Monograph |
Corresponding author: Olof Biström ( olof.bistrom@helsinki.fi ) Academic editor: Martin Fikácek
© 2015 Olof Biström, Anders N. Nilsson, Johannes Bergsten.
This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Citation:
Biström O, Nilsson AN, Bergsten J (2015) Taxonomic revision of Afrotropical Laccophilus Leach, 1815 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae). ZooKeys 542: 1-379. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.542.5975
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The African species of the genus Laccophilus Leach, 1815, are revised, on the basis of study of adult specimens. In all, 105 species are now recognized. A phenetic character-analysis was undertaken, which resulted in a split of the genus into 17 species groups. Diagnoses and a description of each species are given together with keys for identification of species groups and species. We also provide habitus photos, illustration of male genitalia and distribution maps for all species. New species are described as follows: L. grossus sp. n. (Angola, Namibia), L. rocchii sp. n. (Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique), L. ferrugo sp. n. (Mozambique), L. furthi sp. n. (Madagascar), L. isamberti sp. n. (Madagascar), L. inobservatus sp. n. (Gambia, Senegal, Mali, Niger, Sudan, Chad, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Zaire and Asia: Yemen), L. cryptos sp. n. (Zaire, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa), L. enigmaticus sp. n. (Nigeria, Sudan), L. bellus sp. n. (Benin, Nigeria), L. guentheri sp. n. (Guinea, Ghana), L. guineensis sp. n. (Guinea), L. decorosus sp. n. (Uganda), L. empheres sp. n. (Kenya), L. inconstans sp. n. (Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon), L. brancuccii sp. n. (Central African Republic), L. incomptus sp. n. (Cameroon), L. australis sp. n. (Tanzania, South Africa), L. minimus sp. n. (Namibia), L. eboris sp. n. (Ivory Coast), L. insularum sp. n. (Madagascar), L. occidentalis sp. n. (Gambia, Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Zaire) and L. transversovittatus sp. n. (Madagascar). L. restrictus Sharp, 1882, is restored as good species; not junior synonym of L. pictipennis Sharp, 1882. New synonyms are established as follows: L. continentalis Gschwendtner, 1935 = L. perplexus Omer-Cooper, 1970, syn. n., L. taeniolatus Régimbart, 1889 = L. congener Omer-Cooper, 1957, syn. n., L. adspersus Boheman, 1848 = L. vitshumbii Guignot, 1959, syn. n. = L. adspersus nigeriensis Omer-Cooper, 1970, syn. n. = L. adspersus sudanensis Omer-Cooper, 1970, syn. n., L. modestus Régimbart, 1895 = L. espanyoli Hernando, 1990, syn. n., L. flaveolus Régimbart, 1906 = L. pampinatus Guignot, 1941, syn. n., L. trilineola Régimbart, 1889 = L. simulator Omer-Cooper, 1958, syn. n., L. mediocris Guignot, 1952 = L. meii Rocchi, 2000, syn. n., L. epinephes Guignot, 1955 = L. castaneus Guignot, 1956, syn. n., L. saegeri Guignot, 1958 = L. comoensis Pederzani & Reintjes, 2002, syn. n., L. restrictus Sharp, 1882 = L. evanescens Régimbart, 1895, syn. n., L. incrassatus Gschwendtner, 1933 = L. virgatus Guignot, 1953, syn. n., L. cyclopis Sharp, 1882 = L. shephardi Omer-Cooper, 1965, syn. n., L. burgeoni Gschwendtner, 1930 = L. wittei Guignot, 1952, syn. n., L. secundus Régimbart, 1895 = L. torquatus Guignot, 1956, syn. n., L. desintegratus Régimbart, 1895 = L. sanguinosus Régimbart, 1895, syn. n. and L. flavopictus Régimbart, 1889 = L. bergeri Guignot, 1953, syn. n. = L. segmentatus Omer-Cooper, 1957, syn. n. Lectotypes are designated for the following taxa: L. productus Régimbart, 1906, L. ruficollis Zimmermann, 1919, L. sordidus Sharp, 1882, L. alluaudi Régimbart, 1899, L. pictipennis Sharp, 1882, L. wehnckei Sharp, 1882, L. continentalis Gschwendtner, 1935, L. simplicistriatus Gschwendtner, 1932, L. complicatus Sharp, 1882, L. rivulosus Klug, 1833, L. ampliatus Régimbart, 1895, L. pilitarsis Régimbart, 1906, L. adspersus Boheman, 1848, L. livens Régimbart, 1895, L. modestus Régimbart, 1895, L. nodieri Régimbart, 1895, L. flaveolus Régimbart, 1906, L. pallescens Régimbart, 1903, L. restrictus Sharp, 1882, L. vermiculosus Gerstaecker, 1867, L. mocquerysi Régimbart, 1895, L. bizonatus Régimbart, 1895, L. tschoffeni Régimbart, 1895, L. persimilis Régimbart, 1895, L. poecilus Klug, 1834, L. lateralis Sharp, 1882, L. lateralis var. polygrammus Régimbart, 1903, L. cyclopis Sharp, 1882, L. shephardi Omer-Cooper, 1965, L. conjunctus Guignot, 1950, L. grammicus Sharp, 1882, L. flavoscriptus Régimbart, 1895, L. flavosignatus Régimbart, 1895, L. brevicollis Sharp, 1882, L. secundus Régimbart, L. desintegratus Régimbart, 1895, L. gutticollis Régimbart, 1895, L. luctuosus Sharp, 1882 and L. inornatus Zimmermann, 1926. Laccophilus remex Guignot, 1952, comprises a species complex with uncertain taxonomic delimitation; the complex includes L. concisus Guignot, 1953, L. turneri Omer-Cooper, 1957 and L. praeteritus Omer-Cooper, 1957, as tentative synonyms of L. remex Guignot, 1952.
Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Laccophilus, Africa, Madagascar, taxonomy, revision, description, new species
The genus Laccophilus Leach, 1815 is by far the most species rich genus among Laccophilinae. The most recent world catalogue (
The study material, numbering almost 11000 adult specimens, comes from a number of institutions, museums and private collections. These are referred in the text by the following abbreviations:
AMGS Albany Museum, Grahamstown, South Africa (Ferdinand de Moor and Helen James)
BMNH The Natural History Museum, London, UK (Christine S. Taylor)
CAS California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, USA
CCT Collection Clive Turner, Plymouth, UK
CFP Collection Fernando Pederzani, Ravenna, Italy
CGC Collection Gilbert Challet, Celonova, Foothill Ranch, California, USA
CGF Collection Garth Foster, Ayr, Scotland (UK)
CGW Collection Günther Wewalka, Vienna, Austria
CIR Collection Ignacio Ribera, Barcelona, Spain
CSR Collection Saverio Rocchi, Firenze, Italy
HNHM Hungarian Natural History Museum, Budapest, Hungary
IRSNB Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique, Brussels, Belgique (Martina Peeters and Patrick Grootaert)
MHNG Museum d’Histoire Naturelle, Geneva, Switzerland (Giulio Cuccodoro)
MNHN Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (Antoine Mantilleri)
MRAC Musée Royal de l’Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, Belgique (Marc De Meyer)
MSNM Museo Civico di Storia Naturale, Milan, Italy (Fabricio Rigato)
MZBS Museo de Zoologia, Barcelona, Spain (Gloria Masó, via Ignacio Ribera)
MZH Museum Zoologicum (Finnish Museum of Natural History), Helsinki, Finland
MZLU Zoological Museum, Lund, Sweden (Roy Danielsson)
MZUL Museo di Zoologia dell’Università, La Sapienza, Roma, Italy (Maurizio Mei)
NHMB Naturhistorisches Museum, Basel, Switzerland (the late Michel Brancucci and Matthias Borer)
NHRS Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet, Stockholm, Sweden (the late Bert Wiklund)
NMNW National Museum, Windhoek, Namibia [Comment: Specimens attributed to this museum are temporarily in Berlin, ZMHB]
NMPC National Museum (Natural History), Prague, Czech Republic (Jirí Hájek)
NMW Naturhistorisches Museum, Vienna, Austria (Manfred Jäch)
OLML Oberösterreichisches Landesmuseum, Linz, Austria (Fritz Gusenleitner and Claudia Reitstätter)
RMNH Nationaal Natuurhistorische Museum (Naturalis), Leiden, the Netherlands (A. van Assen)
SAMC Iziko Museum of Cape Town, South Africa (Margie Cochrane and Dawn Larsen)
SMNS Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde, Stuttgart, Germany
TAU Tel Aviv University, Israel (Netta Dorchin and Leonid Friedman)
TMSA Transvaal Museum, Pretoria, South Africa (Ruth Müller)
USNM National Museum of Natural History, Washington D.C., USA (David G. Furth)
ZMHB Museum für Naturkunde der Humboldt-Universität, Berlin, Germany (Manfred Uhlig)
ZMSC Zoologische Staatssammlung, München, Germany (Martin Baehr)
ZMUC Zoological Museum, Copenhagen, Denmark (Alexey Solodovnikov)
Names in brackets in the list above refer to colleagues responsible for arrangements of loans.
The material studied is given for each species in a separate section, where relevant countries are arranged from west to east and north to south.
Species geographical records were provided with decimal degree latitude and longitude coordinates whenever possible (Suppl. material
The study material consists both of dry, pinned specimens as well as specimens preserved in ethanol. For study of the genitalia dry specimens were treated as follows. Examined specimen was softened in hot water for some minutes. After that the apical ventrite was detached and the genitalia were released from surrounding, hardened tissue. Often the hardened tissue needed to be treated in a heater-device for about 10 minutes in 10% KOH solution. The genitalia were than washed in water baths and prepared for illustrations. Drawings were made using a Wild M 11 microscope provided with a camera lucida. The cleaned male genitalia were put in a drop of glycerine on a slide for the illustration-process. After this the genitalia and the detached apical ventrite were mounted on a card together with the specimen. Wet specimens were treated in same manner as dry specimens. If the wet specimen studied was still preserved as wet, the genitalia were placed in a microvial together with the specimen. Penis and paramere were illustrated either detached in two pieces or undetached, together in one piece, depending on what was accessible.
Illustrations of external body-parts were made using a Wild M 5 -microscope provided with a camera lucida.
Habitus photos were taken with a Canon EOS 5D Mark II DSLR camera with a supermacro MPE-65 mm f/2.8 1–5× lens and mounted on a stackshot motorized rail from Cognisys. For light the macro twin-head flash MT-24EX was used with homemade light diffusors both directly on the flash heads and as a cylinder around the specimen. Extended focus was achieved with focusstacking technique with between 6 and 20 photos taken for each specimen. The motorized Stackshot rail was controlled via the software Zerene Stacker (Version 1.04 Build T201402072140, Zerene Systems, LLC). Focus range was assessed with live view images delivered by EOS Utility (Version 2.14.10, Canon INC). All species were photographed with the MPE-65 lens set at 3:1 magnification. The PMax algorithm in Zerene Stacker under default settings was used to create an extended focus image from the original stack of photos. Postediting of images was done in Adobe Photoshop CS5 Extended (Version 12.1 x64, Adobe Systems Incorporated) where also a scale was added using a calibration file.
Species geographical records were provided with decimal degree latitude and longitude coordinates whenever possible. Named geographical units were identified on the Microsoft Encarta Premium Suite (version 2003) world map when present. Other sources for the geographical position of named units include published expedition reports, vintage atlases and google search. Records providing only general information like names of regions and countries were not provided with coordinates. Other problematic cases include redundant names without discriminating information. For each species a list of records expressed as decimal degree latitude and longitude coordinates were added to a basemap layer provided by ESRI using ArcGIS 10 and WGS 1984 projection.
The species groups used in this revision are based on the phenetic analysis presented on p. 12. Within the species groups the species are ordered on the basis of morphological similarity.
(by monotypy). Dytiscus minutus Linnaeus, 1758.
Laccophilus Leach, 1815: 84 (673 alternative page number) (original description);
According to
Body parameters: Length of body 2.8–6.0 mm, width 1.5–3.4 mm. Shape somewhat variable, elongate to oval, rarely sub-cylindrical (Fig.
Microsculpture and reticulation of two different kinds: Simple (meshes equally large, almost uniform, no size categories of meshes distinguished) and double (meshes of two kinds; size categories distinguished). When distinctly double, body covered with large meshes which generally contain a various number (2–8) of fine (less pronounced) meshes. Commonly, lines of large meshes in part reduced and weakly developed; sometimes almost absent and only discerned as fragments/rudiments. Less commonly, lines of finer meshes are reduced and difficult to discern within larger meshes. Sometimes mesh-categories in part mixed and microsculpture appears indistinct or absent while distinct in another location of same specimen. Rarely meshes of microsculpture elongated, being comparatively long in relation to breadth. Dorsal surface of body shiny to mat. Large parts of body in ventral-aspect with very fine, simple and slightly undulate linear microsculpture, which can be reduced, in part absent. Punctures on dorsal surface of body generally sparse and concentrated to various regions. Head at eyes with fine and irregular punctures. Punctures at area of head often enlarged narrowly towards head-centre, forming a sparse, transverse row of punctures connecting ocular punctuate areas. On pronotum fine punctures often discernible, especially at pronotal margins. Elytra with fine, irregular, longitudinal rows of punctures often discernible on disc, dorsoventrally and laterally. Ventral surface largely lacking punctures. Apical ventrite, however, generally with scattered, fine punctures. Lateral, pre-apical furrow of elytra generally distinct and pubescent.
Ventral aspect: Prosternal process slender, often strongly extended posteriorly and apically pointed (Figs
Legs: Male pro-and mesotarsus slightly enlarged and provided with suckers, length of which is variable (Fig.
Sexes: Similar but males provided with pro- and mesotarsal suckers. Male apical ventrites in many species groups more strongly modified than in female; often asymmetric with one-side lateral knob on apical ventrite. Rarely female epipleuron with intraspecific, partial enlargement (Fig.
Global distribution covering all continents but Antarctica. According to the world catalogue 263 species recognized (
In Africa the genus occurs in all kinds of freshwater habitats. Often collected in quite shallow water with sparse vegetation on sandy-clay-bottom, e.g. in drinking pools for domestic animals. No comprehensive work on ecology of Laccophilus exists. Scattered information can be obtained by scrolling through faunistic literature, here listed. Additional sparse information on ecology is documented on many collecting labels. Experiences from Madagascar by the last author gives Laccophilus as one of the most ubiquitously occurring dytiscid genera. Different species have been found from sea level up to an altitude of over 2000m. Laccophilus inhabits many types of both lotic and lentic waters with different species and species groups more specialized. The L. alluaudi species group for example contains typical lotic species. The group is characteristic of small to medium-size canopy-covered rainforest streams with sandy or gravel bottoms lacking vegetation but collecting dead leaves at margins. Species from other groups like the L. taeniolatus group are often very abundant in red-clayish ponds visited by zebu cattle. The L. leonensis group can be found in vegetation-rich forest swamps and marshes or at margins of slow flowing vegetated sections of open landscape meandering rivers. When taken out of the water and put on dry land and when disturbed they can jump distances at least 20x their own body length. The behavior has not been studied in detail and could be both an anti-predatory escape behavior or used when semipermanent streams or side pools gradually dry out and the beetle can without flying move sideways or downstream to new habitats.
As larval morphology is known only for six of the 13 genera of Laccophilinae (
Larvae of only a few Afrotropical Laccophilus species have been described so far, and most of the descriptions are not very detailed. As already mentioned,
The pupal stage has been described briefly for selected Laccophilus species by
The present revision of the genus Laccophilus focuses on the species occurring in the African mainland and Madagascar with its neighbour islands. Accordingly, from this standpoint no thorough analysis of the phylogeny of the genus is therefore possible. About 60% of the recognized species-bulk is distributed outside Africa on various other continents. Plans for future, however, include a phylogenetic survey of the whole genus on a global basis in which both morphological characters and molecular data will be considered. The forthcoming study will also focus on groups of species recognized in the genus Laccophilus.
Despite problems in understanding Laccophilus systematics at a global level a division of the genus in different species groups only for Africa including Madagascar is justified and can be motivated by practical reasons. Management of a total 105 species can be quite demanding without division in practical groups. The survey here undertaken does not count on detection of synapomorphies for delimitation of monophyletic groups, but is based on simple similarity (presence of shared characters). Below, recognized and examined characters are briefly described and discussed. Three additional Laccophilinae genera are included in the survey: Philodytes J. Balfour-Browne, 1939, Neptosternus Sharp, 1882, and Philaccolus Guignot, 1937.
The recognized groups of species in African Laccophilus, introduced in this revision do not coincide well with those presented by
In Table
Species groups and outgroups scored for characters 1-10 discussed in the text.
Species group/character numbers | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
sp.gr. 1 (morondavensis) | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
sp.gr. 2 (ruficollis) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
sp.gr. 3 (hyalinus) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1/2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
sp.gr. 4 (alluaudi) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
sp.gr. 5 (isamberti) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
sp.gr. 6 (pictipennis) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
sp.gr. 7 (taeniolatus) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
sp.gr. 8 (immundus) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
sp.gr. 9 (pellucidus) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
sp.gr. 10 (adspersus) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
sp.gr. 11 (deceptor) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
sp.gr. 12 (poecilius) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
sp.gr. 13 (lineatus) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
sp.gr. 14 (desintegratus) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
sp.gr. 15 (luctuosus) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
sp.gr. 16 (leonensis) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
sp.gr. 17 (laeticulus) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Philodytes | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
Neptosternus | 2 | 1 | 1? | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
Philaccolus | 2 | 1 | 1? | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Apices of metatibial spurs bifid (Fig.
The bifid spurs have total coverage in Laccophilus, all species exhibiting the feature. In all other Laccophilinae genera the corresponding spines are pointed and most probably bifid spines are a derived character, which indicates the genus Laccophilus is monophyletic. However among species outside Africa
Body in posterior half dorso-ventrally somewhat flattened (Fig.
The dorso-ventrally flattened body is widely distributed in Laccophilinae and also present in all but one species group of Laccophilus. Accordingly, the feature could represent a plesiomorphy while the subcylidrical body-shape is a synapomorphy, characteristic of the L. morondavensis species group.
Microsculpture of dorsal body surface simple (1) / Double, mixed (2).
Simple microsculpture indicates reticulation on body, where the meshes are similar in size and shape. No size-categories can be distinguished between meshes, neither are there differences in their qualitative feature – the meshes form a smooth coverage on body surface. Double microsculpture means that there are two kinds of reticulation mixed on same location; large meshes and small meshes. The large meshes are generally more strongly impressed in the body surface than the small ones. A large mesh encloses often a number of small meshes, which can vary in number between 2 and 8. Reduction of meshes occurs often in regard of large meshes but can also be the case for small meshes. When reduced, the meshes are either in part or totally lacking. In such cases fragments of meshes can be detected, mixed with complete meshes of different kind. Sometimes mesh-categories appear variable so that division in size-classes is impossible. Rarely the meshes are deformed and their shape is elongate. Two species groups of African Laccophilus have simple microsculpture (i.e. L. morondavensis and L. desintegratus species groups), while 15 species groups seem to have double, by the above definition.
Metacoxal plates have a stridulatory file (Fig.
The stridulatory file is a semicircular device which is formed by densely located ridges on the metacoxal plate. The function of it has not been thoroughly studied and possible sound has not been heard, nor recorded. In African Laccophilus both sexes seem to have the device when present. Presumable use of it can be related to intraspecific communication but it may also be used e.g. in defence against predators. Three species groups of African Laccophilus exhibit this feature. In one group (L. hyalinus species group) with a modest number of species, only two species have it. In the two remaining species groups (L. leonensis and L. laeticulus species groups) all representatives are provided with it. In the latter species group the file, however, is very weakly developed and may be rudimentary and out of function. A similar stridulatory device is also present in other Laccophilinae genera, e.g. in genus Philaccolus while lacking in e.g. Philodytes.
Abdominal ventrites provided with sparse, somewhat curved striae (Fig.
All African Laccophilus species have a number of sparse, curved striae on abdominal ventrites. This character seems to be widely distributed in Laccophilinae as it may be recognized at least in Philaccolus and Philodytes and in a reduced state in Neptosternus.
Prosternal process slender, posteriorly distinctly extended, apically pointed (Fig.
At least 10 species groups of Laccophilus have slender, extended prosternal process while in 7 species groups the process is shorter and broader, which seem to be the case in Laccophilinae outside Laccophilus as well. The slender process may be a synapomorphy of a supposed clade containing the respective species groups.
Metacoxal process posteriorly expanded and modified (Fig.
In Laccophilus one species placed in its own species group (L. isamberti species group) exhibits this enigmatic and unique feature. It definitely represents the derived state and future studies will reveal if the species deserves a status of a separate genus within Laccophilinae.
Posterior edge of apical ventrite modified, forming an undulate structure, with medial part distinctly extended backwards (Fig.
In African Laccophilus 13 species groups out of 17, exhibit the modified apical ventrite. Besides Laccophilus, Philodytes has a similar modified apical ventrite while at least Philaccolus and Neptosternus lack it.
Male apical ventrite strongly asymmetric, when provided with a distinct, small knob or process on one side of the midline of ventrite (Fig.
In total 9 recognized species groups of Laccophilus in Africa, exhibit this, most probably derived character. It may turn out to be a good synapomorphy for them.
Penis apex narrow, often curved and exhibits only slight modifications in anatomical shape (Figs
In all six species groups of Laccophilus here distinguished, have a slender to rather slender, often quite evenly curved penis, lacking considerable modifications.
To be considered slightly tentative and mostly only applicable for male specimens.
1 | Male apical ventrite symmetric, lacking lateral process/knob (Figs |
2 |
– | Male apical ventrite strongly asymmetric, provided with a minute, lateral process (located to left on ventrite, when viewed from below) (Figs |
10 |
2 | Large species (body length 5.3–6.0 mm); body dorsoventrally flattened (Fig. |
group 9 (L. pellucidus) (p. 89) |
– | Smaller species with flattened or subcylindrical body (body length 3.2–5.8 mm); penis shape different, variable | 3 |
3 | Body subcylindrical (Fig. |
group 1 (L. morondavensis) (p. 17) |
– | Body dorsoventrally flattened; small to large species (body length 3.2–5.8 mm); body microsculpture (dorsal aspect) double (can be reduced, rarely distinctly so) | 4 |
4 | Metacoxal process posteriorly expanded (Fig. |
group 5 (L. isamberti) (p. 47) |
– | Metacoxal process posteriorly truncate, not expanded (Fig. |
5 |
5 | Elytra provided with longitudinal, dark markings (Fig. |
group 4 (L. alluaudi) (p. 36) |
– | Elytral markings variable; never forming distinct, dark, longitudinal markings (excl. L. rivulosus (Fig. |
6 |
6 | Posterior margin of male apical ventrite modified, undulate with middle part posteriorly extended (Fig. |
7 |
– | Posterior margin of male apical ventrite not modified; non-undulate, posterior margin curved and medially not posteriorly extended (Figs |
9 |
7 | Elytra pale ferrugineous to pale brownish with dense, dark ferrugineous to blackish irrorations/ undulations (Figs |
group 7 (L. taeniolatus) (p. 52) |
– | Elytral colour pattern different; either uniformly, dark ferrugineous (Fig. |
8 |
8 | Elytra with distinct colour pattern (with extensive patches) (Fig. |
group 6 (L. pictipennis) (p. 49) |
– | Elytra ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, lacking distinct paler areas (Fig. |
group 8 (L. immundus) (p. 87) |
9 | Small species (body length 3.2–3.4 mm); elytra dark ferrugineous with distinct, transverse, pale ferrugineous markings (Fig. |
group 2 (L. ruficollis) (p. 26) |
– | Larger species (body length 4.0–5.3 mm); elytra generally pale brownish to ferrugineous, often with vague, pale ferrugineous to pale brownish areas, or colour pattern absent (Figs |
group 3 (L. hyalinus) (p. 28) |
10 | Metacoxal plates provided with a semicircular stridulation apparatus (Fig. |
11 |
– | Metacoxal plates lack stridulation apparatus | 12 |
11 | Penis in lateral view evenly curved; almost evenly broad from middle to apex; inner outline of penis close to apex uneven (provided with minute ridges) (Figs |
group 16 (L. leonensis) (p. 237) |
– | Penis in lateral view slightly angled; narrows distinctly from middle to apex; inner outline of penis close to apex smooth (lacks minute ridges) (Figs |
group 17 (L. laeticulus) (p. 256) |
12 | Elytral colour pattern distinct, consists of dark longitudinal markings, which may be undulate and connected with neighbour-markings; sometimes markings merged into extensive dark areas (Figs |
13 |
– | Elytral colour pattern different (note that there are species with extensive dark elytra), not provided with distinct longitudinal, dark markings; often patchy (Figs |
15 |
13 | Body (dorsal aspect) microsculpture simple, of one kind (no fragments of large meshes discernible); penis apex broad, truncate (Fig. |
group 14 (L. desintegratus) (p. 231) |
– | Body (dorsal aspect) microsculpture double, consists of two kinds of microsculpture, mixed: often larger meshes of microsculpture reduced in part (fragments of large meshes generally discernible); shape of penis different | 14 |
14 | Penis robust, curved, apically provided with a distinct extension and inner outline provided with distinct ridges (Fig. |
group 15 (L. luctuosus) (p. 234) |
– | Penis slender to robust, apex forming a distinct hook/angled enlargement (Figs |
group 13 (L. lineatus) (p. 178) |
15 | Penis (lateral aspect) externally close to base with a deep incision (Fig. |
group 12 (L. poecilus) (p. 176) |
– | Penis (lateral aspect) externally close to base without deep incision | 16 |
16 | Elytra pale ferrugineous to pale brownish, generally with extensive, often delicate, dark irrorations (Figs |
group 10 (L. adspersus) (p. 95) |
– | Elytral colour pattern different; consists of pale patches arranged in variable, transverse series (Figs |
group 11 (L. deceptor) (p. 159) |
Diagnosis. Large species with length of body 4.1–5.7 mm, width 1.9–3.0 mm, except one small species, L. tavetensis, with length 3.1–3.4 mm and width 1.6–1.7 mm.
Shape of body subcylindrical, dorsoventrally not flattened (Fig.
Prosternal process moderately broad, posteriorly not distinctly extended, apically pointed. Apical ventrite modified; posteriorly on both side of midline more or less excavated and post-medially often extended to a narrow enlargement (Fig.
Paramere simple, elongate, apically not distinctly enlarged or modified (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. Seven African species are included to the group (see the identification key). None of them occurs outside Africa south of Sahara or Madagascar.
Note. Male of L. mirabilis is unknown. Large body (length 5.1–5.7 mm). Elytral colour pattern consisting of separate, longitudinal dark markings (Fig.
1 | Small species, length of body less than 3.4 mm | L. tavetensis (p. 18) |
– | Larger species, length of body between 4.1–5.7 mm | 2 |
2 | Body, dorsal aspect, lacks distinct colour pattern (Fig. |
L. ferrugo (p. 25) |
– | Body, dorsal aspect, with distinct colour pattern (Fig. |
3 |
3 | Penis, lateral aspect, comparatively broad; apex of penis distinctly curved backwards (Fig. |
L. morondavensis (p. 22) |
– | Penis, lateral aspect, narrower; apex of penis not curved backwards | 4 |
4 | Body broad, oval, large (length 4.9–5.2 mm) (Fig. |
L. grossus (p. 19) |
– | Body more elongate, smaller (length 4.1–4.9 mm) (Fig. |
5 |
5 | Body elongate, slender; pale areas on elytra open with no closed cells or one inner cell formed by dark, narrow, longitudinal marking (Fig. |
L. productus (p. 23) |
– | Body slightly broader; pale areas on elytra with two closed cells, formed by dark, narrow, longitudinal markings (Fig. |
L. rocchii (p. 20) |
Laccophilus tavetensis
Kenya: Taveta.
(1 ex.). Holotype: male: “Afrique Orient. Anglaise Taveta Alluaud & Jeannel mars 1912 – 750 m St. 65 / male symbol / Type / Det. Dr. Guignot Laccophilus tavetensis Guign. Type” (MNHN).
(11 exs.). Sudan: “Prov. N Darfur El Geneina / ad lucem Ibrahim M. Abuzinid 20.8. 1979” (1 ex. CGW). – Kenya: “S, Voi 11. 1997 leg. Snizek” (4 exs. CFP, 4 exs. CSR); “Kenya eastern Sosoma ca. 200 km E of Thika 27.11. 2011, light trap” (1 ex. NMPC). – Botswana: “Chobe NP Savuti-Camp 18°33'55"S-24°03'53"E, 11.3. 1993 lux leg. Uhlig” (1 ex. ZMHB; habitus in Fig.
A deviate species, separated from the other species in this species group by having small body size in combination with peculiar shape of penis; somewhat sinuate and distinctly enlarged posterior to narrow apex. Note also differently shaped male apical ventrite in comparison with other species in the species group (Fig.
Body length 3.1–3.4 mm, width 1.6–1.7 mm. Pale ferrugineous, dorsal colour pattern ferrugineous and sometimes vague and slightly variable (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, no colour pattern. Submat, with fine, dense microsculpture. Reticulation simple; only with small, uniform meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, irregularly located punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern. Submat, with fine, dense microsculpture. Reticulation simple; only with small, uniform meshes. Impunctate, at margins with fine to very fine, somewhat irregular punctures. Mediobasally punctures absent.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, sometimes with vague, ferrugineous, longitudinal markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Abdomen dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, metathorax and –coxal plates ferrugineous, and prothorax pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Impunctate, except a few fine punctures on apical ventrite; symmetric (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, extended, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in dorsal aspect clearly sinuate with narrow tip; in lateral aspect almost evenly curved Figs
Female: Unknown.
Sudan, Kenya, Botswana (Fig.
In Botswana collected with light.
Namibia: Damaraland, Oshikango (15.55E, 17.25S).
(5 exs.). Holotype, male: “South Africa Damaraland Oshikango, v. 1948 15.55E, 17.25S, C. Koch / B. Malkin Coll. BMNH (E) 1956–234” (BMNH). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype (1 ex. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus grossus belongs to a group of species, characterized by large body-size, by uniform microsculpture, with one kind of meshes (small) and by slender, slightly sinuate penis. The new species is probably closest related to L. rocchii, another so far undescribed species. The two species are distinguished by difference in body size, by deviating dorsal, colour pattern of body and by details in shape of penis apex (curved in different directions).
Body: Length 4.9–5.2 mm, width 2.7–2.8 mm. Dorsal colour pattern exhibits only slight variation (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous to brownish; posteriorly at pronotum slightly darker than anteriorly; however, change of colour gradual and no colour pattern formed. Submat, entire head finely microsculptured; meshes small and only of one kind. Impunctate, except at eyes, with some fine, irregular punctures. Anteriorly, close to edge of head with a few transverse impressions formed by elongated punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, medially broadly, distinctly darker; basal area blackish. Submat, finely and densely microsculptured. Meshes of microsculpture small, uniform and of one kind only. Impunctate, except at margins, finely and somewhat irregularly punctate. Broad area basally in middle lacking punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with blackish to dark ferrugineous, slightly variable marking (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish to dark ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern formed. Submat, finely to very finely microsculptured. Abdominal ventrites with dense, curved striae. Metacoxal plates with some transverse furrows, which posteriorly fade away. Apical ventrite lacks asymmetric knob/process (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous, hindlegs slightly darker, ferrugineous to brownish. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: Apical half of penis slightly sinuate and when viewed from above; tip of penis slightly curved right (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
The species name grossus is a Latin adjective meaning “big”. It here associates with the body size of the new species.
Angola, Namibia (Fig.
Almost unknown. In Angola collected at light.
Mozambique: Manica Province, 60 km W Chitobe.
(15 exs.). Holotype: male: “Mozambique Manica Province 60 km W Chitobe, 16.12. 2005 P. Schüle leg.” (SMNS). – Paratypes: “Tanzania Dodoma Pr. 40 km N Dodoma 14–16.12. 2006, 1100 m A. Kudrna Jr. lgt.” (1 ex. CFP); “Botswana: Chobe Dist., Savute Drift Camp site, 18°34'S, 24°04'E, 29. Dec. 1988 R.D. Ward / Robert D. Ward Collection / Laccophilus productus Rég. det. S. Rocchi 92” (1 ex. CSR; habitus photogr. Fig.
See diagnosis of L. grossus (p. 19).
Body: Length 4.3–4.9 mm, width 2.3–2.6 mm. Body dorsally pale ferrugineous, with quite distinct and uniform blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous marking (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation simple. Meshes small, of same size and shape. Impunctate, except at eyes where head is provided with fine, somewhat irregularly distributed punctures. Anteriorly, close to frontal edge with some punctures, forming slightly irregular transverse impression.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, basally in middle with distinct blackish ferrugineous spot. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation simple. Meshes small, of same size and shape. Impunctate, except along margins, with irregular, fine punctures, however, punctures lacking basally in middle.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with quite distinct, quite uniform blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous marking (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern formed. Submat, very finely microsculptured, except abdomen basally, rather shiny, microsculpture indistinct. Apical ventrite of male (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Apical half of penis in dorsal aspect only slightly sinuate, almost straight; extreme tip slightly curved to left (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, not enlarged. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
The name is a noun in its genitive form based on the name of Mr. Saverio Rocchi, Florence, Italy, who kindly provided us with a part of the type material of the new species besides various other interesting materials.
Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique (Fig.
In Namibia collected at light.
Laccophilus morondavensis
Madagascar: Foret sud de Befasy.
(1 ex.). Holotype: male: “Morondava foret sud de Befasy I-56 R.P. / Institut Scientifique Madagascar / F. Guignot det., 1956 Laccophilus morondavensis sp. n. Type, male symbol” (MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(1 ex.): Madagascar: “W Madag. 60 km NE of Morondava, Foret de Kirindi, 30 m Bednarik leg. 28.1.1996 / L. morondavensis Guignot 1957 Jiri Hájek det. 2006” (1 ex. NMPC).
Laccophilus morondavensis is characterized by its distinct, elytral colour pattern and by peculiarly shaped penis apex. The species resembles externally most of L. productus but body is somewhat larger and broader. Additionally, pronotum is extensively dark while in L. productus almost entirely pale ferrugineous. Tip of penis is slightly upwards curved in L. morondavensis while it is almost straight in L. productus.
Body length 5.3 mm, width 2.9 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body with rather distinct colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Posteriorly, head becomes gradually slightly darker but lacks distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, although finely and densely microsculptured; reticulation simple, of one kind. Impunctate, except at eyes, with fine, slightly irregular punctures. Medially, areas with punctures extend slightly towards centre of head.
Pronotum: Blackish to ferrugineous, laterally pale ferrugineous. Colour change gradual; colour pattern vague. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation of one kind; consists of small meshes. Entire disc with fine, sparse punctures. At margins, except mediobasally, with slightly irregular, coarse punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with blackish to dark ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, prothorax paler; pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Abdominal reticulation reduced, in part absent. Abdomen, with fine, curved striae. Metacoxal plates with reduced, transverse furrows, which are only discernible in anterior half. Almost impunctate. Apical ventrite, with punctures, symmetric, lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender, somewhat extended, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis both in lateral and dorsal aspect broader than related species; apical tip curved upwards (Figs
Female: Unknown.
Madagascar (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus productus
Kenya: Samburu.
(5 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Afrique Orle Anglaise Samburu (Wa-Nyika) Dr. Alluaud IV. 1904 / Museum Paris coll. Ch. Alluaud / TYPE / Laccophilus productus Rég. sp. n. typ” (MNHN; top specimen on pin with two additional paralectotypes). – Paralectotypes: Similar data and on same pin as lectotype (2 exs. MNHN); “Samburu Wa-Nyika / Afr. Orle Angl. Alluaud / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
(3 exs.): Tanzania: “Kwakiyembe D.O.Afr. April 1916 Methner / L. productus Rég. det. Brancucci 1982” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Narobi b. Tanga 5. 1915 Methner” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Nord-Rabeho D.O. Afr. leg. Methner” (1 ex. ZMHB).
Laccophilus productus is characterized by quite large but slender body and by peculiar dorsal colour pattern and male genitalia (penis apical half slightly twisted; extreme apex bent leftwards). The species resembles most of L. morondavensis which occurs in Madagascar; diagnostic features are given under diagnosis of L. morondavensis on p. 22.
Body length 4.1–4.9, width 1.9–2.5 mm. Elytra with distinct colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely and densely microsculptured. Reticulation simple; only with small, distinct meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes with scattered, fine, punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, mediobasally with a vague ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous marking. Submat, finely and densely microsculptured. Reticulation simple; only with small, distinct meshes. Impunctate, except at margins; with fine, somewhat sparse and irregular punctures. Mediobasally punctures absent or indistinct.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous, with subbasal, preapical and apical, pale ferrugineous area (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous; colour pattern vague, indistinct. Rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate, except for apical ventrite; with scattered irregular punctures and shape symmetric (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Apical half of penis in dorsal aspect slightly sinuate; extreme apex slightly bent to left (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite apically extended (Fig.
Kenya, Tanzania (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus mirabilis
Madagascar: Bas Mangoky.
(3 exs.). Holotype: female: “Type / Station Agric Bas Mangoky / Institut Scientifique Madagascar /Guignot det., 1956 Laccophilus mirabilis Type” (MNHN). – Paratypes: “Station Agric Bas Mangoky / female symbol / Paratype” (2 exs. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus mirabilis belongs to a distinct group of species characterized by body shape, being longer, thicker and relatively more slender than other African Laccophilus species. Other diagnostic features are the body microsculpture, which is simple and fine and shape of penis which is narrow and in dorsal view peculiarly, slightly twisted. Laccophilus mirabilis is thus far, however, only known from female but it can be separated from closely related, continental African species by being somewhat larger and by exhibiting different colour pattern of body.
Body length 5.1–5.7 mm, width 2.8–3.0 mm. Only slight variation observed in elytral colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to pale brownish. Submat, finely and distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation simple, of one kind. Impunctate, except at eyes; with a few, fine and irregularly placed punctures. Additionally, in a small depression located a short distance from eyes towards middle with some fine punctures. Frontally along anterior edge with a faint, somewhat irregular impression.
Pronotum: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Laterally pronotum becomes gradually paler; pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely but distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation simple, of one kind. At margins except basally in middle with fine, sparse and irregularly located punctures. Extremely small, scattered punctures may be discerned on disc.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, with fairly distinct dark ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish to dark ferrugineous. Prothorax ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate, except apical ventrite, which especially on apex is distinctly punctate (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender.
Male: Unknown.
Madagascar (Fig.
Unknown.
Mozambique: Prov. Inhambane, 15 km SE Save.
(5 exs.): Holotype, male: “Mocambique Prov. Inhambane 15 km SE Save, 18–21.12. 2005 A. Kurdna Jr. lgt.” (CFP; habitus in Fig.
Absence of dorsal colour pattern (or sometimes presence of indistinct vague darker areas on body) in combination with peculiar, abrupt end of penis-apex, distinguishes L. ferrugo from the other species in this species group.
Body length 4.2–4.7 mm, breadth 2.2–2.4 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern lacking or very indistinct and vaguely delimited (Fig.
Head: Ferrugineous; frontally often narrowly and slightly paler; with a vague, pale ferrugineous border at foremargin. Impunctate, except at eyes; with scattered, irregular punctures. Slightly matt, reticulation, simple, meshes small and of equal size.
Pronotum: Ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern. Impunctate, except at margins; with fine, irregular punctures, which are lacking medially at base. Slightly matt, with fine, simple reticulation; meshes small and of equal size.
Elytra: Ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous; sometimes with vague, dark ferrugineous to blackish areas (one at scutellar region, one extensive on medial part, and one apically). Dark areas, when present a very diffuse and their delimitation vague (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous, abdomen in part darker; ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Scattered punctures on apical ventrite which lacks small knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with suckers. Apex of metatibial spines bifid, although very finely so.
Male genitalia: Penis, lateral aspect, from approximately middle to apex evenly curved; tip somewhat enlarged, ends abruptly (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical sternite (Fig.
The species name “ferrugo” is a Latin noun meaning rust (of iron) and relates to the body colour of the new species.
Mozambique (Fig.
Unknown.
Diagnosis. Quite small sized Laccophilus with length of body 3.2–3.4 mm and width 1.8 mm.
Shape of body oval; body dorsoventrally flattened (Fig.
Prosternal process moderately broad, posteriorly not distinctly extended, apically pointed. Apical sternite not distinctly modified; lacks asymmetrical, small knob (Fig.
Paramere simple, elongate, apically not distinctly enlarged or modified (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. One African species is recognized. Only known from Madagascar.
Laccophilus ruficollis
Madagascar.
(3 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Madagascar / Type / Samml. A. Zimmermann / Paratypus” (ZSM; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus ruficollis is distinguished from all other African species by unmodified apical ventrite and exhibiting distinct, transverse, pale markings on elytra. Furthermore, penis apex is slender and curved and body-microsculpture is a mix of small and large meshes. In combination with small sized body these characters are useful when L. ruficollis is distinguished.
Body length 3.2–3.4 mm, width 1.8 mm. Dorsal colour pattern rather uniform and distinct (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny although finely microsculptured. Reticulation almost simple, predominantly of one kind. In part reticulation indistinctly double but small and large meshes difficult to distinguish and place in either category. Between eyes, with fine, sparse punctures. At eyes punctures slightly denser.
Pronotum: Ferrugineous, laterally pale ferrugineous (change of colour gradual). Basally with vague, transverse, dark ferrugineous marking. Rather shiny although finely microsculptured; reticulation mostly uniform: small and large meshes difficult to distinguish. Laterally and at anterior margin, finely punctate.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous, with distinct pale ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; lacks distinct colour pattern, but abdomen in part slightly darker. Rather shiny, very finely microsculptured (in part microsculpture hardly discernible). Scattered, curved striae discernible but sometimes rather indistinct. Almost impunctate. Apex of prosternal process comparatively short although pointed. Apical ventrite simple, not distinctly modified (Fig.
Legs: Protarsus slightly extended and enlarged; mesotarsus long and slender. Provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Rather delicate in size and exhibits hardly any modifications; penis in lateral aspect slender and evenly curved (Fig.
Female: Externally almost as male. Protarsus slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
Unknown.
Diagnosis. Large species with body length 4.0–5.3 mm, and width 2.2–3.0 mm.
Shape of body oblong to oval, dorsoventrally flattened (Figs
Prosternal process moderately slender, posteriorly not strongly extended, apex pointed. Apical ventrite not distinctly modified; lacks asymmetric knob on one side (Fig.
Paramere simple, elongate, apically not distinctly enlarged or modified (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. Five species are recognized in this species group. In Africa they are distributed North of Sahara and most of them exhibit a wider distribution in the Palearctic region.
1 | Metacoxal plates with stridulatory file (Fig. |
2 |
– | Metacoxal plates lack stridulatory file | 3 |
2 | Body shape oval-oblong, narrower (Fig. |
L. hyalinus (p. 28) |
– | Body shape oval, broader (Fig. |
L. demoflysi (p. 31) |
3. | Smaller species, body length 4.0–4.6 mm; male genitalia slender (Fig. |
L. minutus (p. 31) |
– | Large species, body length 4.6–5.3 mm; male genitalia robust (Fig. |
4 |
4. | Elytra with distinct colour pattern (Fig. |
L. mateui (p. 33) |
– | Elytra lack colour pattern or pattern is indistinct (Fig. |
L. sordidus (p. 35) |
Dytiscus hyalinus
Laccophilus hyalinus (De Geer),
Laccophilus testaceus Aubé,
Laccophilus interruptus var. testaceus Aubé,
Laccophilus hyalinus var. testaceus Aubé,
Laccophilus hyalinus testaceus Aubé,
Laccophilus hyalinus ab. testaceus Aubé,
Laccophilus hyalinus var. inflatus Wollaston,
Laccophilus hyalinus inflatus Wollaston,
The present list of references is incomplete; selected references with association to Africa and Canary Islands are included. Synonymy of different taxa is based on earlier studies (see World Catalogue,
Sweden.
(1 ex.). Laccophilus hyalinus: Syntype (unique?): (NHRS). [Comments: no original text labels attached with the specimen; specimen provided with orange label; severely damaged by dermestids.]
Laccophilus testaceus: “France, Italy, Spain” (in Brussels).
(310 exs.): Morocco: “Tanger 25–29.4. 1926 Lindberg” (7 exs. MZH); “Marrakesh 21–23.5. 1926 Lindberg” (5 exs. MZH); “Marrakech 28.5. 1934, 450 m Ball 20M79 / ab. testaceus” (1 ex. MNHN); “Atlas mai, Reraia 29.5–15.6. 1926 Lindberg” (6 exs. MZH); “Atlas mai., Amismiz 24–25.5. 1926 Lindberg” (1 ex. MZH); “M. Atlas Azrou 1200 m 15.3. 1961 Lindberg” (4 exs. MZH); “Foret de la Mamora 23.3.1961 Lindberg” (1 ex. MZH); “Tiflet-Oulmes 18.2.1961 Meinander” (1 ex. MZH); “Oued Tensift pr., Marrakesh 13.3. 1961 Lindberg” (1 ex. MZH); “nr. Figuig, Defilia 5–20.4. 1966/Hutson” (1 ex. BMNH); “Mar. bor. Tetouan 600 m 25.5. 1994 leg. Majzlan” (14 exs. NMW, 3 exs. MZH); “Ouazaza-Te 12.5. 1975 Eckerlein” (7 exs. NMW, 1 ex. MZH); “Oulad Teima pr. Oued Sous 14.2. 1961 Lindberg” (4 exs. MZH); “Mogador (Essaouira) 12.2. 1961 Meinander” (12 esx. MZH); “Tiferhlal N de Tiznit 18.2. 1961 Meinander” (6 exs. MZH); “Oued Massa N de Tiznit 18.2. 1961 Meinander” (3 exs. MZH); “Maroc sud Torkoz 23–24.2. 1961 Meinander” (7 exs. MZH); “Maroc sud Assa 22.2. 1961 Lindberg” (5 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus hyalinus resembles most among African species of L. demoflysi, which also has a similar stridulation apparatus as L. hyalinus. For separation of the two species, see diagnosis of L. demoflysi (p. 31). Stridulation apparatus located on metacoxal plates distinguishes L. hyalinus from L. minutus, L. mateui and L. sordidus, all of which lack similar device. Clear differences between the species are also exhibited in shape of the penis.
Body length 4.7–5.0 mm, width 2.7–2.8 mm. Habitus generally with somewhat paler, longitudinal markings, which often are rather vague, in part indistinct (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. At eyes, in shallow depression with fine punctures. In short horizontal depressions close to eyes and in connection with shallow depression, with fine punctures. Reticulation double, large meshes contain 2–6 fine meshes. Fine meshes in part weakly developed and indistinct.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. At foremargin and medially with slightly darker areas (dark areas not on surface but “inside” cuticula). Almost impunctate, with a few irregular punctures at frontal margin. Rather finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Fine meshes in part largely absent, in part very fine to fine. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 4–6 fine meshes.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous to pale brown, with slightly paler, in part indistinct markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Impunctate. Slightly mat, due to dense, fine microsculpture. Metacoxal plates with about 10 transverse, shallow furrows. Basal segments of abdomen with curved striae. Pronotal process medially slightly enlarged, apex pointed (not strongly extended and sharp). Stridulation apparatus consist of a curved series of about 20 shallow ridges located posteriorly on metacoxa (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with distinct suckers (Fig.
Male genitalia: Extreme apex of penis in lateral aspect strongly curved upwards (Fig.
Female: Provided with similar stridulation apparatus as male. Apical ventrite with uneven surface (Fig.
Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Canary Islands (Fig.
Information from Africa is rare. In Europe often found in large bodies of running water, in sections with a slow current and some vegetation. Less frequently collected in ponds and lakes (
Laccophilus demoflysi
Tunisia: El Hamma de Tozeur.
(not studied): Holotype: female: “El Hamma de Tozeur, 4. 1937 Demoflys” (Coll. Normand, kept in Tunisia, Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie, Tunis, specimen not located).
(1 ex.): Tunisia: “Tunisia, centralis oasis Douz env. 31.5.-1.6. 1994 lgt.S. Becvar / Laccophilus demoflysi Norm.det. Rocchi 1998” (1 ex. female CSR; habitus in Fig.
