 1–162. 

JEŽEK J., LE PONT F., MARTINEZ E. & MOLLINEDO S. 2011: Three new species of non-biting moth fl ies (Diptera: 

Psychodidae: Psychodinae) from Bolivia, with notes on higher taxa of the subfamily. Acta Entomologica 

Musei Nationalis Pragae 51: 183–210. 

KVIFTE G. M. 2012: Catalogue and bibliography of Afrotropical Psychodidae: Bruchomyiinae, Psychodinae, 

Sycoracinae and Trichomyiinae. Zootaxa 3231: 29–52. 

OMELKOVÁ M. & JEŽEK J. 2012a: Two new species of Pneumia Enderlein (Diptera, Psychodidae, Psychodinae) 

from the Palaearctic region. Zootaxa 3180: 1–18. 

OMELKOVÁ M. & JEŽEK J. 2012b: Two new species of Philosepedon Eaton (Diptera, Psychodidae, Psychodinae) 

from Europe, with comments on subgeneric classifi cation. Zootaxa 3275: 29–42. 

PAPE T. & THOMPSON F. C. (eds.) 2010: Systema Dipterorum, Version 1.0. Available at http://www.diptera.org/, 

accessed on 25 May 2012. 

QUATE L. W. 1962: The Psychodidae of Batu Caves, Malaya (Diptera). Pacifi c Insects 4: 219–234. 

STARK J., BONACUM J., REMSEN J. & DE SALLE R. 1999: The evolution and development of Dipteran wing 

veins: a systematic approach. Annual Review of Entomology 44: 97–129.

558 


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