External characters agree in large with L. hyalinus. Only difference observed was the shape of the body, in L. demoflysi being stouter than in L. hyalinus. Both involved species have a stridulatory apparatus on metacoxal plates, which separates them from L. minutus, L. mateui and L. sordidus. Taxonomic status of L. demoflysi remains open. More specimens (male in particular) are needed to settle this question.
(only differences from description of L. hyalinus are recognized). Body length 4.7 mm, width 2.8 mm. Dorsal colour pattern vague, almost absent (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Apical ventrite (Fig.
Male: Unknown.
Tunisia (Fig.
Unknown.
Dytiscus minutus
Laccophilus minutus (Linnaeus),
Europe.
(not examined): “Europe”. Type specimen deposited in The Linnean Collections, London, UK (item data: LINN 6347 Dytiscus minutus (Ins. Linn.), www.linnean.org).
(49 exs.). Morocco: “Tanger 25-29.4. 1926 Lindberg” (6 exs. MZH); “Tiflet-Oulmes 18.3.1961 Lindberg-Meinander” (4 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus minutus resembles most of L. mateui and L. sordidus, both species also lacking stridulation apparatus on metacoxal plates. L. minutus is separated from the two close species by having smaller body and more delicate and slender penis (Figs
Body length 4.0–4.6 mm, width 2.2–2.5 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body without distinct colour pattern. On elytra vague, slightly darker areas may sometimes be discerned (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat to rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes slightly more strongly developed than fine meshes. Large meshes may contain 3–6 small meshes. Impunctate, except at inner eye-margin, with an irregular row of punctures. Additionally close to eyes with a vertically located row of a few punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; lacks distinct colour pattern. Impunctate, except at frontal and lateral margins, where fine and sparse, irregular punctures are discernible. Rather shiny to submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes a little more strongly developed than small meshes; may contain 3–6 small meshes. Pronotum base posteriorly in middle produced backwards.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, without distinct colour pattern. Sometimes elytra with some vague, irregular, slightly darker areas (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, without distinct colour pattern. Almost impunctate, Abdomen apically with some fine punctures. Rather shiny, very finely and in part indistinctly microsculptured. Ventrites with fine, slightly curved striae. Metacoxal plates with about 10 fine, shallow, transversely located furrows. No stridulatory apparatus. Apical ventrite almost symmetric, lacks lateral knob; finely striated, with distinct lateral impressions (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Aedeagus almost as in L. mateui but more delicate in lateral aspect (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lacks distinct lateral impressions; impressions reduced to fine lines (Fig.
Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya (Fig.
According to
Laccophilus mateui
Algeria: Sahara, Hoggar, Aguelm, Ymeleulauen.
(1 ex.). Holotype: male: “Type male / H. B. Leech Collection / det. J. Omer-Cooper Laccophilus mateui sp.n. / Aguelm, Ymeleulauen, Hoggar, Sahara J. Mateu coll. / 18-V- 1951” (AMGS; according to original description, holotype to be deposited in CAS).
(5 exs.). Algeria: “55 km N Tamanrasset 16-17 March 1971 J.A. Gruwell” (4 exs. USNM, 1 ex. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus mateui is a close relative to L. minutus and L. sordidus. All three species have similar general appearance and same ground plan regarding penis-shape. Absence of stridulatory apparatus separates it from L. hyalinus and L. demoflysi. Shape of penis distinguishes it from L. minutus (penis apex is broader in L. mateui) and L. sordidus (penis is stouter in L. mateui and longer in L. sordidus). L. mateui (>5 mm) is also larger sized than L. minutus, a species which don’t exceed 5 mm in length.
Body length 5.1–5.3 mm, width 2.8–3.0 mm. Body dorsally pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, elytral colour pattern vague to fairly distinct (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, at pronotum darker, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous (delimitation of colours often vague). Almost impunctate, at eyes with a few, scattered, somewhat indistinct punctures. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double. In central part of head fine reticulation indistinct, in part obliterated; in lateral parts of head fine reticulation clearly discernible; large meshes contain 3–6 fine meshes.
Pronotum: Ferrugineous, laterally pale ferrugineous (gradual change; no distinct delimitation of colours). Frontally, sometimes with a quite distinct dark ferrugineous area. Impunctate, at margin with a few, indistinct, coarser punctures discernible. Submat, rather densely microsculptured; reticulation double, fine meshes in part almost absent or indistinct.
Elytra: Ferrugineous, with vague pale ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous, metacoxal plate in part dark ferrugineous but no distinct colour pattern formed (delimitation vague). Almost impunctate. Submat, finely microsculptured. No stridulatory apparatus. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with some vague, transversely located, slightly irregular furrows. Abdomen in basal half with rather distinct curved striae. Apex of prosternal process broken in holotype; it is keeled, short and apex pointed. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis comparatively robust; in lateral aspect apical half evenly curved (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Algeria (Hoggar, Sahara) (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus sordidus
Saudi Arabia: El Hedjaz.
(2 exs.). Lectotype: male, designated by Brancucci (1980a): “Syntype / Type / Hedjaz Millingen / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / L. sordidus / Laccophilus sordidus Sharp Type (male symbol)” (BMNH; habitus in Fig.
(1 ex.): Yemen: “Aden Prot., Mukeiras, 85 mls NE of Aden, 7000 ft. 29.12. 1939-6.1. 1940 Hebbert / L. sordidus Shp det J. Balfour-Browne” (1 ex. BMNH).
Laccophilus sordidus is closely related to L. minutus and L. mateui. From L. minutus, L. sordidus is separated by its larger body and by having a clearly longer penis. From L. mateui, L. sordidus is separated by its lack of elytral markings – L. mateui is generally provided with a clearly discernible elytral colour pattern. Additionally, the penis of L. mateui is distinctly shorter than in L. sordidus.
Body length 4.6–5.2 mm, width 2.6–2.8 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body dark ferrugineous to brownish, no distinct colour pattern exhibited (Fig.
Head: Dark ferrugineous to brownish; no colour pattern discernible. Submat to mat, distinctly microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes may contain 3–6 small meshes. At eyes with an irregular row of punctures, which extends a short distance towards middle.
Pronotum: Dark ferrugineous to brownish, no colour pattern formed. Submat, distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes contain 3–6 small meshes. Pronotal disc impunctate; at margins with punctures. Laterally at side margin, punctures form a slightly irregular row. Anteriorly punctures very fine and scattered. Latero-basally with a few fine, irregular punctures; mediobasally pronotum impunctate.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous to brownish. No distinct colour pattern exhibited (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern. Submat, finely microsculptured. Microsculpture of abdomen weaker and in part reduced. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Metacoxal plates lack stridulatory apparatus. Very shallow, rudimentary transverse furrows discernible on metacoxa. Impunctate, except abdomen with scattered, sparse punctures especially apically. Prosternal process medially slightly enlarged, moderately extended and apex pointed. Apical ventrite almost symmetric (Fig.
Legs: Ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged and provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: In lateral aspect penis comparatively long, evenly curved; extreme apex slightly bent and it ends abruptly (not rounded) (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
The species has been described from Saudi Arabia. African records include Libya and Egypt (
The habitat of L. sordidus is briefly described in
Diagnosis. Medium sized to large species; length of body 3.3–5.8 mm, width 1.8–2.9 mm.
Shape of body, oval-oblong to oblong; body dorso-ventrally flattened (Fig.
Prosternal process rather slender, moderately backwards extended, apically pointed. One species with comparatively short prosternal process. Apical ventrite not distinctly modified, lack asymmetric knob (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. Six species are recognized in this species group, all of which occur on Madagascar or on nearby islands.
1 | Large species, body length 5.0–5.8 mm; dark elytral, longitudinal markings hollow (narrow, pale marking enclosed in dark marking) (Fig. |
L. seyrigi (p. 46) |
– | Small to medium sized species, body length 3.3–4.2 mm; dark elytral marking entirely dark (no enclosed medial pale marking in dark marking) (Fig. |
2 |
2 | Elytral dark markings complete or almost complete, reach humeral region (Fig. |
L. comes (p. 37) |
– | Elytral dark markings fade away before humeral region (Fig. |
3 |
3. | Penis, lateral aspect, evenly curved from base to apex (Fig. |
L. tigrinus (p. 43) |
- | Penis, lateral aspect, close to base angled (Fig. |
4 |
4. | Large species, body length 4.1–4.2 mm; penis as in Fig. |
L. pseustes (p. 44) |
- | Small species, body length 3.4-3.9 mm; penis different | 5 |
5. | Penis, dorsal aspect, from angle to apex almost evenly broad and almost straight (Fig. |
L. furthi (p. 42) |
- | Penis, dorsal aspect, from angle to apex broad to narrow, strongly twisted (Fig. |
L. alluaudi (p. 39) |
Laccophilus comes
Madagascar, Tampolo.
(2 exs.). Holotype: male: “Madagascar Tampolo VIII. 1949 / male symbol / Type” (MNHN). – Allotype (= Paratype), female: “Madagascar Tampolo VIII. 1949 / female symbol / Allotype” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(116 exs.): Madagascar: “Andasibe 11.12. 2004 Lat -18.943 Lon 48.4063, Balke & Monaghan / DNA Voucher BMNH <670655> MSL008:B01 / L. comes Bergsten det.” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “BMNH<670654>” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toam, Ambatondrazaka, Zahamane, Zahamena NP river, P60BI04: N: E: m, 29.12. 2006 leg. Isambert et al / DNA Voucher BMNH <830741> MSL399:F2 / L. comes Bergsten det.” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “BMNH <830743> MSL399:F4” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toam, Ambatondrazaka, Zahamane, Zahamena NP stream, P60BI15: N: -17.52 E: 48.721: 1075m / m, 29.12. 2006 leg. Isambert et al / DNA Voucher BMNH <830737> MSL399:E10 / L. comes Bergsten det.” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “Analamaintsoa 3rd stream before Camp 1, stream of pools almost dry P60BI08, 30.12. 2006 N-17,50500, E48,72450, 1054 m Isambert et al (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “BMNH <830748> MSL399:F)/P60BI12: N: -17.517 E: 48.72: 1075 m, 31.12. 2006” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “Zahamena NP 1st stream btw. Camp 1 and 2, stream of pools, 31.12. 2006, N-17,51733, 48,72067, 1075 m” (85 exx. NHRS, 2 exs. MZH); same data but “Analamaintsoa Forest 4th stream btw Camp 1 and 2, P6OBI15, 31.12. 2006, N-17,52050, E48,721337, 1075 m” (14 exx. NHRS); “IF Anadiana: Sahamalaotra Ranomafana NP: small stream P27MD31, N -21.2359 E: 47.3963, alt. 1123 m, 6.12.2004 leg. Balke et al / BMNH(E) <794196> DNA Voucher” (1 ex. NHRS); same but” BMNH(E) <794198>” (1 ex. NHRS); same but” BMNH(E) <794197>” (1 ex. NHRS); Mahajanga melaky, Tsingy de Bemaraha NP, S19.03419, E044.77499, 41 m.a.o., 15.12. 2009, Water net, field, Bergsten et al. / 000000464 NHRS-JLKB” (1 ex. NHRS); same but “S19.03572, E044.77507, 66 m.a.o., 15.12. 2009 / 000000467 NHRS/JLKB” (1 ex. NHRS); same but “S18.75643, E044.71398, 119 m.a.o., 17.12. 2009 / 000000463 NHRS/JLKB” (1 ex. NHRS); “Ampasimpotsy Moramanga Antsabe 11.12. 2004 N-18,94300, E48,40630, 979 m, Balke et al” (2 exx. NHRS).
Laccophilus comes forms together with L. alluaudi, L. tigrinus, L. pseustes and L. furthi a distinct group characterized by similar colour pattern of body and male genitalia. Laccophilus comes, L. furthi and L. alluadi are smaller than the other species in the group. The three species are separated by small differences in shape of penis; see diagnosis of L. alluaudi on p. 41 and L. furthi on p. 42.
Body length 3.3–3.9 mm, width 1.8–2.2 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern distinct and uniform (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. At eyes with fine, irregularly distributed punctures. Rather shiny, although microsculptured. Reticulation double; coarse meshes only slightly stronger developed than fine meshes. Coarse meshes, when discernible, contain 2-3 fine meshes. In part, mesh categories cannot be distinguished.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Impunctate, except anteriorly, with scattered, fine punctures. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Coarse meshes only slightly more strongly developed than fine meshes; contain when discernible 3-4 fine meshes.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct, blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, longitudinal markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Metathorax and -coxal plates dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous; otherwise pale ferrugineous. Very fine, sparse punctures discernible on metacoxal plates and abdomen. Slightly mat due to very fine and hardly discernible microsculpture. Prosternal process rather slender, apex pointed but not strongly extended backwards. Abdomen with fine, sparse, curved striae. Apical ventrite not distinctly modified (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, somewhat extended; provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect medially, straight for a long distance, apex slightly bent; in dorsal aspect, penis from middle, strongly bent right (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apex of apical ventrite more angular than in male (Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
Label data indicate that L. comes has been sampled in various sized, running waters as streams and rivers.
Laccophilus alluaudi
Madagascar: Diego Suarez.
(5 exs). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Madagascar Diego-Suarez Ch. Alluaud 1893 / male symbol / Cotype / Museum Paris col. Guignot” (MNHN). – Paralectotypes: Same data as in lectotype, but two of the specimens with female symbol (4 exx. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(189 exs.): Madagascar: “Forét d’Ambre Lat -12.4754 Lon 49.2173 coll. Balke & Monaghan, BMNH(E)670568_MSL007: B10, 19.11.04 / L. alluaudi Régb. det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “BMNH(E)670572_MSL007: CO2” (1 ex. NHRS); “Antsiranana II Mt d’Ambre, Grande cascade stream parallel to GC in deep very steep gorge, mostly isolated pools 17.11. 2004, N: -12,49920 E: 49,17600, 800 m Balke et al” (29 exs. NHRS, 4 exx. MZH); “Antsiranana II Foret d’Ambre, small water hole in dry streambed, gardenland at edge of dry forest 19.11. 2004 N-12,47540, E49,21730, 545m leg. Balke” (2 exs. NHRS); “Antsiranana 1 Mtd French Streampool 12.11. 2004 N-12,33360, E49,35350, 171 m, leg Balke et al” (12 exs. NHRS); “Antsiranana 1 Mt.d’Ambre 16.11. 2004, N-12,52830, E49,17253, 1020 m Balke et al.” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toli, NW Ft Dauphin, forest, watersource, P54E: N: E:: m 19.5. 2006 Bergsten et al. / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten/BMNH(E): <?94192> DNA voucher / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toli, NW Ft. Dauphin, creek with gravel, stones and sand in rainforest along the creek, in small water holes and (Madaglymbus) in waterpool on a large rock with wood and leaves 19.5. 2006 N-24°45.583, E46°51.821, 300 m Bergsten et al.” (2 exs. NHRS); “Ambilobe, Anjiabe Ambony Antsabe: Galoko Mts, hygropetric cascade; alt. 50 m, P2506M N -13.6093 E 48.7212, 23.11. 2004 leg. Monaghan, Andriamparany, Balke / BMNH(E) <794160> DNA voucher / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Anjiabe Ambony, Ambilobe Antsabe stairways-like cascade with vertical steps, exposed, extremely hot day 23.11. 2004 N-13,60930, E48,72120, 303 m Balke et al.” (17 exx. NHRS); “Ambilobe, Anjiabe Ambony Antsabe: waterhole in streambed on clearing: 50 m, P25MD11 N - 13.648 E 48.721, 21.11. 2004, leg. Balke et al/BMNH(E) <794189> DNA voucher / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toli, Taolanaro; Isaky Ivondro, Foret Manangotry, running water, P67B: N: -24.859: E: 46.862: 310 m, 9.4. 2007 leg. Ranarilalatiana et al / DNA voucher BMNH <830767> MSL399:H4 / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Ants, Sambava, Marojejy, Marojejy NP: Forest stream P57BI01: N: -14.437: E: 49.773: 464 m, 6.12. 2006 leg. Isambert et al. / DNA voucher BMNH <830690> MSL399:A11 / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toam, Ambatondrazaka, Zahamena; Zahamena NP: Stream P60BI08 N: -17.505: E: 48.724: 1054 m, 30.12.2006 leg. Isambert et al. / DNA voucher BMNH <830696> MSL399:B5 / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “P60BI06 N: -17.508: E: 48.724: 1068 m” and “BMNH <830701> MSL399:B10” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “Zahamena NP, Analamaintsoa 1st stream before Camp 1 within a few m from the GPS point P60BI06, 30.12. 2006 N-17,50617, E48,72400, 1068 m” (4 exs. NHRS); “TOAM Ambatondrazaka Zahamena NP on the way to camp 2 to Fenerive Est “Route des contrebandiers” P60BI29 02.1. 2007, N: -17,54167 E: 48,72183, 1322m leg. Isambert et al” (37 exs. NHRS); same data but “Analamaintsoa, 2nd stream btw Camp 1 and 2, stream of pools 31.12. 2006 N-17,51850, E48,72217, 1075 m” (4 exs. NHRS); same data but “Analamaintsoa, 3rd stream before Camp 1, stream of pools, almost dry P60BI08, 30.12. 2006, N-17,50500, E48,72450, 1054 m Isambert et al” (10 exx. NHRS); “Montagne des Francais, Lat. -12.3336 Lon. 49.3535 leg. Balke & Otke, BMNH(E)_671210 MSL014; 1/1/1904 / DNA voucher BMNH <671210> MSL014: H02/L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Saratanana, leg. Lees & Ranaivosolo MNH(E)_672835_MSL028; 1/1/1904 /DNA voucher BMNH <672835> MSL028: B05 / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Antsabe Lat -13.6093 Lon 49.7212, Balke leg. BMNH(E) _670700_MSL008 23.9. 2004/1904/DNA voucher BMNH <670700> MSL008: E10/L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Ants, Nosy Be: Lokobe R.N.1, 50 m, 2004/DNA voucher BMNH(E) <794171> / L. alluaudi det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “R.N.I. Lokobe Nosy Be, 50 m, 15.12. 2004 Ravo” (1 ex. NHRS); “Mahajanga: Boeny Mahavavy Kinkony RS. S16.05648, E045.76371, 55 m.a.o., 5.12. 2009 water net, field, Bergsten et al. (19 exs. NHRS); same data, add: “000000465 NHRS-JLKB” (1 ex. NHRS); “Mahajanga: Melaky: Tsingy de Bemaraha NP, S19.03572, E044.77507, 66m m.a.o., 15.12. 2009, water net, field, Bergsten et al.” (12 exs. NHRS); same data but “S18.75643, E044.71398, 119 m.a.o., 17.12. 2009” (2 exs. NHRS); same data but “S19.03419, E044.77499, 41 m.a.o., 15.12. 2009” (2 exs. NHRS); same data but “S18.75724, E044.71239, 72 m.a.o., 17.12. 2009” (3 exx. NHRS); same data, add: “000000468 NHRS-JLKB” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S19.14114, E044.81245, 45 m.a.o., 14.12. 2009/000000466 NHRS-JLKB” (1 ex.NHRS); “Prov. Antsirarana, P.N. Montagne d’Ambre, elev. 960 m 26–29.1. 2001/N -12*30'52” E 49*10'53” leg. Irwin & al, malaise trap” (1 ex. CAS); “Prov. Antsirarana, P.N. Montagne d’Ambre, elev. 1125 m 30.5.-6.6. 2001/N -12°31'13” E 49°10'45” leg. Irwin & Hala, malaise trap” (1 ex. CAS); “Prov. Antsirarana, P.N. Montagne d’Ambre, elev. 1125 m 21-26.4. 2001/N -12°31'13” E 49°10'45” leg. Irwin & Hala, malaise trap” (1 ex. CAS); “Prov. Antsirarana, Sakalava beach, dwarf littoral forest 10 m, 13–20.8. 2001/N -12°15'46” E 49°23'51” Irwin & Hala leg., malaise trap – across sandy trail” (1 ex. CAS); “Andjamangirana (Majunga) 19.10. 2001/stream in dry forest, upstream. Rice field area (road to Tsaratanana) 200 m a.s.l., 30,8 °C, 0.008 mS/cm/Gerecke & Goldschmidt leg.” (1 ex. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “Anjozorobe (Antananarivo) Ravoandrina Riv. Ampanakamonty 21.7.2001 / 1280 m asl, 12,8 °C, 0,078 mS/cm/Gerecke & Goldschmidt leg.” (1 ex. BMNH); “SE-Mad. Rés. Nat. Integr. de Andohahela (NW Ft. Dauphin) Parcelle 1 (versante E) – 300 m foresta pluviale 26.5. 1991/Bartolozzi, Taiti, Raharimina leg. / L. alluaudi Rég. det.
Laccophilus alluaudi forms together with L. comes, L. tigrinus, L. pseustes and L. furthi a distinct group of species characterized by quite similar colour pattern of body and male genitalia exhibiting same ground plan. Penis of L. alluaudi, L. comes and L. furthi is not evenly curved in lateral view as in L. tigrinus, but angled. Longitudinal markings of L. comes reach humeral region while in L. alluaudi and L. furthi corresponding markings fade away before reaching humeral region. Finally, penis (dorsal aspect) in L. alluaudi is strongly twisted, while almost straight in L. furthi. Furthermore L. comes penis is in lateral view medially slightly depressed and immediately after angle towards apex there is a minute, sharp knob which is lacking in L. alluaudi.
(See description of L. comes; only diagnostically important differences noted): Body length 3.4–3.9 mm, width 1.9–2.1 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern (Fig.
Elytra: Longitudinal markings brownish to ferrugineous; less pronounced in comparison with material of L. comes; especially humeral region with reduced dark markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect from base region, almost straight to extreme apex, which is slightly bent upwards; in dorsal aspect, penis bent at right but less so than in L. comes (Figs
Female apical ventrite as in Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
Label data indicate that L. alluaudi occurs in both standing and running waters. Collected in a creek with gravel, stones and sand in rainforest along the creek, in small water holes and together with Madaglymbus in water pool on a large rock with wood and leaves.
Madagascar: Prov. Fianarantsoa, 7 km West of Ranomafana.
(2 exs.): Holotype: male: “Madagascar: Prov. Fianarantsoa, 7 km W Ranomafana, 1100 m 8-21. October 1988 W.E. Steiner / From stream with mossy rocks and sandy bottom, montane rainforest” (USNM; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus furthi resembles most of L. alluaudi, L. comes and L. tigrinus. Distinguishable by study of the penis, the shape of which is almost straight and comparatively broad in L. furthi, while sinuate and less evenly broad in the three resembling species mentioned above. Vide diagnosis of L. alluaudi (p. 41).
Body length 3.7–3.8 mm, width 2.0 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body as in Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat to rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, but size classes of meshes difficult to distinguish. In part meshes mixed and sculpture appears irregular, consisting of variable shaped meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, irregular punctures, which extend a short distance towards middle of head-disc.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Submat to rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but size classes of meshes difficult to distinguish. In part meshes mixed, and sculpture appears irregular, consisting of variable shaped meshes. Impunctate, except frontally and laterally; with very fine, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dark ferrugineous to brownish, longitudinal areas, which anteriorly, gradually fade away in the holotype while quite distinct in paratype (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous, except metathorax and -coxal plates; blackish to dark ferrugineous. Shiny to rather shiny, microsculpture almost absent. Only very fine rudimentary microsculpture can sporadically be discerned. Abdomen with very fine, curved striae. Impunctate, except apical ventrite; with some fine, scattered punctures; shape of ventrite almost symmetric (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged and extended, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis exhibits few modifications, being almost straight both in lateral and dorsal aspects (Figs
Female: Unknown.
The name is a noun in its genitive form based on the name of Dr. David Furth, Washington D.C., USA, who kindly assured the loan of large African Laccophilus collections for this study, deposited in USNM.
Madagascar (Fig.
Collecting label informs that L. furthi has been “collected from stream with mossy rocks and sandy bottom in montane rainforest”. The single paratype was collected by black light.
Laccophilus tigrinus
Comoro Islands: Anjouan, Foret de M’Remani.
(5 exs.). Holotype: male: “Type / F. Guignot det. 1955 Laccophilus tigrinus sp. n. Type, male symbol” (MNHN). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype but labelled “Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Anjouan Fet de M’Remani X-1953 (Millot) / male symbol / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(5 exs.): Comoro Islands: “Grande Comore Nioumbadjou 9.8. 1981 R. Joqué”(2 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); “Moheli Foret de Fomboni 600 m 2eme torrent 6.54 (J.M.)” (2 exs. IRSNB).
Laccophilus tigrinus resembles most of all species of L. comes, L. alluaudi and L. furthi, but it is often slightly larger and penis in lateral view almost evenly curved and not angled. Additionally, penis of L. tigrinus on one side, provided with a latero-basal expansion which is absent in L. comes, L. alluaudi and L. furthi. Resembles also of L. pseustes but size of body smaller.
(only diagnostically important differences to description L. alluaudi are recognized):
Body length 3.6–4.0 mm, width 2.1–2.3 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body distinct (Fig.
Head: Posteriorly head often becomes gradually a little darker.
Pronotum: Frontally in middle with a vague, somewhat darker area.
Elytra: Very fine, sparse punctures form a discal, a dorsolateral and a lateral row of punctures discernible on each elytron. Pre-apical, lateral furrow rather shallow; punctate with fine hairs.
Ventral aspect: Metacoxal plates in part blackish. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged and extended, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis, in lateral aspect evenly curved towards apex, in dorsal aspect, slightly sinuate; basally provided with a distinct enlargement (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Comoro Islands (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus pseustes
Madagascar: Isalo sur Pandamus.
(1 ex.). Holotype: male: “Isalo sur Pandamus, Inst. Sci. Madagascar VIII.48 RP / Type / Guignot det. 1955 Laccophilus pseustes Type, male symbol” (MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(23 exs.): Madagascar: “Fian: Isalo, source of piscine naturelle, waterhole, P41K: N -22.553: E: 45.368: 859 m 12.5. 2006 leg. Bergsten et al / BMNH(E) <794199> DNA voucher / L. pseustes det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “BMNH(E)<745062> DNA voucher ” (1 ex. NHRS); “Fian: Isalo, source of piscine naturelle, small water holes at beginning of stream P41K, 12.5. 2006 N-22°33.206, E45°22.089, 859 m, Bergsten et al.” (5 exs. NHRS); “Fian: Isalo, Canyon de Makis: River: P41E: N: -22.548: E: 45.408: 780 m, 11.5. 2006 leg. Bergsten et al / BMNH(E) <745068> DNA voucher / L. pseustes det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “Fian: Isalo, Canyon de Makis, sandy bottom of river, with side pools and hygropetric sections at sides, wood in water, P41E 11.5. 2006 N-22°32.922, E45°24.064, 780 m Bergsten et al.” (6 exs. NHRS, 2 exs. MZH); “Fian, Isalo, Namaza R.: stagnant waterpool P41I: N: -22.539: E: 45.377: 794 m, 12.5. 2006 leg. Bergsten et al / BMNH(E) <745060> DNA voucher / L. pseustes Bergsten det.” (1 ex. NHRS); “Fian, Isalo: P41O: Trib. to Namaza R.: Waterhole, N: -22.543: E: 45.377, 842. 1624 m, 13.5.2006 leg. Isambert et al / DNA voucher BMNH(H) <831017> MSL 402:E2 / L. pseustes det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); same as but “DNA voucher BMNH(E) <831016> MSL402:E1” (1 ex. NHRS); same as but “DNA voucher BMNH(E) <831019> MSL402:E4” (1 ex. NHRS); same as but “DNA voucher BMNH(E) <831020> MSL402:E5” (1 ex. NHRS); “Fian: Isalo Namaza R. stagnant water pool with lots of woody debris and leaves 12.5. 2006, N-22°32.348, E45°22.626, 794 m, Bergsten et al. (2 exs. NHRS).
Laccophilus pseustes resembles most L. alluaudi and L. comes and also of some other species in this group but its body is generally clearly larger. Additional diagnostic features are found in the shape of the penis: In lateral aspect, penis long and narrow and extreme apex slightly curved upwards; in dorsal aspect, penis quite broad and somewhat sinuate with narrow slightly curved tip.
Body length 4.1–4.2 mm, width 2.3–2.4 mm. Elytral colour pattern slightly vague (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Reticulation indistinctly double. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed in comparison with small meshes. In part, small meshes reduced and hardly visible. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, scattered punctures; closely towards centre of head, there is an additional small group of fine punctures located in a small depression.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes contain 3–5 small meshes. Laterally and frontally, with fine, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with somewhat vague, dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous colour pattern (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern. Submat, very finely and in part indistinctly microsculptured. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Metacoxal plates with some 8–9 transversely located, shallow furrows. Almost impunctate, except on apical ventrite; with a few scattered punctures. Apical ventrite symmetric and lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, extended and provided with suckers. Hindlegs quite robust.
Male genitalia: Penis in dorsal aspect comparatively broad with narrow, slightly curved apex; in lateral aspect, penis quite slender and long with tip curved slightly upwards (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender.
Madagascar (Fig.
Mainly unknown. Label data simply indicate that the species has been collected in a river with sandy bottom, with side pools and hygropetric sections at sides, wood in water. Additionally, recorded in stagnant water pool with lots of woody debris and leaves.
Laccophilus seyrigi
Madagascar: Békily.
(6 exs.). Holotype: male: “Madagascar Békily III 1936 – S / male symbol / Type” (MNHN). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype but “Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus seyrigi forms together with L. comes and some other morphologically similar species an own group of species. L. seyrigi is, however, a deviating species in the group, and it is separated from the other species by clearly larger body size, by peculiar elytral colour pattern, by longitudinally extended meshes of microsculpture and by species-characteristic shape of penis; in dorsal aspect being long, slender and straight; in lateral aspect basally, with a distinct enlargement.
Body length 5.0–5.8 mm, width 2.8–2.9 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body rather distinct and stable; only minor variation exhibited (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. At eyes with dense and fine punctures. Additionally with fine punctures in a short transverse impression located close to each eye. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Coarse meshes distinct; fine reticulation reduced, only in part discernible. Fine meshes extensively obliterated.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally in middle with distinct dark ferrugineous area; posteriorly in middle with a vague, bilobed ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous spot. Almost impunctate, except frontally and laterally with fine scattered punctures. Rather shiny, distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes distinct; especially in middle meshes longitudinally extended. Fine meshes clearly discernible laterally; medially fine reticulation absent or almost totally obliterated.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct, dark ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous, laterally gradually darker, or with quite distinct, dark, lateral spots; dark ferrugineous to blackish. Abdomen pale ferrugineous. Ventrites latero-posteriorly with darker areas (dark ferrugineous to blackish). Apical ventrite pale except for latero-basally, with dark ferrugineous areas. Apical ventrite not modified (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender and extended, with protruding suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in dorsal aspect long, slender and straight; in lateral aspect basally, with a distinct enlargement (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, somewhat extended. Apical ventrite uniform (Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
Unknown.
Diagnosis. Medium sized species with body length 3.7–4.0 mm, width 2.2–2.4 mm.
Shape of body oval-oblong, body dorsoventrally flattened (Fig.
Prosternal process quite narrow, apex only moderately extended, apex pointed. Apical ventrite simple, not distinctly modified; no asymmetrical knob located on one side of ventrite (Fig.
Paramere quite simple but clearly enlarged in apical half (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. One species recognized in this species group. Only recorded from Madagascar.
Madagascar: Zahamena N.P., Ambatondrazaka. (N: -17,50800 E: 48,72283).
(23 exs.): Holotype: male: “MAD TOAM: Ambatondrazaka Zahamena: Zahamena N.P. close to Camp site 1 Manambota River, on the Rocks. PB60BI01: N: -17,50800 E: 48,72283: 943 m 28.XII. 2006 Leg. Isambert et. al. / Laccophilus sp.n. lateralis gr. Det. J. Bergsten. 2008” (NHRS, habitus in Fig.
A deviating species, which on the basis of external appearance and shape of penis may be closely related to species group 4 (L. alluaudi). Laccophilus isamberti, however, exhibits peculiar modification on metacoxal process, being posteriorly expanded (Fig.
Body length 3.7-4.0 mm, width 2.2-2.4 mm. Dorsal colour pattern of body (Fig.
Head: Posteriorly dark brown; anteriorly head becomes gradually paler. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation indistinctly double; large meshes generally quite distinct while small meshes in part indistinct. When discernible, large meshes contain 2-4 small meshes. At eyes with fine, irregular punctures. Area with punctures extended from eyes towards middle of head but they don’t meet medially.
Pronotum: Blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, laterally broadly paler; ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation indistinctly double. Small meshes distinct; large meshes strongly reduced and almost absent, only slightly stronger developed than small meshes. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 2-4 small meshes. Impunctate, except at margins with fine, irregular punctures (mediobasally, punctures also absent).
Elytra: Blackish to dark ferrugineous, with pale ferrugineous, longitudinal markings. Posteriorly markings undulate (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish to dark ferrugineous; without distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, very finely microsculptured. Reticulation in part absent. Abdomen basally with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate; ventrites with fine punctures. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Shape of penis (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
The name is a noun in its genitive form based on the name of Dr. Benjamin Isambert, Toulouse, France, who collected the type material during his PhD studies.
Madagascar, so far only known from Zahamena National Park (Fig.
This is a lotic species occurring in rivers and streams. The known localities are at an altitude of 1000-1100 m.
Diagnosis. Large species with body length 4.4–4.7 mm and width 2.5–2.8 mm.
Shape of body oval-oblong; body dorsoventrally flattened (Fig.
Prosternal process moderately slender, posteriorly not strongly extended, apex pointed. Apical ventrite with posterior end excavated on both sides and medially ventrite moderately produced backwards; lacks asymmetric knob on one side (Fig.
Paramere simple, elongate, apically not enlarged or modified (Fig.
Species composition and distribution: One species recognized in this species group. In Africa it occurs in north-eastern part; also recorded from Arabian Peninsula.
Laccophilus pictipennis
Laccophilus wehnckei
Laccophilus pictipennis: Saudi Arabia: Hedjaz.
Laccophilus wehnckei: Tanzania: Zanzibar.
(6 exs.): Laccophilus pictipennis: Lectotype (designated by
Laccophilus wehnckei: Lectotype (by present designation): female: “Type / E. Africa / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / Type 620 Laccophilus wehnckei sp. n. Zanzibar” (BMNH; habitus in Fig.
(15 exs.). Ethiopia: “Saati Levander” (1 ex. MZH); “Abyssinia” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Somalia: “Daragodleh 25.6. 1963 Linnavuori” (6 exs. MZH); “Lasgori / L. pictipennis Sharp det. Brancucci 1982” (5 exx. ZMHB, 1 ex. NHMB). Non-African record: – Yemen: “W. Aden Prot. nr Lahej 9-15.7. 1963 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH).
Earlier established synonymy of L. pictipennis and L. wehnckei is confirmed by study of external characters; no diagnostically important differences detected. As no males are available of L. wehnckei we could not in this case undertake comparison of male genitalia. L. discretus Sharp, 1882, described from Saudi Arabia, has earlier been synonymized with L. pictipennis. It has never been recorded from Africa by its own name and accordingly, it is outside the scope of this study.
Laccophilus pictipennis is characterized by peculiar elytral colour pattern in combination with penis, which is slightly and evenly curved, tapering gradually towards its apex. Note also that male apical ventrite lacks asymmetrically located knob, although excavated on each side of midline and slight medial extension (Fig.
Body length 4.4–4.7 mm, width 2.5–2.8 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body with fairly distinct colour pattern. African specimens seem to have vaguer dorsal colour pattern (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Punctation indistinct, almost absent; close to eyes with two minute deptressions with irregular, fine punctures. Shiny, although irregularly and rather finely reticulated. In part double reticulation weakly discernible (delimitation in two distinct size classes of meshes vague).
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. At frontal margin with a vague, ferrugineous, almost bilobed marking. Punctation fine, sparse to rather sparse and irregularly distributed. Punctures frontally densest. Rather shiny although microsculptured. Reticulation indistinctly divided into two kinds; smaller meshes sometimes discernible within large meshes. In part, only large meshes well-developed.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with extensive, distinct, dark ferrugineous to brownish markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although extensively, finely microsculptured. Besides microsculpture metacoxal plates with shallow, transverse furrows and abdomen especially basally with distinct striae. Apical ventrite lacks knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite broad, from base slightly and evenly curved to apex (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite (Fig.
Somalia, Ethiopia, Tanzania (Zanzibar) (Fig.
Almost unknown in Africa.
Diagnosis. Medium to large sized species; body length 3.5–5.3 mm, width 1.9–2.9 mm.
Shape of body oval-oblong, dorsoventrally flattened (Fig.
Prosternal process rather slender, extended, apically pointed. Apical ventrite posteriorly on each side excavated, medially posteriorly extended, but asymmetrical knob always absent (posterior outline of ventrite “undulate” with medial extension) (Fig.
Paramere simple, somewhat enlarged but not distinctly modified (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. Nine species are recognized; two of them occur in Madagascar and seven in mainland Africa, South of Sahara. To observe, that from point 3 in the key below, external characters are variable and male genitalia must be studied.
1 | Large species, length of body 4.8-5.3 mm; elytra with vague but clear, dark, longitudinal lines of which medial lines enclose an undulate pale marking (Fig. |
L. rivulosus (p. 85) |
– | Smaller species, length of body 3.5-4.6 mm; elytral colour pattern different | 2 |
2 | Dark irrorations sparse at elytra-base forming a sub-basal, transverse pale area (Fig. |
L. irroratus (p. 83) |
– | Dark irrorations dense at base; if sparse no transverse, pale area formed (Figs |
3 |
3 | Dark irrorations at least partly “hollow” with pale irroration-area enclosed (Fig. |
4 |
– | Dark irroration almost completely dark (Fig. |
6 |
4 | Penis apex broad; ends abruptly and exhibits no extension (Fig. |
L. inobservatus (p. 63) |
– | Penis apex less broad; apex externally somewhat extended (Fig. |
5 |
5 | Penis apex delicate, less pronounced (Fig. |
L. continentalis (p. 53) |
– | Penis apex robust, pronounced (Fig. |
L. posticus (p. 58) |
6 | Penis apex enlarged on both sides close to truncate apex (Fig. |
L. simplicistriatus (p. 66) |
– | Penis apex enlarged on one (marginal) side or not enlarged close to truncate apex (Fig. |
7 |
7 | Apical process of penis apex curved upwards (Fig. |
L. complicatus (p. 80) |
– | Apical process of penis apex not curved upwards (Fig. |
8 |
8 | Penis long with apical process distinct (Fig. |
L. taeniolatus (p. 72) |
– | Penis shorter with vague apical process (Fig. |
L. propinquus (p. 79) |
Laccophilus posticus continentalis
Laccophilus continentalis Gschwendter,
Laccophilus perplexus
Laccophilus continentalis: Botswana: Kalahari, Tsotsorogo Pan.
Laccophilus perplexus: Mozambique: Umbeluzi River near Goba.
(21 exs.). Laccophilus continentalis: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “V.-L. Kal. Exp. Tsotsorogo Pan 17/6-9/7/30 / Type male (symbol) Gschw. / Laccoph. posticus continentalis det. Gschwendtner” (TMSA; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus perplexus: Holotype: male: “Type / L. perplexus sp. n. / Mozambique Umbeluzi River near Goba 4.12. 1948 J.O.C.” (AMGS; according to original description holotype preserved in BMNH).
(518 exs.). Senegal: “Sumpf von Peykone, Senegal 9. 08 Riggenbach S.V.“ (1 ex. ZMHB). – Gambia-S. Senegal: “Stream of Selety 13°10'N-16°36'W 19.2. 1976 Holmen leg.” (2 exs. ZMUC). – Sudan: “Wad Medani a. Bl. Nil 29.10. 1979 Hieke“ (1 ex. ZMHB); same but “12.10. 1979 lux“ (2 exs. ZMHB); same but “18.10. 1979“(1 ex. ZMHB); same but “8.10. 1979“ (2 exs. ZMHB); same but “9.10. 1979“ (1 ex. ZMHB); same but “30-31.10. 1979“ (1 ex. ZMHB); same but “20.10.1979“ (1 ex. ZMHB); same but “15.10. 1979“ (1 ex. ZMHB); same but “22.10.1979“ (2 exs. ZMHB); same but “leg. Königsmann“ (1 ex. ZMHB); “Senaar a.Bl. Nil, lux 21.10.1979 Hieke“ (5 exs. ZMHB); “Umm Banein, light trap 14.11. 1962 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH). – Ghana: “N Region Nyankpala 183 m N9°25’-W1°00’ Dr. S. Endrödy-Younga / shore washing 10.2. 1970“ (1 ex. CGW). – Nigeria: “Samaru 17.5. 1959, Sands / light trap” (1 ex. BMNH); “Nt Kano 1.5. 1928 Lindwer Madsen” (1 ex. ZMUC). – Somalia: “Somali Rep. 1961 Roffey”(3 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH). – Kenya: “Kibwezi Scheffler leg.“ (1 ex. ZMHB); same as but “1906“ (1 ex. ZMHB); “Eastern Mwingi, Nguni env. 28.11. 1999 Snizek” (1 ex. NMW); “SE Kenya ShimbaHills 20 km S Mombasa 5.6. 1985 Lödl” (1 ex. NMW, 1 ex. MZH); Mafisini, pond, Kwale District 19.9. 1976 Holmen leg.” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Maji ya Chumvi River, Kwale District 16.9. 1976 Holmen leg.” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Maji-Chumwi (Wa Nyika) Alluaud 7. 1903” (2 exs. NHMB); “Athi River, Machakos District 14.9. 1976 Holmen det“ (1 ex. ZMUC); “Kombeni River, Mazeras, Kilifi distr 15.9. 1976 Holmen” (2 exs. ZMUC, 2 exs. MZH); “Mariakani dam, Kilifi District 16.9. 1976 Holmen” (4 exs. MZH); “Mandera R. Dana 23.10. 1970 Brown” (1 ex. BMNH); “Wajir 27.10. 1970 Brown” (1 ex. BMNH); “Malindi, alle luci, 15.11.-5.12. 1989 / L. continentalis Gschwendtner det.
“Lowrie 17.5. 1955” (1 ex. AMGS); “Kotsch Lu.(?) Kohu” (1 ex. NMW).
The lectotype of L. continentalis and the holotype of L. perplexus have been examined and compared. Minor difference is present in appearance of the elytral colour pattern and shape of the penis. Differences observed are, however, superficial and clearly falls within the variation exhibited by one species. L. continentalis being the older name is the valid name of the species.
Externally L. continentalis resembles much of L. posticus. Useful diagnostic character is the shape of the penis. In L. continentalis apical part of penis is less prominent in comparison with rest of the penis when L. posticus is characterized by distinctly more prominent apex of penis. The shape of penis separates the two species from all other African Laccophilus species.
Body length 3.6–4.1 mm, width 1.9–2.2 mm. Pale ferrugineous, with dark ferrugineous, extensive but variable elytral irrorations (Figs
Head: Frontally pale ferrugineous; posteriorly head becomes gradually slightly darker; at pronotum ferrugineous to pale brown. Head often uniformly pale coloured. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation almost uniform. Indistinct fragments of double reticulation discernible (large meshes incomplete). Almost impunctate; at eyes with fine, hardly discernible punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally with a vague dark ferruginous to dark brownish marking. Darker marking on disc sometimes reduced and visible in frontal part of pronotum. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation almost simple; indistinct fragments of coarse reticulation discernible: large meshes incomplete. Almost impunctate; frontally and laterally with scattered, very fine punctures discernible.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with variable, dark ferrugineous irrorations. Irrorations sometimes in part reduced; outlines only distinct (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Abdomen in part ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, with lateral and apical areas paler. Almost impunctate. Extensively very finely microsculptured. Prosternal process slender; apex extended and pointed. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with some transversely located, shallow furrows. Abdomen with sparse but distinct striae. Apical ventrite (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather long and slender. Pro- and mesotarsus provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Extreme apex of penis forms a short, sharp and small extension (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite (Fig.
Gambia, Senegal, Sudan, Ghana, Nigeria, Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, South Africa (Fig.
The biology and habitats of L. continentalis are not well documented. Scattered observations can be gathered from literature and from collection data written on the labels. Label data give that the species is capable of flying and attracted by light. L. continentalis has also been sampled from various water-bodies as ponds and streams.
Laccophilus posticus
Mauritius (Ile de France).
(1 ex.). Holotype: female: “Data in NHRS JLKB 000030279/Ex – Museo Dejean / D. Sharp Monogr. / irroratus après Dej. / Laccophilus posticus var. / Dr. Régimbart vidit 1893 / Coll. Oberthur” (MNHN). [Comment: in the original description
(486 exs.). Mauritius: “Ile de Maurice Avril 1908 d’Emmerez / Museum Paris 1945 Coll. R. Peschet / Laccophilus posticus Aubé” (4 exs. MNHN); “Ile de Maurice Bambous Carié Déc. 1912 / Museum Paris 1945 Coll. R. Peschet / Laccophilus posticus Aubé R. Peschet det. 1917” (1 ex. MNHN); “Balaclava 4.5. 2007 Madl” (2 exs. NMW, 1 ex. MZH); “Nr. Triolet, nr. Fond du Sac, temp. new pool at roadside, terr. plants flooded by water, ephemeral aquatic habitat” (1 ex. CCT); “Ins. Mauritius Westw.” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Mauritius” (2 exs. ZMHB). – Madagascar: “Mahajanga: Boeny: Ankarafantsika NP, S16.30341, E046.81073, 74 m.a.o. 29.11. 2009, 22W black light, field Bergsten et al. leg” (13 exs. NHRS); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000511” (1 ex. NHRS); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000514” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S16.30270, E046.80996, 75 m.a.o. 30.11. 2009” (12 exs. NHRS); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000515” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S16.30653, E046.81227, 108 m.a.o. 28.11. 2009” (4 exs. NHRS); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000494” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S16.31215, E046.81523, 76 m.a.o. 29.11. 2009” (17 exs. NHRS); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000513” (1 ex. NHRS); “Mahajanga: Boeny: Mahavavy Kinkony RS. S16.14653, E045.94926, 9 m.a.o. 4.12. 2009 water net, field leg. Bergsten et al” (15 exs. NHRS); Same data; add “NHRS-JLKB 000000501” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S16.06651, E045.77627, 24 m.a.o. 5.12. 2009” (10 exs. NHRS); same data, Andasibe Adasibe add “NHRS-JLKB 000000510” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S16.15502, E045.91878, 10 m.a.o. 3.12. 2009” (10 exs. NHRS); same data but “S16.13337, E045.95778, 19 m.a.o., 4.12. 2009 / NHRS-JLBK 000000509” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “NHRS-JLKB 000000496” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S16.15890, E045.93967, 3.12. 2009 / NHRS-JLBK 000000508” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S16.14147, E045.93661, 12 m.a.o., 3.12. 2009 / NHRS-JLKB 000000502” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toliara: Menabe: Menabe RS, S19.92773, E045.52253, 102 m.a.o. 10.12. 2009 water net, field” (13 exs. BMNH); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000516” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S20.09034, E044.56400, 45 m.a.o. 11.12. 2009 / NHRS-JLKB (1 ex. NHRS); “Toliara: Menabe: Kirindy RS. S20.07641, E044.67478, 65 m.a.o., 11.12. 2009 water net, field” (1 ex. NHRS); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000497” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “000000504” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S20.07655, E044.67532, 57 m.a.o., 12.12. 2009/NHRS-JLKB 000000505” (1 ex. NHRS); “Mahajanga: Melaky btw. Morafenobe-Ambohijanahary, S18.19091, E45.19986, 290 m.a.o. 19.12. 2009 water net, field Bergsten et al.” (9 exs. NHRS); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000512” (1 ex. NHRS); “Mahajanga: Melaky: Tsingy de Bemaraha NP. S18.75724, E044.71239, 72 m.a.o., 17.12. 2009 water net, field Bergsten et al.” (1 ex. NHRS); same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000498” (1 ex. NHRS); same data but “S18.775797, E044.71289, 81 m.a.o. 17.12. 2009, 22W black light, Field” (2 exs. NHRS); same data, add: “NHRS-JLKB 000000493” (1 ex. NHRS); same as, except “S19.14210, E044.81309, 59 m.a.o., 14.12. 2009, 22 w black light, field / NHRS-JLBK 000000499” (1 ex. NHRS); “Mahajanga: Melaky: betw. Bekopaka-Antsalova, 18.91556, E044.55546, 47 m.a.o., 16.12. 2009 water net, field Bergsten et al.” (66 exs. NHRS); Same data, add “NHRS-JLKB 000000506” (1 ex. NHRS); “Mahajanga: Melaky: btw. Antsalova-Maintirano S18.30233, E044.18071, 37 m.a.o., 18.12. 2009 Bergsten et al. / NHRS-JLKB 000000503” (1 ex. NHRS); “Ankarana Lat -12.947 Lon 49.0119 27.11. 2004 / DNA voucher BMNH 675044, MSL045:E07 / L. posticus Aubé det. Bergsten” (1 ex, NHRS); “Antsabe, Lat -13.648, Lon 48.721, 21.11. 2004, Balke, Lees & Monaghan / DNA voucher BMNH 672769, MSLO27:D 11 / L. posticus det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); same but “DNA voucher BMNH 672774, MSL027: E04” (1 ex. NHRS); “Anjiabe Ambony, Ambilobe, Antsabe near camp, ¾ moon, dry, very many water beetles: P25MD12: 21.11. 2004, N: -13.6518, E: 48.7267, 49 m Balke et al” (1 ex. NHRS); “Ambilobe 4. 1951 R.P. / Paratype” (ab. pseudotaenilatus Guignot – not available name) (1 ex. MNHN); “Androka 5. 51 / Paratype” (ab. pseudotaenilatus Guignot – not available name) (1 ex. MNHN); “Isaky Ivondro Ampasy, rice paddies P66, 9.4. 2007 N-24,93056, E46,86317,64 m Ranarilalatiana et al” (41 exs. NHRS); “Isaky Ivondro, Foret Manangotry (rte towards Ranomafana) running water P67C, 9.4. 2007, N-24.7994, E46,86244, 406 m Ranarilalatiana et al.” (4 exs. NHRS); “TOLI, Taolanaro: Isaky Ivondro, Foret Managotry, running water P67C: N -24.799 E 46.862, 406 m 9.4. 2007, leg. Ranarilalalatiana et al./L. posticus Aubé det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); “TOLI, muddy waterhole, N -23.242, E 44.229, 415 m, 17.5. 2006 Bergsten et al. / BMNH(E) 794210 DNA voucher / L.posticus Aubé Bergsten det. (1 ex. MZH); same as but “BMNH(E) 794228 DNA voucher” (1 ex. NHRS); same but “BMNH(E) 794252 DNA voucher” (1 ex. NHRS); “TOLI NW Ft. Dauphin, rice paddies, P54F, N -24.824, E 46.866, 34.44 m, 19.5. 2006, leg. Bergsten et al / L. posticus det. Bergsten/BMNH(E): <74511> DNA voucher” (1 ex. NHRS); Same but “<794236> DNA voucher” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toli NW Ft Dauphin, rice paddies with water somewhat running under road, 19.5. 2006 N-24°49.472, E46°51.974 34 m Bergsten et al.” (12 exs. NHRS); “TOLI Zombitse Ankilemiletsy, muddy zebu waterhole, some emergent vegetation P42B, 14.5. 2006, N-22°52.112, E44°34.616, 545 m Bergsten et al.” (1 ex. NHRS); “Toli Zombitse Ambiamena, edge PN Zombitse, stagnant zebu-visited marshland, muddy and lots of vegetation, 14.5. 2006 N-22°51.605, E44°37.035, 533 m Bergsten et al.” (4 exs. NHRS); “Toli Zombitse Andranomena R. (Anomena R. ?) near Ranomena, PN Zombitse section Isoky. Pools of muddy & vegetation, stagnant waters in the river basin, among ricefields and Phragmites ? 15.5. 2006 -22°38.407, E44°51.866, 578 m Bergsten et al.” (16 exs. NHRS); “Toli MK Manakaralahy, Manakaralahy R. Dried out river with waterhole on sandy bottom with algal mats, 18.5. 2006, N-24°28.162, E44°35.683, 210 m Bergsten et al.” (3 exs. NHRS); “Toli Sakondry Sakondry R, near RN 10 bridge at Satria river with sandy bottom, wide (50m +) and shallow, algal mats along the edges 17.5. 2006, N-23°20.807, E44°20.353, 214 m Bergsten et al.” (5 exs. NHRS); “Toli Menarandra Menarandra R, 49 km from Ampanihy pools beside a river close to village, algae in pools and sandy bottom with some wood 18.5. 2006, N-24°43.104, E45°2.859, 227 m Bergsten et al.” (9 exs. NHRS); “Fian Isalo, Menamaty R.: degraded river, P41AMO1 N: -22.55, E: 45.401, 757 m, 11.5. 2006 leg. Bergsten et al. / L. posticus det. Bergsten/BMNH(E) <745103> DNA voucher” (1 ex. NHRS); “Fian Isalo, Menamaty R., sandy/stony bottom with some vegetation at edges, zebu crossing, degraded P41C, 11.5. 2006 N-22°29.359, E45°23.505, 715 m Bergsten et al.” (3 exs. NHRS); “Fian Isalo Menamaty Riv. degraded with lots of vegetation, used by women to wash clothes in P41AM01, 11.5. 2006 N-22°33.001, E45°24.074, 757 m Bergsten et al.” (40 exs. NHRS); “Tanandava, lum. Schmitz” (8 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH; habitus as in Figs
Laccophilus posticus and L. continentalis form a pair of species with considerable resemblance. The two species are separated by differences in shape of the penis, being distinctly more prominent in L. posticus than in L. continentalis; especially, anterior part is more extended in L. posticus. The penis of L. posticus and L. continentalis resembles also the penis of L. rivulosus but this species exhibits clear differences in the elytral colour pattern (irrorations are formed as longitudunal lines).
Body length 3.5–4.4 mm, width 2.0–2.5 mm. Dorsal, colouration of body as in Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly sometimes slightly darker. Submat, finely, evenly and distinctly microsculptured; reticulation indistinctly double. Large meshes rudimentary, weakly indicated and only in part discernible. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, scattered punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrrugineous. Frontally and basally in middle with rather vague dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous areas. Submat, finely, evenly and distinctly microsculptured; reticulation indistinctly double. Large meshes rudimentary, weakly indicated and only in part discernible. Impunctate, except anteriorly and laterally; here with fine, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dark ferrugineous irrorations. Elytral colour pattern quite stable, exhibits some variation. Single dark marking sometimes only defined by its dark outlines while centre is of pale colour. Rarely the dark, longitudinal markings are in part mixed with each other forming a larger dark area (Figs
Ventral aspect: Blackish ferrugineous to ferrugineous, prothorax pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Metathorax with about 10 very fine, shallow and in part transversely located furrows. Prothorax moderatly broad, apex distinctly extended, apically pointed. Metacoxal process not distinctly modified. Apical ventrite (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect prominent; apex extended to a sharp process (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Mauritius, Madagascar, Aldabra (Fig.
Insufficiently documented.
Chad: Near Bongor.
(234 exs.). Holotype: male: “Chad nr Bongor 27.5. 1973 R. Linnavuori” (MZH; habitus in Fig.
Two specimens in NHRS labelled “Egypten” also belong to this species. The material is fairly old and the exact location of these records is somewhat unclear. The specimens are therefore not included in type material.
Laccophilus inobservatus is closely related especially to L. continentalis, L. simplicistriatus and L. taeniolatus. The species can be distinguished by study of penis apex-shape, which is peculiar and stable in all four species. Penis apex of L. inobservatus is cut off straight and lacks any signs of anterior processes – resembling species have all at least minor kinds of modifications/processes on penis apex.
Body length 3.6–4.0 mm, width 1.9–2.2 mm. Colour pattern dorsally, reasonably uniform; rarely reduced so that elytral irrorations are in part fragmentary (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, lacks darker areas. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed in comparison with small meshes. Large meshes may contain 2–6 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes, with fine, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. At foremargin between eyes with a dark ferrugineous to blackish, slightly vague marking. At base in middle with two narrow, blackish spots. Sometimes dark areas on pronotum may be reduced. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes may contain 2–6 small meshes. Impunctate, but at margins except basally in middle with very fine scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense, blackish to dark ferrugineous irrorations. Irrorations generally quite evenly distributed; sometimes irrorations reduced and at least in part separate irrorations rudimentary. Posterior to middle irrorations can be strongly reduced forming an irregular pale spot on each elytron (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous, abdomen distinctly darker; dark to blackish ferrugineous. Almost impunctate, except apical ventrite; with some, fine, irregular punctures. Apical ventrite lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat extended and enlarged, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Extreme penis apex, blunt, abruptly broken and lacks any kinds of processes (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsi slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
The species name inobservatus is a Latin adjective meaning “unobserved”. It here refers to the peculiar situation that the species remained overlooked for a long time due to misinterpretation, although it is widespread and common.
Africa: Gambia, Senegal, Mali, Niger, Sudan, Chad, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Zaire and Asia: Yemen (Fig.
Label data provide some information on the living habits of L. inobservatus. Accordingly, in Gambia collected at light at a bamboo pool and in semiarid vegetation near a river. Moreover the species has been collected in and at a fresh water stream and in a rock pool in river bed.
Laccophilus simplicistriatus
Laccophilus monas
Laccophilus simplicistriatus: Zaire: Lusindol.
Laccophilus monas: Zaire: Route Shangugu-Usumbura, riv. Lua.
(12 exs.). Laccophilus simplicistriatus: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Paratypus / Musée du Congo Lusindol 15-VIII-1911 L. Burgeon / R. Det. 2093 C” (MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus monas: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / I.R.S.A.C. –Mus. Congo/Route Shangugu-Usumbura riv. Lua 5-VIII 1949 G. Marlier / Type / Eaux thermals rivier Lua 5-8-49/R Dét. I. 6182 / Guignot det., 1953 Laccophilus monas Guign. Type, male/= simplicistriatus Gschw. det. J. Omer-Cooper May 25th 1954” (MRAC).
(396 exs.). Sudan: “Meya Saku 43 mi. from Amadi, Juba rd. 29.I. 1954 JOC” (2 exs. AMGS); “L. Yirol 6,33N, 30,3E 24.I. 1954 JJOC” (2 exs. AMGS); “Nimule, Fula rapids 4.XI. 1954 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Nimule Ferry 4.XI. 1954 JJOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “L. Nyibor 23.I. 1954 JJOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Sandy river 50 mi. NW of Juba JJOC.” (5 exs. AMGS); “Aluakluak 30,5E, 6,30N 15.IV. 1954” (2 exs. AMGS); “Stream from hot springs Nyangwara 30,5E, 4,39N 29.I. 1954 JJOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Equatoria Tali Post 8.IV. 1954” (1 ex. AMGS); “L. Shambe 21.I. 1954 JJOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Upper Nile, Malakal 5-20.1. 1963 Linnavuori / ad lucem” (4 exs. MZH); “Upper Nile, Malakal 5-20.1. 1963 Linnavuori” (10 exs. MZH); “Upper Nile Malakal Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH); “Upper Nile Pr. Malakal, nr junction Nile – Sobat 21.9. 1957 Forsberg/L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson 1996” (1 ex. MZLU); “Blue Nile Ingessana Mts. 17-22.11. 1962 Linnavuori” (2 exs. MZH); “Weisser Nil bei Tonga 10-13.4. 1914 Ebner”(1 ex. NMW); “Mongalla 50 Werner” (2 exs. NMW); “Kadugli at light, 11. 1954 Sweeney” (1 ex. BMNH); “Torit 2.7. 1980 Armstrong” (11 exs. USNM, 2 exs. MZH); “Gilo water tank (pumped of from stream) 20.3. 1980 Armstrong” (13 exs. USNM, 3 exs. MZH); “Kinyetti Riv. at Imeila 19.3. 1980 Armstrong” (4 exs. USNM); “SW Sudan nr Yambio Abbott” (1 ex. USNM); “Nairege Riv. 27.2. 1980 Armstrong” (1 ex. USNM). – Ethiopia: “Arsi, Dehra 40 km N Assella 25.9. 1988 1800 m, temp pool, Persson / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson” (2 exs. MZLU); “Shoa, Soddere 16.10, 1988, 1500 m, temp. pool without vegetation Persson / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson” (1 ex. MZLU); “Shoa, Soddere 25.9. 1988, 1500 m Persson / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson” (2 exs. MZLU); “Shoa Dobre Zeit Hora lake 15.3. 1989, 2200 m, polluted water Persson /L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson” (1 ex. MZLU); “7000 ft. Hora Harsadi Addas 2.XII. 1926 J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “West marsh L. Zwai 5500 ft. 2-3.XI. 1926 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); 5000 ft. small pond Hora Shala 21.XI. 1926 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “7000 ft. Mt. Chilalu 8.XI. 1926 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Baher Dar 8.10.1968 Horde leg. /Lichtfang” (7 exs. NHMB, 2 exs. USNM); “Bahar Dar, at light 4.4. 1967 P. Stys leg.” (1 ex. NMPC). – Zaire: “Kigoma V. 1930 / Paratype / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Gschwendtner” (1 ex. OLML; not type material); same as preceding but no determination label (1 ex. MRAC; not type material); “Karemi V- 1912 Dr. Bayer / L. simplicistriatus G. J. Balfour-Browne det. 1963” (3 exs. MRAC); “Riv. Lobozi 5.11.1912 / L. taeniolatus Rég. var. R. Peschet det. 1914“ (1 ex. MAC); “Kivu: Luvungi XII-1932” (2 exs. MRAC); “Elisabethville (a la lumière) X/XI-1950 / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Guignot 1953” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG I/c/4, 15.3. 1950 Demoulin 234 / Paratype / L. monas Guign. det. Guignot” (1 ex. IRSNB; not type material); “PNG Napokomweli 18.X. 1950 G. Demoulin 893 / L. monas Guign. det. Guignot 1957” (1 ex. AMGS); “PNG, I/a/2, 21.4. 1950 Demoulin 452” (1 ex. NHMB); “PNG, Ndelele 19.3. 1952, 3199” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG II/fd/12, 10.3. 1952, 3180” (2 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); “PNG PpK/14/g/14s, 4.4. 1952, 3290” (3 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); “PNG II/fd/14s, 3.4. 1952, 3278” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG II7fd/Gar 29.2. 1952, 3152” (1 ex. MAC). – Uganda: “Mabira Forest Tinga 19.7. 1970 Brown” (1 ex. BMNH). – Kenya: “Lambwe Valley on light 11.6.1974 van Etten” (1 ex. RMNH); “Aberdares NP 5.12. 1989 Jäch” (1 ex. NMW); “Thika 7.12. 1989 Jäch” (2 exs. NMW, 1 ex. MZH); “Meru Distr., Gatunga 5.4. 1987 Mourglia” (1 ex. NHMB). – Rwanda: “Rumonge, Regenwald Jan. 1986 Heiss” (1 ex. NHMB). – Tanzania: “Ukerewe Tang. Terr. VIII. / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Gschwendtner” (4 exs. OLML); “TPC S of Moshi canals 28.9. 1976 Holmen” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Mwanza nr. Lake Victoria 31.7. 1957 / sweet potato channels” (2 exs. BMNH); “Mwanza nr. L. Victoria 1957 / Marginal pools and ditches” (7 exs. BMNH); “Tanganyika 1959 Eccles” (1 ex. BMNH); “SW Tanganyika Mpanda (dans ruisseau) 6. 1960 Leleup” (1 ex. MAC); “T.T. Rukwa Milepa 25.4. 1951 Water in road- tracks Backlund / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson 1996” (1 ex. MZLU); “T.T. Rukwa Tumba 29.1. 1951 Backlund / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson 1996” (1 ex. MZLU); “T.T. Rukwa Tumba 12.1. 1951 T. river Backlund / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson 1996” (1 ex. MZLU); “T.T. Rukwa Kipangati 28.11. 1950 sulphurous pools, shallow in rich woodland Backlund / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson 1996” (1 ex. MZLU); “Tang. terr. Nzega, Naro 19.8. 1951 Backlund / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson 1996” (1 ex. MZLU); “Rukwa, Rungwa Riv. 18.5. 1950 Backlund / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson 1996” (1 ex. MZLU); “T.T. Shinyanga 21.2. 1935 Burtt” (1 ex. BMNH); “T.T. Rukwa Mkumbwa 12.5. 1950 Backlund / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Nilsson 1996” (1 ex. MZLU); “Iringa Prov., 100 km NE Iringa 07°37'S, 36°17'E, 9.1. 2007, 660 m, J. Halada leg.” (2 exs. NMPC, 1 ex. MZH); “Mbeya prov., 120 km E Mbeya 08°51'S, 34°00'E, 1220 m, 6.1. 2007 m, J. Halada leg.” (1 ex. NMPC). – Angola: “Namakunda 6. 1948, 16.15E, 18.50 S Koch” (13 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “Namakunda 6. 1948, 16.15 E. 1850S, Koch” (11 exs. BMNH); “Mongua 4.6. 1954, shallow reedy vlei” (1 ex. BMNH); “Mossamedes Distr., Rio Coroca 23.6. 1954/small clear pool with Chara” (1 ex. BMNH); “Rio Coroca 8 m. N of Porto Alexandre 22-23.6. 1954/Pond with Algae & Lemna, fringing Juncus” (1 ex. BMNH); “Pediva, ca, 30 mi. E of Porto Alexandre 400 ft. 26-27.6. 1954 / Ponds in warm, saline river; thick weed” (1 ex. BMNH); “Angola Schönlein” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Zambia: “Central Pr. Lusaka 8.1. 1982 Selander / rain pond” (1 ex. MZH); ”29.3.1993. Kafue NP., Chunga Camp, 15°02'35"S/26°00'09"E, lux Uhlig” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Malawi: “Stream 20 mi. from Dedza on Lower Lilongwae rd 30.IX. 1948” (8 exs. AMGS); “R. Diedma Lilongwe rd 30.IX. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Bua R. 2.X. 1948 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Dallys Hotel nr. Ft. Johnstone 23.VIII. 1948” (3 exs. AMGS); “Zomba plateau res.7.XI. 1948” (3 exs. AMGS); “Stream, Zomba plateau 6000 ft. 7.XI. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Gomba plateau (?) 7.XI. 1948” (3 exs. AMS); “Stream 6 mi. N of R. Mtiti 2.X. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Swampy pool nr. L. Nyasa 9.6. 1946” (1 ex. BMNH). – Zimbabwe: “Stream at Salisbury17.IX. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS); “Marandellas 2. XI. 1948 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Small stream nr. Halfway Hotel Salisbury-Gatooma 14.IX. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Reserve water holes 3.IX. 1948” (5 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Game Res. IX. 1948 water holes” (10 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Game Res. IX. 1948 water hole / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Omer-Cooper” (3 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Game Res. Mazume Dam 4.IX. 48 / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Omer-Cooper” (5 exs. AMGS); “Wankie game reserve, Shapi pan 5-6.IX. 1948 (7 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Game Reserve 4.9. 1948 / J. OmerCooper” (1 ex. BMNH); “Wanki Game Reserve 4-5.9. 1948 J. Omer-Cooper / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. J. Omer-Cooper”(4 exs. NHMB, 9 exs. USNM); ”5 mi SE Wankie 7.4. 1968 Spangler” (9 exs. USNM, 3 exs. MZH); “Victoria Falls rainforest 6.X. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS); “Gwai River 3.4. 1968 Spangler” (7 exs. USNM, 1 ex. MZH). – Mozambique: “Niassa Prov., S12°17'28.8”, E34°46'31.4” Mandambuzi Marsh, Watson 6.4. 2009” (1 ex. CGF); “Niassa Prov. Cmimulimuli River, S12°11.520’, E34°42.288’, Watson 10.2. 2008” (1 ex. CGF). – Namibia: “Windhoek Town Dam 7.VII. 39” (1 ex. AMGS); “Okahandja Distr. Toggekry 250, Omatako Ranch, 55 km NNW, NNW Okahandja, thornbush savannah / 7.2. 2001, 21°30'43"S/16°43'00” lux 22°-14°, 25.4. 2001, 17,45-20,00 Uhlig & Ebert” (1 ex. ZMHB, 1 ex. NMNW, 1 ex. MZH); “Damaral. Okahandja 21.59S-16.52E / 12.9. 1974 shore washing, Endrödy-Younga” (2 exs. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH); “Damaraland Oshikango 5. 1948 15.55 E 17.25 S Koch” (1 ex. BMNH); “Kavango:Popa Falls 18°07'S-21°35'E, 26.2.-3.11.1992 lux Uhlig leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Ovamboland Namutoni 31.5. 1954 / weedy waterhole and stream” (16 exs. BMNH, 2 exs. MZH); “Oshikango SE of frontier post 2.6. 1954/shallow water, svampy marsh” (27 exs. BMNH, 2 exs. MZH); “Ca. 7 mls N.E. of Grootfontein / waterhole in dolomite” (4 exs. BMNH); “Okarupa, ca. 17 mi. E of Okahandja, 4900 ft, 22.5. 1954 / pools in overflow stream from dam, much weed & algae” (2 exs. BMNH); “Kro, ca. 15 mi. SE of Namutoni 30.5. 1954 / shallow & muddy with algae” (1 ex. BMNH); “Etosha Pan Okaukujo camp 19.11S-15.55E/28.12. 1974 shore washing Endrödy-Younga” (1 ex. TMSA); “Etosha Pan, 60 m. NW Namutoni 5. 1937”(1 ex. TMSA); “Etosha Game Res., Namutoni 27.5. 1937” (3 exs. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH); “Kaokoweld Kowares, 90 mi SE Ohopoho 3.6. 1951” (1 ex. MZLU); “Kaokoweld Sanitatas, abt 85 mi. WSW Ohopoho 14-16.6. 1951” (1 ex. MZLU); “Kaokoweld Anabib (Orupembe) 100 mi. W Ohopoho 12-13.6. 1951” (1 ex. MZLU); “Kaokowelld Omutati, 70 mi. WSW Ohopoho 5.6. 1951” (2 exs. MZLU); “Kaokoweld 17.10. 1963 Gaerdes” (1 ex. MZLU); “Kaokoweld Sesfontain, 17 km WSW, 19.12S-13.32E/1.2. 1975 singled in riv. bed, Endrödy-Younga” (1 ex. TMSA); “Distr. Grootfontein leg. Irish / Farm klein Nosib 19.28S-14.50E Anfang April 1989” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Okomite R, temp. pool, N-17.4305, E14.1666, 12.11. 1997 De Moor” (5 exs. AMGS); “Omapapurawe Guard Post, 200 m from campsite, Kunene R., N-17.218, E13.645, 15.11. 1997 Bethune & al.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Kunene R., stream from cave into pool, N-17.00.07, E12.59.54, 20.6. 1997 De Moor & al.” (1 ex. AMGS). – Botswana: “Tsotsorogo Pan 17.VI-9. VIII. 1930 / Type male / female / paratype / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Gschwendtner” (2 exs. AMGS, 2 exs. TMSA, 1 ex. OLML; not type material); “Chobe Park Savuti Camp11.3. 1993, 18°33'S/24°03'E, lux Göllner” (1 ex. ZMHB); ”5 km NW San-ta-Wani Safari Lodge 19°27'01”/23°38'46”lux, Uhlig” (1 ex.ZMHB). – South Africa: “Trsvl 5 mi W Warmbad 24-25.2. 1968 Spangler” (1 ex. USNM); “Trsvl Randburg, N-26.070, E27.950, 6.6.1971 Reavell” (1 ex. AMGS); “Caffraria / J. Wahlb.” (1 ex. RMS); “Gauteng Cullinan Premier Mine Res. 25,40S–28,29E / 17.1.2002 Endrödy-Younga, light trap” (1 ex. TMSA); “Gauteng Tswaing 25.24S-28.06E / 16.2. 2003 light trap, TMSA staff leg.” (1 ex. TMSA); “Roodeplaat Pretoria distr. 10. 1960 Neubecker” (1 ex. TMSA); “Xolo R, small stream, riverbed, trib. Kunene R, 15.11. 1997 De Moor” (1 ex. AMGS). – Swaziland: “Eranchi 5-10.1. 1955 Capener / L. simplicistriatus J. Omer-Cooper det.” (3 exs. MZH). – Lesotho: “Nazareth M. S., 20 mi.ESE Maseru 24.3. 1951” (1 ex. MZLU).
Cameroon: female “Yaounde, Bor to Kosti by boat 13-14.3. 1978 Perkins” (1 ex. USNM).
Mauritius: male “Insel Mauritius Westw. Nr. 9984 / L. simplicistriatus Gschw. det. Brancucci 82” (1 ex. ZMHB). Until additional specimens from Mauritius are available, this record is considered a case of mislabelling.
Confusion regarding the original description and the type material of L. simplicistriatus followed when
Laccophilus simplicistriatus externally resembles most of L. taeniolatus and L. complicatus. From L. taeniolatus it is distinguished by elytral irroration, which is complete (uniform coverage) and not reduced frontally at suture. In L. taeniolatus elytral irroration frontally at suture is always sparser, often formed as a pale somewhat irregular spot. Shape of penis apex exhibits differences separating L. simplicistriatus from L. complicatus (apex of penis sharp and strongly curved) as well as from all other Laccophilus species.
Body length 3.6–4.3 mm, width 1.9–2.4 mm. Habitus, dorsal aspect as in Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Finely microsculptured; reticulation indistinctly double. In part, coarser meshes not discernible. When visible one large mesh contains 2–6 fine meshes. At eyes with fine, irregular punctures; a few scattered punctures medially between eyes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, anteriorly and posteriorly in middle with narrow ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous area. At margins, except basally in middle, with fine, irregular punctures. Microsculpture fine; reticulation indistinctly double (only in part, discernible). Slightly coarser, large meshes contain 2–6 fine meshes.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with quite coarse and distinct, dark ferrugineous irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous, apical half of abdomen dark ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although extensively, very finely microsculptured. Almost impunctate. Metacoxal plates with some transversely located, shallow furrows. Abdomen with fine striae. Prosternal process narrow, apically pointed. Apical ventrite not distinctly asymmetric (no process or knob on one side) (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous, hindlegs a little darker. Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender, claws not especially long, slightly curved. Pro- and mesotarsus with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect, with apical half, somewhat enlarged on both sides of apex; extreme apex with two small processes (Fig.
Female: Externally as male but apical ventrite less impressed on both side of midline and apex more extended backwards and rounded (Fig.
Sudan, Ethiopia, Zaire, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho (Fig.
Very little, detailed information is available on the biology of L. simplicistriatus. In Malawi L. simplicistriatus was e.g. collected in a reservoir surrounded by a marshy area with small areas of open water and red mud and from a swift river with a wide coarse gravel bed where the species was collected in a pool. Additionally from Malawi, the species was sampled in a clear river with white water lilies, reed beds and patches of swamp. In Zimbabwe the species was collected in a number of water holes, springs and dams used by the game, and also in a dam with reeds and water plants, the bottom largely covered with dark mud, but sand in places. Finally, also in Zimbabwe collected in a series of pools with a small stream connecting them. The bottom of the water body was rock, sand and gravel with some deposited mud. Some vegetation growing in the pools. Also recorded from streams (
Laccophilus taeniolatus
Laccophilus congener
Laccophilus taeniolatus: Angola: Humpata.
Laccophilus congener: South Africa: Transvaal, Belfast.
(12 exs.). Laccophilus taeniolatus: Holotype: male: “P.J. vd Kellen Humpata Afr. trop. / Laccophilus taeniolatus sp. n. type Régb. / taeniolatus sp. n. Régimb.” (RMNH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus congener: Holotype: male: “Type / Transvaal Belfast pond 23. N. 1948 Omer-Cooper / Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / L. congener O-C.” (BMNH). – Paratype: female: Same information as holotype but labelled as “Allotype” (1 ex. BMNH); additional paratypes: same information as holotype but labelled as “Paratype” (4 exs. AMGS); “Paratype / Transvaal Belfast 30 Dec. 1948 J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Paratype / Transvaal Standerton 8.12. 1948 J.O-C. /L. congener O-C. det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Paratype / Transvaal R. Nyl at Num Num 23 Aug. 1948 J.O-C. (1 ex. AMGS); Paratype / Transvaal Misselburg 29 N. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS).
(not given in original description) (2 exs.): “Paratype / Transvaal Deel Kraal 20.8. 1948 J. O-C.” (1 ex, AMGS); “Paratype / Transvaal Poerzya R., Waterberg Distr. 19.8. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS).
(457 exs.): Gambia: “Stream N of Selety 19.2.1976 Holmen leg.” (2 exs. ZMUC, 1 ex. MZH); “Bathurst Jan. 1968 Leiler T.” (1 ex. NHRS); “Outside Abuko Nature Reserve at water works, at light 18.30–21.00, 4.11. 1977 / Cederholm-Danielsson-Hammarstedt-Hedquist-Samuelsson” (1 ex. MZLU); same data but ”19.00–22.00, 26.11. 1977” (1 ex. NHMB); same data but ”in and at Lamin stream 25–26.11. 1977” (1 ex. NHMB); “Abuko Nature Reserve, at light at the bamboo-pool 18.30-20.30, 18.11. 1977 / Cederholm-Danielsson-Hammarstedt-Hedquist-Samuelsson” (1 ex. MZLU, 1 ex. NHMB); “2 km S Kitty, 7 km SSW Brikama rd., junction in and at fresh water stream 13.2. 1977 / Cederholm-Danielsson-Hammerstedt-Hedquist-Samuelsson” (1 ex. MZLU). – Senegal: “Swamps ca. 3 km SW of Ziguinchor 8.3. 1977 / Cederholm-Danielsson-Larsson-Mireström-Norling-Samuelsson” (1 ex. MZLU); “In forest 1,5 km NE Djibélor, ca 6.5 km SW Ziguinchor, 8.3. 1977, at light 19.00-21.30 / Cederholm-Danielsson-Larsson-Norling-Samuelsson” (1 ex. MZLU); “Village Saré Sara 21 km ESE Kolda, in and at the junction of Rivers Koring and Tiángol, Dianguina 6.3. 1977 6.3. 1977 / Cederholm-Danielsson-Larsson-Norling-Samuelsson” (1 ex. MZLU). – Guinea Bissau: “Cacheu, 12 km E Varela, earth pit pond 9.4. 1993 S. Persson leg.” (8 exs. MZLU); “Cacheu, Bula, temporary pools 16.7. 1992 S. Persson leg.” (2 exs. MZLU); “Cacheu, 5 km W Bula, ponds 25.7. 1992 S. Persson leg.” (3 exs. MZLU). – Guinea: “Seredoux, lux 7-8.4. 1975 Zott” (14 exs. ZMHB, 1 ex. MZH); same data but ”4.5. 1975” (5 exs. ZMHB); same data but ”5.4. 1975” (2 exs. ZMHB); same data but ”4.4. 1975” (4 exs. ZMHB, 3 exs. MZH); same data but ”16.4. 1975” (1 ex. ZMHB); same data but ”18.4. 1975” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Burkina Faso: “Karfiguéla 29.10. 1973 Linnavuori leg.” (1 ex. MZH); “Niangoloko 26.10. 1973 Linnavuori leg.” (1 ex. MZH); “Ouagadougou 7.10-11. 1926” (1 ex. NHMB); “Nadiagow MV August 2005 Moretto” (1 ex. NHMB). – Chad: “Bebedja 28-31.5. 1973 Linnavuori leg.” (7 exs. MZH); “Nr Bongor 27.5. 1973 Linnavuori leg.” (1 ex. MZH). – Central African Republic: “Bambari UV 2. 1964 Pierrard” (1 ex. MRAC). – Sudan: “Equatoria, Yambio 18-25.4. 1963 Linnavuori leg.” (1 ex. MZH); “Dahr el Ghazal, Wau 19.2. 1963 Linnavuori leg.” (1 ex. MZH); “Dahr el Ghazal R. Malmul 21.2. 1963 Linnavuori leg.” (1 ex. MZH); “Aluoklua Riv. 30.5E-6.30N, 15.4. 1954 Reid T.” (1 ex. AMGS); “L. Shambe 21.1. 1954 Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Alel R. Lau 14 mi.NE of Yirol 17.1. 1954 Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “L. Nyibor 23.1. 1954” (1 ex. AMGS); “Rain ponds S of Rumbek nr Wulu 19.1. 1954”(3 exs. ZMHB); “R. Maila 30.57E, 4.39N, 29.1. 1954” (5 exs. AMGS); “Minkammon 31.31E-6.2N, 16–17.1.1954 O-C.” (1 ex. AMGS). – Sierra Leone: “Makeni 28.11. 1993 light trap/Cederhalm-Danielsson-Hall” (4 exs. MZLU); same data but ”27.11. 1993” (7 exs. MZLU; habitus in Fig.
The holotypes of L. taeniolatus and L. congener have been examined and compared with each other. No diagnostic differences can be discerned in shape of male genitalia. Externally both species are similar and accordingly they both belong to the same species, and L. congener is hence a junior subjective synonym of L. taeniolatus.
Laccophilus taeniolatus is a widely distributed, but still reasonably uniform species. It resembles externally most of L. propinquus, L. simplicistriatus and L. complicatus. From the two latter species L. taeniolatus can in most cases be separated by study of the elytral colour pattern: dark irrorations are clearly reduced frontally on each side of the suture and an irregular, pale area is formed on base of each elytron. Laccophilus propinquus and L. taeniolatus requires dissection of male genitalia for correct identification; apex of penis exhibits a small difference in location of the small, frontal process. Additionally penis is distinctly shorter in L. propinquus.
Body length 3.8–4.2 mm, width 1.9–2.3 mm. Colour pattern of dorsal aspect of body distinct; exhibits limited variation (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly darker, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Sometimes posteriorly with darker area; however vague and hardly discernible. Slightly mat; rather finely microsculptured; double reticulation indistinct; weakly developed medially on head. At eyes finely and irregularly punctate; between eyes with a few scattered, fine punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and posteriorly in middle with a dark brownish to dark ferrugineous marking. Posterior margin narrowly dark. Frontal and basal dark areas sometimes connected by a vague, ferrugineous area. Finely microsculptured, submat. Reticulation indistinctly double; large meshes (when distinguishable) contain 2–4 small meshes. At margins with very fine, sparse and irregularly distributed punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense, dark ferrugineous to blackish irrorations, which are somewhat unevenly distributed on elytra. Frontally, along dark suture, dark irrorations sparser, in part absent. Longitudinal, dark irrorations can in part (especially laterally) simply be “hollow” and consist only of dark outlines (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. No distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, very finely microsculptured; in part microsculpture indistinct. Abdomen basally very finely and sparsely striated. Metacoxal plates with fine, shallow, transversely located furrows. Apex of prosternal process slender, pointed. Apical sternite lacks asymmetric knob; provided with curved, sublateral impressions (of variable kind; one more pronounced) (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, rather long. Provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite long and evenly curved; minor frontal process protuding (Fig.
Female: Apical sternite (Fig.
Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Chad, Central African Republic, Sudan, Sierra Leone, Liberia, the Ivory Coast, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, Zaire, Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho (Fig.
A tolerant species, which occurs in a great variety of water bodies, both in stagnant and running waters. It is also collected from temporary pools. Laccophilus taeniolatus is a good flier and has often been captured at light collection. It also occurs in water bodies created or highly influenced by man, as in agricultural irrigation ditches. It dwells in forests as well as in open habitats as steppes and savannas (e.g.
Laccophilus propinquus
Malawi: Mwanza.
(14 exs.). Holotype: male: “Type / male, female (symbols) Types / River near portuguese border, near Mwanza 9.II. (11 ?) 1948 / Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / L. propinquus O-C.”(BMNH; habitus in Fig.
(20 exx.). Tanzania: “Ruvu North Forest Reserve, waterholes, 3 km SE of Base 6°37'20” S, 38°55'00” E alt. 250 ft 1.11. 1992 / Hynd Collection” (4 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “Ruvu North Forest Reserve, Base Camp6°37'40” S, 38°51'14” E alt. 200 ft 30.10. 1992 / Hynd Collection” (1 ex. MZH); “Zanzibar Pemba Sept. 1955 Fowler” (3 exs. AMGS); “Zanzibar Mangapwani Rd. Sept. 1955 JOC.” (5 exs. AMGS). – Malawi: “Dam, Dedza on lower Lilongwe rd. 30.9. 1948” (2exs. AMGS); “Mtiti R. 1.10. 1948” (3exs. AMGS).
Laccophilus propinquus is very closely related to L. taeniolatus and externally very similar to this species. Small but distinct differences in shape of penis allow confident separation of the two species; penis short and apical process vague in L. propinquus (see also diagnosis of L. taeniolatus).
Body length 3.8–3.9 mm, width 1.9–2.0 mm. Pale ferrugineous; dorsal, dark ferrugineous colour pattern of body quite distinct (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly with vague dark ferrugineous area. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation almost of one kind, simple; double reticulation indistinct, weakly developed and difficult to distinguish. At eyes with irregularly distributed, sparse punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, anteriorly and at base with rather narrow, vague blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous markings which are medially connected by a vague ferrugineous area. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation indistinctly double but size classes difficult to separate. Laterally and anteriorly with indistinct and sparse punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with rather distinct dark ferrugineous markings formed as irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny and very finely (partly indistinctly) microsculptured. Abdomen with fine to very fine striae. Metacoxal plates with fine and shallow transverse furrows. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process slender, pointed. Apical ventrite almost symmetric, lacks lateral knob; apex more angle-shaped than in female (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus long, slender, and with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis In lateral aspect comparatively short, evenly curved and apical process not prominent (Fig.
Female: Externally as male but apex of apical ventrite broader and more rounded (Fig.
Malawi, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Zanzibar (Fig.
The species has been collected in streams e.g. with rocks, sand and some vegetation. It is also recorded from standing water in a swamp and a reservoir.
Laccophilus complicatus
Madagascar.
(2 exs.). Laccophilus complicatus: Lectotype (by present designation) male: “Type / Madagascar / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / Madag. / Laccophilus rivulosus Klug /Type 574 L. complicatus sp. n. Madagascar” (BMNH). – Paralectotype: female: ”574 / Cotype / Madagascar / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / Madagascar / Laccophilus complicatus Shp Co-type” (1 ex. BMNH).
(390 exs.). Madagascar: “E-Mad., Morarano, N. Morananga 900 m asl, 13.1. 1995 Janák” (9 exs. NMW; habitus in Fig.
(2 exs.). “Dirjo 24” (1 ex. NMW); “Mexique” (1 ex. MHNG).
Laccophilus complicatus, distributed solely on Madagascar, resembles most of three species on mainland of Africa, viz. L. simplicistriatus, L. taeniolatus and L. propinquus. In general L. complicatus is somewhat larger than the three other species. Elytral colour pattern in L. complicatus is uniform and more evenly distributed than in L. taeniolatus and in L. propinquus, in which a vague and irregular, dark, longitudinal marking can be discerned discally on each elytron. Elytral colour pattern in L. simplicistriatus is fairly uniform and exhibits only slight variation. In L. complicatus penis in lateral view is not expanded posterior to apex while in L. simplicistriatus corresponding feature is clearly expanded on each side. From L. taeniolatus the species is distinguished by the tip of penis, which is clearly curved ”upwards” while tip of L. complicatus penis is almost straight. Regarding L. propinquus, L. complicatus is separated from it as L. taeniolatus is but tip of penis vague.
Body length 3.9–4.6 mm, width 2.2–2.6 mm. Pale ferrugineous, with blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, dense irrorations on elytra (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly, narrowly dark ferrugineous. Submat, reticulation in part double; large meshes often weakly developed and hardly visible. At eyes, with fine and irregular punctures, extending medially towards midhead.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, anteriorly and posteriorly in middle with vague, darkened areas. Reticulation quite dense, double. Large meshes weakly developed; one mesh contains between three and six fine meshes. At margins with fine, irregular punctures, which are rather indistinct at posterior margin.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, abdomen in posterior part blackish to dark ferrugineus. Rather shiny to submat, very finely reticulated. Almost impunctate; fine punctures discernible on apical ventrite. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged; provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect evenly curved, broad; extreme apex curved upwards and sharp (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
In literature, detailed documentation is not available. From collecting labels appear that L. complicatus has been sampled in areas between 700-1700 m a.s.l. At least once collected in a degraded river with lots of vegetation, used to wash clothes in. Obviously it is attracted by light and sampled in a montane rain forest.
Laccophilus irroratus
Réunion: Ile de France et Bourbon.
(1 ex.): Holotype, male: “Data in NHRS JLKB 000030278 / Laccophilus irroratus mihi h. in ile de France D. Latereille / Ex Musaeo Dejean / D. Sharp Monogr. / irroratus / Dr. Régimbart 1893 / Coll. Oberthur” (MNHN).
(21 exs.). Mauritius: “I. Maurice Montrésor Ch. Alluaud 1893 / male symbol / Museum Paris coll. Maurice Régimbart” (1 ex. MNHN); “I. Maurice Mon Désert P. Carie Fév. 1903 / Laccophilus irroratus Aubé / Museum Paris coll. 1945 R. Peschet” (1 ex. MNHN); “Ile Maurice / de Borre” (3 exs. MHNG); “Ins. Mauritius Westw.” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Reunion: “La Reunion Palmistes Ch. Alluaud 1893 / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
Laccophilus irroratus is characterized by large body size, peculiar elytral colour pattern and penis, which is different from all other African Laccophilus species; penis in lateral aspect quite delicate, distinctly curved and simple, exhibiting minor modifications.
Body length 4.0–4.3 mm, breadth 2.4–2.6 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body stable, exhibits only minor variation (Fig.
Head: Pale ferruginous, posteriorly close to pronotum with narrow but distinct, dark ferrugineous area. Rather shiny, although distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double, large meshes contain 3–5 small meshes. In middle of head small meshes in part reduced. At eyes with scattered, fine punctures; area with punctures extends towards middle of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Anteriorly, at level of eyes with a broad, black to dark ferrugineous area. At base with a quite narrow, black to dark ferrugineous area, which is medially somewhat enlarged. Delimitation of darker areas is somewhat vague. Rather shiny, although distinctly microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes distinct while small meshes, especially medially, are fine, in part hardly visible or totally absent. Punctures absent, except in frontal part and laterally where puncture very fine and scattered.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct, only slightly variable, dark ferrugineous irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern but three basal ventrites are somewhat paler than apical ones. Rather shiny, in part with very fine microsculpture. Almost impunctate, except apical ventrite, with scattered fine punctures, and frontally on metathorax, with fine, fairly dense punctures. Abdominal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Metacoxal plates with about 10 shallow and in part slightly indistinct furrows. Metacoxal process not modified. Apical ventrite, symmetric (no knob discernible) (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, somewhat extended. Segments provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis delicate, in lateral aspect distinctly curved; apex simple and exhibits hardly any modifications (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite (Fig.
Mascarene Islands; Réunion, Mauritius (Fig.
Almost unknown. Reported in rock pools of slow stream (
Laccophilus rivulosus
Madagascar.
(4 exs.): Lectotype (by present designation): male: “9982 / Typus / L. rivulosus Kl. Madag, Goudot / Hist-Coll. (Coleoptera) Nr. 9982 Laccophilus rivulosus Kl. Madagascar Goudot Zool. Mus. Berlin” (ZMHB). – Paralectotypes: Madagascar Goud. Nr. 9982 / Typus / Hist-Coll. (Coleoptera) Nr. 9982 Laccophilus rivulosus Kl. Madagascar Goudot Zool. Mus. Berlin” (3 exs. ZMHB).
(38 exs.). Madagascar: “Antakotako II 1936” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus rivulosus is characterized by large body, peculiar elytral colour pattern and shape of penis. Dark longitudinal markings of elytra are quite broad and distinct. Pale irrorations can generally be discerned within dark, longitudinal marking. Penis resembles much of penis of L. posticus but it is somewhat larger and extreme apex more extended. Additionally large body size and clear differences in elytral colour pattern easily separates L. rivulosus from L. posticus.
Body length 4.8-5.3 mm, width 2.7-3.0 mm. Dorsal colour pattern of body generally distinct and uniform (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly between eyes with a distinctly delimited blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous area. Rarely dark area reduced and only in part visible because hidden beneath frontal part of pronotum. Almost impunctate. At eyes in shallow depression with fine, irregularly distributed punctures. Submat, rather distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double. Coarser meshes only slightly stronger in comparison with fine meshes. In part, kinds of meshes difficult to separate. When discernible coarse meshes contain 3-5 fine meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally with a distinct, dark ferrugineous area. Posteriorly in middle with an, often, bilobed, dark ferruginoeus, narrow spot. Almost impunctate. No distinct punctation discernible. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Coarse meshes well developed, contain 2-5 fine meshes.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct, longitudinal, dark ferrugineous markings. Dark markings somewhat undulate and merged into pairs, forming pale, inner, irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Almost impuntate; abdomen with a few scattered punctures. Rather shiny, although extensively, finely microsculptured. In part microsculpture almost obliterated or totally obliterated. Abdomen laterally with fine, curved striae. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, somewhat extended and provided with some protruding suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis quite robust, in lateral aspect distinctly curved and apex extended and sharp (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Endemic for Madagascar (Fig.
Information on biology is almost totally lacking.
Diagnosis. Quite large species with body length 4.3–4.5 mm, width 2.3–2.5 mm.
Body shape oval-oblong, dorsoventrally flattened (Fig.
Prosternal process slender, slightly extended, apically pointed. Apical ventrite modified; posteriorly on each side somewhat excavated; medially, posteriorly extended, lacks asymmetrical knob on one side of ventrite (Fig.
Paramere apically narrow, basally enlarged; moderately modified (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. One species is recognized and distributed in South Africa.
Laccophilus immundus
Laccophilus spadix
Laccophilus immundus: South Africa: Cape Town.
Laccophilus spadix: South Africa: Cape Province, Caledon district.
(4 exs.). Laccophilus immundus: Holotype: female: “Type / S. Africa / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / Type 595 Laccophilus immundus sp. n. Capetown” (BMNH). – Laccophilus spadix: Holotype: male: “Type / W Cape P., stream with pools in pine wood, Caleda dist. 18.XI. 1947 J. Omer-Cooper / Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / L. spadix O-C. det. J. Omer-Cooper” (BMNH). – Paratypes: female: “Type / Cape Peninsula, small vlei nr Cape Town 18.XI. 1947 J. Omer-Cooper / Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / L. spadix O-C. det. J. Omer-Cooper female allotype” (1 ex. BMNH); “W. Cape Pr., stream with pools in pine wood Caledon distr. 18.XI. 1947 JOC. / L. spadix O-C.” (1 ex. AMGS).
(945 exs.). South Africa: “Western C. Pr. stream with pools in pine wood Caledeon Dist. 18.XI. 1947 Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Pools in Caledon 11. 1947” (14 exs. AMGS); “WC. Prov. Princess vlei Cape Town 13.IV. 1947”(1 ex. AMGS); “Cap. b. sp. De Vylder / L. immundus Shp det. A. Zimmermann” (5 exs. NHRS); “Cape Prov., Cape Flats, Varden Vlei 2 mi E Ottery, 2.2. 1951 / L. spadix = L. immundus det. J. Omer-Cooper” (3 exs. MZLU; habitus in Fig.
Holotypes of both involved taxa have been examined and compared. No diagnostically important differences detected and accordingly, earlier introduced synonymy is confirmed. Laccophilus immundus, being older than L. spadix, is the valid name of the species.
A peculiar species, which is especially characterized by shape of penis apex (harpoon-like) and by body, being almost one-coloured, piceous to dark brownish or dark ferrugineous.
Body length 4.3–4.5 mm, width 2.3–2.5 mm. Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, dorsal colour pattern of body is vague, reduced and rather indistinct (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, posteriorly and at eyes dark ferrugineous; delimitation of colour pattern vague. Rather finely to finely and densely punctate. Close to eyes with a few coarser punctures. Submat, distinctly microsculptured. Meshes double; larger meshes include 2-5 fine meshes.
Pronotum: Ferrugineous, basally in middle with a dark ferrugineous marking. Punctures fine to very fine, rather dense and slightly irregularly distributed. At margins with a partly irregular row of punctures. (In part, row frontally replaced by rather narrow area of fine punctures.) Microsculpture distinct, dense and double: coarser meshes include 2-6 finer meshes.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous, vague darker markings sometimes discernible but form no distinct colour pattern (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. In part, very finely microsculptured. Metacoxal plates, especially in frontal part with rather distinct furrows. Apical ventrite lacks “one-side” asymmetric knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro-and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis quite long and slender, slightly sinuate and apex “harpoon-like” (Fig.
Female: As male but apical ventrite slightly different in shape (Fig.
South Africa (Fig.
Poorly documented. Label data gives various water bodies as pond, stream with pools in pinewood as a collecting sites, but available information is generally quite superficial.
Diagnosis. Large species; body length 5.3–6.0 mm, width 3.0–3.4 mm.
Shape of body oval, dorsoventrally distinctly flattened (Fig.
Prosternal process quite broad, rather short, apex pointed. Apical ventrite somewhat modified; posterior end of ventrite excavated on both sides and medially ventrite somewhat extended. Asymmetric knob on one side of ventrite lacking (Fig.
Parameres moderately modified. Penis is exceptionally large with apex strongly modified; clearly different from all other African species (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. One species recognized in this species group, distributed in Africa South of Sahara excluding Madagascar.
Laccophilus pellucidus
Laccophilus ampliatus
Laccophilus pilitarsis
Laccophilus pellucidus: South Africa: Natal, Bedford District.
Laccophilus ampliatus: South Africa: Natal.
Laccophilus pilitarsis: Kenya: Taveta.
(6 exs.). Laccophilus pellucidus: Holotype (type unique): male: “Laccophilus pellucidus Type D.S. Bedford District, Caffraria 175 Laccophilus / Type H.T. / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 (BMNH).
Laccophilus ampliatus: Lectotype (by present designation): female: “Natal / Museum Paris Coll. Maurice
Laccophilus pilitarsis: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Afrique Orle Anglaise Taveta Ch. Alluaud I-IV. 1904 / Museum Paris coll. Alluaud / Type” (MNHN). – Paralectotypes: “Afrique Orle Anglaise Nairobi (Wa Kikuyu et Masai) Ch. Alluaud 2. sem. 1903 / Museum Paris coll. Alluaud / Type” (2 exs. MNHN).
(413 exs.). Ethiopia: “Abyssinia Hora Bishoftu 7000 ft. 23.XII. 1926 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Hora Horeso 7000 ft. 1.12. 1926 JOC.” (12 exs. AMGS); “Small pond Hora Abjata 5000 ft. 18.XI. 1927 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS). – Sudan: “S. Sudan R. Yei at Amadi 28.1. 1954 JJOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “S. Sudan stream from hot springs Nyangwara 30,5E 4,39N 29.1. 1954 JJOC.” (6 exs. AMGS); “S. Sudan R. Yel at Amadi 28.1. 1954 JJOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “S Sudan, sandy river 50 mi NW Juba 29.1. 1954 J. & J. Omer-Cooper” (5 exs. AMGS); “Equatoria Mundri-Lalyo 25-26.2. 1963 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH); “Blue Nile Ingessana Mts. 17-22.11. 1962 Linnavuori” (2 exs. MZH); “Equatoria Lalyo-Juba 26-27.2. 1963 Linnavuori” (7 exs. MZH). – Uganda: “Madi V. 1927 Carpenter” (1 ex. AMGS). – Kenya: “Selengai Riv. 21.6. 1970 E.S. Brown” (2 exs. BMNH); “River Athi Bushwackers´ Camp 29.3. 1964 E.S. Brown” (1 ex. BMNH); “Athi River Machakos District 14.9. 1976 M. Holmen / L. pilitarsis Rég. det. M. Holmen” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Nairobi Natnl Park 22.3. 1953 Hippo pools E.S. Brown” (1 ex. BMNH); “Kibwezi River Machakos District 13.9. 1976 Holmen M. / L. pilitarsis Rég. det. Holmen 1976” (8 exs. ZMUC); “Cha Shimba R., Kwale Kwale District 18.9. 1976 M. Holmen” (3 exs. ZMUC); “Mwatsuma R. Mariakani Kilifi District 16.9. 1976 M. Holmen” (2 exs. ZMUC); “Manjewa Riv Mariakani Kilifi / Kwale District 16.9. 1976 M. Holmen” (5 exs. ZMUC); “Maji ya Chumwi River Kwale District 16.9.1976 M. Holmen / L. pilitarsis Rég. det. M. Holmen 1976” (3 exs. ZMUC) “Afrique Orle Anglaise Voi Ch. Alluaud 1909 / Septembre” (2 exs. MNHN); “Afrique Orle Anglaise Voi Ch. Alluaud 1909 / Septembre / Det. Dr. Guignot Laccophilus pilitarsis Rég.” (1 ex. MNHN); “Fort Hall Br. O. A.” (1 ex. NHMB, 1 ex. ZMHB); “Mulango Br. O. A.” (1 ex. ZMHB);” Br. O. A. Kibwezi Scheffler” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Tanzania: “Mkulumuzi Riv. Paramba, Tanga District 26.9. 1976 M. Holmen / L. pilitarsis Rég. det. Holmen det.” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Sigi Riv. Ralley Estate Tanga District 26.9. 1976 M. Holmen / L. pilitarsis Rég. det. M. Holmen” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Kombe Stream Doda Tanga District 23.9. 1976 M. Holmen / L. pilitarsis Rég. det. Holmen” (2 exs. ZMUC); “TPC S Moshi canals 28.9. 1976 / L. pilitarsis Rég. det. Holmen” (3 exs. ZMUC); “Stream of Hegongo Tanga District 22.9. 1976 M. Holmen / L. pilitarsis Régb. det. Holmen” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Uluguru Mts. Kimboza Forest 250 m 18.7. 1981 Stoltze & Scharff leg. / L. pilitarsis Rég. det. Holmen 1981” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Kilimandj. Sjöstedt / Kibonoto 1-1200 m” (4 exs. NHRS); same data but “1000-1300 m” (1 ex. ZMHB); “? einem Tümpel nahe am Myanwaya Fluss 24.5. 1899” (1 ex. NHMB). – Zaire: “C.B. PNU, Kamusanga affl. g. Lufira / f. mt. Sombwe (750 m) 12.VII. 1949 Mis. De Witte 2776a” (1 ex. MNHN). – Zambia: “Muchinga Escarpment ca. 47 km ENE Rufunsa 14°57'S, 30°04'E lux Göllner leg. 25.3. 1993” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Mountain stream crossing road Kafue-Chirundu 9.8. 1986 Pederzani / L. pellucidus Sharp det.
Earlier introduced synonymy of L. pellucidus, L. ampliatus and L. pilitarsis is confirmed. L. pellucidus, being the oldest, is the valid name of the species.
Laccophilus pellucidus is especially characterized by large body combined with very peculiarly shaped penis, different from all other African Laccophilus species; penis voluminous with twisted, apical extension.
Body length 5.3–6.0 mm, width 3.0–3.4 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body pale ferrugineous, without distinct colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat and distinctly microsculptured; reticulation double; large meshes contain 2–6 finer meshes. At eyes with an irregular row of fine punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, laterally with vague paler areas. Slightly mat, with distinct microsculpture. Reticulation generally of two different kinds; larger meshes contain 2–7 small meshes. At margins, with scattered, fine and irregular punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, without distinct colour pattern; sometimes with vague paler areas/spots (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Almost impunctate, except base of metathorax and two sclerites covered by apical ventrite; with distinct punctures. Rather shiny, extensive and very fine microsculpture discernible. Metacoxal plates and base of abdomen with striae. Prosternal process pointed, comparatively short and broad. Apical ventrite lacks distinct knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus enlarged, somewhat extended and provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis almost straight, voluminous with twisted, apical extension (Figs
Female: Rarely elytron laterally, between middle and apex, with a distinct lateral expansion (Fig.
Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zaire, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, South Africa (Fig.
Some biological information is available in
Diagnosis. Small to large species; body length 2.9–5.1 mm, width 1.6–2.9 mm.
Shape of body oval to oblong, dorsoventrally flattened (Figs
Prosternal process slender, posteriorly extended, apically pointed. (Prosternal process broken in unique specimen of L. amicus and state accordingly unknown). Apical ventrites with posterior end modified; excavated on each side of midline; at midline posteriorly extended (Figs
Paramere generally slightly enlarged, quite simple and exhibits generally no or moderate modifications (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. 24 species are recognized in this species group, which most probably is artificial and can be further split. No synapomorphous character for the group detected.
Comments. Laccophilus amicus, of which only female is known is characterized by small body (length 3.3–3.4 mm, width 1.8) and by peculiar elytral colour pattern (Fig.
To observe that present key is tentative and in determination both external features and male genitalia should be checked.
1 | Elytra unicoloured, dark to pale ferrugineous; lack distinct colour pattern (Figs |
2 |
– | Elytra with variable colour pattern; generally larger species | 3 |
2 | Elytra pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous (Fig. |
L. septicola (p. 145) |
– | Elytra blackish ferrugineous (Fig. |
L. pullatus (p. 147) |
3 | Elytra blackish ferrugineous with small, pale ferrugineous spots (Fig. |
L. luteosignatus (p. 148) |
– | Elytral colour pattern different; penis shape different; larger species (length min. 3.1 mm) | 4 |
4 | Penis strongly angled in lateral aspect (about 75–90°) (Figs |
5 |
– | Penis generally straighter (angle more than 100°); many species less than 4 mm in length | 6 |
5 | Elytral colour pattern distinct; with two transverse, pale, areas where irrorations reduced (Fig. |
L. guignoti (p. 157) |
– | Elytral colour pattern vague, indistinct, no transverse pale areas (Fig. |
L. benoiti (p. 150) |
6 | Penis, lateral aspect, with small, sharp knob located close to inner curvature (Fig. |
7 |
– | Penis lacks corresponding knob (Fig. |
9 |
[Comment: note that some specimens of L. adspersus have a resembling knob on penis, which is less sharp and pronounced] | ||
7 | Colour pattern evenly distinct in basal half of elytra (Fig. |
L. nodieri (p. 113) |
– | Scutellar region with reduced, indistinct elytral colour pattern (dark ferrugineous irrorations vague) (Fig. |
8 |
8 | Penis, lateral aspect, with apex outline rounded (Fig. |
L. modestus (p. 107) |
– | Penis, lateral aspect, with apex outline angled (Fig. |
L. cryptos (p. 111) |
9 | Penis apex distinct, almost bifid (Fig. |
L. vermiculosus (p. 154) |
– | Penis apex different; generally smaller species | 10 |
10 | Penis apex simple, exhibits no modifications (Figs |
L. addendus (p. 151) |
– | Penis apex variously modified (Mainland Africa, Madagascar) | 11 |
11 | Penis robust, apex large and outline evenly curved (Fig. |
(sp. complex?) L. remex (p. 118) |
– | Penis less robust to quite delicate, apex smaller, often differently shaped | 12 |
12 | Penis, lateral aspect, external outline angled (curvature smooth) (Figs |
13 |
- | Penis, lateral aspect, external outline almost evenly curved (Figs |
15 |
13 | Penis apex large, distinct (Fig. |
L. turbatus (p. 123) |
– | Penis apex, small, hardly discernible (Fig. |
14 |
14 | Elytral irrorations distinct (Fig. |
L. pallescens (p. 125) |
– | Elytral irrorations diffuse (Fig. |
L. mediocris (p. 132) |
15 | Extreme penis apex projects forwards (Fig. |
L. trilineola (p. 130) |
– | Extreme penis apex curved (Fig. |
16 |
16 | Penis, lateral aspect, inner outline with medial expansion (Fig. |
L. enigmaticus (p. 138) |
– | Penis, lateral aspect, inner outline lacks medial expansion (Fig. |
17 |
17 | Penis apex broad, truncate, and turned upwards, appears in lateral aspect, narrow (Fig. |
18 |
– | Penis apex broad, truncate but not turned upwards, appears in lateral aspect broad (Fig. |
19 |
18 | Elytral colour pattern distinct (Figs |
L. saegeri (p. 136) |
– | Elytral colour pattern diffuse (Fig. |
L. epinephes (p. 134) |
19 | Penis apex broad, hooked (Fig. |
20 |
– | Penis apex different (e.g. Fig. |
21 |
20 | Large species (body length 4.2–4.6 mm); male genitalia (Fig. |
L. flaveolus (p. 115) |
– | Small species (body length 3.1–3.3 mm); male genitalia (Fig. |
L. bellus (p. 144) |
21 | Penis, inner outline almost evenly curved from base to apex (Fig. |
L. restrictus (p. 140) |
– | Penis, inner outline angled, not evenly curved from base to apex (Fig. |
22 |
22 | Penis apex (Fig. |
L. olsoufieffi (p. 105) |
– | Penis apex variable (Figs |
L. adspersus (p. 97) |
Laccophilus adspersus
Laccophilus livens
Laccophilus vitshumbii
Laccophilus adspersus nigeriensis
Laccophilus adspersus sudanensis
Laccophilus adspersus: South Africa: Caffraria interior.
Laccophilus livens: Zaire: Boma.
Laccophilus vitshumbii: Zaire: Lake Edouard, Vitshumbi.
Laccophilus adsperus nigeriensis: Nigeria: Jos.
Laccophilus adspersus sudanensis: Sudan: S of Rumbek near Wulu.
(56 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Caffraria. / J. Wahlb. / Paratype / 3465 E91 / Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet Stockholm Loan no 1261/05” (NHRS). [Commments: no holotype was chosen in original description and neither has any lectotype thus far been designated. One male specimen is provided with Typus label but unfortunately its dissected genitalia are missing. We have dissected another male belonging to the type series (labelled paratype). Male genitalia is preserved in this specimen and we have chosen it therefore to be lectotype of L. adspersus Boheman.] – Paralectotypes: Same data as lectotype, but labelled as “Typus / Allotypus / Paratypus” (4 exs. NHRS).
Laccophilus livens: Lectotype (by present designation) male: Label with “male” symbol / Matadi Congo / Type / L. livens Rég.” (MNHN). – Paralectotypes: “Banana-Boma M. Tschoffen 91. Det. Régimb. 91 / 11174 / Régimbart det. 1891: Laccophilus livens Rég. / Ex. Typis” (7 exs. IRSNB). [Comment: one additional paralectotype in IRSNB with same data belongs to another species (= L. modestus Régb.)]; “Paratype / Banana-Boma M. Tschoffen 91. Det. Régimb. 91 / 11174 / Type Laccophilus livens Régt.“Type” (1 ex. BMNH); “Cotype / Congo / Laccophilus livens Régt.“Co-type”” (1 ex. BMNH); “Severin Banana Africa / Banana Boma M. Tshoffen 91 Dét. Régimb. / Laccophilus livens Rég. Type / Type” (1 ex. RMNH); same, but “Afr. occ.” (2 exs. RMNH); “Matadi M. Tshoffen / Laccophilus livens Rég. Types / SAM Type Acc. no. 839” (2 exs. SAMC); same data and “Cotype” (1 ex. IRSNB).
Laccophilus vitshumbii: Holotype: male: “Lac Édouard, Vitshumbi, 3043, mare I à Juissiaea M.T. 13-14.VI. 1953” (not studied; in IRSNB according to original description). – Paratypes: studied: “Congo Belge Lac. Edouard Vitshumbi, mare I + Juisseau MT 13-14.VI. 1953, 3043 / male symbol / Paratype” (2 exs. MNHN); “Congo Belge, Lac Edouaurd, Ishango d’Semliki (sur Graminées) 5.II. 1954, 3118a / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Male symbol / Congo Belge, Lac Edouaurd, Vitshumbi, mare II + Lemna 14.VI. 1953, 3042 / Paratype / L. vitshumbii” (1 ex. MNHN).
Laccophilus adspersus nigeriensis: Holotype: male: “Type, male symbol / L. adspersus nigeriensis O-C. / Nigeria, Reservoir, stream, Jos 10.IV. 1963 J.O-C.” (AMGS). – Paratypes: “L. spp. / adspersus ? / Nigeria, stream & reservoir Jos 10.IV. 1963 J. O-C.” (4 exs. AMGS); “Nigeria, stream near Zaria 4.IV. 1963 J. O-C.” (4 exs. AMGS); “Nigeria (15A), stream Kaduna-Kontagora rd. 3.IV. 1963 J. O-C.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Nigeria, river, Jos-Bauchi rd. 9.IV. 1963 J. O-C.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Nigeria, river between Jos & Bauchi 9.IV. 1963 J. O-C.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Nigeria 27, detritus pond 45 miles from Jos on Bauchi rd 9.IV. 1963 J. O-C.” (14 exs. AMGS); “adspersus / Nigeria, stream nr Bukuru 11.IV. 1963 J. O-C:” (1 ex. AMGS).
Laccophilus adspersus sudanensis: Holotype: male: “L. adspersus subsp. sudanensis O-C. / Type / S. Sudan, rain ponds S. of Rumbek nr. Wulu 19.VII. 1954” (AMGS).
(428 exs.). Sudan: “Rain ponds S of Rumbek nr Wulu 19.VII. 1954” (1 ex. AMGS); “Upper Nile Malakal 5-20.1. 1963 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH); “Equatoria, Mundri-Lalyo 25-26.2. 1963 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH); “Equatoria, Mwolo-Mundri 24.2. 1963 Linnavuori” (2 exs. MZH); “Equatoria, Lalyo-Juba 26-27.2. 1963 Linnavuori” (6 exs. MZH); “Equatoria, Loka Forest 8-10.4. 1963 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH); “Equatoria, Nzara 22.4. 1986 Wewalka / L. adspersus sudanensis O-C. det. Wewalka” (6 exs. CGW). – Ethiopia: “Water hole N Makki River, 6000 ft., 28.9. 1926 J. Omer-Cooper” (5 exs. BMNH); “Stream W of Zaquála 6000 ft., 27.10. 1926 J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “Hora Harsadi, Addas 1.12. 1926, 7000 ft, JOC” (1 ex. AMGS); “Hora Horeso 7000 ft., 1.12. 1926 JOC” (1 ex. AMGS). – Ivory Coast: “Comoé NP, N8,5° W3,5° Reintjes / 20.2. 1999 temporary creek” (1 ex. NMW). – Nigeria: “Kontagora pools in dry stream bed 3.IV. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Stream nr Zaria 4.IV. 1963 JOC.” (5 exs. AMGS); “Stream escarpment Jos-Wambe rd 13.IV. 1963 JOC” (1 ex. AMGS); “River between Jos-Bauchi 9.IV. 1963 JOC.” (4 exs. AMGS); “A stream nr Bakura 11.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream Kaduna-Zaria rd 4.IV. 1963 JOC (10 exs. AMGS); “Kaduna-Zaria rd 4.IV. 1963 JOC” (2 exs. AMGS); “Stream & reservoir Jos 10.IV. 1963 JOC” (5 exs. AMGS); “Stream 86 miles from Makureli on Jos road 25.IV. 1963” (5 exs. AMGS); “Pools in dry stream bed Kontagora 5.IV. 1963 JOC” (1 ex. AMGS); “Pools, bridge over trib. of R. Niger, rd Kaduna-Kontagora” (1 ex AMGS); “Stream Kaduna-Kontagora rd 3.IV. 1963 JOC” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream crossing Kaduna rd Zaria 8.IV. 1963 JOC” (1 ex. AMGS); “R. Kaduna 4.5 miles from Jos 13.IV. 1963 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS). – Cameroon: “20 km NW Bangante Forest, savannah at river, at light 15.1. 1978/Gärdenfors, Hall & Samuelsson leg.” (1 ex. MZLU); “Maroua 26.8. 1973” (1 ex. NHMB). – Central African Republic: “Bozo 21.5. 1981/Degallier” (1 ex. MZH); same but “12. 1981” (1 ex. NHMB); same but “8. 1981” (1 ex. NHMB). – Zaire: “Longitshimo River, N-7.163, E20.880, 17.8. 2007 Graham” (1 ex. AMGS); “Lulimbi (Rutshuru) 1976 Lejeune” (2 exs. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 29.9. 1951 De Saeger H. 2494” (2 exs. NHMB) “Parc National Garamba 28.8. 1952 De Saeger H. 3987” (1 ex. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 27.6. 1952 De Saeger H. 3717” (1 ex. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 5.5. 1952 De Saeger H. 3421” (1 ex. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 19.3. 1952 De Saeger H. 3199” (1 ex. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 6.2. 1952 De Saeger H. 3095” (1 ex. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 3.4. 1952 De Saeger H. 3278” (6 exs. MRAC, 3 exx. MZH); “Parc National Garamba 2.4. 1952 De Saeger H. 3272” (2 exs. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 31.8. 1952 De Saeger H. 3870” (2 exs. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 1.8. 1952 De Saeger H. 3871” (1 ex. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 4.4. 1952 De Saeger H. 3290” (1 ex. MRAC); “Parc National Garamba 1.9. 1952 De Saeger H. 4035” (5 exs. MRAC); “Katanga, Mwadingusha 21.5. 1965 Verheyen leg.” (1 ex, MRAC). – Uganda: “Kampala Hoima Rd 16.4. 1929 G.L.R. Hancock” (1 ex. AMGS); “Kampala 30.1. 1927 H. Hargreaves” (2 exs. AMGS). – Kenya: “Mombasa 25 km Nord palude de Kikalibala presso strada 14.7. 1968 Pederzani” (1 ex. AMGS); “Mombasa 30 km Nord Kikalibala swamp 14.7. 1968 Pederzani” (1 ex. AMGS); “Lambwe Valley, on light 11.6. 1974 van Etten” (2 exs. RMNH); “Manjewa R. Mariakani Kilifi / Kwale district 16.4. 1976 Holmen 4281” (1 ex. MZH); “Pond NE of Mariakani, Kilifi Distr. 16.9. 1976 Holmen 6076” (1 ex. ZMUC); Momb. Kilifi district 17.9. 1976 Holmen EF 8057” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Dam N of Gotani, Kilifi District 15.9. 1976 Holmen 5987” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Arabuko Sokoke Forest (30 km S Malindi) 8-24.6. 1998 Bartolozzi & Sforzi leg. alla luce” (1 ex. CSR); “Arabuko Sokoke Forest Res., Kilifi Distr., 20 km S Malindi/21.5.-7.6. 1994 Bartolozzi et al” (2 exs. CSR); “Thika 7.12. 1989 Jäch leg.” (1 ex. NMW); “Nairobi 3.11. 1967 / Reichart leg.” (1 ex. USNM); “Rabur 20.11. 1967 / Reichart leg.” (1 ex. USNM); “Kiserian 26.10. 1967/Reichart leg.” (1 ex. USNM, 1 ex. MZH); same data but “30.10. 1967” (1 ex. USNM); “Kibwezi Scheffler” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Meru Distr., Mourglia/Matiri (Mituguu) 8.11. 1983 800 m” (3 exs. NHMB); “Wa Kikuyu Bassin de l’Athi, Alluaud N. 1908” (1 ex. NHMB); “Br. O. A. Fort Hall” (1 ex. NHMB). – Tanzania: “Petukiza, ponds Tanga district 23.9. 1976 Holmen 1772” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Lukoka Pond, Tanga District 22.9.1976 Holmen 7230” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Tanganyika Ukerewe VII. 1933” (3 exs. OLML); “Kilimandjaro Sjöstedt 1905-1906/Kibonoto 1000-1300 m/21 Sept.” (1 ex. NHMB, 6 exs. NHRS, 3 exs. ZMHB); “Wembäre Steppe 6. 1911” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Pr. Shinyanga 60 km E Kahama 22.12. 2006 1150 m Kudrna Jr. lgt.” (1 ex. CFP); “Pond in stream bed, 107 mi from Dodoma 15.2. 1954” (1 ex. AMGS). – Angola: “Ca 10 mls W of Cainde, c. 3500 ft 15.4. 1954 / stagnant water hole, nitellid algae and muddy silt” (10 exs. BMNH, 2 exx. MZH); “Namakunda 6. 1948 16.15E. 18.50S C. Koch leg.”(1 ex. BMNH). – Zambia: “Kasempa env. 16-18.11. 2006, Z. Jindra leg.” (1 ex. NMPC); “Chinganganka 17.3. 1993 lux 15°53’ / 28°11'E, lux, hills, Uhlig leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Kafue NP, Chunga Camp 26-29.3. 1993, 15°02'S / 26°00'E, lux, Göllner leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Kafue NP, Chunga Camp 27.3. 1993, 15°02'35"S/26°00'09"E, lux, Uhlig leg.” (2 exs. ZMHB); “Africa Copperbelt Pr. Muekera 23.1. 1982 Selander / rain pond” (1 ex. MZH). – Malawi: “R Mtiti N of Lilongwe 1.X. 1948 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “R Diedma Lilongwe rd. 30.IX. 1948 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “River nr Dedza 28.IX. 1948 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream 20 miles from Dedza on lower Lilongwe rd 30.IX. 1948” (4 exs. AMGS); “Dedza dam on lower Lilongwe rd 29.9. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS); “Dedza env. 6-13.1. 2002 Bezdek leg.” (1 ex. NMPC); “Balaka env. 19-20.7. 2001 J. Bezdek leg.” (3 exs. NMPC, 1 ex. MZH); same but “5-6.1. 2002” (4 exs. NMPC, 1 ex. MZH); “Balaka env., 19.12. 2002 180 km SE Lilongwe Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB); “Stream (?) N of R. Mtiti X. 1948 / Paratype / L. simulator sp. n. det. J. O. Cooper” (1 ex. IRSNB; paratype L. simulator O-C.). – Zimbabwe: “Wankie Game Res. JOC. Waterholes / L. adspersus Boh. Det. JOC. (2 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Game Res. 5 Sept. 1948 JOC. Ponds at Robins Restcamp / L. adspersus Boh. Det. JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Game Res. September 1948 JOC., waterhole / L. adspersus Boh. Det. JOC.” (4 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Game Res. 2.IX. 1948 JOC. / L. adspersus Boh. Det. JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); ”5 mi SE Wankie 7.4. 1968 Spangler” (2 exs. USNM); “Gokwe Sengwa W.L.R.I. 28.12. 1982 -4.1. 1983 Bell / blacklight” (1 ex. NHMB); “Shangani R. 13.IX. 1948 J. O-C. / L. adspersus Boh. Det. JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Stream Halfway hotel Gatooma Salisbury 14.IX. 1948 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Stream Halfway hotel Gatooma-Salisbury 14.IX. 1948 / L. adspersus Boh. Det. JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Pool Lundi 22.N. 1948 J.O-C.” (5 exs. AMGS); “Sinkukwe 30 Dec. 1948 JOC.” (21 exs. AMGS, 3 exs. USNM, 1 ex. MZH); “Salisbury Mashonaland 1893 Marshall” (2 exs. SAM); “Nuanetsi River, Majinji Pan 4-5. 1961” (8 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “Matopos NP 28.11-1.12. 1993, 20°33'S/28°30'E lux Uhlig leg.” (1 exs. ZMHB, 1 ex. MZH); “Gwai River 3.4. 1968 Spangler” (1 ex. USNM); “Ngezi N.P. env., 1.12. 1998 Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB); “Birkennough Bridge 24.1. 1998 Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB); “Mushandike Sanct. 10.12.1998 Kantner” (2 exs. NHMB, 1 ex. MZH); “Kariba env. 20.12. 1998 Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB); “Pond 26 mi. from Fort Victoria, Beit Bridge Rd.13.11.1948 J.O-C.” (2 exs. AMGS). – Namibia: “Omapapurawe Guard Post, 200 m from campsite, Cunene R., N-17.218, E13.645, pool, 15.11. 1997 Bethune et al. (1 ex. AMGS); “Kaokoveld, Sanitatas abt 85 mi WSW Ohopoho 14-16.6. 1951 / L. adspersus Boh. det. J. Omer-Cooper” (4 exs. MZLU); “Kaokoveld, Kowares 90 mi SE Ohopoho 3.6. 1951” (1 ex. MZLU). – Botswana: “Metsimaklaba 7-12.3. 1930 / L. livens Régb. det. Gschwendtner” (1 ex. OLML, 6 exs. TMSA); “N’Kate Makarikari 6-23.8. 1930 / L. adspersus Boh. det. Gschwendtner” (1 ex. TMSA); “Tsotsorogo Pan 17.6.-9.7. 30 / L. livens Régimbart det. Gschwendtner” (1 ex. OLML, 1 ex. TMSA); “Kasane 25-28.7. 1930 / L. addendus Shp det. Gschwendtner” (2 exs. TMSA). – South Africa: “Transvaal Sand R. 16.XII. 1953” (1 ex. AMGS); “Tshakoma Zpbg N. 1931 van Son / L. adspersus Boh. det. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. TMSA); same but ”det. Gschwendtner” (1 ex. TMSA); “Valdesia Zpbg N. 1931 van Son / L. adspersus Boh. det. Gschwendtner” (1 ex. TMSA); “Trsvl Koring Spruit / Waterberg Dist. 20.8. 1948 J.O.C. / L. livens Rég. det. J. Balfour-Browne” (1 ex. TMSA); “Transvaal Kruger Park 1.VII. 1960” (2 exs. AMGS); “Kruger N.P. Skukuza, 12 km S, 25.04S, 31.37E / 6.3. 1996 UV light, Endrödy-Younga” (5 exs. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH); “Kruger N.P. Skukuza Res. camp, 24.59S, 31.36E / 25.2. 1995 UV-light & trap Endrödy-Younga” (4 exs. TMSA; habitus in Fig.
The type material of all five taxa involved have been studied and compared (except holotype of L. vitshumbii; not found). Minor variation in shape of penis apex and dorsal colour pattern can be recognized. There are, however, a series of transitional morphs between the extremes both regarding genitalia and external appearance. Distribution covers extensive areas of Africa south of Sahara which justifies occurrence of minor morphological variation within a species. No clear morphological evidence and distributional pattern are thus present which would merit separation of species or subspecies. Accordingly earlier synonymy of L. adspersus and L. livens is confirmed. Furthermore L. vitshumbii, L. adspersus nigeriensis and L. adspersus sudanensis are all considered new synonyms of L. adsperus. Laccophilus adsperus being the oldest available name is the valid name of the species.
Despite slight variation in shape of penis apex and elytra colour pattern in L. adspersus these features are still the best way of separation the species from other Laccophilus species. Laccophilus adspersus resembles most of L. olsoufieffi. Further study may show that they are also conspecific (see diagnosis of L. olsoufieffi on p. 106).
Body length 3.6–4.2 mm, width 1.9–2.2 mm. Body almost unicoloured pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; elytra with slightly indistinct irrorations. At base irrorations slightly sparser and often slightly reduced. Some specimens exhibit a variable pale spot with reduced irrorations posteriorly on each elytron (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat to rather shiny, finely microsculptured; reticulation indistinctly double. Large meshes contain 2–6 fine meshes. Almost impunctate. At eyes with some scattered, fine punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Finer meshes sometimes indistinct and hardly discernible. When discernible large meshes contain 2–8 finer meshes. Almost impunctate; punctures indistinct and hardly visible. Scattered punctures may be discerned laterally and at anterior margin.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous. With ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, slightly obsolete irrorations. Sometimes each elytron posterior to middle with a pale spot where irrorations reduced (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny although very finely microsculptured. Metacoxal plates with in part reduced transverse furrows. Abdomen basally with sparse, somewhat curved striae. Apex of prosternal process slender and pointed. Apical ventrite with a small knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, somewhat extended, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Note variation in shape of penis apex; extreme apex exhibits a gradual change from pointing straight forwards to, being somewhat curved and blunt (Figs
Female: Externally as male but apical ventrite lacks asymmetric knob (Fig.
Sudan, Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Zaire, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Swaziland (Fig.
Insufficiently documented. Van
Laccophilus olsoufieffi
Madagascar: Maroansétra.
(8 exs.). Holotype: male: “Maroansétra, Madagascar X. 1936 / male symbol / Type” (MNHN). – Paratypes: males and females: “Madagascar Maroansetra X 1936 / Paratype” (1 ex. IRSNB); “Antakotako Madagascar II 1936 / female-symbol / Paratype” (1 ex. IRSNB); same data but “male symbol” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(12 exs.). Madagascar: “Tananarive 7. 1934 Vadon / Lac Tzimbamzaza / male symbol / Type / ab. fuscinus” (1 ex. MNHN). [Comment: the specimen has no status as type material being associated with the name ab. fuscinus, which is infrasubspecific.] – “E-Mad. Ampamoho nr Andilamena 1200-1300 m asl.18-20.1. 1995 Dunay & Janak” (7 exs. NMW, 2 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Resembles most of and probably closely related to L. adspersus from which L. olsoufieffi can generally be distinguished by study of the penis. Minor difference can be recognized in bending of the penis. Moreover, body of L. olsoufieffi seems to be slightly more robust than L. adspersus in general. In L. olsoufieffi irroration covers often almost entire elytron but sometimes there is posterior to middle a patch with sparse irroration or irroration is totally absent. Further study may reveal that the two species are synonymous.
Body length 3.8–4.3 mm, width 2.1–2.4 mm. Specimens regarded as aberration “fuscinus” are slightly larger; length 3.9–4.4 mm, width 2.2–2.5 mm. Additionally “fuscinus” lacks pale area (irroration absent or strongly reduced) posterior to middle of elytron. Habitus and dorsal colour pattern (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly dull, rather finely reticulated. Reticulation double; large meshes contain 3–4, often indistinct small meshes. Almost impunctate, except at eyes; fine and scattered punctures may be discerned.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Submat, reticulated; reticulation quite distinct and double. Large meshes may contain 4–7 small meshes. Anteriorly and laterally with fine, in part indistinct, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, extensively provided with ferrugineous irrorations (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, distinct colour pattern lacking. Rather shiny to submat; extensively with fine reticulation, which in part is rather indistinct. Basal ventrites with rather distinct, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Apex of prosternal process slender, slightly extended and pointed. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with fine, transversely located, shallow furrows; in posterior half furrows absent. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsi slightly enlarged, extended, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis long, bended and extreme apex points forwards (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite symmetric, lacks knob (Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
Not documented.
Laccophilus modestus
Laccophilus modestus v. tostus
Laccophilus espanyoli
Laccophilus modestus: Mali: Badoumbé (Ht. Senegal).
Laccophilus modestus var. tostus: Gabon: Cap Lopez.
Laccophilus espanyoli: Senegal: Oussaduye.
(9 exs.). Laccophilus modestus: Lectotype (by present desgination): male: “Ht. Sénégal Badoumbé Dr. Nodier I à V – 1882 / male symbol / co-type / L. modestus Rég.” (MNHN). [Comment:
Laccophilus modestus var. tostus: Cotype: female: “Gabon Mocquerys / female symbol / Cotype” (MNHN). Additionally, three specimens mounted together and labelled “Gabon Mocquerys/Museum Paris Coll. Maurice
Laccophilus espanyoli: Holotype: male: “Holotip / Senegal Oussaduye 13-XI-65 Sala leg. / Laccophilus espanyoli sp. n. C. Hernande det. / 78-0572 MZB” (MZBS). – Paratype: female: Same data as holotypus but “Paratypus / 78-0752 MZB” (1 ex. MZBS).
(371 exs.). Gambia: “Abuko Nat. Res., at light at the Bamboo Pool 18.30-20.30, 18.11. 1977 UTM 28PCK2181 / Cederholm et al. N. 1977” (3 exs. MZLU); “Tendema Camp, at light in semiarid veg near river Gambia 18.30-20.30, 14.11. 1977, UTM 28POK1285, loc. 12A / Cederholm et al. N. 1977” (1 ex. MZH); “Riv. Tanji 3 km SW Brufut. At light 19.00-21.00, 28.2 1977, UTM 28PCK087773 / Cederholm et al. Febr.-March 1977” (2 exs. MZLU, 1 ex. NHMB); “Outside Abuko Nat. Res., at waterworks. At light 19.00-22.00 UTM 28PCK214812 / Cederholm et al. Febr-March 1977” (2 exs. MZLU); “Bathurst Jan. 68 Palm / L. modestus Régb.det. Persson” (5 exs. MZLU); “Bathurst Januari 1968 Leiler” (3 exs. NHRS); “Kuntaur NW Georgetown 21.11. 2003 Vondel” (1 ex. CSR). – Gambia/S. Senegal: “Stream N of Selety 13°10'N, 16°36'W, 19.2. 1976 Holmen” (2 exs. ZMUC). – Senegal: “Riv. Cazamance Carabane Dr. Collin / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
Tanzania: “Deforested place nr Mangula, 297 m, at light, 18.7. 2004 Sprecher” (1 ex. NHMB; single female specimen); “Mizimu Mwanihana Mnts N.P. S07.48.21,8, E36.51.09,5, 850 m, 3-6.8. 2010 light trap Smith & Takano” (1 ex. BMNH; single female specimen). – Mozambique: “Mandambuzi, Manda Wilderness Res. S12°17.697’, E34°46.260’ Watson 16.2. 2008” (1 ex. CGF; single female specimen).
The lectotype of L. modestus and holotype of L. espanyoli have been examined and compared. Morphological features in shape of penis and external appearance of body show that the two taxa are conspecific. Laccophilus modestus, being the older name is the valid name of the species. Earlier established synonymy of L. modestus var. tostus and L. modestus is also confirmed (name given for female being dimorphous, vide below under female description).
Laccophilus modestus is characterized by appearance of elytra; irrorations reduced basally, and by features exhibited by the penis; inner outline of penis provided with a minute but distinct knob. Extreme apex of penis frontally rounded (vide diagnosis of L. cryptos on p. 112).
Body length 3.5–3.8 mm; width 1.9–2.1 mm. Elytral irrorations are dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous against pale ferrugineous background (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, but due to minor size difference division in two mesh-size classes difficult. Almost impunctate; at eyes small area with fine, dense and irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes contain 3–6 small meshes. At margins with very fine, irregular punctures. Basally punctures hardly visible; only laterally clearly discernible.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with slightly vague ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, quite dense irrorations. Sometimes, irrorations anteriorly reduced and almost absent (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, no colour pattern exhibited. Almost impunctate. Scattered, single punctures may be discerned. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured. In part reticulation reduced or absent. Abdomen with fine, slightly curved striae. Prosternal process slender, apex extended and pointed. Metacoxal plates frontally with indistinct, shallow furrows. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with single, minute, lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, somewhat extended and provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis (Fig.
Female: Externally resembles male but pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lacks knob, almost symmetric (Fig.
Gambia, Senegal, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Ethiopia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Gabon, Congo and Zaire (Fig.
Information in literature is uncertain but can be found by checking the references above. Label data indicate that the species occur both in stagnant and running waters: collected in swamps and small ponds as well as in a slowly running stream and in a muddy stream. Also collected at light, e.g. in semiarid vegetation near a river and in moist secondary forest and in a plantation.
South Africa: Zululand, Mission Rock, St. Lucia (28.22S-32.35E).
(24 exs.). Holotype: male: “S. Afr.; Zululand St. Lucia, Mission Rock 28.22S-32.35E / 18.12. 1975; E-Y: 983, at black light leg. Endrödy-Younga” (TMSA). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype (3 exs. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Very closely related to L. modestus. Correct determination requires examination of the penis, the apex of which exhibits distinct, species-specific features. In L. cryptos extreme tip of penis apex clearly angled while rounded in L. modestus.
Body length 3.3–3.8 mm, breadth 1.7–2.0 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern slightly variable. Elytra with somewhat obscure, dark ferrugineous irrorations, which at base generally, are almost lacking (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; lacks distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes contain 2–5 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, irregular punctures. Area of punctures extends towards disc-middle, still leaving a considerable impunctate area in middle of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; lacks distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes contain 2–5 small meshes. Smaller meshes, in part, rather indistinct. Impunctate, except frontally and laterally; with fine, irregular punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with somewhat vague, dark ferrugineous irrorations, which often disappear at base of elytra (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; without distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured; microsculpture in part indistinct. Ventrites with very fine, slightly indistinct, curved striae. Metacoxal plates with a number of rudimentary, transverse furrows. Lateral impression of metacoxal plates moderately deep. Furrows weakly developed, in part indistinct. Impunctate, except apical ventrite, with some fine, scattered punctures and an asymmetric minute knob locate on one side of the ventrite (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Extreme apex of penis tip angled (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lack small, asymmetric knob (Fig.
The species name cryptos is a Greece noun in apposition and refers to something hidden or secret. The name refers to the identity of the new species, which remained hidden until male genitalia were dissected, being externally similar to L. modestus.
Zaire, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa (Fig.
Almost unknown. The species has been collected by shore washing and at light collection. Recorded also, from a fresh water pan.
Laccophilus nodieri
Mali: Badoumbé.
(2 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation) male: “Ht. Sénégal Badoumbé Dr. Nodier I à V 1882 / male symbol /Co-Type / L. nodieri Rég. cotype” (MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(70 exs.). Gambia: “W Div. Abuko Nat. Res. 27.11. 2003 Vondel / L. nodieri det. Rocchi” (1 ex. CSR); “Abuko Nat. Res., at light at the Bamboo pool 18.30-20.30 18.11. 1977, UTM 28PCK2181 / Cederholm et. al leg. / L. nodieri Rég. det. Brancucci 85” (1 ex. MZLU). – Senegal: “Casamance Tabor” (1 ex. MNHN); “Dakar 5. 1939” (2 exs. MNHN). – Mali: “Goundaka, Bandiagara river 14°29'N, 3°56'W, 12.2. 2000 Komarek & Mayer / L. nodieri Rég. det. Wewalka 2001” (1 ex. NMW); “W Bandiagara, pools 14°22'N, 3°41'W, 12.2. 2000 Komarek & Mayer / L. nodieri Rég. det. Wewalka 2001” (1 ex. NMW); “W50 km E Djenne 13°50'N, 4°25'W, 12.2. 2000 Komarek & Mayer / L. nodieri Rég. det. Wewalka 2001” (1 ex. NMW). – Sudan: “Aluakulak 30,5E 6,30N 14.5. 1954 / L. nodieri Reg. det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Alel rock pool 30,56 E 6,11N 18.I. 1954 JJOC.” (7 exs. AMGS); “Sandy river 50 mi. NW of Juba 29.1. 1954 JJOC.“ (4 exs. AMGS); “Stream from hot springs Nyangwara 30,51E 4,39N, 29.I. 1954 JJOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Sandy river 50 mi. NW of Juba 29.I. 1954 JJOC.” (2 exs. AMGS). – Ivory Coast: “Comoé N8,5° - W3,5°, 22.3. 1999 Reintjes” (6 exs. NMW); same and “L. nodieri det. Rocchi” (3 exs. CSR). – Burkina Faso: “Pundu, Mte Volta 1927-28 Dez-Juni Olsufiejev” (3 exs. NHRS). – Ghana: “17 mi S Palbe 1.9. 1971, filtered black light, Gruwell” (1 ex. USNM). – Nigeria: “Stream crossing Kaduna rd. nr Zaria 4.4. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Trib. of R. Gagere en route Zaria-Katsina 5.IV. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Stream 64 mi. from Bida on Jebba rd.15.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Detritus pond 45 mi. from Jos on Bauchi rd.9.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “R. Niger, bridge Kontagora-Kaduna rd. 3.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Kontagora stream 3.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream nr. Zaria 4.IV. 1963 JOC.” (8 exs. AMGS); “Zaria Pr., Zaria 5-6.3. 1949 Malkin” (1 ex. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “NC St. Zaria 2-3.8. 1973 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH); “NW St. Yelwa 23.7. 1973 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH); “Kano St., Kano-Wudil 17.5. 1973 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH); “R. Ogun, Olokomeji nr. Ibadan 24.III. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Pond, road Dawria-Kano 6.4. 1963 JOC.” (4 exs. AMGS). – Zaire: “PNG, Utukuru 14/s, 22.7. 1952 De Saeger 3812” (2 exs. NHMB).
Externally L. nodieri resembles very much of L. flaveolus. Both species have elytral irrorations in part reduced, which makes coverage of it uneven and patchy. Shape of penis, however, is peculiar with a distinct, sharp knob in inner curvature. Corresponding sharp knob lacks in L. flaveolus.
Body length 4.0–4.3 mm, width 2.2–2.4 mm. Elytral colour pattern consists of rather fine, in part unevenly distributed irrorations (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, dense and somewhat irregular punctures. Areas of punctures extend a little towards middle of head. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation almost simple; only indistinct fragments of large meshes discernible. Large meshes, when discerned, contain 3–6 fine meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; lacks colour pattern. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, but difference between size classes small. Large meshes contain 3–6 fine meshes. At margins with fine, scattered and irregular punctures, which basally in middle are indistinct.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinctly reduced, somewhat vague dark ferrugineous irrorations. Irrorations are sparsest basally and in a transverse area posterior to middle (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern exhibited. Almost impunctate. Submat to rather shiny, very finely, in part indistinctly microsculptured. Metacoxal plates in frontal half with some transversely located very shallow furrows. Abdomen basally with fine curved striae. Prosternal process rather slender, apex slightly extended and pointed. Apical ventrite asymmetric; provided with a minute but sharp lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, somewhat extended and provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect slightly curved, broad, provided with a sharp, minor process, approximately in middle of the inner side of penis. Extreme apex of penis hooked (Fig.
Female: Externally as male but pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite not distinctly asymmetric; lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Gambia, Senegal, Mali, Sudan, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Nigeria, Zaire (Fig.
Sampled e.g. in pools with loamy bottom and in stagnant remain of brooklet (van
Laccophilus flaveolus
Laccophilus pampinatus
Confusion in determination of species has been a common problem. Accordingly, records and data from old literature must be considered carefully.
Laccophilus flaveolus: Kenya: Baie de Kavirondo.
Laccophilus pampinatus: Uganda: Central Uganda.
(37 exs.). Laccophilus flaveolus: Lectotype (by present designation) male: Kenya “Lac Victoria Nyanza Baie de Kavirondo IX-X. 1903 / male symbol / Cotype” (MNHN). – Paralectotypes: Same data as lectotype (2 exs. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus pampinatus: Holotype: male: Uganda, “Ouganda Central Alluaud I-II. 1909 / male symbol / Type / Det. Dr. Guignot Laccophilus pampinatus Guign. Type” (MNHN). – Paratypes: Uganda, Same as holotype, but labelled as “Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN). – Kenya, “Lac Victoria Baie de Kavirondo Alluaud IX. 1903 / male symbol / Laccophilus pampinatus Guignot Paratype / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Afr. Or. Angl. (Lac Victoria) Baie de kavirondo Alluaud & Jeannel Déc. 1911 – 1112 - St. 22 et 23 / female symbol / Laccophilus pampinatus Guignot Allotype female / Allotype” (1 ex. MNHN).
(155 exs.). Sudan: “Kawrajena 20.3. 1947” (2 exs. ZMUC). – Zaire: “PNA 23.8. 1957 Vanschuytbroeck / Secteur Nord, rive dr. Semliki, rte Muramba, 905 m” (6 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); “PNA 26.8. 1957 Vanschuytbroeck / Secteur Nord, marais Buyansha sur r. dr. Semliki, 905 m” (6 exs. MRAC); “PNA 27.8. 1957 Vanschuytbroeck / Secteur Nord, rive Ihunga, af dr. Semliki 1300 m” (2 exs. MRAC); “PNG Ndelele K. 117/14s 19.3. 1952 H. De Saeger” (2 exs. MRAC); “PNG Ndelele/14s 1.8. 1952 H. De Saeger” (2 exs. MRAC); “PNG PpK.14/g/14s, 4.4. 1952 H. De Saeger 3290” (4 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); PNG II/gd/14, 30.7. 1952 H. De Saeger” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG II/gd/4, 29.5.1952 De Saeger” (1 ex. IRSNB). – Uganda: “Uganda Central Alluaud I-II. 1909 / Cotype” (1 ex. MNHN; not type material); “Butiaba Flats 2.9. 1967 Brown” (1 ex. BMNH). – Kenya: “Dam at Kaloleni Mission, Kilifi Distr. 15.9. 1976 Holmen” (1 ex. ZMUC). – Tanzania: “Ukerewe I. Father Conrad” (5 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “Tanganyika Ukerewe / L. pampinatus Guignot det. Wewalka 1979” (7 exs. OLML); “Mwanza nr Lake Victoria 1957 / Marginal pools and ditches” (2 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “Mwanza nr Lake Victoria / Sweet potato channels” (1 ex. BMNH); “Stream, Mbeya-Tunduma rd., 18.10. 1948 JOC” (1 ex. AMGS); “Foothills of Kilimandjaro 14.2. 1954” (2 exs. AMGS); “Zanzibar Pemba, Sept, 1955 Fowler” (2 exs. AMGS). – Zambia: “S Luangwa NP, Mfuwe Crocodile Farm 23.3. 1993 13°06'03"S-31°47'32"E, 450 m, lux Uhlig leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Lusaka 5.11. 1973 Lange” (1 ex. CGC). – Malawi: “River nr Portuguese border nr Mwanza 9.2. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Zomba plateau, stream 6000 ft 7.3. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS). – Mozambique: “Magude16.8. 1915 C.J. Sw. / L. adspersus Boh. det. Gschwendtner” (8 exs. TMSA). – Zimbabwe: “Small stream Halfway Hotel Salisbury-Gatooma 14.9. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Salisbury 14.9. 1948 J. Omer-Cooper” (2 exs. NHMB); “Wankie Game Res. Masumu Dam Sept. 1948 JOC.” (4 exs. AMGS); “Wankie Game Res. Waterhole Sept. 1948 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “5 mi SE Wankie 7.4. 1968 Spangler” (25 exs. USNM, 5 exs. MZH); “Pool Lundi 22. N. 1948 JOC.” (20 exs. AMGS); “Sinkukwe 30.12. 1948 J.O.C.” (6 exs. AMGS). – Botswana: “Tsotsorogo Pan 17.6.-9.7. 1930 V.-L. Kal. Exp. / L. adspersus Boh. Gschwendtner det.” (9 exs. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH); same data but “L. pampinatus Guignot det. Wewalka 1979” (1 ex. OLML); “Kabulabula Chobe River 11-24.7. 1930 V.-L. Kal. Exp. / L. adspersus Boh. Gschwendtner det.” (1 ex. TMSA); “N’Kate Makarikari 6-23.8. 1930 V.-L. Kal. Exp. / L. adspersus Boh. Gschwendtner det.” (2 exs. TMSA); “Metsimaklaba 7-12.3. 1930 V.-L. Kal. Exp. / L. adspersus Boh. Gschwendtner det.” (3 exs. TMSA). – South Africa: “Kruger Nat. Pk, Skukuza res. camp, 25.00S-31.35E/19.2.1995 UV-light & trap E-Y: 3102, Endrödy-Younga leg.” (1 ex. TMSA); “Kruger Nat. Pk, Skukuza 12 km, 25.04S-31.37E / 6.3. 1996 UV-light E-Y: 3217, Endrödy-Younga leg.” (1 ex. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH); “Trsvl Kruger National Pk, Leeu Pan NE Skukuza 1.5. 1951 / Brinck-Rudebeck / L. flaveolus Régb. det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. MZLU); “Mpumalanga, 7 km upstream from Skukuza, Sabie R. N-24.970, E31.540, 25.10. 1990 de Moor” (1 ex. AMGS); “Kruger Nat. Pk, Levuvu River 22.27S-31.10E / 12.2. 1994 E-Y: 2998 shorewashing” (1 ex. TMSA); “Trsvl., Naboomspruit Torino Ranche 24.37S-28.38E / 15.1. 1989 E-Y: 2774, UV light, vlei edge Endrödy-Younga leg.” (1 ex. TMSA). – Madagascar: “Zombitse Ankilemiletsy, muddy waterhole N- 22.868, E 44.576, 544 m 14.5. 2006 Bergsten/BMNH(E) <794187> DNA voucher / L. flaveolus Régb. det. Bergsten” (1 ex. NHRS); same data, but “<794193> DNA voucher” (1 ex. NHRS).
The lectotype of L. flaveolus and the holotype of L. pampinatus have been examined and compared. No morphological features, which would justify separation of two species were detected. Accordingly, they are synonyms and L. flaveolus being the older name is the valid name for the species.
Laccophilus flaveolus is separated from resembling species by study of elytral colour pattern in combination with peculiarly shaped penis. Externally it resembles most of L. nodieri but there is clear difference in shape of penis: Penis of L. flaveolus lacks sharp knob on inner outline. Additionally, penis long, medially somewhat bent and extreme apex hooked with extreme tip sharp (Fig.
Body length 4.2–4.6 mm, width 2.3–2.4 mm. Pale coloured except elytra. Elytral colour pattern is formed by quite extensive irrorations; irrorations somewhat sparse and in part reduced (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny to submat, reticulation double but difference between size-categories small. Large meshes contain 2–10 finer meshes when they are discernible. Almost impunctate; at eyes with fine and irregularly distributed punctures. Area of punctures at each eye extends towards middle but areas are not connected.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, base in middle often with narrow darkened area. Rather shiny although finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes contain 2–10 meshes; sometimes fine meshes indistinct and hardly visible. At margins with very fine, scattered punctures; pronotum discally impunctate.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, extensively with dark brown to dark ferrugineous, rarely slightly variable irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, very finely microsculptured. Metacoxal plates with some very indistinct transverse furrows. Ventrites basally sparsely striated; striae curved. Almost impunctate. Apex of prosternal process slender and pointed. Apical ventrite with a minute but distinct asymmetric knob. A minor knob can also be detected on the other side (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged and extended, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis long, medially somewhat bent and extreme apex hooked with extreme tip sharp (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Sudan, Zaire, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa and Madagascar (Fig.
Insufficiently known.
Laccophilus remex
Laccophilus concisus
Laccophilus turneri
Laccophilus praeteritus
Laccophilus remex: Ivory Coast: Duékoué.
Laccophilus concisus: Zaire: PNU, Lusinga.
Laccophilus turneri: South Africa: Boekenhout, Nylstroom (River Nyl at Num Num).
Laccophilus praeteritus: South Africa: Transvaal, Ermelo.
(26 exs.) Laccophilus remex. Holotype: male: “Cote d’Ivoire Duékoué / Museum Paris 12-1930-IV-1931 Ch. Alluaud et P.A. Chappuis / Det. Dr. Guignot Laccophilus tschoffeni Rég. / Type / F. Guignot det. 1952 Laccophilus remex Guign. Type, male symbol” (MNHN). – Paratypes: females: “Cote d’Ivoire Duékoué / female symbol / Museum Paris 12-1930-IV-1931 Ch. Alluaud et P.A. Chappuis / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); same data but labelled “Allotype” (1 ex. MNHN).
Laccophilus concisus: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo Belge: PNU, Lusinga (Galerié) 22-25-V-1945 G. F de Witte: 29 / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I.P.N.C.B.) / Laccophilus concisus Guign. sp. n. Type male / F. Guignot det., 1952 Laccophilus concisus sp. n. Type male” (MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus praeteritus: Holotype: male: “Male / Type / Transvaal Ermelo / Dec. 1948 J. Omer-Cooper / L. praeteritus Omer-Cooper/Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / Laccophilus concisus Guign. J. Balfour-Browne det. 1960” (BMNH). – Paratypes: “Female / Type / Transvaal Belfast 30.XI. 1948 J.O.C. / Female allotype / Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / L. praeteritus” (1 ex. BMNH); “Paratype / Transvaal pond W. Belfast 23.11. 1948 JOC. / L. praeteritus O-C. det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Paratype / Duivels Kloof Merenskydam 24.11. 1948 Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Transvaal sluggish stream / nr Ermelo 1.12. 1948 J.O.C. / L. praeteritus O-C. / Paratype” (1 ex. TMSA).
Laccophilus turneri: Holotype: male: “Type / Transvaal Nylstroom R. Nyl at Num Num 23. Aug. 1948 J. Omer-Cooper / Type, male / L. turneri O-C.” (BMNH). – Paratypes: female: Principally with same data as holotype, but labelled as “female allotype” (1 ex. BMNH); Almost labelled as holotype but “paratype” (6 exs. AMGS, 1 ex. TMSA); “Paratype / Transvaal Waterberg distr. Deel Kraal 20.8. 1948 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Paratype / Transvaal Nylstroom 19 Aug. 1948 JOC. / L. adspersus Boh. J. Balfour-Browne det.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Paratype / Transvaal Duivels Kloof 24. N. 1948 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Paratype” (1 ex. AMGS; status uncertain, because locality information absent).
Additional material, studied (278 exs.): Sudan: “Dahr el Ghazal M’Boloko 23.2. 1963 Linnavuori” (1ex. MZH); “Equatoria, Nzara 22.4. 1986 Wewalka” (1 ex. CGW); “O. Sudan Adjuba I.U. Neumann” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Sierra Leone: “Musaia 16.1. 1946 / Hippo mud pan” (1 ex, BMNH). – Liberia: “Suakoko 19.12, 1951/6-9 pm light trap Blickenstaff” (9 exs. USNM, 2 exs. MZH); “Suakoko 11.12. 1951 Blickenstaff” (1 ex. USNM, 1 ex. MZH); “Suakoko 1.1. 1952 Blickenstaff” (6 exs. USNM). – Ivory Coast: “Divo 28.11. 1963 Decelle” (2 exs. MRAC). – Ghana: “Ashanti Kumasi 330 m, N6.43-W 1.36 / 15.9. 1967 at light Endrödy-Younga” (1 ex, TMSA); “Kumasi 3.6. 67 Endrödy-Younga / L. remex Guignot det. Wewalka 76” (1 ex. MHNG); same data but “6.7. 67” (1 ex. MHNG); same data but “16.7. 67” (3 exs. MHNG); same data but “24.6. 67” (2 exs. MHNG). – Nigeria: “Stream 64 mi. from Bida on Jebba rd. 15.IV. 1963 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “EC St. Norcap nr Abakaliki 29.6. 1973” (1 ex. MZH); same and “ad lucem / Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH). – Gabon: “Makoukou Riv. Oua (Ivindo) 16-19.1. 2001 Bilardo / L. remex det. Rocchi 02” (2 exs. CSR); “Belinga 5.2.-4.4. 1963 Coiffat” (62 exs. NHMB). – Congo: “Parc Nat. d’Odzala Mboko-Lango 21.8. 2002 Bilardo” (1 ex. CSR); “Odzala NP, 400 m, 10.2. 1997 Murzin leg.” (4 exs. NMPC). – Zaire: “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger II/fd/14, 18.6. 1951, 1946” (1 ex. NHMB); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger II/hd/17, 13.10. 1951, 2595” (1 ex. NHMB); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger II/fd/14s, 3.4. 1952, 3278” (9 exs. MRAC, 2 exs. MZH); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger II/fd/12, 10.3. 1952, 3180” (13 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger Pali/8, 22.3. 1952, 3217” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger II/fd/13, 5.5. 1952, 3421” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger II/fc/14, 17.7. 1952, 3806” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger I/a/M 7.6. 1950 Rec. G. Demoulin 584 / L. remex Guignot det. Guignot 1957” (1 ex. AMGS); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger II/fc/14, 4.7. 1952, 3736 / Paratype of L. saegeri Guignot” (1 ex. IRSNB); “PNU Mukana, 1810 m, 24.3. 1947 / Dr. F. Guignot det., 1953 Laccophilus concisus Guign.”(2 exs. IRSNB, 2 exs. MRAC; labelled as paratypes but not mentioned in original description); “PNU Kabwekanono p.t.s. Lufwa affl. dr. Lufira (1.815 m) 12.1. 1948, 1199a” (1 ex. MRAC; labelled as paratype but not mentioned in original description); “PNU Kaswabilenga (700 m) 17.10. 1947, 845a” (1 ex. MAC; labelled as paratype but not mentioned in original description); “PNU Mubale – 1480 m, 10-13.5. 1947, 352a” (2 exs. MRAC; labelled as paratypes but not mentioned in original description); “de Luebo à Luluabourg N. 1921 Ghesquière / L. remex Guignot det. Wewalka 1979” (1 ex. OLML). – Tanzania: “Kondoa 300 m 10. 1938” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
South Africa: “Blinkwater Reserve, Greytown Natal, bog on summit, 1100 m nist belt grassland 4.2. 1997 Turner” (1 ex. CCT).
Male holotypes of L. remex, L. concisus, L. turneri and L. praeteritus have been examined and compared. Shape of penis is almost identical in the four taxa. Considering all examined male genitalia there is variation in shape between extremes, which makes a separation of different species difficult or almost impossible. Colour pattern of elytra is quite variable but exhibit similar ground-plan with transitional morphs between extremes. Accordingly, the four taxa are for the time being regarded, conspecific and synonymies are introduced as follows: Earlier synonymy of L. remex and L. turneri is confirmed as well as earlier synonymy of L. concisus and L. praeteritus. Laccophilus concisus is a new synonymy of L. remex. Laccophilus remex, being the oldest available name is the valid name of the species. An alternative, plausible, interpretation is that L. remex is in fact a complex of very closely related species. With present knowledge, the delimitation of the different species remains, however, an open question. Further study is definitely needed.
Although L. remex, as delimited here, exhibits considerable variation in appearance of elytral colour pattern this feature can often be used for recognition of the species. The species is also characterized by the robust penis, which often exhibits some variation. Laccophilus remex resembles very much of L. turbatus but L. remex is almost always larger (body length exceeds in most cases 4 mm). Additionally external outline of penis is rounded when it is angled in L. turbatus.
Body length 4.0–4.7 mm; width 2.2–2.6 mm. Elytral colour pattern variable; elytra covered with dense irrorations, which basally often are to a variable degree reduced. Basally often with quite extensive pale areas where irrorations are absent. Additionally, elytra sometimes with irrorations being sparser posterior to middle (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Posteriorly sometimes with dark area. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes contain 2–7 smaller meshes. At eyes with fine and irregular punctures, which extend towards middle of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. At frontal margin and medially at posterior margin with a distinct dark to blackish ferrugineous area. Basal dark area sometimes reduced. Frontal, dark marking sometimes totally absent. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double: larger meshes contain 2–7 smaller meshes. Frontally and laterally with scattered, fine punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense, dark ferrugineous to blackish irrorations. At base, irrorations often sparser, in part reduced, sometimes forming variable pale areas lacking irroration (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny, with very fine microsculpture. Metacoxal plates with a few, rather vague, transverse furrows. Ventrites with fine, somewhat curved striae. Apical ventrite of male with fine knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged and extended, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite broad, medially distinctly bended and extreme apex hooked, outline of it, however, rounded (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender. Apical ventrite symmetric (Fig.
Sudan, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Gabon, Congo, Zaire, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Swaziland (Fig.
Information in literature is superficial and sparse.
Laccophilus turbatus
Zaire: Parc National Garamba.
(8 exs.): Holotype, male: “Holotypus / Congo belge P.N.G. Miss. H. De Saeger II/hd/17, 13-X-1951 Réc. H. De Saeger. 2595 / Guignot det., 1957Laccophilus turbatus sp. n. Holotype” (MRAC). – Paratypes: “Congo Belge P.N.G. Miss. H. De Saeger/13-X-1951 Réc. H. De Saeger. 2595 / female / Paratype” (1 ex. IRSNB, 4 exs. MNHN); same data but “II/fc/14, 17.7. 1952, 3608” (1 ex. NHMB); same data but “II/gd/14s, 25.8. 1952, 3984” (1 ex. NHMB).
(50 exs.): Sudan: “S. Sudan stream from hot springs, Nyangwara 30,5E, 4,39N, 29.1. 1954 JJOC.” (2 exs. AMGS). – Liberia: “Suakoko 18.3. 1952 / Blickenstaff Light trap” (1 ex. USNM, 1 ex. MZH); “Suakoko 20.2. 1952 Blickenstaff” (1 ex. USNM). – Nigeria: “R. Kaduna 4.5 mi. from Jos 13.4.1963 JOC.” (4 exs. AMGS);“R. Kaduna rd. 13.5 mi. from Jos 13.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Zaria 1969 Brancucci” (1 ex, CSR); “stream Kaduna-Zaria rd. 4.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “river, rd. to Enugo about 79 mi. from Makurdi 24.4. 1963” (1 ex. AMGS); “stream 64 mi. from Bida on Jebba rd.12.4. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Kontagora pools in dry stream 3.IV. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS). – Zaire: Same data as paratype, but not labelled as belonging to type material (1 ex. IRSNB); “PNG Miss. H. De Saeger II/fd/12, 10.3. 1952, 3180” (2 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); same but “II/fd/13, 5.5. 1952, 3421” (3 exs. MRAC); same but “II/fd/14s, 3.4. 1952, 3278” (6 exs. MRAC, 2 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Comments on synonymy:
Laccophilus turbatus is close to L. remex, but smaller (length of body less than 4 mm). The shape of penis also resembles that of L. remex but in L. turbatus penis is more slender and in lateral view external outline somewhat angled while robust and more evenly curved in L. remex.
Body length 3.5–3.9 mm, width 1.8–2.2 mm. Pale ferrugineous, elytra with dense, dark ferrugineous irrorations, which are slightly sparser at base of elytra. Elytral colour pattern exhibits some variation (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny. Reticulation fine, double. Larger meshes contain often 4–6 smaller meshes. Almost impunctate, except at eyes; here with a few scattered, fine punctures. Area with punctures extended towards middle of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; almost unicoloured pale. Mediobasally with narrow ferrugineous area, delimitation of which is vague. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but rather indistinctly so; in part fine meshes indistinct and hardly visible. At margins with fine punctures; discally almost impunctate.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous with dense ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous irrorations. Basally irrorations in part sparse, forming irregular slightly larger areas without irroration (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Slightly mat, very finely and in part indistinctly microsculptured. Basal ventrites of abdomen with fine, in part reduced, curved striae. Metacoxal plates with very fine, in part slightly indistinct transversely located, shallow furrows. Prosternal process slender, apex extended, pointed. Apical ventrite (Fig.
Legs: Protarsus rather slender. Pro- and mesotarsus with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite long, slender; external outline distinctly curved, exhibiting two bends. Extreme apex hooked but outline rounded (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite (Fig.
Sudan, Liberia, Nigeria, Zaire, Namibia, Botswana (Fig.
Hardly any information is available. On the basis of label data the species has in Sudan been collected in a stream from hot springs. In Namibia and Liberia collected with light.
Laccophilus pallescens
Madagascar: Pays Androy.
(11 exs.). Laccophilus pallescens: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Madag. Sud Pays Androy C. Alluaud / pallescens Rég. types”(MNHN; mounted on same pin on separate label above label with two paralectotypes). – Paralectotypes: Same data as lectotype (2 exs. MNHN). – “Madag. B. Antongil / Museum Paris coll. Maurice Régimbart” (1 ex. MNHN); “S. Baie Antongil / Museum Paris coll. Maurice Régimbart” (1 ex. MNHN); “Madagascar Diego Suarez 10 Ch. Alluaud 1893 / pallescens Rég. sp. n. / Museum Paris coll. Maurice Régimbart” (1 ex. MNHN); “Madagascar Sud Pays Androy Nord Alluaud 1900, 34 / Museum Paris 1945 Coll. R. Peschet / Laccophilus pallescens Rég.” (1 ex. MNHN);“Madagascar Sud Pays Androy Nord Alluaud 1900, 34” (1 ex. MNHN). Additional three specimens are labelled “Baie de Kavirondo”, but Kavirondo is separately (later and incorrectly) written on the label. When the specimens are mounted on exactly similar labels as those regarded as type material our conclusion is that they also can have this status (3 exs. MNHN). The pin is provided with a label bearing the handwritten text “should be Antongil”.
(234 exs.). Mali: “Mopti, Niger Riv. 21.2. 2000, 14°30'N, 4°12'W, Komarek & Mayer leg. / L. pallescens Reg. det. Wewalka 2001 (1 ex. NMW). – Sudan: “L. Shambe 21.1. 1954 JJOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “S. Sudan, stream from hot springs, Nyangwara 30,5E 4,39N 29.1. 1954 JJOC.” (1 ex. AMGS). – Ethiopia: “NO Afr. Galla Erlanger / 13.4. 1901” (1 ex. NHMB). – Ivory Coast: “Divo 28.11.1963” (1 ex. MRAC); “Comoé N.Pk., N8,5° W 3,5° Reintjes leg. / 4.2. 1999 Kongo Riv. / L. pallescens Régb. det. Pederzani” (2 exs. NMW); “Parc Nat. Comoé, gen. 2000 Moretto” (1 ex. CSR); “Foro-Foro, ad lucem, Duviard leg.” (1 ex. MZH). – Ghana: “Ashanti Reg. Kwadaso, agric. st. 6.42N-1.39W / light trap 26.2. 1969 Endrödy-Younga leg.”(2 exs. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH); “V.F. Eastop/Tafo, light 8.5. 1957” (1 ex. BMNH); “N. Reg., Nyankpala 183 m, N9°25’, W1°00’ Endrödy-Younga / shore washing 10.2. 1970” (1 ex. CGW); “Kumasi 18.5. 67 Endrödy-Younga / L. pallescens Rég. det. Wewalka 76” (1 ex. MHNG); same data but ”12.6. 67” (1 ex. MHNG). – Benin: Dep. Atlantique, Allada nr Niaouli (village) 6.2. 2006 leg. Goergen et al/06°44'31,7"N; 02°07'55,6"E, ca. 70 m asl, slowly running stream” (1 ex. NMW); “Dep. Atlantique, Allada Avoutè (village) 31.1. 2006 leg. Goergen et al/06°39'54,9"N; 02°09'34,1"E, ca. 25 m asl, small ponds” (1 ex. NMW); “Dep. Zou, Zogbodomè Lokoli (forest), Hlanzoun Riv. 6.2. 2006 Goergen et al. leg. / 07°03'N, 02°15'E muddy stream” (1 ex. NMW). – Nigeria: “Detritus pond 45 mi. from Jos on Bauchi rd. 9.4. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream 3,5 mi. from Oyo 25.3. 1968” (3 exs. AMGS); “Stream 86 mi. from Makurdi on Jos rd. 25.4. 1963” (2 exs. AMGS); “Stream, Kaduna-Zaria, rd. 4.4. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Zaria 1969 Brancucci” (1 ex. NHMB); “Trib. of R. Gagere en rte Zaria-Katsina 5.4. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Little stream Oyo-Ibadan 25.3. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Lagos Colony Iseri 26-27.3. 1949 Malkin / stream, deep slimy mud with sand over” (1 ex, BMNH); “Ondo Prov. h’way 15 mi W of Owo 29.1. 1949 Malkin / Muddy pool in forest, dead leaves” (1 ex. BMNH); “Ile-Ife 10.3. 1969 Medler” (1 ex. USNM); “New Calabar River nr Port Harcourt 13.1. 1989 Umeozor leg.” (1 ex. USNM). – Cameroon: “Minkama 15.4. 1970” (1 ex. NHMB). – Central African Republic: “Bozo 21.5. 1981 / Degallier” (1 ex. NHMB); “Bozo lum. 11. 1981 / Degallier” (1 ex. NHMB). – Zaire: “Holotypus / Musée du Congo / K 300 de Kindu 9-V-1911 L. Burgeon / R DET´1621 T / Laccophilus burgeoni Gschw. det. Gschwendt.” (1 ex. MRAC; not type material, see. L. burgeoni; habitus in Fig.
Swaziland: “Eranchi 5-10.1. 1955 A.L. Capener” (1 ex. AMGS). The specimen bears a second label “Swedish South Africa Expedition 1950-1951 Brinck-Rudebeck” which makes the origin obscure.
Laccophilus pallescens, being externally a somewhat variable species, is characterized by shape of penis; in lateral view, external outline of penis with two somewhat vague flexures/bends. Penis shape resembles L. turbatus but extreme apex much smaller.
Body length 3.4–3.8 mm, width 1.7–2.0 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body somewhat variable but similar ground plan of it, is exhibited in all studied specimens (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous; posteriorly often, with two minute, somewhat vague, dark spots. Almost impunctate except at eyes; with irregular, fine punctures. Areas with punctures expand towards middle but puncture-areas are not connected. Shiny to rather shiny although finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but small meshes in part reduced, and indistinct. When discernible, large meshes contain 4–8 fine meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern exhibited. Rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but fine meshes in large extent reduced or absent. Laterally, fine meshes discernible. Almost impunctate except laterally and frontally.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense, dark ferrugineous irrorations. At base and slightly posterior to middle irrorations sparser (paler, transverse areas formed). Base sometimes almost lacking dark colour pattern. Irrorations of elytra comparatively coarse (Figs
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous, abdomen slightly paler; pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny and slightly mat, very finely microsculptured; reticulation in part reduced or absent. Abdomen with very fine curved striae. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with very fine, shallow furrows (furrows in part rather indistinct). Prosternal process rather slender, apex somewhat extended and pointed. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with single minute knob located laterally (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, slightly extended; provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect, with external outline bended twice; extreme apex finely hooked with outline rounded (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite not distinctly asymmetric; lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Mali, Sudan, Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Zaire, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Madagascar (Fig.
Quite scarcely documented. Sampled in brooklet and in stagnant remain of brooklet and in a rain pool (van
Laccophilus trilineola
Laccophilus simulator
Laccophilus trilineola: Angola: Humpata.
Laccophilus simulator: Malawi: Dowa.
(5 exs.) Laccophilus trilineola. Holotype: female: “P.J. vd Kellen, Humpata, Afr. trop. / Laccophilus trilineola sp. n. type Régb. / trilineola sp. n. Régimb. / type” (RMNH).
Laccophilus simulator: Holotype, male: “Type / Nyasaland, stream 6 miles N of R. Mtiti 1.10. 1948 / Laccophilus simulator sp. n. Det. J. Omer-Cooper” (BMNH; two specimens on same pin but as holotype is clearly stated as male it is evident that specimen upper on pin must be the holotype). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype and pinned with it (1 ex. female BMNH); “Nyasaland stream, 6 miles N R. Mtiti 2.10. 1948 / Paratype / Paratype / Laccophilus simulator O-C. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. IRSNB). One additional paratype labelled “Nyasaland stream? N of R. Mtiti 10. 1948 / L. simulator sp. n. J. Omer-Cooper det” belongs to L. adspersus Boheman.
(1 ex.). Zaire: “Dilolo VIII-IX-1931 G.F. de Witte” (1 ex. OLML; habitus in Fig.
The holotypes of L. trilineola and L. simulator have been examined and compared. The holotype of L. trilineola is a female and it is a unique specimen which makes study of male genitalia impossible. Both taxa, however, exhibit peculiar colour pattern on elytra (three longitudinal pale areas at base), which lack in other African species. Moreover, shape of female apical ventrite is also characteristic and similar in both taxa. Accordingly, the two taxa are considered conspecific. Laccophilus trilineola, being the older name is the valid name of this species.
Laccophilus trilineola is characterized by elytral colour pattern, peculiar female apical ventrite and uniquely shaped penis; penis in lateral aspect quite long, medium robust and medially bent; extreme apex peculiar with external end, expanded to form a sharp extension.
Body length 4.0–4.5 mm, width 2.1–2.5 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern as in Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly only slightly darker. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes in part indistinct. When discernible they may contain 2–6 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes where irregular, fine punctures discernible. Areas of punctures extend towards middle of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Medially slightly darker than laterally. Rather shiny to submat although finely microsculptured. Reticulation double: Large meshes contain 2–6 small meshes. Finer reticulation laterally, in part indistinct. At margins with scattered very fine punctures; at posterior margin punctures almost absent; a few very fine punctures may, however, be discerned.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous irrorations. At base with three, slightly irregular, longitudinally extended, pale areas (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern formed. Rather shiny to submat, finely and partly indistinctly microsculptured. Finely and sparsely striated; distinct striae only discerned on two basal ventrites. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process slender; apex extended and pointed. Apical ventrite asymmetric with sharp knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Protarsus slightly enlarged; provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite long, medium robust and external outline medially bent; extreme apex peculiar with external end, expanded to a sharp extension (Fig.
Female: Protarsus slender. Apical ventrite (Fig.
Zaire, Angola, Malawi (Fig.
According to
Laccophilus mediocris
Laccophilus meii
Laccophilus mediocris: Ivory Coast: Toumodi.
Laccophilus meii: Republic of Guinea: Faranah, Sidakoro.
(8 exs.) Laccophilus mediocris. Holotype: male: “Cote d’Ivoire Toumodi /male symbol / Wehnckei Shp det. Gschwendt. / Type / Laccophilus mediocris Guign. Type, male” (MNHN). – Paratypes: “Cote d’Ivoire Toumodi / Museum Paris 12-1930-IV-1931 Ch. Alluaud & P.A. Chappuis / female symbol / Paratype” (3 exs. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus meii: Holotype: male: “République de Guinée, PNHN 10 10o15'08"N, 10o28'20"W Faranah, Sidakoro, mare, 12.1. 1996 leg. M. Mei” (in acqua con fondo fangoso e molto detrito) / Holotypus / Laccophilus meii sp. n. det. S. Rocchi 1997” (MZUL). – Paratypes, female with same data as holotype but labelled “Paratypus” (1 ex. MZUL); male: “République de Guinée, PNHN9, 10o27'50"N, 10o26'26"W, Faranah, Somorya F. Koffin 18.1. 1996 leg. M. Mei / Paratypus / Laccophilus meii sp. n. det. S. Rocchi 1997” (1 ex. CSR).
(22 exs.). Ivory-Coast: “Comoé NP, N8,5°-W3,5° Reintjes / 20.2. 1999” (1 ex. NMW); same data but “5.1. 1999” (3 exs. NMW); “Touba, a la lumière 4. 2002 Moretto / L. mediocris det. Rocchi 2002” (1 ex. CSR). – Ghana: “Ashanti Reg. Kwadaso, agric. st., 6.42N-1.39W / 26.2. 1969 light trap Endrödy-Younga” (1 ex. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH); “N Reg., Damongo game res. 9.04N-1.48W / at light 12.8. 1971 Endrödy-Younga” (1 ex. TMSA). – Nigeria: “Kontagora 3.IV. 1963 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Stream, road Kaduna-Kontagora 3.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “River, Enugo rd about 47 mi. from Makurdi 24.4. 1963 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Stream Enugo-Makurdi 24.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream 86 mi. from Makurdi on Jos road 25.IV. 1963” (5 exs. MNHN). – Congo: “Ewo 5. 1979 Onore / L. mediocris Guignot det. Pederzani” (1 ex. CSR).
Male holotypes of L. mediocris and L. meii have been studied and compared. Both external and male genital features seem to be identical. Accordingly the two species are regarded conspecific, and L. mediocris, which is the older name, is the valid name of the species. Laccophilus mediocris seems to have been overlooked when L. meii was introduced as a new species because no reference to it is given to it in the original description (
Laccophilus mediocris is especially characterized by its peculiar, twisted penis, which is different from all other African Laccophilus species. Additionally, apical portion of penis comparatively delicate, narrow and moderately twisted; extreme apex finely hooked.
Body length 3.6–4.1 mm, width 2.0–2.2 mm. Elytra with vague colour pattern; irrorations of elytra somewhat weakly developed and in part vague. In frontal half some vague, pale areas may be discerned (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation in part indistinctly double. Large meshes indistinct; when discernible they are only slightly coarser than fine meshes; may include 3–6 fine meshes. At eyes with very fine, scattered punctures. Area of punctures extends a short distance towards centre of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; distinct colour pattern lacking. Finely microsculptured and reticulation indistinctly double. Anteriorly and laterally with very fine punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with extensive but rather indistinct, ferrugineous irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern discernible. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny, although very finely, in part indistinctly microsculptured. Semitransverse furrows of metacoxal plates shallow and quite indistinct. Abdomen basally with curved striae. Prosternal process slender and pointed. Apical ventrite with asymmetric (located on one side) knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with protruding suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis twisted, in lateral aspect with apical portion of penis comparatively delicate, narrow and moderately undulate; extreme apex finely hooked (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite almost symmetric lacking lateral knob (Fig.
Mali, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Congo (Fig.
Rather insufficiently documented. When describing L. meii,
Laccophilus epinephes
Laccophilus castaneus
Laccophilus epinephes: Zaire: Parc National de la Garamba.
Laccophilus castaneus: Senegal: Niokolo Koba, Badi.
(15 exs.). Laccophilus epinephes: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo belge P.N.G. Miss. H. De Saeger I/a/2, 21-IV-1950 Réc. G. Demoulin / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I.P.N.C.B.) / F. Guignot det., 1955 Laccophilus epinephes sp. n. Type male symbol” (MRAC). – Paratypes: Same as holotype but “I/b/2, 27.9. 1950, 847 / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Congo Belge P.N.G. Miss. H. De Saeger II/gd/14s, 25-VIII-52 H. De Saeger. 3984 / Paratype / F. Guignot det., 1958 Laccophilus epinephes sp. n.” (5 exs. IRSNB, 1 ex. MNHN); same data but “I/c/2, 17.3. 1950/Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); same data but “I/a/2-3, 10.7. 1950 Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); same data but “II/hd/14s, 17-X-1951, 2644” (1 ex. NHMB); same data, but “Utukuru/14, 22-VII-52, 3812” (1 ex. IRSNB, 1 ex. NHMB).
Laccophilus castaneus: Holotype: male: “Mission IFAN au Parc National du Niokolo Koba Badi (Sénégal) 15.VIII-25.IX -1955 / Type / F. Guignot det. 1956 Laccophilus castaneus sp. n. Type” (MNHN). – Paratypes: females: “Mission IFAN au Parc National du Niokolo Koba/Badi (Sénégal) 15.VIII-25.IX -1955 / female symbol / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Ouassadou 12.VIII. 55 / Mission IFAN au Parc National du Niokolo Koba / female symbol / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN).
(47 exs.). Ivory Coast: “Nord C. d’I. Ferkessédougou 10-20.5. 1964 Decelle” (1 ex. MRAC; habitus in Fig.
The male holotypes of L. epinephes and L. castaneus have been studied and compared. No diagnostically decisive features in external appearance of the body or in the male genitalia were detected. Accordingly the two species are considered conspecific. Laccophilus epinephes, being the older available name is the valid name of the species.
Laccophilus epinephes is characterized by big sized body and peculiar shape of penis. Penis in lateral aspect quite broad, robust, medially distinctly curved and extreme apex protruding forwards, not distinctly hooked.
Body length 4.2–4.8 mm, width 2.3–2.5 mm. Elytral colour pattern somewhat vague; ferrugineous with dense but somewhat diffuse, dark ferrugineous irrorations, which sometimes can be rather indistinct. Habitus and dorsal colour pattern as in Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny to slightly mat, although finely reticulated. Reticulation double; large meshes contain 2–5 small meshes. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed that fine meshes. At eyes and on disc, with fine, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny to slightly mat although finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes contain 2–6 small meshes (sometimes meshes rather indistinct and weakly developed). At margins, very fine, irregular punctures may be discerned.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense and somewhat vague, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, abdomen generally slightly darker. Rather shiny to submat, finely microsculptured. Almost impunctate. Basal ventrites with fine, in part reduced, curved striae. Apical ventrite lacks distinct knob but surface on one side uneven (knob-rudiment?) (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged; provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite broad, robust, medially distinctly curved and tip of penis protruding forwards, not distinctly hooked (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Senegal, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, Zaire (Fig.
According to label-data the species has been collected from pools in dry stream bed, in a pond, with much detritus and reeds. Some additional information is available in
Laccophilus saegeri
Laccophilus comoensis
L. saegeri: Zaire: Garamba National Park.
Laccophilus comoensis: The Ivory Coast: Comoé Nat. Park.
(16 exs.). Laccophilus saegeri: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo Belge, P.N.G. Miss. H. De Saeger II/hd/14s, 17-X-1951 Réc. De Saeger, 2644 / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I.P.N.C.B.) / Guignot det., 1957 Laccophilus saegeri sp. n. Holotype” (MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus comoensis: Holotype, male: “Cote d’Ivoire Comoé N.P. N8,5, W3,5, leg et det. N. Reintjes / 4.2. 1999 CB6A Comoé River / Holotypus in Quad. Studi Nat. Romagna 16 suppl.: 35-41 / Laccophilus comoensis Pederzani & Reintjes, 2002 /Laccophilus comoensis Pederzani & Reintjes Holotype” (NMW; habitus in Fig.
(2 exs.): Zaire: “Katanga, Kansenia -6. 1925 de Witte” (1 ex. CGW); “Jadotville 9. 52” (1 ex. NHMB).
(1 ex.). Tanzania: “16 km W Iringa, Isimilia-Schlucht 14.8. 1998 M. Wewalka leg.” (1 female ex. CGW).
(specimens now, not available) (4 exs.). Nigeria: “Kontagora 3.IV. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS). – Zambia: “N. Rhodesia Lusaka” (2 exs. AMGS).
Holotypes, males, of L. saegeri and L. comoensis have been studied and compared. The shape of penis is almost identical. Some minor variation in appearance of elytral colour pattern exists. The difference is, however, superficial and equally great differences are found between the specimens constituting the type series of L. saegeri. Accordingly, it seems clear that the two species are conspecific. Valid name of the species is L. saegeri, being the older available name.
Laccophilus saegeri is characterized by quite large body; quite uniform elytral colour pattern in combination with shape of penis, which exhibits only minor variation. Penis in lateral aspect distinctly curved, extreme apex pointing forwards and not distinctly hooked. Resembles much L. epinephes but penis is less broad and quite slender. L. saegeri resembles in part also of L. pulcher, here located in specgies group 11 (deceptor). Similarity between L. saegeri and L. pulcher is especially confined to shape of penis. Colour pattern of elytra is however completely different (L. pulcher has extensive, dark colour on elytra). Similarity in penis shape indicates possibility of closer relationship between these two species – this question needs further study.
Body: Length 4.1–4.7 mm, width 2.2–2.6 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body exhibits some variation (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Post-medially, sometimes with two minor, ferrugineous spots. Slightly mat. Finely microsculptured. Double reticulation discernible but rather indistinct; only in part visible. Large meshes, when discernible may contain 3–7 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, irregular punctures. Areas of fine punctures extend towards middle of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Anteriorly between eyes often narrowly darkened; with a ferrugineous to dark ferrugneous marking. Mediobasally sometimes with two minute, narrow darkened markings. Pronotum sometimes almost unicoloured pale. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation fine, double and extensively discernible. Large meshes contain 3–7 small meshes. Impunctate, except anteriorly and laterally; with very fine to fine, irregular punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous. Colour pattern variable but specimens exhibit same ground-plan; consists of irregular, dark ferrugineous irrorations, which are sparser subbasally and slightly posterior to mid of elytra where two transverse, pale, areas are discernible (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, apically on abdomen and metacoxal processes ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Submat to rather shiny, finely reticulated; in part reticulation obliterated. Basal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process slender, apex slightly extended, pointed. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Legs: Protarsus slender; claws slightly curved, equally long. Pro- and mesotarsus with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite long, distinctly bended and extreme apex expanding forwards, not distinctly hooked (Figs
Female: Not studied. No females have been available for study.
Ivory Coast, Zaire (Fig.
Collected from temporary ponds. See also Reintjes (2002).
Nigeria: Zaria province, Zaria.
(9 exs.): Holotype, male: “Nigeria Zaria Prov., Zaria 5–6.III. 1949 B. Malkin / B. Malkin Coll. BMNH(E) 1956-234” (BMNH). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype (3 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus enigmaticus is especially characterized by comparatively big sized body, peculiar, uniform elytral colour pattern in combination with the penis, which is different in comparison to all other recognized species in Africa; inner outline curvature medially somewhat enlarged, forming a distinct but smooth expansion of penis. Apex of penis broadly but rather indistinctly hooked.
Body length 4.3–4.6 mm, width 2.3–2.5 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body almost uniform, exhibits only minor variation (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes distinctly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes may contain 2–5 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, irregular punctures, the area of which extends a short distance towards middle of head-disc.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and basally in middle with narrow, often indistinct, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous marking. Slightly mat, microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes clearly, more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes may contain 2–5 small meshes. Almost impunctate, except frontally and discally; with fine, sparse and irregular punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense, almost uniform, dark brown to dark ferrugineous irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate; apical ventrite with some scattered, rather fine punctures. Apical ventrite asymmetric having a small, sharp knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect peculiar, being quite slender and curved, provided with a broad extension on inner outline of penis. Extreme apex broadly but moderately hooked (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
The species name enigmaticus is a Latin adjective meaning “enigmatic” and refers to the situation that, externally, L. enigmaticus resembles of some other African species but regarding male genitalia, it deviates strongly from the corresponding features in those species.
Nigeria, Sudan (Fig.
Unknown, no information available.
Laccophilus restrictus
Laccophilus evanescens
Laccophilus restrictus: Egypt.
Laccophilus evanescens: Zaire: Matadi.
(2 exs.). Laccophilus restrictus: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Type / Egypt / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / Type 588 Laccophilus restrictus sp. n. Egypt” (BMNH).
Laccophilus evanescens: Cotype: female: “Matadi Congo / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
(73 exs,). Ethiopia: “Eth. Merid., Delta de l’Omo Lac Rodolphe 570 m” (1 ex. MNHN). – Sudan: “R. Yei at Amadi 28.1. 1954 JJOC.” (9 exs. AMGS); “Nimule Ferry 4.XI. 1954 J. & J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Chartum coll. Baum” (1 ex. CGW); “Bahr el Abiad / L. evanescens Régb. det. Brancucci 1982” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Equatoria Nzara 22.4. 1986 Wewalka” (2 exs. CGW, 1 ex. MZH); “Wad Medani am Bl. Nil 20.10. 1979 lux Hieke” (1 ex. ZMHB); same but “26.10. 1979” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Mali: “Bamako” (1 ex. MNHN); “Kogoni X. 1966 Schmitz” (1 ex. MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Type material of the two involved species, L. restrictus and L. evanescens, have been compared together with study of some additional specimens. No male type material of L. evanescens have, however, been available but external similarity between type material of the two species together with additional studies strongly indicate that they are synonymous. Laccophilus restrictus, being the older name is the valid name of the species. Laccophilus restrictus was earlier considered synonymous with L. pictipennis Sharp. Examination of the type material of L. pictipennis, however, clearly shows that the two species are not synonyms and accordingly L. restrictus deserves rank as a good species.
Laccophilus restrictus is characterized by vague and weak dorsal colour pattern in combination with penis, which in lateral view has a somewhat angled outline close to base of penis; from angle forwards penis evenly curved to extreme apex. Penis apex is extended to a small tip.
Body length 3.3–3.8 mm, width 1.8–2.0 mm. Oval to oblong; dorsal aspect pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. With somewhat irregular and weakly developed, dense irroration on elytra. Irroration rarely quite distinct (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous; posteriorly slightly darker but dark area lacks clear delimitation. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, of two kinds; difference between fine and larger reticulation in part indistinct. Large meshes include 2–5 small meshes. At eyes, with fine, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; without distinct darker markings. Submat, finely microsculptured; microsculpture in part indistinct. Reticulation double but in part distinction of different kinds of reticulation difficult. Larger meshes (when distinguishable) include 2–5 small meshes. Laterally and anteriorly, with sparse, irregular, fine punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dense, vague, ferrugineous irrorations; rarely elytral colour pattern comparatively distinct (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous, metacoxal process-area slightly darker; ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Striae and furrows on metacoxal plates and abdomen fine and vague. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process apex slender, extended and pointed. Apical ventrite, with fine knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Protarsal claws slightly extended; and moderately curved. Protarsus and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, somewhat extended and provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect anterior to base distinctly angled and from there forwards, curved to apex, which is extended to a small tip (Figs
Female: Externally almost as male. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan, Mali, Guinea, Chad, Burkina Faso, the Ivory Coast, Benin, Nigeria, Gabon, Zaire, Kenya, Zambia, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa (Fig.
In Mozambique L. restrictus has been collected in a small, grassy stream and in a marsh with lily pools and weeds (
Laccophilus amicus
Guinea: Kindia.
(1 ex.). Holotype, female: “IFAN 1964 Kindia Guinee Fse A. Villiers / Type / F. Guignot det. 1955 Laccophilus amicus sp. n. Type female” (MNHN).
(1 ex.). Liberia: “Suakoko 19.12. 1951 / 6-9 pm light trap Blickenstaff” (1 ex. USNM; habitus in Fig.
Only female known, which makes diagnosing difficult. According to
(only female). Body length 3.3–3.4 mm, width 1.8 mm. Habitus dorsal aspect as in Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Finely microsculptured, reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly stronger developed than small meshes. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 2–5 small meshes. Mesh-size-classes cannot always be distinguished. Almost impunctate; a few very fine, scattered punctures may be discerned at eyes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, anteriorly and basally in middle with vague dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous areas. Basal dark area bilobed. Finely microsculptured, reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly stronger developed than small meshes. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 2–5 small meshes. Mesh-size-classes cannot always be distinguished. Almost impunctate, frontally and laterally with very fine, sparse punctures.
Elytra: Ferrugineous to brownish, with, pale ferrugineous markings. At base, posterior to middle and apically with pale area expanded; dark ferrugineous to brown irrorations are there sparser (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous; no colour pattern. Rather shiny, very finely microsculptured. Reticulation in part hardly discernible, almost absent. Almost impunctate. Curved striae on abdomen very fine, in part reduced and indistinct. Prosternal process slender, pointed. Metacoxal furrows very indistinct and reduced; some weak fragments only discernible. Apical ventrite symmetric (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slender.
Male: Thus far unknown.
Guinea, Liberia (Fig.
Almost unknown. In Liberia collected with light trap.
Benin: Dep. Zou, Hlanzoun Riv, Zogbodomè Lokoli (forest) (07°03'N 02°15'E).
(20 exs.). Holotype, male: “Bénin: Dep. Zou, Zogbodomè Lokoli (forest), Hlanzoun Riv. 6.II. 2006 leg. Goergen, Komarek & Hounguè (18)/07°03'N 02°15'E muddy stream” (NMW). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype: (11 exs. NMW, 3 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus bellus is characterized by peculiar elytral, colour pattern, by comparatively small body and by the shape of the penis, differing it from all other recognized Laccophilus species in Africa. Penis in lateral aspect, delicate, close to base at external outline distinctly angled and forwards from there almost straight to slightly extended tip. Extreme apex only weakly hooked. Possibly, close to L. amicus on the basis of external resemblance. Male genitalia of L. amicus are thus far unknown since only female is known of it.
Body length: Length 3.1–3.3 mm, width 1.6–1.7. Elytral colour pattern quite uniform; rarely reduced or extended (Fig.
Head: Uniformly pale ferrugineous. At eyes with fine, irregular punctures, which extend towards middle of head. Finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Size classes of microsculpture in part difficult to distinguish because almost equally, strongly developed. Large meshes, when discernible may contain 2–5 fine meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Basally in middle with a rather narrow, dark brownish area. Frontally in middle with a narrow, weakly delimited darker area. Discally, broadly impunctate. At margins with fine, irregular punctures except medially at base where pronotum is also impunctate. Rather shiny although finely microsculptured. Reticulation indistinctly double. Size-classes of reticulation in part, difficult to distinguish. Large meshes extensively hardly discernible.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous to dark brown, generally with well delimited, pale ferrugineous markings. On dark areas broad, dark undulations may be discerned (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny although finely microsculptured. Sternites with sparse, slightly curved striae. Metacoxal plates with about 10 fine, partly reduced, almost transverse furrows. Apical sternite asymmetric, with small knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect, delicate, close to base at external outline distinctly angled and forwards from there almost straight/slightly sinuate to slightly extended tip. Extreme apex only weakly hooked (Fig.
Female: Apical sternite lacks knob (Fig.
The name bellus is a Latin adjective meaning “beautiful”. The name refers to the external appearance of the new species, being especially handsome.
Benin, Nigeria (Fig.
Almost unknown. From label data it appears that the species has been collected in a muddy stream and in vegetation of a river.
Laccophilus septicola
Laccophilus alberticus
Laccophilus septicola: Senegal: Niokolo-Koba, Badi.
Laccophilus alberticus: Zaire: Lake Albert, Mwita.
(8 exs.). Laccophilus septicola: Holotype: male; “Mission IFAN au Parc National du Niokolo Koba Badi (Sénégal) 15.VIII.-25.IX-1955 / Type / F. Guignot det. 1954 / F. Guignot det.1954 Laccophilus septicola sp. n. Type (MNHN). – Paratypes: “Mission IFAN au Parc National du Niokolo Koba Badi (Sénégal) 15.VIII.-25.IX-1955 / Paratype / Dr. F. Guignot det. Laccophilus septicola Guign.” (4 exs. IRSNB); same but “Ouassadou 12.VIII. 55” (1 ex. IRSNB).
Laccophilus alberticus: Holotype: male: “Congo Belge. Lac Albert: Mwita (prét foret galerie) U.V. 22.XII. 1953 J. Verbeke – KEA 4083 / Type / F. Guignot det., 1956 Laccophilus alberticus sp. n. Type male” (IRSNB). – Paratype: “Congo Belge Lac Albert: Bezaha U.V. 19.12. 1953, 4070 / female symbol / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN).
(29 exs.): Sudan: “Upper Nile Malakal 5-20.1. 1963 Linnavuori” (22 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Earlier synonymy of L. septicola and L. alberticus is verified by examination of their holotypes. Laccophilus septicola, being the older name is the valid name of the species. Furthermore, examination revealed that L. septicola is not synonymous with L. luteosignatus and L. pullatus.
Laccophilus septicola is characterized by pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous elytra in combination with peculiarly shaped penis (extreme apex slightly extended). Morphologically, in case of penis and body shape, L. septicola resembles much of L. pullatus and L. luteosignatus. These two species have, however, blackish to dark ferrugineous elytra, which separate them clearly from L. septicola, with its much paler main colour of elytra.
Body length 2.9–3.3 mm, width 1.6–1.8 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body almost without colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely reticulated. Reticulation indistinctly double. Large meshes indistinct; only in part discernible and slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Almost impunctate; fine punctures discernible at eyes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, mediobasally sometimes slightly darker, but lacks well delimited darkened area. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes contain two to five small meshes. Small meshes sometimes weakly developed and hardly discernible. Punctation sparse, very fine, in part absent; discernible at frontal margin and laterally.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. In comparsion with head and pronotum, elytra extensively slightly darker (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, very finely and partly indistinctly microsculptured. Basal ventrirtes with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Metacoxal lines-process-area not distinctly modified. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with fine, in part rather indistinct, transversely located furrows. In posterior half furrows almost absent. Prosternal process slightly extended, rather slender, pointed. Apical ventrirte asymmetric; with a sublateral, sharp knob (Fig.
Legs: Protarsus slender, claws moderately extensive and slightly curved. Pro- and mesotarsus with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect medially bent and from there penis narrows towards extreme apex, which is extended to a small tip (Figs
Female: Apical ventrirte simple (Fig.
Senegal, Sudan, Nigeria, Zaire (Fig.
Not documented. In Sudan sampled at light collection.
Laccophilus pullatus
Malawi: Florence Bay below Livingstonia.
(2 exs.). Holotype: male: “Holotype / Laccophilus pullatus mihi Det. J. Omer-Cooper / Nyasaland, lake shore below Livingstonia 21.10. 1948 / Brit. Mus. 1978-308 / Laccophilus pullatus J. O.C. M. E. Bacchus det 1978 HOLOTYPE” (BMNH). – Paratype: female: “Allotype / Laccophilus pullatus sp. n. J. Omer-Cooper / Nyasaland, Dambo below Livingstonia 21.10. 1948 / Brit. Mus. 1978-308” (1 ex. BMNH).
(3 exs.). Malawi: “Nkhotakota env. 2-3.1. 2002 J. Bezdek leg.” (1 ex. NMPC); “Selima env. 4.1. 2002 Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB, 1 ex. MZH; habitus in Fig.
South Africa: “Natal Zululand Mtuba-Tuba 23.9. 1947 J. O-C” (1 ex. female AMGS).
Earlier synonymy rejected – study of type material shows that L. pullatus is a valid species.
Laccophilus pullatus externally resembles most of L. luteosignatus but can be distinguished by absence of pale spots on elytra. Laccophilus pullatus is also close to L. septicola; elytra of L. septicola is, however, much paler than in L. pullatus. Penis of L. pullatus in lateral aspect is evenly curved from base to apex while in L. septicola penis curvature is somewhat angled.
Body length 3.0–3.3 mm, width 1.6–1.8 mm. Head and pronotum predominantly pale, elytra dark, lack pale spots (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation almost simple; vague indications of double reticulation discernible. Almost impunctate; at eyes with some, irregular and very fine punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Frontally, a little posterior to foremargin with a vague, transverse, ferrugineous marking. Posteriorly, in the middle with a rather vague, transverse, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous marking. Finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes vary in size. Finer meshes sometimes obliterated and not distinguishable within large meshes. At margins with very fine, irregular punctation, which in part is indistinct.
Elytra: Blackish to blackish ferrugineous. Laterally, narrowly paler, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Black to blackish ferrugineous, except for head and prothorax, which are pale ferrugineious. Slightly mat, very finely and in part, indistinctly microsculptured. Metacoxal plates with variable, transverse, shallow (vague) furrows. Basal ventrites with longitudinal, fine striae. Impunctate. Prosternal process rather slender, apex pointed. Apical ventrite has a sharp knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsi somewhat enlarged; provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect evenly curved from base to apex; extreme apex extended to a small tip (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite lacks knob (Fig.
Malawi (Fig.
Collected in a “dambo” swamp on a lake shore (
Laccophilus luteosignatus
Zaire: Bukama.
Holotype: male: “Type Gschw. / Coll. Mus. Congo Bukama –VII-1937 Lt Mardée / coll. Gschwentner / Laccophilus luteosignatus Gschw. det. Gschwendt. / Type”. (1 ex. OLML; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus luteosignatus was earlier considered synonymous with three other Laccophilus species (see above). After examination of types of all involved species we consider L. luteosignatus not synonymous with L. pullatus, L. septicola or L. alberticus, but being a separate species.
Laccophilus luteosignatus resembles most of L. septicola and L. pullatus. From the former species L. luteosignatus is separated by mostly blackish to blackish ferrugineous elytra while from L. pullatus by exhibiting minor but well delimited pale markings on elytra; elytra of L. pullatus lack pale markings. Male genitalia seem to be quite similar shaped in all three species, however, penis of L. pullatus and L. luteosignatus is evenly curved while distinctly bent in L. septicola.
Body length 2.9 mm, width 1.6 mm. Body distinctly bicoloured; head and pronotum predominantly pale ferrugineous, and elytra blackish to dark ferrugineous with minute pale humeral markings (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, very finely microsculptured; reticulation indistinctly double. Coarse reticulation with meshes almost absent and very indistinct; fine reticulation with distinct meshes. At eyes with fine, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, medially at base with a transversely located dark ferrugineous marking. Finely microsculptured, reticulation double; coarser meshes only a little stronger developed in comparison with fine meshes. Coarse meshes contain 2–5 fine meshes. Almost impunctate; very fine, somewhat irregular punctures discernible.
Elytra: Blackish to dark ferrugineous, with minute, pale ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish to dark ferrugineous, thorax pale ferrugineous. Apex of prosternal process long, slender and pointed. Submat, very finely and in part indistinctly microsculptured. Metacoxal plates with some, shallow, transversely located furrows. Ventrites with distinct, somewhat curved striae. Almost impunctate. Male apical ventrite as in Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus quite extensive, slender and tarsal segments moderately enlarged with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect almost evenly curved from base to apex; extreme apex extended to a small but distinct tip (Figs
Female: Unknown.
Zaire (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus benoiti
Zaire: Elisabethville.
(1 ex.). Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Coll. Mus. Congo Elisabethville, A la lumière XI-50/VI-51 Ch. Seydel / Type / R. DET H. 6182 / Guignot det., 1953 Laccophilus benoiti Guign. Type male” (MRAC; habitus in Fig.
(1 ex.). Zaire: “Allotypus female / Coll. Mus. Congo Elisabethville (à la lumière) 1-III-52/30-IX-1953 Ch. Seydel / Allotype / R. DET H 6649 ee. / Guignot det., 1954 Laccophilus benoiti Guign. Allotype female” (1 ex. MRAC; not type material). [Comment: attribution of the female specimen to L. benoiti is based on Guignot’s determination.]
Laccophilus benoiti is characterized by exhibiting inconspicuous external characters but with very peculiar, strongly angled penis, which separates it from all other African Laccophilus species. Thus far only one male, however, is known and available for study. Comparison with males of L. epinephes shows that their bodies are externally identical. The unique appearance of penis, being strongly bent, raises suspicion that it is a case of deformation and that L. benoiti in fact is conspecific with L. epinephes. Further study is needed to settle this problem.
Body length 4.3–4.4 mm, width 2.1–2.2 mm. Habitus (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation in part indistinctly double. Large meshes hardly discernible; when discernible large meshes only slightly coarser than fine meshes. At eyes, areas with fine, irregular punctures, the areas which are extended a short distance towards middle of head-disc.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern. Very finely microsculptured; reticulation indistinctly double. Anteriorly and laterally with very fine, sparse and irregular punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with extensive and dense but somewhat indistinct, ferrugineous irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern discernible. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny, although very finely, in part indistinctly microsculptured. Semitransverse furrows on metacoxal plates shallow, in part indistinct. Abdomen basally with fine, curved striae. Prosternal process slender, apically pointed. Apical ventrite with a small, asymmetric knob (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous, pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis strongly modified and different from all other African Laccophilus species; in lateral aspect penis forms an angle of almost 90° (Figs
Female: Externally as male, but elytra basally among irrorations with a semitransverse, irregular row of small pale spots. Apical ventrites simple, without knob (Fig.
Zaire (Fig.
Almost unknown, sampled at light.
Laccophilus addendus
Laccophilus addendus v. geminatus
Laccophilus addendus ab. geminatus Régimbart,
Laccophilus addendus geminatus Régimbart,
Laccophilus addendus: Madagascar.
Laccophilus addendus var. geminatus: Madagascar.
(1 ex.). Laccophilus addendus: Holotype: female: “Madagascar 591 / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / Type 591 Laccophilus addendus Madagascar” (BMNH; from original description it appears that type material contains only this specimen).
Laccophilus addendus v. geminatus (5 exs. with type status unclear): “Annanarivo Sikora Res(?) Régimb. -91 / Laccophilus geminatus Rég. sp. n. type” (3 exs. IRSNB); “Tananarive / Museum Paris Coll. Maurice
(54 exs.). Madagascar: “Suberbieville Breuning coll.” (2 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); “Tsarafidy Breuning coll.” (1 ex. MRAC); “Maroansetra E. le Moult” (1 ex. RMNH); “E Mad., Ampamoho nr Andilamena 1200-1300 m asl, 18-20.1. 1995 Dunay & Janak leg” (1 ex. NMW); “Fenerive, foret Tampolo 28.12. 1998 Moravec leg.” (1 ex. NMW, 1 ex. MZH); “Ft Dauphin (Tulear) Mandena (QMM area) / Pond at right border of Riv. Maendano, 13.9.2001, 10 m asl., 21.6˚C, 0.211 mS/cm / Gerecke & Goldsmith leg.” (3 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH; habitus in Fig.
No justification to distinguish a varation (var. geminatus) to L. addendus has been detected. Accordingly earlier synonymization by Zimmermann (1920) is considered valid.
Laccophilus addendus is characterized by peculiar elytral colour pattern and shape of penis. Elytra with evenly distributed irrorations but at base with irregular longitudinally shaped pale areas. Penis strongly curved and apex evenly broad to abrupt end. Shape of penis is different from all African Laccophilus species.
Body length 3.8–4.1 mm, width 2.2–2.3 mm. Habitus and dorsal colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to pale brown. Finely reticulated, slightly mat. Reticulation double; large meshes contain two to six smaller meshes. Sometimes double reticulation in part somewhat indistinct; large meshes strongly reduced, rather indistinct. Punctation extensively absent or indistinct; at eyes fine punctures may be discerned.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. At foremargin (between eyes) dark ferrugineous. Basally at midline with two small dark ferrugineous spots. Submat, finely reticulated and reticulation double. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 2–6 small meshes. Extensively impunctate; frontally fine, rather sparse punctures may be discerned.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous. Colour pattern consists of extensive dark, irrorations; subbasally dark irrorations sparse forming a pale, transverse, irregular area (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Metacoxal plates somewhat darker; sometimes plates vaguely darker only close to margins. Shiny, submat, very finely reticulated. Basal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process slender, apex only slightly extended, pointed. Metacoxal plates with shallow, transversely located furrows, which are anteriorly quite distinct, posteriorly indistinct (fade away). Apical ventrite medially keeled; with a small knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged; with suckers. Claws slender, slightly curved and almost equally long.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite slender, medially distinctly bent; extreme apex straight and simple, unmodified. In dorsal aspect penis apex ends abruptly (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite medio-apically keeled (Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
Insufficiently documented. Sampled at light in tropical dry forest. Also reported from a pond and a muddy waterhole.
Laccophilus vermiculosus
Laccophilus mocquerysi
Laccophilus vermiculosus ab. mocquerysi Régimbart,
Laccophilus vermiculosus var. mocquerysi Régimbart,
Laccophilus vermiculosus: Kenya: Mombasa.
Laccophilus mocquerysi: Senegal: Dakar.
(9 exs.). Laccophilus vermiculosus: Lectotype (by present designation): female: “43615 / Typus / Hist.-Coll. (Coleoptera) Nr. 43165 Laccophilus vermiculosus Gerst. Mombas v.d. Decken Zool. Mus. Berlin / vermiculosus Gerst. Mombas v.d. Decken” (ZMHB). – Paralectotype: female: “Mombasa v.d. Decken Nr. 43615 / Typus / Hist.-Coll. (Coleoptera) Nr. 43165 Laccophilus vermiculosus Gerst. Mombas v.d. Decken Zool. Mus. Berlin” (1 ex. ZMHB).
Laccophilus mocquerysi: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Sénégal Dakar A. Moquerys Février 1889 / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
(208 exs.). Senegal: “Dakar V. 1939 Bouvet” (4 exs. MNHN). – Sudan: “Agadi Dar el Fungi Alluaud 1906 / Mares temporaries d’eau de pluie” (3 exs. MNHN); “S. Sudan Alel rock pool 30,56E, 6,11N, 18.1. 1954 JJOC.” (5 exs. AMGS). – Ivory Coast: “Comoé Nat. Pk, N 8.5°, W3.5°/11.4. 1999 Temp. Creek leg. Reintjes” (1 ex. NHMW). – Benin: “Dep Littoral Cotonou City, pond 8.2.2006 leg. Goergen, Komarek & Houngué” (1 ex. NHMW, 1 ex. MZH). – Zaire: “PNA 23.8. 1957 Vanschuytbroeck VS 127a/b/Secteur Nord riv. de Semliki rte Muramba, 905 m” (4 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH). – Kenya: “Gulanze Dam, Kwale Distr., 19.9. 1976 Holmen leg.” (7 exs. ZMUC, 1 ex. MZH); “Mafisini Pond, Kwale Distr., 19.9. 1976 Holmen leg.” (4 exs. ZMUC, 1 ex. MZH); “Makalanga Dam, Kwale Distr., 19.9. 1976 Holmen leg.” (2 exs. ZMUC); “Makalanga Dam, Kwale Distr., 19.9. 1976 Holmen leg.” (2 exs. ZMUC); “Rice field, Mwande Dam, Kwale Distr., 19.9. 1976 Holmen leg.” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Maji ya Chumvi Riv., Kwale Distr., 16.9. 1976 Holmen leg.” (1 ex. ZMUC); “Dam at Kaloleni Mission, Kilifi Distr., 15.9.1976 Holmen leg.” (2 exs. ZMUC); “Mombasa / Ch. Alluaud / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
“Magude 16.8. 1915 C.J. Sw. / L. adspersus Boh. det. Gschwendtner” (1 ex. TMSA).
Synonymy of L. vermiculosus and L. mocquerysi was suggested the first time by
Laccophilus vermiculosus is especially characterized by comparatively large body size, peculiar, slightly variable, elytral colour pattern and shape of penis; curved and apex with a peculiar, bifid projection. Not to be confused with any recognized African Laccophilus species.
Body length 4.6–5.1 mm, width 2.4–2.8 mm. Dorsal colour pattern generally quite stable, exhibiting only minor variation Elytral irroration sometimes somewhat reduced but exhibits still original, ground-plan pattern (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly close to pronotum with blackish to dark ferrugineous, well-delimited area. Dark area rarely somewhat vague or in part hidden under foremargin of pronotum. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, but difference between size-categories slight; in part large meshes indistinct or non-discernible. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 2–5 small meshes. Impunctate, except close to eyes; with some, scattered, fine punctures. Punctate areas extend towards middle of head-discussion
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; at foremargin and basally in middle with narrow blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous marking. Discally, often with a more or less well-delimited, dark spot, which is often bilobed. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but size-categories often difficult to distinguish. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 3–7 small meshes. Frontally and laterally with fine, slightly indistinct, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct, slightly variable, blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous irrorations (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern formed. Rather shiny, with very fine, in part indistinct microsculpture. Abdomen with curved fine striae. Almost impunctate. Metacoxal plates with about ten transversely located shallow furrows. Prosternal process rather slender, apex somewhat extended, pointed. Metacoxal process area does not exhibit any modifications. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with distinct lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged and extended, with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Shape of penis characteristic; somewhat curved and apex with a peculiar, bifid projection (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite almost symmetric; lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Senegal, Sudan, Ivory Coast, Benin, Gabon, Zaire, Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, Malawi, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, South Africa (Fig.
Rather insufficiently documented. According to label data the species is collected in rice fields and various kinds of ponds, dams and pools. In Angola collected from a waterhole with clay and gravel bottom. Sometimes sampled at light collection (e.g. UV). Literature records are scarce;
Laccophilus guignoti
Guinea: Mont Tò, Nimba.
(3 exs.). Holotype: male: “Mont Tò 1600 m, Camp I / Muséum Paris Nimba (Guinée) M. Lamotte II. VI. 42 / Type / Laccophilus guignoti sp. n. C. Legros det.” (MNHN). – Paratypes: “Mt Tò (1600 m) Camp 1 / Muséum Paris Nimba (Guinée) M. Lamotte II. VI. 42 / Allotype / Laccophilus guignoti Legros” (1 ex. MNHN); same data as preceeding, but labelled as “cotype” (1 ex. MNHN).
(3 exs.). Guinea: “Exped. Mus. G. Frey Franz. Guinea 1951 W. Afr. leg. Bechyne / Région Kindia Mt. Gangan 600 m 18.5. 51 /male symbol” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus guignoti is particularly characterized by large sized body, peculiar elytral colour pattern and female, having expanded epipleura posterior to middle (expansions visible from above). Male genitalia is also characteristic and differs from other Laccophilus; penis strongly curved in lateral view and apex broad, of almost equal width except for basal part which is a little broader. Closest relative may be L. irroratus. Regarding external colour pattern (e.g. robust irroration) there is some resemblance with species, here placed in Species group 11 (deceptor). Final location of L. guignoti remains an open question, which need further study to be solved.
Body length 4.3–4.9 mm, width 2.5–2.9 mm. Dorsal colour pattern of body rather distinct; elytra with irrorations; at base and preapically with transverse, pale areas where irrorations in part absent or sparser (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. At eyes with a few, scattered, fine punctures. Submat, with distinct and dense microsculpture. Reticulation double. Coarse meshes distinct, contain 2–4 fine meshes. In part, fine meshes indistinct or obliterated.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Frontally in middle with a dark ferrugineous area; basally in middle, narrowly, dark ferrugineous (basal, dark area sometimes, somewhat enlarged). Anteriorly, very fine, scattered punctures may be discerned. Submat, distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double; coarse meshes distinct but rather small. Coarse meshes contain, in general, 2–4 fine meshes. Fine meshes in part not discernible at all. Large meshes become “crowded” laterally.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, with undulate, dark ferrugineous markings; colour pattern slightly variable (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, distinct colour pattern absent. Impunctate. Slightly mat, due to very fine microsculpture. Ventrites with curved striae. Prosternal process rather slender, apex extended and pointed. Metacoxa with approximately 10 very shallow, in most cases, transversely located furrows. Metacoxal process-area of usual appearance. Apical ventrite with a sharp keel on each side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender, somewhat extended, first to third segment provided with a few, protruding suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect strongly curved and extreme apex broad, truncate, and almost equally broad in comparison with basal part of penis (Figs
Female: Epipleuron posterior to middle for a short distance enlarged. Apical ventrite lacks lateral keels; as in Fig.
Guinea (Fig.
Unknown.
Diagnosis. Medium to large-sized species; length of body 3.5–4.5 mm, width 1.9–2.5 mm.
Body shape oblong to oval, dorsoventrally flattened. All species with distinct colour pattern. Elytra with dark ferrugineous to blackish irroration, which is quite robust and often vague. In some species irroration almost entirely merged to extensive areas of dark colour. All species also exhibit pale patches, which in many species are arranged in more or less distinct transverse series (Figs
Prosternal process slender, apically extended and pointed. Apical ventrites modified; posterior part on both side excavated and medial part forms a backwards extending process. Apical ventrite provided with asymmetrical knob on one side of ventrite (Figs
Paramere rather simple, apically enlarged but not strongly modified (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. 12 species are recognized in this species group. All of them are distributed in mainland Africa, south of Sahara.
1 | Small species, body length 3.5 mm (male unknown) | L. caiaricus (p. 175) |
- | Larger species, body length 3.6–4.5 mm | 2 |
2. | Penis, lateral aspect, external outline evenly to slightly unevenly curved (Figs |
3 |
- | Penis, lateral aspect, external outline strongly undulate or otherwise modified (Figs |
6 |
3 | Base of elytra pale (at base with transverse area lacking dark spots or dark, transverse area) (Fig. |
4 |
– | Base of elytra with distinct, dark, transverse area (Fig. |
5 |
4 | Apex of penis narrow; extreme apex with a minor hook (Fig. |
L. guentheri (p. 160) |
– | Apex of penis broad; extreme apex not hooked (Fig. |
L. guineensis (p. 161) |
5 | Pronotum blackish to dark ferrugineous; posterior to eyes with small, pale spots (Fig. |
L. pulcher (p. 164) |
– | Pronotum almost entirely pale ferrugineous; mediobasally with broad but narrow, vague, dark ferrugineous marking (Fig. |
L. bizonatus (p. 163) |
6 | Penis, lateral aspect, apically strongly enlarged, forming a triangular part (Fig. |
L. persimilis (p. 174) |
– | Penis, lateral aspect, shape different, never with triangular part (Figs |
7 |
7 | Large species, length 4.2–4.5 mm | 8 |
– | Smaller species, length 3.6–4.0 mm | 10 |
8 | Pronotum blackish to dark ferrugineous, posterior to eyes with yellow, somewhat vague spot (Fig. |
L. decorosus sp. n. (p. 171) |
- | Pronotum pale, medio-basally often with a slightly vague, dark marking (Fig. |
9 |
9 | Penis, lateral aspect, robust and strongly modified (Fig. |
L. tschoffeni (p. 172) |
– | Penis, lateral aspect, delicate and modified (Figs |
L. deceptor (p. 168) |
10 | Pronotum blackish to blackish ferrugineous, posterior to eyes with yellow, somewhat vague spot (Fig. |
L. bilardoi (p. 170) |
– | Pronotum pale ferrugineous, medio-basally sometimes with a somewhat vague marking (Fig. |
11 |
11 | Penis apex truncate (Fig. |
L. biai (p. 167) |
– | Penis apex pointed, apex slightly curved (Fig. |
L. concettae (p. 165) |
Ghana: Ashanti Reg, Kumasi, Nhiasu (N6°43' – W1°36').
(2 exs.). Holotype: male: “Ghana: Ashanti Region, Kumasi, Nhiasu 330 m, N6°43' – W1°36' Dr. S. Endrödy-Younga / Nr. 225, at light 12.VI. 1967” (CGW; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus guentheri has a broad, pale ferrugineous, basal area on elytra lacking dark spots or areas, and resembles in this respect of L. guineensis. The shape of male genitalia deviates, however, very strongly. Apical half of L. guentheri penis is, very characteristic and separates it from the other species recognized in this species group; apex of penis narrow, extreme tip provided with a minute hook,
Body length 3.6–3.8 mm, width 2.0–2.1 mm. Dorsal colour pattern distinct; elytra basally with broad, pale area followed by a uniform, dark ferrugineous to brownish area, which towards apex dissolves into fairly robust, pale ferrugineous irrorations (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; larger meshes contain generally 3–6 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; there with fine, irregularly distributed punctures. Area of punctures continues a short distance towards middle of head-disc as a slightly irregular row of punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes moderately stronger developed than fine meshes, contain generally 3–6 fine meshes. Impunctate, except laterally and anteriorly; here with fine and somewhat irregularly distributed punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous with dark ferrugineous to brownish colour pattern (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, no distinctly delimited colour pattern. Prosternal process rather slender, apically extended, pointed. Ventral surface almost impunctate; apically on abdomen with some scattered punctures. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with some 5–6 shallow and in part reduced furrows. Posterior half of metacoxal plates smooth; furrows absent. Abdomen with fine, somewhat curved striae. Apical ventrite asymmetric; with one lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect somewhat curved, apical half narrow, peculiarly folded and extreme tip provided with a minute hook (Figs
Female: Unknown.
The name is a noun in its genitive form based on the name of Prof. Dr. Günther Wewalka, Vienna, who sent the holotype to us for examination.
Guinea, Ghana (Fig.
Almost unknown. Collected at light.
Guinea: Seredou.
(3 exs.). Holotype: male: “Guinea Seredou, lux, 5.4. 1975 leg. Zott” (ZMHB). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype but “4.4. 1975” (1 ex. MZH); “Rep. Guinea Sérédou, lux, 4. Apr. 1975 leg. A. Zott” (1 ex. ZMHB; habitus in Fig.
Closely related to L. guentheri and L. bizonatus; characterized by quite similar, elytral colour pattern. Laccophilus guineensis is separated from them by having a robust penis, the apical half of which is broad, simple and moderately modified; extreme apex formed as a broad, rounded enlargement; not hooked.
Body length 3.9 mm, width 2.1 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body with stable colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes in part reduced and only slightly more strongly developed in comparison with fine meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes with a group of irregularly distributed, fine punctures. Area of punctures extended a short distance towards middle of head-disc.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, almost unicoloured. Narrowly darker at foremargin. Basally at moderate distance from midline with two small and vague, dark ferrugineous spots. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes contain, when discernible, 2-6 small meshes (sometimes number difficult to estimate). Impunctate, except laterally and at foremargin; here fine, irregular punctures discernible.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with irregularly distributed, dark ferrugineous irrorations. Frontally at pronotum dark irrorations absent, forming an irregular, pale, transverse area. Posterior to pale area dark irrorations thickened, forming a dark transverse area. Posterior to dark area, irrorations somewhat loosened and appear somewhat irregular (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, no distinct colour pattern. Prothorax somewhat paler, ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate; apical ventrite with some punctures. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Prosternal process rather slender; posteriorly somewhat elongated, apically pointed. Metacoxal plates in posterior half smooth; anteriorly with fine, shallow, in part reduced, transversely located furrows. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Apical ventrite as in (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect curved; extreme apex formed as a broad, rounded enlargement; not hooked (Fig.
Female: Unknown.
The species name guineensis is an adjective meaning “from Guinea”, the country from where, the new species is described.
Guinea (Fig.
Almost unknown. Collected at light.
Laccophilus bizonatus
Gabon: Riv. N’Gounié, Chutes de Samba.
(3 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Chutes de Samba Riv. N’Gounié Mocuerys / Type / Régimbart det., 1895 Laccophilus bizonatus Rég.” (IRSNB; habitus in Fig.
(23 exs.). Cameroon: “Ekiliwindi 19.3. 1970” (17 exs. NHMB, 4 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus bizonatus is especially characterized by peculiar shaped penis; penis medially twisted and somewhat curved; forwards from middle almost straight and extreme apex distinctly hooked.
Body length 3.6–4.2 mm, width 2.0–2.3 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body fairly distinct; some variation often observed (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes contain generally 4–6 smaller meshes. Almost impunctate; at eyes with fine punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; mediobasally and frontally (area between eyes) with a vague ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous marking. Rather shiny to submat. Reticulation fine, double. In particular medially, smaller meshes rather indistinct. Almost impunctate.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous. Subbasal, transverse area provided with well-delimited pale ferrugineous, longitudinal spots; separate spots often in part confluent. Elytra posteriorly with rather sparse irrorations, which in part are rather indistinct (Figs
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, prothorax extensively pale ferrugineous. Apex of prosternal process narrow, pointed. Rather shiny, very finely and indistinctly microsculptured. Basal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with transversely located, shallow furrows; in posterior half furrows absent. Almost impunctate. Apical ventrite asymmetric; with a basal, right-hand, located process/knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect, medially twisted and somewhat curved; forwards from there almost straight and extreme apex distinctly hooked (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite simple (Fig.
Cameroon, Gabon (Fig.
Detailed information unknown. Some sampling localities in Gabon are described in
Laccophilus pulcher
Gabon: Riv. Louayé, Mékambo, Malouma (0.36N, 13.50E).
(2 exs.): Holotype: male: “Gabon Mékambo (Malouma) Riv. Louayé (Borne) 24/07/01 A. Bilardo / 4.12 x 2.24 / Holotypus / Laccophilus pulcher Bil. & Roc. Det. Bilardo 04” (MSNM). – Paratype: female: “Gabon, VIII. Bissok (Oyem) F. Lara 8/8/91 A. Bilardo / 4,00 x 2,24 / Paratypus / Lacc. pulcher Bil. & Roc. Det. Bilardo 04” (1 ex. MSNM; habitus in Fig.
Reflecting solely at the shape of penis L. pulcher resembles much of L. saegeri, in this revision placed in another species group (see Figs
Laccophilus pulcher is easy to distinguish by study of male genitalia. No other species in this species group has a penis of same type; penis in lateral aspect long, external outline curved, somewhat undulate. Extreme apex with a fine hook.
Body length 4.0–4.1 mm, width 2.2 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body exhibits only minor variation (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured; reticulation double but difference between size classes minimal. Large meshes extensively hardly discernible. At eyes with very fine, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, with pale ferrugineous anterior corners. Rather shiny, although distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double but difference between size classes small. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 2–4 small meshes. At margin, except basally in the middle, with fine, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Blackish ferrugineous to dark brown, with a subbasal, transversely located, pale ferrugineous markings. Furthermore, with a transverse, pale area discernible posterior to middle. Additionally, extreme apex of elytra pale (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern discernible. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Prosternal process slender, apex extended, pointed. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with 8–9, almost transversely located, shallow furrows; in posterior half furrows strongly reduced and only minor fragments discernible. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with lateral keel (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender, somewhat extended, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect long, external outline curved, somewhat undulate. Extreme apex finely hooked (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite symmetric, no lateral keel (Fig.
Gabon (Fig.
Almost unknown. Some information may be found in available literature (e.g.
Laccophilus concettae
Central African Republic: Zomea at de Mbaiki.
(8 exs.). Holotype: male: “R. Centraficaine Zomea près de Mbaiki 29-31.XII. 1980 leg. G. Onore / Laccophilus concettae sp. n. det. Pederzani /Holotypus” (MSNM ). – Paratypes: Same data as in holotype but labelled “Paratypus” (7 exs. CFP).
(14 exs.). Central African Republic: Same data as holotype (2 exs. NHMB; habitus in Fig.
The species L. biai, L. deceptor, L. bilardoi, L. decorosus and L. concettae have a similar groundplan on their male genitalia. Their penises, in lateral aspect have strongly curved, undulate external outline; penis being also quite slender posterior to middle. Laccophilus concettae is characterized by dark elytra with pale transverse area posterior to base and apical part of elytra provided with pale, irregular and sparse irrorations. Apex of penis is obtuse in L. concettae. See also diagnosis of L. biai (p. 167).
Body length 3.7–3.9 mm, width 2.0–2.2 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body distinct, rather uniform, exhibits only minor variation (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny although finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Difference between mesh-size categories rather indistinct; large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. In part meshes rather indistinct and reduced. When discernible, large meshes may contain 2–6 small meshes. Almost impunctate, except at eyes, with fine, irregular punctures. Area of punctures extends towards middle of head-discussion
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Anteriorly, with vague, slightly darker area. Basally, with a vague dark ferrugineous area. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes slightly more strongly developed in comparison with small meshes. Large meshes contain 2–6 small meshes. Discally meshes in part slightly reduced and indistinct. Almost impunctate; at margins except basally with fine, irregular punctures.
Elytra: Blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, with distinct, quite uniform, pale ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish ferrugineous to ferrugineous, except prothorax, pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny, finely microsculptured but reticulation extensively indistinct or totally absent. Abdomen with curved striae, which are reduced at midline. Prosternal process slender; apex extended, pointed. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with about ten, almost transverse and shallow furrows. Apical ventrite with laterobasal, flattened knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender, somewhat extended, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect undulate, posterior to middle quite slender and apex in dorsal aspect obtuse; in lateral aspect penis slightly extended to narrow tip. Furthermore, penis at base provided with a soft flap (Figs
Female: Not studied; all four examined specimens are males. According to original description (
Central African Republic, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon (Fig.
Some information is available in
Laccophilus biai
Gabon: Makokou.
(4 exs.). Holotype: male: “Gabon Makoukou 23.8.1987 A. Bilardo / 4.05. x 2.20 / Holotypus / Lacc. biai Bil. & Rocchi det. A. Bilardo” (MSMN; habitus in Fig.
(5 exs.). Gabon: “Bissok (Oyem) F. Lara 8.8. 1991 Bilardo leg” (5 exx. MZH).
Laccophilus biai resembles most of L. concettae, L. deceptor, L. bilardoi and L. decorosus. From L. deceptor, L. bilardoi and L. decorosus, L. biai is distinguished by the transverse pale area at base of elytra, which in L. biai is unbroken or almost unbroken, while in the three other the pale basal area is divided into separate, pale spots. Laccophilus biai and L. concettae is separated by differences in the shape of penis; L. biai has pointed penis apex (Fig.
Body length 3.9–4.0 mm, width 2.0–2.1 mm. Habitus as in Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; of two kinds but difference between coarse and fine meshes in part vague. Large meshes contain 2–5 fine meshes. At eyes with dense, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Frontally, often with indistinct, vague, darkened area. Basally, with medial, somewhat vague dark marking. Submat to rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, of two kinds; large meshes contain 2–5 fine meshes. At margins with fine, somewhat irregular punctures.
Elytra: Extensively with dark irrorations. Basally, with pale ferrugineous, transverse marking. Towards apex, elytra with dark irroration slightly sparser (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Prothorax pale ferrugineous. Metacoxal plates with a few, indistinct transverse (almost obliterated) furrows. Rather shiny, although finely reticulate. Abdomen basally with distinct but sparse, curved striae. Impunctate. Prosternal process slender, apically pointed. Apical ventrite with pointed apex and minor knob (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsi rather long, basally slightly enlarged, with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect strongly undulate; posterior to middle penis quite slender and at base provided with a soft flap. Apex of penis in lateral aspect extended to a small, obtuse extension; in dorsal aspect extreme apex bluntly pointed (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite apically rounded; minor knob absent (Fig.
Gabon (Fig.
Original description gives some information of the collecting localities in Gabon (
Laccophilus deceptor
Zaire: Parc National Upemba, Mubale.
(2 exs.). Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo belge P.N.U. Mubale (1.480 m.) 10-13-V-1947 Mis. G.F. de Witte. 352a / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I. P. N. C. B.) / Laccophilus deceptor Guignot Type male / Guignot det. 1952 Laccophilus deceptor Guign. Type male” (MRAC). – Paratype: female: Same data as in holotype, but labelled as “Paratypus” (1 ex. MRAC).
(2 exs.). Zaire: “Paratypus / Mbuye Bala (1750 m.) / F. Guignot det., 1953 Laccophilus deceptor sp. n. (1 ex. MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Among resembling species most similar and probably closest related to L. bilardoi but body of L. deceptor is distinctly larger. Male genitalia resemble also of genitalia in L. bilardoi. Laccophilus deceptor can be distinguished by specific differences in shape of penis (see also, diagnosis of L. bilardoi on p. 170).
Body length 4.5 mm, width 2.40–2.5 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body as in Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely and quite densely microsculptured. Reticulation double but difference between fine and coarser meshes rather small. Coarser meshes contain 2–6 finer meshes. At eyes with fine punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and at base medially with a dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous area. Submat, reticulation double. Coarser meshes fine but clearly discernible; contain 2-6 finer meshes. Frontally and laterally with irregular, fine punctures.
Elytra: In frontal part with an irregular, transverse row of distinct, pale ferrugineous spots. Posterior to pale spots elytra, with somewhat irregular irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; exhibits no distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny to slightly mat, finely and extensively microsculptured. Almost impunctate. Basal ventrites with fine but distinct, somewhat curved striae. Metacoxal plates with a few very shallow transverse furrows. Prosternal process slender, apex pointed. Apical ventrite asymmetric; with lateral, on one side located, small but distinct knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus quite long, basally slightly enlarged; with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect with external outline strongly undulate but from middle forwards straightened; apex extended forwards to a distinct tip. Penis at base with a soft flap (Figs
Female: Externally as male. Apical ventrite almost symmetric (striae with different location), lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Zaire (Fig.
Not documented, unknown.
Laccophilus bilardoi
Congo (Brazzaville): Impfondo.
(1 ex.). Holotype: male: “Congo Rep. Pop., Reg. Nord-Est, Impfondo, à la lumiére 7.6. 80 Onore / Laccophilus bilardoi sp. n. Holotype / Laccophilus bilardoi Pederzani & Rocchi, Rocchi S. det. 1982 / “La Specola” Firenze 6869” (MZUF).
(7 exs.). Gabon: “Plateaux Batéké Village Léwou, 30.8. 2008 Bilardo / L. bilardoi Ped. & Roc. det. Rocchi 2009” (3 exs. CSR; habitus in Fig.
Externally L. bilardoi resembles much of L. deceptor but body-size distinctly smaller in L. bilardoi (length of L. deceptor is about 4.5 mm). Pale colour patches and irrorations are also distinctly more extensive in L. deceptor. Both species with quite similarly shaped penis. Useful features for identification are differences in details of penis-apex-outline when penis viewed laterally. See also illustrations of L. decorosus (Fig.
Body length 3.6–3.8 mm, width 2.0–2.1 mm. Dorsal colour extensively dark with limited paler markings on pronotum and elytra (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly slightly darker; ferrugineous to pale brownish; change in colour is gradual. Submat, finely microsculptred; reticulation double, although size categories in part difficult to distinguish. Frontally double reticulation disappears. Almost impunctate, except at eyes with fine, scattered punctures.
Pronotum: Dark ferrugineous to dark brown. Frontally, posterior to eyes, pronotum with a small pale brown to yellowish marking (Fig.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous to dark brown, with distinctly delimited pale spots arranged transversely over the elytra at base (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, in part slightly darker. Rather shiny, with fine, partially somewhat indistinct microsculpture. Metacoxal plates in frontal half with some fine and indistinct, almost transversely located shallow furrows. Basal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process slender, apex pointed. Apical ventrite provided with an asymmetric small knob (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferruginous, metatarsus a little darker, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Pro-and mesotarsus with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect with external outline quite strongly undulate; distinctly curved but from middle of penis to apex, outline almost straight. Extreme apex formed as a broad hook; penis basally provided with a soft flap (Fig.
Female: Apex of apical ventrite rounded; ventrite lacks asymmetric knob (Fig.
Gabon, Congo (Brazzaville) (Fig.
Almost unknown. Regarding collecting localities, see
Uganda: Lake Nabugabo.
(3 exs.). Holotype, male: “Stn. No. B31(HR) / Uganda Lake Nabugabo vii-viii. 1962 / Cambridge Univ. Biol. Survey 1962. B.M. 1963-727” (BMNH; habitus in Fig.
Closest relatives to L. decorosus seem to include L. concettae, L. biai, L. bilardoi and L. deceptor. These species are characterized especially by their complicated aedeagus-structure, ground plan of which is still similar in all the species. Differences in shape of male genitalia and elytral colour pattern distinguish L. decorosus from the other species.
Body length 4.2 mm, width 2.2–2.3 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body distinct but on elytra it is quite variable; transverse row of pale spots may be reduced to simple, humeral spots (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly head becomes gradually darker; at pronotum dark ferrugineous to brownish. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured; reticulation distinctly double (size-categories clearly separated). Large meshes contain 2–6 small meshes. Almost impunctate. At eyes with fine, irregular punctures. Puncture-areas extend towards head-middle but leave still a wide, impunctate gap between them.
Pronotum: Dark ferruginous to dark brown, with small, pale ferrugineous spots on pronotal disc posterior to eyes. Rather shiny to slightly mat, finely microsculptured; reticulation clearly double. Large meshes contain 2–6 small meshes. Impunctate, except at margins, where fine, scattered punctures are discernible.
Elytra: Blackish to dark ferrugineous, with well delimited but variable pale ferrugineous spots. Basally with a transverse row of irregularly shaped, pale spots. Spots can be reduced and restricted to a humeral spot. Laterally, in middle and apically with a small, pale area. Extensively on elytra, dark, quite rude irrorations may be discerned (Figs
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, apically blackish ferrugineous. Colour change gradual, no distinct colour pattern formed. Rather shiny, although with very fine microsculpture, except on abdomen which is mainly shiny with microsculpture extensively absent. Ventrites, with sparse, fine and slightly curved striae. Almost impunctate; apical ventrite with a few, scattered, fine punctures. Apical ventrite asymmetric; provided with a comparatively low, but broad, sharp, process on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect with external outline undulate; posterior to middle penis slender. Extreme apex of penis with a quite broad extension and a pre-apical enlargement (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lacks lateral, process (Fig.
The species name decorosus is a Latin adjective meaning “very fair”. It relates to the nice and decorative appearance of the new species.
Uganda (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus tschoffeni Régimbart;
Zaire: Boma.
(7 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Banana Boma M. Tschoffen 91 Det. Régimb. 91 / 11176 / Régimbart det, 1891 Laccophilus tschoffeni Rég.” (IRSNB). – Paralectotypes: Same data as lectotype (3 exs. IRSNB; habitus in Fig.
(2 exs.). Zaire:“Congo Boma M. Tshoffen” (2 exs. SAMC; possibly type material).
Laccophilus tschoffeni is particularly distinguished by the volumnious male genitalia, and therefore it is not to be confused with any other African Laccophilus species; penis in lateral aspect curved, apically provided with membranous, rather narrow flaps.
Body length 4.3–4.5 mm, width 2.40 mm. Habitus and dorsal colour pattern of body as in Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, rather finely but distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than fine meshes. In part, large meshes indistinct. When discernible, large meshes contain 4-8 small meshes. Almost impunctate, except at eyes, with sparse, fine punctures. Punctate area extends towards middle of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, basally with vague darker marking. Submat, finely microsculptured. Extensively with double reticulation but difference between mesh-categories in part indistinct. At margins, pronotum with scattered fine punctures.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, with irrorations, except on pale ferrugineous, basal transverse area (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous. Prosternal process slender, apically pointed. Almost impunctate; irregularly distributed, hardly visible, punctures are discernible. Rather shiny, very finely microsculptured. Basal ventrites finely striated. Apical ventrite with a minute ridge, as in Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Protarsus rather slender, claws slightly curved and somewhat prolonged. Tarsi provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis large, voluminous; in lateral aspect medially bent, curved, apically provided with membranous, rather narrow flaps (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite symmetric, lacks ridge (Fig.
Zaire (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus persimilis
Gabon: Cap Lopez.
(4 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Cap Lopez / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
(42 exs.): Gambia: “Bathurst Jan. 1968 Palm / L. persimilis Régb. det. S. Persson det.” (1 ex. NHRS). – Guinea Bissau: “Oio, 2 km E Binar, temp. pool 21.7. 1992 Persson leg.” (3 exs. MZLU); “Oio 10 km W Binar, flooded area 29.8. 1992” (3 exs. MZLU) “Cacheu, Bula, temporary pools 25.7. 1992 Persson leg.” (10 exs. MZLU); same but “16.7.” (5 exs. MZLU); same but “5 km W Bula 18.7. 1992” (6 exs. MZLU); “Gabu, 10 km E Gabu, ponds 3.4. 1993 Persson leg.” (8 exs. MZLU). – Sierra Leone: “Makeni 12°03'W, 8°53'N, 27.11. 1993 light trap 18-21 / Cederholm, Danielsson & Hall leg.” (1 ex. MZLU; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus persimilis is particularly characterized by peculiar elytral colour pattern and uniquely shaped penis apex (broad and triangular). This character-combination distinguishes the species from all other African Laccophilus species.
Body length 3.8–4.3 mm, width 2.0–2.3 mm. Dorsal aspect with distinct colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly at eyes with vague, somewhat darker area. Reticulation double; in part weakly developed. Large meshes (when discernible) contain generally 3–6 small meshes. Almost impunctate; at eyes with a few, rather indistinct, slightly coarser punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally at head (between eyes) and mediobasally with dark ferrugineous, slightly vague marking. Slightly mat, rather distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes contain generally 2–6 small meshes. Small meshes sometimes, weakly developed and rather indistinct. Almost impunctate.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous, with distinct pale ferrugineous, subbasal and pre-apical markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Abdomen laterally and apically with vague darker (dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous) area. Rather shiny, very finely and indistinctly microsculptured. Basal ventrites with fine, in part indistinct, curved striae. Almost impunctate; scattered fine punctures may be discerned. Prosternal process slender, apex somewhat extended, pointed. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with quite distinct, transversely located, shallow furrows. Posteriorly the furrows are almost absent. Apical ventrite asymmetric; on one side with a sharp knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged; provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect strongly modified; from base to apex enlarged, broadly triangular with a sharp knob in middle of external outline (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite lacks lateral knob, almost symmetric (Fig.
Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Gabon (Fig.
According to label data the species has been collected in flooded area, in temporary ponds and at light.
Laccophilus caiaricus
Senegal: Cayar.
(2 exx.). Holotype: female: “IFAN 1954 Kayar Senegal / IFAN 1954 No 3254 Abonnene / Type / F. Guignot det., 1954 Laccophilus caiaricus sp. n. Type female” (MNHN). – Paratype: Almost same data but labelled: “Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
Most probably to be regarded a distinct species although only female is known. It is distinguished by its peculiar colour pattern, different from all other recognized Laccophilus species in Africa. From species placed in this species group L. caiaricus is distinguished by being the smallest species with maximum length of body 3.5 mm (minimum length of body in other species included is 3.6 mm). [Comment: location of L. caiaricus in this species group is uncertain.]
Body length 3.5 mm, width 1.9–2.0 mm. Dorsal colour pattern of body rather distinct, slightly variable (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous; posteriorly at eyes with vague, dark ferrugineous areas. At eyes with fine, scattered punctures; punctures extend towards middle of head-disc (puncture-areas still clearly separated medially). Submat, distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double. Coarse meshes fine, in part hardly discernible. Coarse meshes may contain 2–6 finer meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Frontally in middle with distinct darkened areas. Basally in middle with vague darker area. Frontally with fine, irregular, in part indistinct punctures. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Coarse meshes contain 2–6 fine meshes. Fine meshes in part indistinct and hardly discernible.
Elytra: Ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, with slightly variable, pale ferrugineous markings; in part dark colour forms vague undulations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny although with very fine microsculpture. Metacoxal plate with about 10 transverse, shallow furrows. Abdomen with fine curved striae. Female apical ventrite (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, somewhat extended.
Male: Unknown.
Senegal (Fig.
Unknown.
Diagnosis. Medium sized species with length 3.6-4.0 mm and width 2.0–2.1 mm.
Body, shape oval and dorsoventrally flattened. Elytra with vague, quite robust, ferrugineous irrorations and pale areas formed as vague patches (Fig.
Prosternal process slender, moderately extended posteriorly, apex pointed. Apical ventrite with posterior end distinctly excavated and medial part posteriorly extended; male provided with an asymmetrical knob on one side of ventrite (Fig.
Paramere rather simple; broad at base and narrows strongly towards apex (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. One species is recognized from Africa, north of Sahara.
Laccophilus poecilus
Laccophilus variegatus (Germar & Kaulfuss, 1816),
Laccophilus ponticus Sharp, 1882,
Synonymy follows earlier studies. List of references is not complete and includes only studies with an African dimension.
Egypt.
(1 ex.): Lectotype: female: “9987 / P(not readable) / Aegypten Ehrenberg Nr. 9987/Lacco. poecilus / Laccophilus poecilus Klug, Brancucci Klug det. M. Brancucci 92 / Lectotype des., Laccophilus poecilus Klug. R.B. Angus det. 2003 (1 ex. ZMHB).
(15 exs.). Algeria: “Ouargla / Coll.
“Merw Ahnger” (1 ex. MZH).
Laccophilus poecilus is characterized by peculiar elytral colour pattern (resembles elytral colour pattern in species group 11 (deceptor group)) in combination with broad, truncate penis apex (lateral aspect). Penis, external curvature, with deep incision anterior to base of penis – only African species, exhibiting this feature.
Body length 3.6–4.0 mm, width 2.0–2.1 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body generally distinct, slightly variable but with same ground-plan (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly towards pronotum narrowly darker; ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than fine meshes. Large meshes may contain 2–4 smaller meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes, with scattered, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Frontally at area between eyes with vague, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous marking. At base in middle, with a rather distinct, bilobed, blackish to dark ferrugineous spot. Submat, rather finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes somewhat more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes contain 2–4 small meshes. Almost impunctate, except at margins. At margins except basally in middle with fine, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Dark to blackish ferrugineous with distinct, somewhat variable, pale ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. No distinct colour pattern but apical half of abdomen generally somewhat darker. Submat, finely microsculptured. Abdomen extensively with microsculpture absent or very fine. Almost impunctate; apical ventrite with sharp knob on one side and some scattered punctures (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged and extended, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in anterior portion enlarged gradually to broad, truncate apex (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lacks asymmetric knob on one side (Fig.
Distribution in Africa: Egypt, Algeria (Fig.
Diagnosis. Small to large sized species, length of body 3.0–5.1 mm, width 1.6–2.8 mm.
Body shape oblong to oval; dorsoventrally flattened. All recognized species exhibit distinct colour pattern, the ground-plan of which is dark coloured, longitudinal markings on each elytron. In one species the markings are strongly undulate or totally reduced (Figs
Prosternal process is slender, posteriorly extended and apically pointed. Apical ventrite modified; posterior part on both side of midline excavated and medial part forms a backwards extending process. Apical ventrite of male provided with asymmetrical knob on one side of ventrite (Figs
Paramere rather simple, apically enlarged but not strongly modified (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. 20 species are recognized in this species group. All of them are distributed in mainland Africa, South of Sahara and Madagascar.
1 | Tip of penis straight or slightly bent (Figs |
2 |
– | Tip of penis strongly bent (up to 90°) (Figs |
19 |
2 | Penis lacks distinct apex (apically smooth, truncate, pointed, with minor apical extension) (Figs |
3 |
– | Penis with distinct asymmetric apex (with hook, truncate lateral enlargement) (Figs |
7 |
3 | Large species, body length 4.1–4.3 mm; penis, lateral aspect, strongly bent (Fig. |
L. grammicus (p. 208) |
– | Smaller species, body length 3.5–4.0 mm; penis, lateral aspect, distinctly straighter | 4 |
4 | Penis apex broad, clearly twisted (Fig. |
5 |
– | Penis apex comparatively slender, slightly curved, not twisted (Fig. |
6 |
5 | Penis apex with minor but distinct, apical extension (Fig. |
L. lineatus (p. 214) |
– | Penis lacks distinct apical extension (Figs |
L. burgeoni (p. 212) |
6 | Penis, lateral aspect, slightly and evenly curved; equally broad (Fig. |
L. flavoscriptus (p. 210) |
– | Penis, lateral aspect, external curvature uneven; width unequal (Fig. |
L. incomptus (p. 224) |
7 | Penis, lateral aspect, two-sided hooked (Fig. |
L. mutatus (p. 181) |
– | Penis, lateral aspect, one-sided hooked (Fig. |
8 |
8 | Elytral longitudinal, dark markings complete, not interrupted; each marking from base to apex strongly undulate (Figs |
L. cyclopis (p. 189) |
– | Elytral dark markings complete, only in part, slightly undulate (in some species elytral dark markings merged into extensive larger area; apex of penis hooked or shape different | 9 |
9 | Penis apex distinct, separated by distinct contraction (Fig. |
10 |
– | Penis apex contraction merged to narrow incision (Fig. |
16 |
10 | Base of elytra entirely dark coloured; dark colour interrupted by transverse pale coloured marking which is broken narrowly at suture (Fig. |
11 |
– | Base of elytra pale coloured; sometimes provided with dark spots but they do not merge to a complete dark, basal area (Fig. |
14 |
11 | Dark longitudinal markings of elytra discernible although often partly merged (Fig. |
12 |
– | Dark longitudinal markings of elytra merged into uniform, dark area (Fig. |
13 |
12 | Larger species (body length 3.8–4.3 mm); penis longer and straighter (Fig. |
L. necopinus (p. 199) |
– | Small species (body length 3.4–3.8 mm); penis short and curved (Fig. |
L. adjutor (p. 196) |
13 | Larger species (body length 3.2–3.5 mm); penis delicate, medially distinctly constricted (Figs |
L. conjunctus (p. 201) |
– | Small species (body length 3.1–3.2 mm); penis more robust, medially not constricted (Fig. |
L. inconstans (Fig. |
14 | Small species (body length 3.8–4.2 mm); penis posterior to apex on right side with curved outline (Fig. |
L. quindecimvittatus (Fig. |
– | Large species (body length 4.5–5.1); penis posterior to apex on right side with straight outline (Fig. |
15 |
15 | Penis robust; from apex posteriorly, distinctly enlarged (Fig. |
L. empheres (p. 185) |
– | Penis more slender; from apex posteriorly moderately enlarged (Fig. |
L. incrassatus (p. 184) |
16 | Penis apical half almost straight, evenly broad (Fig. |
L. brownei (p. 202) |
– | Penis apical half slightly angled, width variable (Fig. |
17 |
17 | Broad, robust species (length of body 3.9–4.4 mm); penis as in Fig. |
L. lateralis (p. 187) |
– | Elongate, generally smaller species (length of body 3.5–3.9 mm) (Africa, mainland) | 18 |
18 | Small species (body length 3.5 mm); penis as in Fig. |
L. brancuccii (p. 223) |
– | Larger species (length of body 3.5–3.9 mm); penis as in Fig. |
L. contiro (p. 204) |
19 | Strongly bent tip of penis short (Fig. |
L. secundus (p. 226) |
– | Strongly bent tip of penis prolonged (Fig. |
L. australis (p. 230) |
Laccophilus mutatus
Kenya: Athi River.
(4 exs.). Holotype: male: “Athi River 19.X. 1957 (CAS, not examined). – Paratypes: “Paratype / L. mutatus O-C. / Kenya Athi River 1530 m X-19-1957 / E.S. Ross & R.E. Leech collectors” (2 exs. AMGS); “Paratype / L. mutatus O-C. / Kenya 17 mi. SW of Nairobi, 1800 m, XI-24-1957 / E.S. Ross & R.E. Leech collectors” (2 exs. AMGS).
(30 exs.). Kenya: “Ol Toroto Athi Riv., 5.7. 1970 E.S. Brown leg.” (2 exs. BMNH; habitus in Figs
Laccophilus mutatus externally resembles of L. cyclopis. Peculiar features of penis apex (extreme apex provided with two distinct processes in L. mutatus) distinguish L. mutatus from L. cyclopis as well as does appearance of elytral colour pattern in general. Beware of L. cyclopis specimens with reduced elytral colour pattern.
Body length 4.2–4.7 mm, width 2.4–2.6 mm. Elytra with, in part, reduced dark longitudinal lines; habitus, as in Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, coarser meshes contain 2–5 smaller meshes. At eyes with some very fine, irregularly distributed punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, anteriorly in middle with a bilobed, slightly darker spot. Submat, distinctly microsculpturd. Large meshes contain 3–6 fine meshes. Scattered, irregular fine punctures present.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dark, in part reduced, longitudinal markings (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to pale brown, no distinct colour pattern discernible. Rather shiny, although extensively with fine but in part inditinct microsculpture. Metacoxal plates with some shallow, vague and transverse furrows. Abdomen with some inwards curved striae. Almost impunctate. Apex of prosternal process slender and pointed. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with a small, lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis, apical portion, with two distinct processes (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite apically not incised (Fig.
Kenya, Tanzania (Fig.
Unknown, not documented.
Laccophilus quindecimvittatus
Ethiopia: Abyssinia.
(1 ex.). Holotype: female: “Abyss. Raffray / Type / 15-vittatus Rég. Type unique” (MNHN).
(43 exs.). Ethiopia: “Abyssinia Wouramboulchi 9000 ft. 2-7.X. 1926 JOC.” (18 exs. AMGS, 4 exs. MNHN); “Abyssinia Stream W of Zaguala 6000 ft. 27.X. 1926 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Abyssinia 7900ft Pond Djem Djem forest 10.X. 1926 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Abyssinia Katterere Riv. Lake Zwai 6000 ft., 5.IX. 1926“ (1 ex. AMGS); “Arsi, Assella Life Stock Farm 28.10. 1988, 2350 m, flooded oat field, Persson leg. / L. quindecimvittatus Régimbart det. Nilsson” (1 ex. TMSA); “Arsi, 10 km S Sagure, Ashebaka Riv., 19.6. 1988 leg. Persson / L. quindecimvittatus Régimbart det. Nilsson” (4 exs. TMSA; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus quindecimvittatus belongs to a group of species within this species group, characterized by separate, dark, longitudinal elytral markings (only weekly undulate), which anteriorly can be reduced, forming a transversely located series of dark spots at base of elytra. Additionally, penis of L. quindecimvittatus, has distinct, hooked apex. It seems to be closely related to L. incrassatus and the two species are externally separated by difference in size of body, L. incrassatus being distinctly larger (length 4.6–5.0 mm). Clear differences are also discernible in shape of penis apex, being narrower in L. quindecimvittatus.
Body length 3.8–4.2 mm, width 2.1–2.4 mm. Habitus with dark colour pattern (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, close to pronotum narrowly blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes contain 3–5 small meshes. Almost impunctate, except at eyes; with rather fine, somewhat irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Frontally with broad dark ferrugineous area; basally in middle with quite narrow, somewhat vague, dark ferrugineous marking. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly more pronounced than small meshes. Large meshes contain 3–5 small meshes. Frontally and laterally with very fine, hardly discernible, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous with blackish to dark ferrugineous, longitudinal markings (Figs
Ventral aspect: Black to blackish ferrugineous. Prothorax pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Abdomen with fine, slightly curved striae. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process slender, apex somewhat extended, pointed. Metacoxal plate with about 10 almost transversely located, fine and shallow furrows. Apical ventrite asymmetric; with lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, extended, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect at base curved, anteriorly quite straight; extreme apex angular, rather narrow. External outline provided apically with a rather narrow membranous area (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, extended. Apical ventrite symmetric (Fig.
Considered as an Ethiopian endemic species (Fig.
According to label-data, collected at high altitudes (6000–9000 ft. = appr. 1850–2700 m). The species occurs in both lotic and lentic water bodies; common in densely vegetated locations; collected from high altitudes (1450–2700 m a.s.l.) (
Laccophilus incrassatus
Laccophilus virgatus
Laccophilus incrassatus: Zaire: Moero, Kasiki.
Laccophilus virgatus: Zaire: Upemba National Park, Riv. Dipwa.
(14 exs.). Laccophilus incrassatus: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Musée du Congo Tang. – Moero: Kasiki 20/27-VI-1931 G.F. de Witte / Type Gschw. / R. DÈT. A 2223 / Laccophilus incrassatus Gschw. det. Gschwendt.” (MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus virgatus: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo belge: P.N.U., R. Dipwa (1.900 m) 17-I-1948 Mis. G.F. de Witte, 1239a / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I.P.N.C.B.) / Laccophilus virgatus sp. n. Type, male symbol / F. Guignot det., 1952 Laccophilus virgatus Guign. Type, male symbol” (MRAC). – Paratype: “Congo belge: P.N.U., R. Dipwa (1.900 m) 17-I-1948 Mis. G.F. de Witte, 1242 / Paratype” (5 exs. IRSNB); same but “1293” (1 ex. IRSNB); “Congo Belge P.N.U. Katobwe (Mukana 1810 m) 22-III-1947 Mis. G.F. de Witte: 92a / Paratype” (2 exs. IRSNB); “PNU Mukana 1810 m/12.3. 1947 F. de Witte / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Congo Belge: PNU Lusinga (Mukana) 28-V-1945 / Paratype / Guignot det., 1953: L. virgatus sp. n.” (1 ex. IRSNB, habitus in Fig.
(1 ex.). Zaire: “PNU Mukana 1810 m, 24.III. 1947 / F. Guignot det., 1953: L. virgatus sp. n.” (1 ex. IRSNB). [Comment: labelled as paratype, but not listed as such in the original description.]
Holotypes of L. incrassatus and L. virgatus have been examined and compared but no characteristics, justifying separation in two species were found. Accordingly, the two species are considered conspecific and L. incrassatus, being older, is the valid name of the species.
Laccophilus incrassatus resembles most of L. cyclopis, L. quindecimvittatus and L. empheres. From L. cyclopis, L. incrassatus is separated by the elytral reticulation, which is clearly double in L. cyclopis while simple or almost simple in L. incrassatus (if larger meshes are discerned they are always rather indistinct and reduced). From L. quindecimvittatus, L. incrassatus is separated by having distinctly larger body (max. 4.2 mm in L. quindecimvittatus). Shape of penis is also characteristic; apex broader in L. incrassatus. From L. empheres, L. incrassatus is distinguished by differences detected in male genitalia; penis distinctly broader in L. empheres.
Body: Length 4.6–5.0 mm, width 2.7–2.8 mm. Pale ferrugineous with distinct blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous colour pattern (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Narrowly at pronotum with a dark ferrugineous, fairly well delimited marking. Submat, rather distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double; meshes of two kinds and large meshes only slightly coarser than fine meshes. Large meshes discernible in medial part of head; posteriorly and anteriorly with simple reticulation. Large meshes, when discernible, contain two to almost ten small meshes. At eyes with some scattered, fine punctures extending towards centre of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally with a quite broad, slightly vague dark ferrugineous marking; mediobasally with a rather narrow, blackish ferrugineous marking. Microsculpture dense and rather distinct; reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly more distinctly developed in comparison with fine meshes. Large meshes contain two to six fine meshes. Almost impunctate. Sparse and irregular, scattered punctures may be discerned.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct dark ferrugineous colour pattern; with longitudinal, blackish to dark ferrugineous markings, which exhibit some variation (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, metacoxal plates laterally with a narrow blackish area. Metacoxal plates with transveresely located, very shallow furrows. Rather shiny, although, with very fine microsculpture. Abdomen with sparsely located, fine and somewhat curved striae. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process apex extended, slender and pointed. Apical ventrite with a lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus quite long and slender, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis comparatively long, slightly curved and extreme apex forms an angulate, medium broad process. External outline of penis provided with a distinct membranous area (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite lacks knob (Fig.
Zaire (Fig.
Unknown, not documented.
Kenya: Nairobi.
(10 exs.). Holotype: male: “Nairobi, Kenya 3-XI-67 (STAS) / C.V. Reichart Collector” (USNM; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus empheres resembles strongly the species mentioned under “Etymology” below. It can be separated by its dark elytral markings, which are always somewhat reduced in humeral region and sometimes in part, also medially. Moreover there are deviating details in the shape of the penis and its apex; penis robust, almost straight and apical, angled process broad.
Body length 4.5–5.1 mm, width 2.5–2.8 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body distinct, exhibits minor variation (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Posteriorly at pronotum, head narrowly somewhat darker; ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Larger meshes contain 2–5 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, scattered punctures. Medially punctures extend towards middle of head-disc.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally at area between eyes with a vague, dark ferrugineous marking. At base in middle with a rather narrow, blackish to dark ferrugineous marking. Submat, rather finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes contain 2–6 small meshes. Impunctate, except at margins; with fine, scattered punctures, which are also lacking medio-basally.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct, blackish to dark ferrugineous, longitudinal stripes, which are often almost complete in central area but basally reduced especially in humeral region (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, with no distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, very finely microsculptured. In part microsculpture somewhat reduced and hardly discernible. Abdomen with fine, slightly curved striae. Almost impunctate; apical ventrite with some irregular punctures and a small knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect almost straight, comparatively broad and extreme apex broad and angulate (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite lacks asymmetric knob (Fig.
The Greek word “empheres” is a noun in apposition and refers to something resembling or like. This epithet refers to the fact that the new species, especially externally, resembles strongly of some other Laccophilus species located in this species group, as L. incrassatus, L. brownei and L. quindecimvittatus.
Kenya (Fig.
Unknown, not documented.
Laccophilus lateralis
Laccophilus lateralis var. polygrammus
Laccophilus lateralis: Madagascar.
Laccophilus lateralis var. polygrammus: Madagascar: Centre-Sud.
(3 exs.). Laccophilus lateralis: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Madagascar / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / rivulosus Klug / Type 572 Laccophilus lateralis sp. n. Madagascar” (BMNH).
Laccophilus lateralis var. polygrammus: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Madagascar Centre-Sud Alluaud 1901 67 / male symbol / Cotype / cotype of polygrammus” (MNHN). – Paralectotype: “Madagascar Centre-Sud Alluaud 1901 66 / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
(37 exs.). Madagascar: “Madagascar P. Camboué / Museum Paris, coll. Maurice
“NP Ankarrafantsika 5-12.91(?) 2002 Andreev, Dolin & Andreva” (1 female ex. NMPC).
Examination of type material reveals that earlier established synonymy is valid.
Laccophilus lateralis is an externally, variable species, which resembles many of the species located in same species group. Shape of penis is, however, characteristic and separates L. lateralis from all species being externally quite similar. Penis with distinct, asymmetric apex, which is not separated from basal part of penis by a distinct contraction. Instead penis apex merged to basal part and simply divided by a vague incision. Laccophilus lateralis (Madagascar) is generally slightly larger than resembling species, occurring in mainland of Africa.
Body length 3.9–4.4 mm, width 2.2–2.4 mm. Dorsal, aspect of body with variable colour pattern (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, posteriorly at pronotum a little darker. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; in part the two kinds of meshes difficult to distinguish. Larger meshes (when discernible) contain 2–5 small meshes. At eyes (and from eyes towards centre of head) with fine, irregularly distributed punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and basally in middle with dark ferrugineous to blackish, somewhat vague areas. Pronotum sometimes only with vague, slightly paler medial area. Submat, rather finely microsculptured. Reticulation distinctly double, large meshes contain 2–5 small meshes. Laterally and anteriorly with fine to rather fine, irregularly distributed punctures.
Elytra: Extensively blackish to dark ferrugineous, with moderate, ferrugineous markings. Often, however, with longitudinal dark markings. There is a gradual change between a morph with distinct, dark, elytral markings and an almost totally dark coloured morph, with reduced pale areas (Figs
Ventral aspect: Blackish ferrugineous to blackish. Basal segments of abdomen paler; pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured. Transverse furrows of metacoxal plates very fine, shallow and hardly discernible. Abdomen in basal half distinctly striated. Almost impunctate. Apex of prosternal process slender and pointed. Apical ventrite asymmetric, as in Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with fine but distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis long, in lateral aspect slightly sinuate and in apical half with a distinct enlargement; extreme apex moderately sized, separated by narrow incision (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, slightly extended. Apical ventrite lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
Almost unknown. Literature information and available label data are very superficial; collected in pools and ponds.
Laccophilus cyclopis
Laccophilus shephardi
Laccophilus cyclopis: South Africa: Grahamstown.
Laccophilus shephardi: South Africa: Mt Currie district, nr. Zwartberg.
(18 exs.). Laccophilus cyclopis: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Type / S. Africa / Grahamstown / Type 573 L. cyclopis sp. Afr. mer. / Sharp Coll. 1905-313” (BMNH). – Paralectotypes: Same data, but “Cotype” (1 ex. BMNH); same data but “Cotype Caffrarie” (1 ex. BMNH); “Cotype / S. Africa / Laccophilus cyclopis Sharp Co-type” (3 exs. BMNH).
Laccophilus shephardi: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Syntype / L. shephardi male type / E Cape province Mt Currie Dist. nr Zwartberg 14-XI-1957 J. O-C.” (BMNH). – Paralectotypes: Same as lectotype but labelled as “female type” (1 ex. BMNH); “Cotype / E. Cape Prov. Maclear 9.V.1926 No 275 J. Omer-Cooper /det. J. Omer-Cooper L. shephardi O-C.” (5 exs. AMGS); “E. Cape Prov. Mount Currie 13.II. 1957 No. 400 J. Omer-Cooper” (5 exs. AMGS); “S. Africa E. Cape Prov. Barkley East 14.II. 1948 JOC. / det. J. Omer-Cooper L. shephardi O-C.” (1 ex. AMGS).
(655 exs.). Namibia: “Windhoek Town Dam 7.7. 1939 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Windhoek New Dam 7.7. 1939 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Windhoek River Bed 9 July 1937” (2 exs. AMGS); “Windhoek 5.7. 1939” (1 ex. AMGS); “Windhoek Eros Mt. 1600 m 22.34S-17.06E / 10.9. 1974 shorewashing Endrödy-Younga: 365” (1 ex. TMSA); “Windhoek Distr., Valencia Ranch / 14-24.4. 1972 Strydom” (1 ex. TMSA); “Osona b. Okahandja 19-20.10. 1991 Göllner leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Osona b. Okahandja p. III. –m IV 1988 leg. J. Irish” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Pools in overflow stream from dam, much weed & algae / Okarupa, ca. 17 mi E of Okahandja 4900 ft, 22.5. 1954 / J. Balfour-Browne” (21 exs. BMNH, 2 exs. MZH); “Okahandja 4700 ft. 22.5. 1954 / Water-hole and seepage through sand J. Balfour-Browne” (8 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “Okahandja 4400 ft. 21.5. 1954 Small, deep water-hole, thick Lemna cover J. Balfour-Browne” (3 exs. BMNH); “Khomashochl, Farm Wissenfels 23°20'S-16°25'E / 14.9. 1974 shore washing E-Y: 371” (5 exs. TMSA, 1 ex. MZH); “Hardap Dam, Mariental Dist. 10-14. 4. 1972 Strydom & Jones” (6 exs. TMSA); “Hardap GR: Water Institute, pool shore waterplant treating, water catcher 1.12. 1997, 24°29.41S/17°51.52E, leg. M. Uhlig” (9 exs. ZMHB, 4 exs. MZH, 2 exs. NMNW); “Otjozondjupa Dist., Toggekry 250 (Omatako) 21°30'42.9"S, 16°43'56.6"E, 1520 m NN, 8.3. 2003, hand light trap Frisch & Vohland leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB); same data, but “1100 m, 5.3. 2003” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Otjozondjupa Dist., Otjiamongombe West 44, 21°35'44.7"S, 16°56'17.4"E, 1498 m, NN 28.2.2003 hand light trap Frisch & Vohland leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Keetmanshoop Dist., Gellap Ost 3, 23 km NW Keetsmanshoop, dwarf shrub savannah (Nama-Karoo) / 4.4. 2001, 34-28˚C, 26°24'17.7"S, 18°00'41.9” lux 18.00-21.00 leg. Uhlig et al.” (1 ex. ZMHB); “Damaral. Groot Barmen 22.05S-16.40E / 12.9. 1975, shorewashing, Endrödy-Younga: 370” (1 ex. TMSA); Namib Tinkas Dam 22.50S-15.30E / 1.11. 1974 shore washing Endrödy-Younga 440” (1 ex. TMSA); “Grootfontein v. Erffa S.G.” (1 ex. NHMB); “DSWA, ?-erseba 8. 1905 Schultze” (1 ex. NHMB); “DSWA Gr. Etemba Casper S.G. / L. cyclopis Sharp det. Brancucci 1982” (2 exs. ZMHB). – Botswana: “Metsimaklaba 7-12.3. 1930 / L. cyclopis Sharp det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. TMSA); “Tiokweng 15-21.3. 1988 Ward / L. cyclopis Sharp det.
“Africa / J. Hope Coll. B.M. 1948-217” (4 exs. BMNH).
Type material of L. cyclopis and L. shephardi have been examined and compared. L. cyclopis, being a quite widely distributed species exhibits distinct variation in appearance of dorsal colour pattern of body. Being so, it is evident that L. shephardi represents a colour morph of the species. We have not observed the differences in male genitalia and last abdominal ventrite of male, stressed by Omer-Cooper in the original description of L. shephardi. Accordingly, we consider L. cyclopis and L. shephardi as synonyms. L. cyclopis, which is the older name, is the valid name of this species.
Laccophilus cyclopis is a distinct, although, externally a variable species. It resembles quite much of species exhibiting distinct, dark, longitudinal, elytral markings, e.g. as L. incrassatus and L. quindecimvittatus. Longitudinal markings, however, when present, are strongly undulate in L. cyclopis. In some specimens of L. cyclopis elytral dark markings strongly reduced and are lacking. Double elytral reticulation exhibited by L. cyclopis is also a useful feature at identification because large meshes often strongly reduced in a number of close species, and microsculpture appears in such cases, simple or almost simple.
Body length 3.8–4.8 mm, width 2.2–2.6 mm. Body dorsally with distinct, somewhat variable colour pattern. Dark longitudinal irrorations of elytra rarely strongly reduced (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. At pronotum, generally with vague darker area. Rather shiny, although distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double; finer meshes often reduced, and hardly visible. At eyes, with minute irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Frontally and posteriorly often extensively darker; dark areas sometimes absent. Rather shiny, although distinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double; fine meshes in part indistinct or totally absent. At margins, with fine, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous with dark ferrugineous, almost uniform, longitudinal irrorations (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous, metathorax and base of metacoxal plates slightly darker; colour variation vague. Submat, finely microsculptured. Metacoxal plates with some transversely located shallow depressions. Base of metacoxal plates somewhat elevated in comparison with base of abdomen. Abdomen densely striated. Apical ventrite (Figs
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus long, at base slightly enlarged, narrows gradually towards apex. Segments provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect broad, from base to apex slightly curved; extreme apex formed as a short, medium broad and apically, sharp extension (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite symmetric, lacks knob and apex not bifid (Fig.
Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho (Fig.
According to label data, the species has been sampled in dams, pools, water-holes etc., with various, often thick vegetation of weed, algae, grass, Juncus and Lemna. Also collected at light.
Laccophilus adjutor
Uganda: Ounyoro province, Kadjoura marsh.
(2 exs.). Holotype: male: “Ouganda Ounyoro Marais Kadjoura pres Hoima Ch. Alluaud 1909 / Male symbol / Paratype” (MNHN). [Comments: the original description lists only holotype and allotype and no paratype and accordingly type material consists of two specimens both from same locality. One additional specimen is provided with a holotype label but it does not fit with given type locality (see below). The male specimen with a paratype label, however, fits with given type locality and obviously this specimen is the real holotype. This enigmatic situation is considered a case of mislabeling.] Allotype (= paratype): female: Same data as holotype, but “Allotype / female symbol / Laccophilus adjutor Guign. Allotype, female symbol” (1 ex. MNHN).
(40 exs.). Nigeria: “Stream of Assab 36 mi from Jos 13.4. 1963 JOC” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream, escarpment, road Jos-Wambe 13.4. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS). – Uganda: “Ouganda Occidental Province de Toro env. de Fort Portal Ch. Alluaud 1909 / male symbol / Type / Laccophilus adjutor Guign. Type male symbol” (1 ex. MNHN; not holotype, see above); “Prov. d’Ounyoro Albert Nyanzas.-e Rivière Mousisi Alluaud 1909 / février / Guignot det. L. adjutor sp. n. / paratype” (2 exs. IRSNB); “Ounyoro Marais Kadjoura près Hoima Alluaud 1909 / paratype” (2 exs. IRSNB); “Paratype / Mus. Paris Ouganda Ounyoro Marais Kadjoura pres Hoima Ch. Alluad 1909 / F. G. det. 57 L. adjutor Guign.” (1 ex. AMGS). [Comment: not type material; later obviously provided with paratype labels.] “Uganda Kibale K 15, 12.9. 1991 Nummelin leg.” (2 exs. MZH); Same but “6.9. 1991” (1 ex. MZH); “W Prov. Kibale Forest, swamp K 14, 8.4. Nummelin leg.” (1 ex. MZH); “Kampala 9.12. 1929 Hopkins” (2 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); same but “4.9. 1929” (1 ex. BMNH). – Kenya: “B.O.A. Kibwezi 26.11. 1907 Scheffler” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Zaire: “Parc National Albert, 2.3. 1957 P. Vanschuytbroeck/Secteur Nord r. dr. Moyenne-Lume affl. dr. Semliki 1340 m” (8 exs. MRAC, 2 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus adjutor resembles much of especially L. necopinus and L. conjunctus in regard of male genitalia and external appearance. From L. necopinus, the species is separated by having a shorter and more curved penis. From L. conjunctus, L. adjutor is separated by having, in general, slightly larger body and by elytral, dark colour pattern, which is formed as separate longitudinal markings. Elytra of L. conjunctus are predominantly dark with limited pale markings. The male genitalia of L. adjutor and L. conjunctus are quite similar and future studies may show that the two species are conspecific.
Body length 3.4–3.8 mm, width 1.8–2.0 mm. Habitus and dorsal colour pattern (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Finely microsculptured; reticulation indistinctly double. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 3–6 small meshes. Almost impunctate, except at eyes where some irregularly distributed fine punctures are discernible.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and mediobasally blackish to dark ferrugineous. Reticulation indistinctly double; large meshes generally contain 3–6 minor meshes. Very finely punctate. Punctures irregularly distributed and partly indistinct; densest at foremargin and laterally.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous with blackish to dark ferrugineous colour pattern; pale subbasal area slightly irregular. Posteriorly, with irregular, longitudinal markings which are sometimes partly confluent (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, except prothorax, pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Submat, with very fine microsculpture. Basal ventrites with curved striae. Almost impunctate. Transversely located, shallow furrows on metacoxal plates in anterior half rather distinct; in posterior half indistinct, almost absent. Prosternal process rather slender, posteriorly somewhat extended, apically pointed. Apical ventrite; asymmetric with one lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Protarsus rather slender and protarsal claws slender, moderately curved and somewhat extended. Pro- and mesotarsus provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect almost straight; extreme apex with a small, rounded extension; external outline of penis in apical portion provided with a distinct membranous part (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite medioapically somewhat extended and keeled (Fig.
Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, Zaire, Tanzania, Angola (Fig.
Almost unknown.
Laccophilus necopinus
Uganda: Musisi River.
(3 exs.). Holotype, male: “Prov. d’Ounyoro Albert Nyanza S.-E. Riviere Mousisi Ch. Alluaud 1909 / fevrier / Male symbol / Type / Laccophilus necopinus Guign. Type male” (MNHN). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype, but labelled “Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); same data as holotype, but labelled “Paratype” and provided with female symbol (1 ex. MNHN, habitus in Fig.
(98 exs.). Nigeria: “R. Kaduna 4,5 mi. from Jos 13.4. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS). – Cameroon: “Dschang 7-14.11. 1967” (1 ex. NHMB); “Ngoundere 30.8. 1969” (1 ex. NHMB). – Zaire: “PNG, Pali/8, 22.3. 1952 De Saeger” (1 ex. MRAC); same but “II/gd/11, 10.8. 1952” (1 ex. MRAC); same but “Ndelele/14s, 1.8. 1952” (1 ex. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); same but “K 117/14s, 19.3. 1952“(1 ex. MRAC); “Elisabethville, à la lumière 1. 1956-1. 1957 Seydel” (3 exs. NHMB); same but “1953-1955” (1 ex. NHMB); “Ruhengeri (s. Kiril) 31.8.-3.9. 1934 G.F. de Witte. Parc Nat. Albert” (2 exs. NHMB). – Uganda: “Kampala 13.Vii. 1929 G.H.E. Hopkins / L. adjutor Guign. Det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Kampala 11.VII. 1929 H. Hargreaves” (1 ex. AMGS); “Monts Ruwenzori (zone Inf.) Roubona 1500-1600 m Alluaud 1909 / Janvier” (2 exs. MNHN). – Kenya: “Bassin du Tana Thika Alluaud 1909 / Laccophilus necopinus Guign. Parartype” (1 ex MNHN [Comment: labelled as paratype but specimen is not mentioned in the original description]); “15 km N Nyahurutu, small lake 6.2. 1995 leg. Travnicek” (1 ex. NMPC); “L. Naivasha, Fisherman’s Camp 14.2. 1995 leg. Travnicek” (1 ex. NMPC). – Rwanda: “Cyangugu Gishoma 14.2. 1983 Mühle” (1 ex. NHMB). – Tanzania: “Rungwe X. 1948 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Kilimandjaro Sjöstedt / Kibonoto 1-1200 m” (1 ex. NHRS); “Usa River 3900 ft. Szunyoghy / light trap 15.11.-31.12. 1965” (1 ex. CGW). – Malawi: “R. Mtiti 1.10. 1948 J.OC.” (6 exs. AMGS); “6 mi N of R. Mtiti, stream 2.10. 1948 JOC.” (9 exs. AMGS); “Dedza-Lilongwe rd. Stream 30.IX. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “R. Diedma Lilongwe rd. 30.9. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS); “dam in lower Lilongwe rd 29.9. 1945” (2 exs. AMGS); “Dedza, hotel dam, 29.9. 1948” (3 exs. AMGS). – Zimbabwe: “Inyanga N. 1948 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Vamba Nat. Park 31.XII. 1962” (3 exs. AMGS); “Stream at Salisbury 17.IX. 1948” (3 exs. AMGS); “Stream at Salisbury 1948” (5 exs. AMGS); “Marandellas 2 N. 1948 JOC.” (7 exs. AMGS); “Stream Rusapi 13.XI. 1948 / L. adjutor Guign. Det. J. Omer-Cooper” (3 exs. AMGS). – South Africa: “Transvaal Ermelo stream 7.Dec. 1948 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Trsvl 5 mi W Warmbad 24-25.2. 1968 Spangler” (1 ex. USNM); “Trsvl, pond, rd to Stoffleberg 10.12. 1995 Challet” (1 ex. CGC, 1 ex. MZH); “Trsvl, Hwy 555 No. Stoffberg 10.12. 1995 Challet” (1 ex. CGC); “Nelspruit, pond 27.4. 2010, S25°32'13,83”, E30°59'50,35” Hidalgo, Galiana & Kleynhans leg.” (1 ex. CIR); “Kw. Natal, Lions R nr N-29.471, E30.150, 4.70 Dickens“ (1 ex. AMSG); “Kw. Natal, Buffalo R. Cloontarf, -27.630N, E29.98, 23.9. 1974 Metz” (2 exs. AMGS); “Kw. Natal, Ngagne R, Steildrift, N-27.770, E30.02, 24.9. 1974 Metz” (1 ex. AMGS); Kw. Natal, Ngagagne R’ St. 19.3. 1974 Metz” (1 ex. AMGS); “Natal, Dragon Peaks Park, 29°02'S-29°26'E, 1150-1450 m, 9-12.11. 1993 Deckert leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB, 1 ex. MZH); “Nqutu 1953 Newton” (1 ex. BMNH); “Natal, (handwritten, unreadable locality text), 25.9. 1967 Omer-Cooper” (4 exs. AMGS); “E.C.Pr. Dias Cross dune slack pond, 334300S 263730E 27.3. 1994 E. Bruce-Miller” (1 ex. AMGS). – Swaziland: “Mbabane 5.12. 1948 JOC. / L. necopinus Guignot det. G. Challet 06” (1 ex. AMGS).
Laccophilus necopinus resembles most of L. adjutor and L. conjunctus. The species is distinguished by apex of penis, which differs clearly from the two other species; extreme apex of L. necopinus is distinctly broader and clearly expanded on one side. See also diagnosis of L. adjutor (p. 198).
Body length: 3.8–4.3 mm, width 2.1–2.4 mm. Elytral colour pattern slightly variable; longitudinal, dark markings sometimes merged into a larger dark area (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Posteriorly, with vague, dark ferrugineuos area. Almost impunctate, except at eyes with fine, irregular punctures. Areas with punctures slightly extended towards middle of head-discussion. Rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Reticulation indistinctly double. Large meshes contain 2–5 fine meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Frontally and posteriorly in middle with dark ferrugineous to dark brown area. Almost impunctate, except laterally and anteriorly, with scattered fine punctures. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but size categories in part difficult to separate. Large meshes reduced and only partially discernible.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dark ferrugineous to dark brown to blackish, longitudinal markings, which sometimes merge into each other. At base, with distinct pale, transverse area (at suture elytra, however, dark coloured). Rarely pale areas strongly reduced; only minor spots present (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, prothorax paler, pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Submat to rather shiny, very finely microsculptured. Abdomen with curved striae. Metacoxal plates with approx. 10 shallow furrows. Prosternal process quite slender, apex extended and pointed. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with lateral, rounded knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, extended and provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis long, in lateral aspect almost straight; extreme apex produced to a quite broad extension, being somewhat expanded on one side. In apical half externally, with a membranous area (Figs
Female: Externally resembles much of male. Pro- and mesotarsus are more slender. Apical ventrite almost symmetric, lateral knob lacking (Fig.
Nigeria, Cameroon, Zaire, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Swaziland (Fig.
Rather insufficiently known. Label data give stream and pond as collecting localities.
Laccophilus lineatus ab. conjunctus
Laccophilus conjunctus
Cameroon: Yaoundé.
(4 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Cameroun Yaoundé Vadon! / male symbol / Type” (MNHN). – Paralectotypes: Same data as lectotype but “female symbol / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(7 exs.). Zaire: “PNG, Morubia/9, 12.3. 1952 De Saeger, 3187” (3 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); same data but “II/gd/11, 10.4. 1952, 3314” (1 ex. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); same data but “Pali’’/11, 25.7. 1952, 3831” (1 ex. MRAC).
Close to L. necopinus and especially to L. adjutor, from which L. conjunctus is separated by smaller body size and by dorsal colour pattern; elytral pale areas strongly reduced in L. conjunctus. Penises of L. adjutor and L. conjunctus are almost similar, but minor differences exhibited in shape and outline of extreme apex; almost obtuse in L. conjunctus vs. rounded in L. adjutor. External outline of membranous area in apical half of penis shows also minor differences, being slightly sinuate in L. adjutor. Further studies will show if the two species are conspecific.
Body length 3.2–3.5 mm, width 1.7–1.9 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body slightly variable; pale areas reduced to a few spots and a subbasal area (Figs
Head: Ferrugineous, frontally narrowly slightly paler. At eyes with irregular, fine punctures. Submat, densely microsculptured. Reticulation indistinctly double. Coarser meshes in part strongly obliterated; indistinct. Coarse meshes, when discernible, contain 2–6 fine meshes.
Pronotum: At base and anteriorly darkened, blackish to dark ferrugineous; laterally and towards frontal corners pronotum paler; pale ferrugineous. Change of colour sometimes gradual. Pronotum discally impunctate. At margins with very fine, hardly discernible punctures. Submat, finely and densely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes distinct; contain 2–6 fine meshes.
Elytra: Extensively black to blackish ferrugineous, with somewhat variable pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous markings (Figs
Ventral aspect: Black to dark ferrugineous, prothorax pale, ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny, extensively with very fine, in part indistinct, microsculpture. Metacoxal plates with about 10 indistinct and shallow furrows, most of which are transversely located. Abdomen in basal half with curved striae. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with one, distinct, lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather long and slender. Tarsi provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis delicate, in lateral aspect slightly curved; apically penis ends in a small extension (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite lacks knob; as in Fig.
Cameroon, Zaire (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus brownei
Laccophilus brownei ab. celidotus
Zaire: PNA, Lac Magera.
(5 exs.). Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo belge: P.N.A. Lac Magera 2000 m, 27-VIII-1935 Mission H. Damas: (A) 370 / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I.P.N.C.B.) / Type / F. Guignot det. 1945 Laccophilus brownei Guign. Type, male” (MRAC). – Paratypes (incl. Allotype): Same sampling data as holotype (1 ex. IRSNB, 1 ex. MRAC) “Paratypus / Congo belge P.N.A. Ngesho 3-VIII-1935 Mission H. Damas: 291 / F. Guignot det. 1948 Laccophilus brownei Guign.” (2 exs. MRAC; habitus in Fig.
(15 exs.). Zaire: “Congo belge P.N.A. Ngesho 3-VIII-1935 Mission H. Damas: 291 / F. Guignot det. 1948 Laccophilus brownei ab. celidotus sp. n. / Holotype / Paratype” (3 exs. IRSNB, 1 ex. MNHN, 4 exs. MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus brownei is especially characterized by shape of penis; apical half of penis almost straight and evenly broad to distinct apex. Apical part is merged to basal part so that no contraction visible but apex separated from basal part by narrow incision. Dorsal colour pattern resembles corresponding features in some other species located in this species group (e.g. L. incrassatus, L. quindecimvittatus and L. empheres).
Body length 4.2–4.5 mm, width 2.4–2.6 mm. Habitus (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly at pronotum narrowly darkened. Slightly mat, distinctly reticulated. Reticulation in part double, which is clearly discernible in a medial area where large meshes contain 2–5 smaller meshes. At eyes with irregular, quite dense punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; anteriorly at head with a vague, dark ferrugineous marking. Posteriorly, at scutellar region with a broad but narrow, distinct, dark ferrugineous marking. Slightly mat, densely reticulated. Reticulation extensively double; large meshes contain 2–7 small meshes. At margins with scattered, irregular puntures (hardly visible at scutellar region).
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with dark ferrugineous to dark brownish, longitudinal lines. Lines variable; medially independent, not confluent or confluent, especially in centre of elytra (Figs
Ventral aspect: Metathorax and abdomen pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; metacoxal plates blackish to dark ferrugineous. Impunctate. Very finely microsculptured. Metacoxal plates with shallow, transverse furrows. Prosternal process sharp, narrow. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with a lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis long, slightly curved at base and almost straight and evenly broad in apical half. Extreme apex broad and moderately extended (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite lacks knob (Fig.
Zaire, Tanzania (Fig.
Not known.
Laccophilus contiro
Ethiopia: Mt Chilalu.
(4 exs.). Holotype: male: “Abessinia 7,000 ft. Mt. Chilalu 8.xi. 1926 J. Omer-Cooper / male symbol / Type” (MNHN). – Paratypes: “Abyssinia Mount Chillálo ponds 7,000-8,000 ft. 8-9.xi. 1926 J. Omer-Cooper / female symbol / Allotype / contiro” (1 ex. MNHN); “Abyssinia 7000 ft. Mt Chilalu 8.xi. 1926 J. Omer-Cooper / male symbol / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(162 exs.). Sudan: “W. Nile IX. 1929” (2 exs. AMGS); “Gallery Forest Jebel Marra 12°55’N, 24°08’E, 7. 1984 Ruse P. light trap” (8 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH). – Ethiopia: “Suc-Suci Lake Zwai 5,500 ft 12.11. 1926 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “7000 ft Mt. Chilalu 8.11. 1926 JOC.” (5 exs. AMGS); “West Marsh Lake Zwai 5,500 ft 2-3.11. 1926 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “March N of Lake Zwai ca 5,500 ft. 4.11. 1926” (1 ex. AMGS); “Kattere River Lake Zwai 6,000 ft 5.11. 1926 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Water Hole N of Makki River 6,000 ft 28.11. 1926 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “C Abyssinia, Abesata Wajju, Bull Bullo 6.3. 1915 Lovacs leg.” (1 ex. BMNH); “Belleta Forest 13-14.6. 1963 Linnavuori” (1 ex. MZH). – Sierra Leone: “Freetown 1945/Walton G.A.” (1 ex. BMNH). – Nigeria: “NC St. Malumfashi 26-30.7. 1973 Linnavuori leg.”(2 exs. MZH); “W St. Ife 7-8.7. 1973 Linnavuori leg.” (1 ex. MZH); “Stream crossing Kaduna rd. nr Zaria 4.4. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Zaria 1969 Brancucci” (1 ex. NHMB); “Stream & reservoir Jos 10.4. 1963 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Stream nr Bakori en rte Katsina 5.4.1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream nr Zaria 4.4. 1963 JOC” (1 ex. AMGS); “Ponds in dry stream bed Kontagora 5.4. 1963” (2 exs. AMGS); “Kontagora stream 3.4. 1963 JOC.” (6 exs. AMGS). – Cameroon: “20 km NW Ban-Gante Forest, savannah at river, at light 15.1. 1978 / Gärdenfors, Hall & Samuelsson” (1 ex. MZLU); “Kamerun int. Satsche 10-14.5. 1909 Riggenbach” (5 exs. ZMHB); “Koza 1.7.1974”(1 ex. NHMB). – Uganda: “Prov. d’Ounyoro, Albert Nyanza S-E, Riv. Mousisi, Alluaud 1909 / Type” (1 ex. MNHN; ”type” of ab. nigrovirgatus); “Kampala 13.7. 1929 G.H.E. Hopkins” (1 ex. AMGS); same but “15.9. 1929” (1 ex. AMGS); same but “28.2. 1929” (1 ex. AMGS); same but 28.11. 1929” (1 ex. BMNH); same but “29.11. 1929” (1 ex. BMNH); same but “21.2. 1930” (1 ex. BMNH); same but “5.12. 1929” (1 ex. MZH); same but “21.8. 1929” (1 ex. BMNH); same but 9. 1929/Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN; not type material); same but “Kitante Swamp 26.9. 1969” (1 ex. BMNH); “Madi 5. 1927 G.D.H. Carpenter” (1 ex. AMS). – Kenya: “Nyeri 2.12. 1989 Jäch” (1 ex. NMW); “Ngong Forestry Sta., 13.4, 1968 Spangler” (7 exs. USNM, 2 exs. MZH); “Nairobi 3.11. 1967 / Reichert collector” (1 ex. USNM). – Tanzania: “?stream Mbeya-Tunduma rd. 18.10. 1948 JOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “Mpemba stream Mbeya-Tunduma 16.X. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS); “D.O.A. W Ruangwa 1.9. 1911, 1850 m Sumpf H. Meyer S.G.” (2 exs. ZMHB). – Zambia: “Mbesuma Ranch (Isoka) 9-10.12. 2004 Werner & Smrz” (2 exs. NHRS); “Watergreen Farm Chongwe Valley 60 km E Lusaka 4.8. 1986 Pederzani / L. contiro Guignot det. Pederzani” (1 ex. CSR); “Kapiri Mpushi env. 13.12. 2002 Kantner” (6 exs. NHMB, 2 exs. MZH). – Malawi: “Swamp Dally’s Hotel nr Ft Johnstone 23.8. 1948” (6 exs. AMGS); “Swamp Hawkes Bay 25.9. 1948” (2 exs. AMGS); “Dambo below Livingstonia lake shore 21.10. 1948” (15 exs. AMGS); “Dally’s 18.12. 1946 R.H. Lowe” (2 exs. BMNH); “Ft. Johnston Dally’s swamp nr L. Nyasa 7.6. 1946” (1 ex. BMNH); “Selima env., 4.1. 2002 Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB); “Selima env., 60 km E Lilongwe 5-8.1. 2002 Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB); “Dedza env., 85 km SE Lilongwe 7-13.1. 2002 Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB). – Namibia: “East Caprivi Katima Mulilo 17°29'S-24°17'E, 3-8.3. 1992 Uhlig leg., lux” (8 exs. ZMHB, 2 exs. MZH, 1 ex. NMNW); same but “Deckert leg.” (1 ex. ZMHB). – Zimbabwe: “Mashunald Salisbury” (1 ex. SAMC). – South Africa: “Gauteng, RAU system, Germiston Lake 12.8. 1997 Reavell” (1 ex. AMGS); “Natal Umlazi R. 19.9. 1962” (1 ex. AMGS); “Kw. Natal S, Port Shepstone 20 km W, 2.2. 2000 Halada leg.” (1 ex. NMW); “Kw. Natal, Barringtonia Swamp For., Amotikela Nat. Res., 24.2. 1991 Reavell” (1 ex. AMGS); “Natal, Durban, Stamford Hill Umgeni Trägårdh leg. / L. contiro Guign. det. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. MZLU); “ECPR. St. Johns 16.2. 1956 JOC. / L. contiro Guign. det. Omer-Cooper” (6 exs. AMGS); “ECPr. 6 km S of port of St Johns, outside Silaka Nature Res., pond, S31°38.862, E29°30.551, alt. 90 m 26-27.1. 2005 Bergsten leg.” (4 exs. NHRS); “EC, East London, Gorncie Park, coastal pond 18.3. 1955” (2 exs. AMGS); “EC., Pond on Hwy 344 at Adelaide 17.5. 2005 Challet” (3 exs. CGC, 1 ex. MZH); “EC, Groot R., Humansdorp 19.2. 1947 JOC.” (11 exs. AMGS).
Dorsal colour pattern of L. contiro is variable. Extremes are represented by specimens with almost totally confluent dark, longitudinal lines of elytra (dark lines only discernible posterior to middle) or specimens with separate dark, longitudinal lines. Fortunately penis is quite characteristic, the apex being “harpoon-shaped”, and this character distinguishes L. contiro from all other Laccophilus species. Morphological variation is still quite extensive and further study will reveal if L. contiro must be split up in different species.
Body length 3.5–3.9 mm, width 1.9–2.1 mm. Elytral colour pattern variable; separate, dark, longitudinal areas almost absent because merged to larger dark areas, or elytral colour pattern consists of distinct longitudinal, dark areas, which sometimes are reduced (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, dense and irregular punctures. Area of punctures extended towards middle of head-disc but they are not connected. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but difference in delimitation of size classes very small; in part hardly discernible. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 2–5 fine meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, frontally and basally in middle with a distinct blackish to dark ferrugineous area. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation quite distinctly double; large meshes contain generally 2–5 small meshes. Almost impunctate. At margins, except basally in middle, with fine, sparse and scattered punctures.
Elytra: Colour pattern variable. Dark elytral lines, to a variable degree discernible; sometimes distinct and sometimes almost absent (Figs
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, prosternum paler, pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny; scattered very fine, in part indistinct microsculpture may be discerned. Metacoxal plates with approximately 10 shallow and transversely placed furrows. Base of abdomen with curved striae. Prosternal process rather slender, apex somewhat extended and pointed. Apical ventrite with a lateral, sharp knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat extended, provided with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite broad; from base to apex slightly curved. Extreme apex broad, only slightly extended (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, somewhat extended. Apical ventrite lacks knob (Fig.
Sudan, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Cameroon, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Namibia, Zimbabwe, South Africa (Fig.
Label data gives limited information on ecological preferences; collected in pools, streams and swamps and sometimes at light. Literature data are considered rather poor.
The Ivory Coast: Man.
(63 exs.): Holotype: male: “Ivory Coast Man 14–21.10. 1973 R. Linnavuori” (MZH; habitus in Fig.
L.accophilus inconstans is especially characterized by small body, by extensively black coloured elytra with minor and somewhat variable, pale ferrugineous markings and peculiar penis. Laccophilus inconstans resembles quite much L. conjunctus, from which it can be distinguished by slightly smaller body and by examination of penis; in lateral aspect penis curved, quite broad and extreme apex extends to an almost square-like process (corresponding apical process in L. conjunctus is distinctly smaller).
Body length 3.1–3.2 mm, width 1.7–1.8 mm. Elytral colour pattern variable; sometimes with quite extensive basal pale marking; sometimes pale markings strongly reduced (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, head sometimes a little darker posteriorly. Impunctate, except at eyes with fine, irregular punctures. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but size-classes of meshes difficult to separate because difference between them is often minimal. When discernible, large meshes may contain 3–6 small meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Basally in middle with distinct, blackish to dark ferrugineous spot. Anteriorly, with a somewhat vague, dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous spot. Impunctate, except anteriorly, where very fine, irregular punctures may be discerned. Slightly mat, microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes generally discernible; may contain 3–6 fine meshes.
Elytra: Black to dark ferrugineous, with variable pale ferrugineous markings (Figs
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Prothorax pale ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Shiny, indistinctly microsculptured; in part microsculpture lacking. Basal ventrites with fine, slightly curved striae. Metacoxal plates with some ten shallow, in part indistinct furrows, which are mostly transversely located. Apical ventrite asymmetric; on one side with a small knob (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis slightly curved, quite broad and ends in a distinct, square-like process (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite simple, no lateral knob (Fig.
The name inconstans is a Latin adjective that here refers to the highly variable appearance of the elytra.
Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon (Fig.
In Cameroon collected with light in secondary forest and plantation. From Nigeria label data give that the species has been collected in a meander pool in shallow water and in a stream.
Laccophilus grammicus
Ethiopia: Abyssinia.
(3 exs.). Lectotype (by present desgination): male: “Type 569 / Type / Abyssinia / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / L. grammicus sp. n. Abyssinia” (BMNH). – Paralecotytpes: “569 / Co-type / Abyssinia/Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / Laccophilus grammicus Shp Co-type”(1 female ex. BMNH); “Co-type / Abyss. Raffray / Abyssinia A. Raffray / Laccophilus grammicus Shp Co-type”(1 male ex. BMNH).
(16 exs.). Ethiopia: “Stream W of Zaguala 6000 ft. 27.10. 1926 JOC.” (5 exs. AMGS); “Abyss. Raffr. / L. grammicus Shp det. M. Brancucci” (3 exs. NHMB); “Tigray Province ca. 20 km E Axum 2000 m 17.4. 2006 leg. Wewalka” (4 exs. CGW; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus grammicus resembles a number of species in the same species group and can therefore be difficult to identify solely using external features as appearance of body colour pattern. The species is, however, easily separated by examination of male genitalia; penis in apical half tapers gradually towards apex; in lateral aspect, penis very strongly curved.
Body length 4.1–4.3 mm, width 2.2–2.4 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body distinct and quite uniform (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double: number of fine meshes in one large mesh varies from 2–5. In part, double reticulation weakly developed and rather indistinct: fine and large meshes difficult to distinguish. At eyes and medially from eyes towards middle of head finely and sparsely punctured. Head extensively impunctate.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; mediobasally with narrow blackish ferrugineous marking. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double: large meshes contain 2–6 fine meshes. At margins with irregular, sparse row of fine punctures. At base, row of punctures in part absent.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct blackish to dark ferrugineous, longitudinal markings, which are in part reduced basally, slightly posterior to middle and apically (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Very finely microsculptured; in part fine reticulation indistinct or absent. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with shallow, transversely located, in part rather indistinct furrows. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Apical ventrite with sharp knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus quite long, slightly enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in apical half tapers rather evenly and gradually towards apex; in lateral aspect, penis very strongly curved (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite lacks sharp knob (Fig.
Ethiopia, Eritrea (Fig.
Collected at high altitudes (
Laccophilus flavoscriptus
Laccophilus flavosignatus
Laccophilus flavoscriptus: Zaire: Matadi.
Laccophilus flavosignatus: Gabon.
(29 exs.). Laccophilus flavoscriptus: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Congo belge Matadi / male symbol / Cotype / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
Laccophilus flavosignatus: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Gabon Mocquerys /male symbol / Cotype” (MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(1 ex.): Gabon: “Ogové River leg. A. C. Good” (1 ex. CSR).
Comment on synonymy: Study of type material of the two involved taxa and designation of lectotypes for them proved us that that earlier established synonymy was correct.
Laccophilus flavoscriptus externally resembles a number of species as L. necopinus, L. conjunctus, L. adjutor and L. lineatus, on the basis of dorsal colour pattern of body. Elytral colour pattern is variable in this group of resembling species; variation appears from almost entirely dark to pale with rather distinct, dark, longitudinal markings. For identification of L. flavoscriptus, fortunately, the penis is very characteristic; apical half of penis is evenly broad and evenly curved towards abrupt apex of penis.
Body length 3.5–3.8 mm, width 1.9–2.1 mm. Body with variable dorsal colour pattern (see below).
Head: Pale ferrugineous, close to pronotum often slightly darker. Submat, finely, microsculptured; reticulation double but large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Sometimes large meshes strongly reduced and only discernible as fragments of meshes. Almost impunctate; at eyes finer punctures may be discerned.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous with mediofrontal and -basal dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous areas, delimitation of which are vague. Sometimes dark markings almost black to blackish ferrugineous. Submat, reticulation double. Meshes of large reticulation fine; in general one mesh contains 3–5 small meshes. Almost impunctate. Very fine, sparse punctures may be discerned frontally and laterally.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with variable dark ferrugineous to blackish colour pattern; elytra sometimes almost entirely dark, sometimes with more or less distinct, longitudinal, pale lines and a basal, pale, transverse area (Figs
Ventral aspect: Blackish to dark ferrugineous, prothorax pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny to slightly mat, very finely microsculptured. Basal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Apex of prosternal process somewhat extended, slender, pointed. Metacoxal plates in anterior half with very fine, transversely located, shallow furrows; in posterior half furrows almost absent. Apical ventrite asymmetric; on one side with a subbasal minute tubercle (Fig.
Legs: Protarsus slender, claws moderately curved. Pro- and mesotarsus with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect, long, slightly curved and almost evenly broad from base to apex; extreme apex almost unmodified (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite (Fig.
Gabon, Zaire (Fig.
Almost unknown. In Ethiopia collected at high altitude (ca. 5500 ft. = ca. 1672 m) (
Laccophilus burgeoni
Laccophilus wittei
Laccophilus burgeoni: Zaire: de Kindu.
Laccophilus wittei: Zaire: PNU, Riv. Difiringi.
(5 exs.). Laccophilus burgeoni: Holotype: female: “Type Gschw. / Musée du Congo K. 300 de Kindu 14.V. 1911 L. Burgeon / Col. Gschwendtner / L. burgeoni Gschw. det. Gschwendtner / Type” (OLML).
Laccophilus wittei: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo belge PNU Difirinji affl. g. Lufira (700 m) 27-IV-1949 Mis. G.F. de Witte 2732a / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I.P.N.C.B.) / Laccophilus wittei Guign. Type, male symbol / Guignot det. 1952 Laccophilus wittei Guign. Type, male symbol” (MRAC). – Paratypes, males: “Congo belge: PNU Ganza pr., r. Kamandula (860 m) saline, 1-VI-1949 Mis. G.F, de Witte, 2648a / Paratype / F. Guignot det., 1953 Laccophilus wittei sp. n. / R.I.Sc.N.B. I.G. 24.054” (1 ex. IRSNB; habitus in Fig.
(80 exs.). Nigeria: “River 3,5 mi. from Jos on Kaduna rd. 13.IV. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Trib. R. Gagere en rte Zaria-Katsina 5.10. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Dam, Vom?, Jos Plateau 11.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream at Assob 36 mi. from Jos 13.IV. 1963 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “R. Kaduna 4,5 mi. from Jos 13.IV. 1963 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Stream, escarpment Jos-Wambe rd. 13.IV. 1963 JOC.” (17 exs. AMGS); “Plateau Prov. Jos 14-17.3. 1949 Malkin leg. / Muddy running stream, gravel bottom” (38 exs. BMNH, 5 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Holotypes of L. burgeoni and L. wittei have been examined and compared. Minor difference is present in appearance of dorsal colour pattern but at least for the time being this is considered a case of ordinary variation within one species. L. burgeoni, being the older name is the valid name of the species.
Laccophilus burgeoni resembles much of L. lineatus. The two species are generally distinguished by differences in appearance of external colour pattern and by study of male genitalia. In L. burgeoni dark markings of pronotum are generally restricted to a narrow basal area and very rarely to a vague anterior marking (in L. lineatus both anterior and posterior dark markings of pronotum are distinct). Apex of penis in L. lineatus is shaped as a distinct knob while corresponding feature in L. burgeoni is absent or at most developed to a minor knob.
Body length 3.6–3.8 mm, width 1.9–2.2 mm. Habitus and dorsal colour pattern; exhibit some variation.
Head: pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although finely reticulated. Double reticulation fine but clearly discernible; large meshes contain two to six small meshes. At eyes with fine punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Medially, at foremargin with vague, slightly darker area (area sometimes hardly discernible). Medially, at base with distinct but narrow, dark ferrugineous marking. Rather shiny, although finely reticulated. Reticulation partly double. Larger meshes contain two to nine small meshes. At margins with fine and irregular punctures, except basally in middle; impunctate.
Elytra: Colour pattern variable. Pale ferrugineous, with blackish to dark ferrugineous markings. Rarely, some specimens have slightly broader longitudinal lines, in part touching each other or than dark markings anteriorly on elytra are totally lacking (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, sometimes with vague, lateral, somewhat darker areas. Rather shiny, with very fine, in part hardly visible microsculpture. Abdomen with very fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Transversely on metacoxal plates located, shallow furrows discernible but weakly developed and in part reduced. Prosternal process slender, apex extended and pointed. Metacoxal process not modified. Apical ventrite with sublateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, provided with suckers. Claws of pro- and mesotarsus slightly extended, moderately curved.
Male: Genitalia: Penis quite long and somewhat twisted; extreme apex extended to a minor, hardly discernible knob; smetimes knob reduced and absent (Figs
Female: Apical ventrite lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Nigeria, Zaire, Uganda, Tanzania (Fig.
Very little information on ecology is available.
Laccophilus lineatus
Laccophilus brevicollis
Laccophilus lineatus: Mauritius: Ile de France. [Comment: according to
Laccophilus brevicollis: South Africa: Cape of Good Hope.
(4 exs.). Laccophilus lineatus: Holotype: female: “Laccophilus lineatus Aubé, irroratus var., h. ad Cap. Bosp. n., D. Westerman / Data in NHRS JLKB 000030277 / Ex.-Museo Dejean / lineatus Aubé type = brevicollis Shp type / Dr. Régimbart vidit 1893 / Laccophilus brevicollis / D. Sharp Monogr. / coll. Oberthur” (MNHN).
Laccophilus brevicollis: Lectotype (by present designation): female: “Type / S. Africa / Type 570 Laccophilus brevicollis sp. n. Grahamstown / Sharp Coll. 1905-313 / Laccophilus lineatus Aubé J. Balfour-Browne det.” (BMNH; habitus in Fig.
(1316 exs.). Tanzania: “Tanganyika Nis(?)pasa R. 35 mi. from Mbeya on Tunduma rd. 14.10. 1948 JOC.” (4 exs. AMGS); “Tanganyika, small stream Rungwe 8.10. 1948 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Tanganyika Mbeya-Tunduma rd. 4.10. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS). – Angola: Ongueria Ca. 5300 ft. 12.6. 1954 / Side pools above waterfall” (1 ex. BMNH). – Malawi: “Nysld, mountain stream Dedza 29.9. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Dedza dam on lower Lilongwe rd 29.9. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Nysld Zombo Plateau, reservoir 7.11. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Nysld R. Diedma Lilongwe rd.30.9. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Nakwa Distr. 18. Oct. 1948 J.O-C.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Fort Hill, Yambe Stream 5.10. 1948 JOC” (3 exs. AMGS); “Balaka env. 5-6.1. 2002 Bezdek leg.” (1 ex. NMPC); “Selima env. 5-8.1. 2002 60 km E Lilongwe Kantner leg.” (1 ex. NHMB). – Namibia: “Namib Mt. Naukluft Riv. 24.16S-16.15E / 10.8. 1989 shore washing, river, Endrödy & Klimaszew leg, E-Y: 2644” (48 exs. TMSA, 5 exs. MZH; habitus in 498); same data but “Naukluft camp / 11.8. 1989 flowering bushes” (1 ex. TMSA); “Namib-Naukluft NP, 24.15.78S, 16.14.08E, Naukluft R., Phragmites grass + leaf litter, shore washing + sieving Uhlig” (2 exs. MZH, 1 ex. NMNW); “SWA Bullspoort Strey / L. lineatus Aubé det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. TMSA). – Zimbabwe: “S. Rhodesia stream of Salisbury” (1 ex. AMGS); “Mavhuradonha wilderness area 180 km N Harare 18.12. 1998 Kantner leg.” (1 ex. NMPC). – Mozambique: “Niassa Prov. Cmimulimuli Riv. S12°11.520’, E34°42.288’ Watson 10.2. 2008” (3 exs. CGF); “Niassa Prov. S12°26’, E34°42'24.4”, Stream 2 N of Nkwichi Lodge 31.3. 2009 Watson leg.” (1 ex. CGF). – South Africa: “Johannesburg Zumpt V. 1949” (1 ex. MNHN); “Johannesburg XI. 1950 leg. Zumpt” (1 ex. MNHN); “Johnsbg. Cookes Stream T. 13.10. 1901” (2 exs. TMSA); “Johannesburg, Bloubank Riv. 15.10. 1982 Bilardo / L. lineatus Aubé det. Bilardo” (2 exs. CSR); “Trsvl n. e. Mcapaan’s Port / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
“Stream forest nr. Mngesha ? 24.2. 1926” (1 ex. AMGS).
Holotype of L. lineatus and lectotype of L. brevicollis have been compared and found to be conspecific; earlier synonymy is herewith confirmed.
Laccophilus lineatus resembles most of all of L. burgeoni. The two species are distinguished by study of the male genitalia; penis apically with a small but distinct knob/process in L. lineatus while corresponding knob is reduced to a minor extension or it is absent in L. burgeoni.
Body length 3.7–4.0 mm, width 2.0–2.2 mm. Dorsal colour pattern of body fairly uniform, exhibits only some modest variation from its ground plan.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes contain generally 2–5 small meshes. Small meshes sometimes weakly developed and hardly discernible. Impunctate, except at eyes; with some scattered, irregularly distributed, small punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Medio-frontally and –basally with a distinct, blackish to dark ferrugineous marking. Slightly mat, microsculptured. Reticulation double; small meshes sometimes indistinct, hardly discernible. Large meshes may contain 2–5 small meshes. Laterally and frontally, with fine, often rather indistinct, scattered punctures.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct blackish- to dark ferrugineous, longitudinal markings. Sometimes dark longitudinal lines in part confluent, forming a larger dark area (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, prothorax slightly paler; pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured; in part reticulation indistinct. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Prosternal process fairly slender, apex extended, pointed. Metacoxa in anterior half with more or less transverse, shallow furrows, a part of which are mixed and reduced. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with one, small, lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, extended, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspec slightly twisted; extreme apex extended to a small but distinct process (Figs
Female: Externally as male but pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lacks asymmetric, lateral knob (Fig.
Tanzania, Angola, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho (Fig.
Detailed information is lacking. Label data indicate that the species has been collected in pools and puddles at streams, often with weed. The species has also been sampled from gravel pits, dams and a boggy pond. Some records are from mountain areas up to ca. 7500 ft. a. s. l. The species has also been sampled at light collection. Some additional information on ecology may be yielded from
Central African Republic: Bozo.
(1 ex.). Holotype, male: “Bozo (lum.) XI. 1981 / R. Centr. Afr. N. Degallier” (NHMB; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus brancuccii resembles most of dark specimens of L. contiro but it is separated externally from this species by smaller body. Moreover, distinct differences in shape of penis apex separate the two species; penis of L. contiro is almost straight and almost evenly broad while penis of L. brancuccii is slightly curved and medially slightly expanded.
Body length 3.5 mm, width 2.0 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body distinct (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous; at pronotum head slightly darker but change to darker colour is gradual. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Larger meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes contain 3–5 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes, with fine, irregular punctures, the area of which extends for a short distance towards middle of head-disc.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, at base and frontally in middle with a fairly broad blackish to dark ferrugineous marking. Submat, finely and densely microsculptured. Large meshes somewhat more strongly developed than fine meshes; large meshes contain 2–5 fine meshes. Impunctate, except frontally and laterally; with very fine to fine, irregular punctures.
Elytra: Blackish ferrugineous with rather limited pale ferrugineous colour pattern; humeral region with 2–3 small, pale spots, Posterior to middle with an irregular, transverse, pale marking, interrupted narrowly at suture. Apically, with some irregular, rather small, pale spots (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish to dark ferrugineous, prothorax paler. Rather shiny although in part very finely microsculptured. Basal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Impunctate, except for some fine punctures apically on abdomen. Apical ventrite broken (one lateral part is lost), as in Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus somewhat enlarged, with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite broad, from base to middle almost straight, medially bent and slightly enlarged. Extreme apex broad, weakly pronounced (Fig.
Female: Unknown.
The name is a noun in its genitive form based on the name of the late Dr. Michel Brancucci, Basel, Switzerland, who kindly provided a large material of African Laccophilus for this revision, including the holotype of the new species. During the years Brancucci worked intensively with the taxonomy of the genus Laccophilus and the tribe Laccophilini.
Central African Republic, only known from the type locality (Fig.
Almost unknown, collected with light.
Cameroon: Subd. Bétaré-Oya, Bindiba.
(2 exs.). Holotype: male: “Fr. Cameroons, Bindiba, subd. Bétaré-Oya 19-22.vii. 1949 B. Malkin / Running water, muddy over gravel / Brit. Mus. 1956-234” (BMNH; habitus in Fig.
(non-type). Cameroon: “Foumbot Fev. 67 / Cameroun B. de Miré”. [Comment: only male genitalia left on a label while glued specimen is lost. The male genitalia are identical with those of the holotype.]
Laccophilus incomptus resembles a number of species placed in species group 13 (lineatus group) and characterized by generally distinct, longitudinal markings on elytra. The new species is possibly closest related to L. flavoscriptus, which has an evenly broad and curved penis, extreme apex being almost unmodified. Penis of L. incomptus in lateral aspect is plain, exhibiting hardly any modifications; basally quite broad and almost straight, medially bended and towards apex penis slightly tapers to a broad, truncate end.
Body length 3.6–3.9 mm, width 2.0–2.2 mm. Body dorsally with distinct, somewhat variable colour pattern. Base of elytra with complete dark area or corresponding dark area divided into a few, variable spots (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Posteriorly at pronotum with a vague, slightly darker area. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes of microsculpture slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. In lateral areas of head size categories of microsculpture gradually disappears. Large meshes, when discernible, contain 2–5 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes, with fine, irregular punctures. Area of punctures extends towards centre of head-disc.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Anteriorly on area between eyes with a vague, dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous area. At base in middle, with a narrow and distinct dark brownish area. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, large meshes contain 2–5 small meshes. Impunctate, except at margins; fine, scattered punctures discernible except at base in middle.
Elytra: Pale ferrugineous, with distinct, somewhat variable, dark ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous except prothorax, pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny, finely microsculptured. Ventrites with fine, slightly curved striae. Metacoxal plates with about 10 almost transversely located, shallow furrows; in part furrows reduced and indistinct. Plates laterally close to epipleura with a distinct, longitudinal impression. Prosternal process slender, posteriorly slightly extended, apically pointed. Impunctate, except apical ventrite; with some fine, scattered punctures and an asymmetric, fine knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect is plain, exhibiting hardly any modifications; basally quite broad and almost straight, medially bended and towards apex penis slightly tapers to a broad, truncate end (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite lacks asymmetric knob (Fig.
The species name incomptus is a Latin adjective meaning “unadorned”. It here refers to the simple shape of aedeagus, which seems to be a characteristic feature of the new species.
Cameroon (Fig.
According to collecting label associated to the specimens, the new species L. incomptus was sampled in running water, the bottom obviously gravel and covered with mud.
Laccophilus secundus
Laccophilus torquatus
Laccophilus secundus: Zaire: Boma.
Laccophilus torquatus: Zaire: Kivu, Kavimvira (Uvira).
(21 exs.). Laccophilus secundus: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Congo belge Boma / male symbol / Cotype” (MNHN). – Paralectotypes: “Gabon Mocquerys / female symbol / Cotype” (1 ex. MNHN); same data as preceding, but additionally labelled “Museum Paris Coll. Maurice Régimbart / secundus Rég.” (4 exs. MNHN).
Laccophilus torquatus: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / I.R.S.A.C. –Mus. Congo Kivu: Kavimvira (Uvira) (à la lumière) IX/X-1954 G. Marlier / Type male / F. Guignot det., 1955 Laccophilus torquatus sp. n. Type male” (MRAC). – Paratypes: Same sampling data as in holotype but labelled as “Paratype / R. DET. 6777” (7 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. IRSNB); same sampling data but “XII-1954” (1 ex. IRSNB, 1 ex. AMGS; status as paratype uncertain); “Soudan Egyptien Roseires (Ht Nil Bleu) Ch. Alluaud 1906 / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Ethiop. Merid. Bourié, Bord de la Riv. Omo 600 m / Mission de l’Omo / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Senegal IFAN – 1948 Tianaga / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Afrique Orient. Angl. Kisoumou Baie Kavirondo Ch. Alluaud 1909 / Paratype” (1 ex. MNHN).
(233 exs.). Sudan: “Minkammon 31,31E, 6,2N, 16-17.1. 1954 JJOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “1 mi. from Tali Post 5,53N, 30,47E 14.1. 1954 JJOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Tombe 17.1. 1954 JJOC.” (3 exs. AMGS); “R. Lau at Payii 7 mi. west of Yirol 17.I. 1954 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “L. Nyibor 25.I. 1954 JJOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “L. Nyibor II. 1954 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS); “Tombe 17.1. 1954 JJOC.” (5 exs. AMGS); “L. Baya 6.II. 1954 JOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Khor Gwaar 31,34E, 5,7N, 17.1. 1954 JJOC.” (1 ex. AMGS); “Upper Nile Malakal 5-20.1. 1963 Linnavuori“ (3 exs. MZH). – Ethiopia: “Bahar Dar, at light 4.4.1967 P. Stys leg.” (1 ex. NMPC). – Benin: “Dep. Mono, Lakossa, Doukonta (village) 2.2.2006 leg. Goergen, Komarek & Hounguè / 06°40'21,3"N, 01°41'33,5"E, ca. 40 m asl, very slowly running stream” (1 ex. NMW, 1 ex. MZH); “Dep. Atlantique, Glotomè (village) 1.2. 2006 leg. Goergen, Komarek & Hounguè / 06°41'06,8"N, 02°02'36,8"E, 17 m asl, slowly running stream” (1 ex. NMW). – Nigeria: “Ondo Prov. Akure 30.1.1949 Malkin / muddy pool, gravelly bottom” (1 ex. BMNH). – Cameroon: “Matute, Tiko Plantation 24.4.-6.5. 1949 Malkin / at light” (1 ex. BMNH); “Dimako 12-13.6. 1973 Linnavuori” (2 exs. MZH). – Gabon: “Ogové Riv., Good leg.” (1 ex. CSR); “Makokou 1-14.5. 1975 Mateu / L. secundus Régb. det. Hájek” (4 exs. NHMB); “Makokou 1-30.IV. 1971 Mateu light / L. secundus Rég. det. Brancucci” (5 exs. NHMB). – Central African Republic: “Bozo 21.5. 1981 / Degallier” (1 ex. NHMB); Bozo 12. 1981 / Degallier” (1 ex. NHMB). – Congo: “Rep. pop., Plateau Koukouya, Lekana 9.4. 80 Onore” (1 ex CSR); same data but “4. 1980 (stagno soleggiata in savana)” (3 exs. NHMB); same data but “m. 850” (1 ex. NHMB); “Voka prés de Boko I / 1980 Onore / L. secundus Régb. det. Pederzani” (1 ex. NHMB). – Zaire: Same sampling data as paratypes above, except “6. 1955” (2 exs. IRSNB); “PNG II/fd/13, 5.5. 1952 De Saeger 3421” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG PpK.51/g/9, 2.4. 1952 De Saeger 3272” (10 exs. MRAC, 3 exs. MZH); “PNG II/fd/12, 10.3. 1952 De Saeger 3180”(3 exs. MRAC); “PNG II/fd/12, 6.3. 1952 De Saeger 3886” (1 ex. NHMB); “PNG II/gd/8, 10.4. 1952 De Saeger 3316” (1 ex. MRAC); “PNG II/fd/14s, 3.4. 1952 De Saeger 3278” (2 exs. MRAC); “PNG II/fd/14, 28.1. 1952 De Saeger 3061” (1 ex. MRAC); “Tshuapa Bamanya 1968 P. Hulstaert” (1 ex. MRAC); “Kivu Kavimvira (Uvira), à la lumière 10. 1955 Marlier” (1 ex. MRAC); same data but “9-10. 1954” (1 ex. MNHN); same data but “12. 1954” (3 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH, 2 exs. NHMB; habitus in Fig.
Lectotype of L. secundus and holotype of L. torquatus have been examined and compared. Male genitalia of both taxa are identical but elytral colour pattern exhibits a clear difference. The appearance of elytra is, however, variable and there is a series of intermediates between two extremes. Accordingly, it seems clear the two species are conspecific. Laccophilus secundus is the valid name of the species, being the older one of the two available names.
The peculiar shape of penis in combination with small-medium sized body and blackish elytra with pale markings separates L. secundus from all other African Laccophilus species, except of L. australis sp. n. Penis of L. secundus is delicate, almost straight and extreme apex strongly bent forming a minor lateral extension. Penis of L. australis is slightly larger and apical extension, distinctly longer.
Body length 3.0–3.4 mm, width 1.6–1.9 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body variable between extremes (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes in part reduced and difficult to discern; when discernible they may contain 3–7 small meshes. Almost impunctate except at eyes, with dense and irregularly distributed fine punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; basally in middle often with a distinct, blackish area. Rather shiny, although densely and finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but large meshes in part reduced and only slightly more strongly developed than fine meshes. When discernible, large meshes may contain 3–9 small meshes. Frontally and laterally, with fine irregular punctures.
Elytra: Blackish to blackish ferrugineous with variable, pale ferrugineous markings. At base with a single, humeral, pale spot, which sometimes is replaced by two or three small, pale spots, which form a subbasal, transverse area. Posterior to elytra-middle and apically with slightly vague, variable, pale markings, which sometimes can be rather indistinct. (Figs
Ventral aspect: Blackish to dark ferrugineous, prothorax and apex of abdomen paler, ferruginous. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Microsculpture in part reduced and missing. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process rather slender, apex slightly extended and pointed. Basal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Metacoxal plates with about 10 shallow and transversely located furrows. Apical ventrite assymmetric; on one side with a minute knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, basally with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect almost straight, extreme apex strongly bent and formed as a small, short and truncate extension (Figs
Female: Externally resembles male but apical ventrite lacks knob, almost symmetric (Figs
Sudan, Ethiopia, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Gabon, Congo, Zaire, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa (Fig.
Label data indicate that the species has been collected in a slowly running stream. Moreover, the species is reported from a muddy pool with gravel bottom. Often recorded at light collection. Some information on ecology is available in
South Africa: Zululand, Mission Rock, St. Lucia.
(20 exs.). Holotype: male: “S. Afr., Zululand, St. Lucia, Mission Rock / 18.12. 1975; E-Y: 983 at black light leg. Endrödy-Younga” (TMSA; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus australis is characterized by colour pattern of body-dorsal-aspect, by its double reticulation on head and elytra, large meshes of which have almost disappeared by reduction and by peculiar shaped penis apex; apex truncate with distinct lateral extension. Externally it resembles of L. secundus and in part also of L. luctuosus (a species placed in an own species group 15). Penis apex extension longer in L. australis, in comparsion with L. secundus. See also diagnosis of L. luctuosus (p. 236).
Body length 3.4–3.6 mm, width 1.9–2.0 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body exhibits some variation.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely and quite densely microsculptured. Reticulation double, but large meshes extensively, strongly reduced and hardly discernible. Almost impunctate; at eyes comparatively extensively with fine, irregular punctures. Areas of punctures extended towards middle of head-disc, forming a puncture row, however, medially very sparse.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, basally in middle with a vague blackish to dark ferrugineous marking. At margins except basally in middle with fine, sparse and irregular punctures; otherwise pronotum impunctate. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Large meshes only slightly more strongly developed than small meshes. Large meshes contain 2–5 small meshes.
Elytra: Blackish to blackish ferrugineous, with rather distinct but somewhat variable pale ferrugineous markings. Colour pattern consists of a slightly uneven, transverse, pale ferrugineous marking located close to elytral base. Post-medially with variable, longitudinal pale spots (Figs
Ventral aspect: Blackish to blackish ferrugineous, posteriorly on abdomen slightly paler; dark ferrugineous. Prothorax pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny to submat; finely microsculptured but reticulation partially reduced, absent. Ventrites with fine, slightly curved striae. Apical ventrite asymmetric, provided with a small, sharp knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly extended, enlarged and provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis larger than in L. secundus. In lateral aspect penis straight and extreme apex with a distinct lateral extension (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite symmetric, lacks lateral knob (Fig.
The species name australis is a Latin adjective meaning “southern”. It refers to the location from where the new species was first detected, i.e. South Africa. Later on the new species was also recorded from more northern sites in Malawi and Tanzania.
Tanzania, Malawi, South Africa (Fig.
Flight-capable; sampled at UV and black light collection. In Kwazulu Natal sampled in a Papyrus swamp.
Diagnosis. Small to medium sized species, length of body 3.4–3.8 mm, width 1.9–2.1 mm.
Shape of body oval; body dorsoventrally flattened. Elytra with extensive dark ferrugineous to blackish marking. Basally often with an irregular, transverse pale marking which is broken narrowly at suture. Posterior to middle with somewhat vague, longitudinal pale ferrugineous markings. Apically with vague pale area. Rarely pale markings on elytra reduced to some small, pale spots. (Figs
Prosternal process rather slender, apex somewhat extended, apically pointed. Apical ventrite of male provided with asymmetrical knob on one side of ventrite (Fig.
Paramere rather simple; apically somewhat enlarged (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. One species is recognized in this species group. The species is distributed in central parts of Africa, south of Sahara.
Laccophilus desintegratus
Laccophilus gutticollis
Laccophilus sanguinosus
Laccophilus desintegratus: Zaire: Loango interior, Ht Quilou.
Laccophilus gutticollis: Gabon: Montagnes de Cristal.
Laccophilus sanguinosus: Gabon: Montagnes de Cristal.
(13 exs.). Laccophilus desintegratus: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Loango int. Ht Quilou / male symbol / Cotype / Laccophilus desintegratus Rég. cotype” (MNHN). – Paralectotypes: “Loango int. Ht Quilou / female symbol / Cotype / Laccophilus desintegratus Rég. cotype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Loango interior Haut Quilou Mocquerys 1893 / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
Laccophilus gutticollis: Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Mts de Cristal Mocquerys / male symbol / Cotype / Laccophilus gutticollis Rég. Cotype” (MNHN). – Paralectotypes: “Mts de Cristal Mocquerys / male symbol / Cotype / Laccophilus gutticollis Rég. Cotype” (1 ex. MNHN); “Mts de Cristal Mocquerys / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
Laccophilus sanguinosus: Holotype: female: “Mts de Cristal Benito Gabon / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
(12 exs.). Central African Republic: “Zomea pres de Mbaiki 29-31.12. 1980 Onore” (2 exs. NHMB). – Gabon: “Bissok 9.8. 1991 Bilardo leg.” (1 ex. NHMW); “Ovan chutes Mingouli 13.8. 1992 Bilardo leg. / L. desintegratus Rég. det. Rocchi 1994” (1 ex. CSR); “Makokou-Riv. Ivindo, Chutes Kongou 16.8. 2002 Bilardo /L. desintegratus Régb. det. Rocchi 2003” (1 ex. CSR); “Makokou F. Ivindo 26.8. 1987 Bilardo / L. desintegratus gutticollis Rég. det. Bilardo 1988” (1 ex. MSNM); “Makokou 7.8. 1983 Bilardo” (1 ex. MSNM); “Res. Lopé-Okanda, milieu de savane 1.2. 1986 Bilardo / L. desintegratus Rég. det. Bilardo” (2 exs. MSNM); “Cap Esterias 31.7. 1973 Bilardo & Pederzani” (2 exs. NHMB; habitus in Fig.
Lectotypes and holotype of the three involved species have been examined and compared. Despite clear differences in dorsal colour pattern of body, the three taxa undoubtedly are conspecific. Ground plan of colour pattern is similar in the morphs. Shape of penis is identical. All three were originally introduced in the same publication so the rule of age-preference is irrelevant. We chose L. desintegratus as the valid name for the species.
Colour pattern of body variable in L. desintegratus. The species is especially characterized by its peculiar penis in combination with uniform, simple microsculpture on dorsal aspect of body. Penis in lateral aspect slightly sinuate; towards apex, penis distinctly expands into an extensive enlargement; apex broadly truncate.
Body length 3.4–3.8 mm, width 1.9–2.1 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern of body variable.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, posteriorly, sometimes somewhat darker. Submat, finely and evenly microsculptured; reticulation simple, uniform and consists of small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, slightly irregular punctures; areas of punctures extend towards centre of head.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and basally in middle with vague darker areas. In dark morph, pronotum almost totally dark, blackish ferrugineous with limited, small, pre-lateral, pale markings. Submat, finely and evenly microsculptured; reticulation simple, uniform; consists of small meshes. Impunctate, except anteriorly and laterally; with fine and somewhat irregular, sparse punctures. Medio-basally punctures very fine, hardly discernible.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous, with distinctly delimited pale ferrugineous, slightly variable markings. Elytra at base often with transverse, pale area. In dark morph, basal, pale markings missing. With pale, longitudinal stripes posterior to middle. (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, without distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured. Ventrites with fine, slightly curved striae. Almost impunctate. Prosternal process rather slender, apex somewhat extended, pointed. Metacoxal plates with some fine, transversely located, shallow furrows; furrows located to anterior half of plate. Apical ventrite on one side with a sharp knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotsarsus slightly enlarged, with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect slightly sinuate; towards apex it grows distinctly into an extensive enlargement; apex broadly truncate (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, not distinctly enlarged. Apical ventrite simple (Fig.
Central African Republic, Gabon, Congo, Zaire (Fig.
Often associated with forests (
Diagnosis. Rather small to medium sized species; length of body 3.2–3.6 mm, width 1.7–2.0 mm.
Body shape oval; body dorsoventrally flattened. Recognized species with dark (dark ferrugineous to blackish) elytra, provided with distinct pale ferrugineous markings; a basal, transverse marking and posteriorly on elytra with variable, pale spots or longitudinally placed stripes (Figs
Prosternal process slender, posteriorly extended, apically pointed. Apical ventrite modified; posterior edge on both side of midline excavated and medial part forms a backwards extending process. Apical ventrite of male provided with asymmetrical knob on one side of ventrite (Fig.
Paramere apically distinctly enlarged. Penis robust, simply slightly curved but not undulate, apically provided with strong process (Figs
Species composition and distribution. One species occurring in Madagascar, is recognized in this species group.
Laccophilus luctuosus
Madagascar.
(1 ex.): Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Type / Madagascar / Sharp Coll. 1905–313 / Type 614 Laccophilus luctuosus” (BMNH).
(88). Madagascar: “Ampamoho nr Andilamena, 1200-1300 m a.s.l., 18-20.1. 1995 Dunay & Janák leg.” (4 exs. NMW, 1 ex. MZH); “5 km S Ampamoho nr Andilamena, 950-1000 m Dunay & Janak leg.” (1 ex. NMW); same data but “foret humide 18-20.1. 1995 lux” (2 exs. ZMHB); “Ambatombe, near Andilamena 900 m a.s.l., 17.1. 1995 Dunay & Janák leg.” (17 exs. NMW, 4 exs. MZH; habitus in 503-504); “E Sakahara, Manindray 30.1. 1995 700-800 m Dunay & Janak leg.” (1 ex. NMW); “Manindray, W Sakahara 700-800 m asl, 30.1. 1995 Dunay & Janak leg.” (2 exs. NMW); “Tanandava, lumièrè 1963-1964 Schmitz” (2 exs. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); “Betsiboka Bas, Loc. Ambohimanatrika, Kamoro Riv., 47°10'06"E/16°28'55"S, alt. 40 m, 1.4. 1993” (3 exs. NHRS); “Betsiboka Bas. Loc. Ambalambongo, afl. de Betsiboka Riv. 47°00'30"E/16°48'00"S, 30.3. 1993”(2 exs. NHRS); “Betsiboka Bas. Loc. Fiadanana Ikopa Riv. 46°56'58"E/18°10'03"S, Alt. 975 m 18.4. 1991” (1 ex. NMW; habitus in Fig.
A characteristic species which is confined to Madagascar. Male is easily identified by the combination of distinct, somewhat variable elytral colour pattern in combination with peculiar appearance of penis; robust, curved and not twisted; apex with obtuse extension.
Body length 3.2–3.6 mm, width 1.7–2.0 mm. Dorsal colour pattern rather distinct, somewhat variable (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly at pronotum narrowly dark ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation in part double but very indistinctly so; in part of head surface reticulation appears as simple. Punctation very fine and sparse, partially absent.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, mediobasally with blackish marking, and anteriorly with dark ferrugineous marking. Rather shiny. Fine microsculpture in part absent. Reticulation double; large meshes contain 3–6 fine meshes. Punctation fine and irregular.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous, at base with transverse, pale ferrugineous marking (broken by dark suture). Rarely, pale area enlarged. Additionally, posterior to middle and apically with some vague, slightly variable, paler markings (Figs
Ventral aspect: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous; prothorax and abdomen in part paler: ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny although with very fine, in part absent microsculpture and some curved striae. Almost impunctate. Metacoxal plates with a few, indistinct, transversely located furrows. Prosternal process slender and pointed. Apical ventrite asymmetric; on one side with a sharp knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis quite robust and not twisted; in lateral aspect from base to apex curved; apically with an obtuse hook/extension (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lacks knob (Fig.
Madagascar (Fig.
Almost unknown. Collected at light.
Diagnosis. Small species; length of body 2.8–3.7 mm, width 1.5–2.0 mm.
Body shape oblong to oval; body dorsoventrally flattened. Elytra with variable colour pattern; from one-coloured dark to one-coloured pale, often provided with pale markings especially at base of elytra (Figs
Prosternal process slender, extended and apically pointed. Male apical ventrite modified; posterior end of ventrite on both side of midline excavated and medial part extended posteriorly. Ventrite provided with an asymmetric knob on one side (Fig.
Paramere apically strongly enlarged (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. 11 species are recognized in this species group. Distribution covers whole Africa south of Sahara and Madagascar. Determination is regarded critical and difficult to conduct – both external appearance and male genitalia should always be considered.
1 | Dark coloured species; head and pronotum as dark as elytra or slightly paler; black to blackish ferrugineous; elytral pale markings restricted to minor pale spots (Figs |
2 |
– | Uni- or two-coloured species; head and pronotum mainly pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, elytra either dark or of same colour as pronotum and head; elytra unicoloured or with variable pale colour pattern (Figs |
3 |
2 | Large species (body length 3.1–3.5 mm); penis apex almost smooth, lacks distinct processes (Fig. |
L. melas (p. 248) |
– | Small species (body length 2.8–3.0); penis provided with apical processes (Fig. |
L. villiersi (p. 247) |
3 | Elytra unicoloured or with vague pale, humeral spot and in one species often with a second vague spot basally, close to suture (Figs |
4 |
– | Elytra with pale spots or pale marking transversely located at base of elytra (rarely spots reduced) (Figs |
8 |
4 | Distinctly bicoloured species (head and pronotum pale; elytra dark); elytra lack pale markings (Figs |
5 |
– | One-coloured or almost one-coloured species (head, pronotum and elytra equally pale or elytra slightly darker than head and pronotum); elytra often with vague pale spots in humeral region (Fig. |
6 |
5 | Apex of penis distinctly wrinkled (Fig. |
L. eboris (p. 244) |
– | Apex of penis almost smooth (Fig. |
L. leonensis (p. 246) |
6 | Inner anterior corner of penis apex blunt (Fig. |
L. minimus (p. 243) |
– | Inner anterior corner of penis apex sharp (Fig. |
7 |
7 | Penis apex truncate; external process of penis apex moderately extended (Fig. |
L. canthydroides (p. 242) |
– | Penis apex less truncate; external corner of penis apex distinctly extended (Fig. |
L. inornatus (p. 238) |
8 | Elytra with basal, narrow, transverse pale marking; narrowly broken at suture (Fig. |
L. flavopictus (p. 254) |
– | Elytra basally with row of pale, often vague, patches (Figs |
9 |
9 | Inner anterior corner of penis apex distinct and sharp; apex wrinkled (Fig. |
L. garambanus (p. 253) |
– | Inner anterior corner of penis moderate; apex almost smooth (Fig. |
10 |
10 | Main colour of elytra dark ferrugineous; anterior outline of penis apex almost straight (Fig. |
L. livingstoni (p. 250) |
– | Main colour of elytra paler, ferrugineous; anterior outline of penis apex curved (apex appears expanded) (Fig. |
L. insularum (p. 251) |
Laccophilus inornatus
Tanzania: Usagara.
(3 exs.). Lectotype (by present designation): male: “Usagara / Typus / Laccophilus inornatus sp. n. Type det. A. Zimmermann / inornatus Zimm. sp. n.” (ZMHB). – Paralectotypes: “Daressal. / Type / Samml. A. Zimmermann / Paratypus” (1 ex. ZMSC); “D.O. Afrika / Type / Samml. A. Zimmermann / Paratypus” (1 ex. ZMSC; habitus in Fig.
(283 exs.). Gambia: “Abuko Nat. Res., at light at the bamboo pool 18.30–20.30 18.11. 1977 UTM 28PCK2181 / Cederholm & al leg. / L. inornatus Zimm. Brancucci det.” (1 ex. MZLU); “Central R. Div. Lower Fulladu, Sapo Agric. St. 27.8. 1997, MV light, Woodcock” (1 ex. NHMB); “Bathurst jan. 1968 Palm /L. inornatus Zimm. Persson det.” (5 exs. MZLU); “Tanji R, 3 km SW Brufut, at light 19-21.00, 28.2. 1977 Cederholm & al.” (1 ex. NHMB). – Guinea: “Sérédou, lux 4.4. 1975 Zott” (26 exs. ZMHB, 5 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Egypt: “Kairo / Trägårdh / L. restrictus var.?” (1 ex. NHRS).
Examination of type material reveals that L. inornatus is not synonymous with L. livingstoni O-C., as stated by
Externally L. inornatus resembles much of L. canthydroides. The two species can be separated by examination of anatomical details exhibited by penis apex; external corner of penis apex distinctly extended in L. inornatus while less so in L. canthydroides. In general, L. canthydroides has small, pale spots on elytral base while L. inornatus lacks spots on elytral base or has in humeral region, a vague, pale spot.
Body Length 2.9–3.4 mm, width 1.5–1.9 mm. Dorsal colour pattern of body absent or vague; sometimes elytra with slightly paler base (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous; posteriorly often, close to eyes slightly darker. Finely microsculptured. Reticulation almost simple; difficult to separate two kinds of meshes. Reticulation in part slightly irregular; shape of meshes variable. At eyes and in a narrow medial area between eyes with fine, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and medially at base often with vague, a little darker markings. Finely microsculptured; in part double reticulation discernible. A part of large meshes do not contain small meshes. Difference between large and small meshes indistinct or almost absent. Punctation rather indistinct. Fine, irregular punctures discernible at least at base and laterally.
Elytra: Ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Sometimes elytra slightly paler in anterior half than posteriorly but change of colour is gradual and vague (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous, abdomen, particularly posteriorly somewhat darker, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Rather shiny, finely microsculptured except on abdomen where microsculpture is indistinct. Abdomen, basally with sparse, curved striae. Metacoxal plates with a number of mostly transversely located shallow furrows. Almost impunctate. Apex of prosternal process slender and pointed. Apical ventrite with a small knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus rather slender, provided with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: External apex of penis extended and sharp (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite lacks knob (Fig.
Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Sudan, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa (Fig.
Label data contains some information of the ecology of L. inornatus. Accordingly, it has been collected both in running waters (“muddy stream, slow running stream”) and standing waters (“muddy pond, pools in dry stream bed, in lake with rich riparian vegetation”). Often captured at light collection.
Laccophilus canthydroides
South Africa: Transvaal, Barberton, (trib. of Koop River).
(2 exs.). Holotype: female: “Type / Transvaal Trib. of Koop R. nr Barberton / Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / Laccophilus ? sp. n. J. Balfour-Browwne det. / L. canthydroides” (BMNH; habitus in Fig.
(56 exs.). Ethiopia: “Bahar Dar 8.10. 1968 Harde” (2 exs. NHMB). – Cameroon: “Emana Obala 16.5. 1970” (1 ex. NHMB). – Zaire: “Parc National Garamba 10.3. 1952 De Saeger” (3 exs. MRAC, 2 exs. NHMB, 1 ex. MZH); “Elisabethville, à la lumière 1957-1958 Seydel” (1 ex. AMGS, 10 exs. MRAC, 2 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus canthydroides seems to be closest related to L. inornatus – for separation of the two species, vide diagnosis of L. inornatus (p. 241).
Body length 3.2–3.6 mm, width 1.8–1.9 mm. Head and pronotum extensively pale while elytra often somewhat darker. Often with two, pale spots on base of elytra. Sometimes pale spots absent or reduced to one humeral spot (Figs
Head: Pale ferrugineous, posteriorly slightly darker but darker area anteriorly with vague delimitation. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double but large meshes only slightly stronger than fine meshes. By large, 3–7 fine meshes included in one large mesh. At eyes with irregular cluster of fine, rather indistinct punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, basally in middle often with rather narrow darker area. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured; reticulation double but large meshes only slightly stronger than fine meshes. By large, 3–7 fine meshes included in one large mesh. Laterally and frontally on pronotum with scattered, fine punctures.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous, at humeral region and posteriorly often with vague, small, pale spots (Figs
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous, except ventrites often somewhat darker; ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although with fine reticulation (densely located fine lines). Metacoxal plates with some irregular and indistinct, laterally projecting striae. Basal, abdominal ventrites laterally with a few, distinct striae. Almost impunctate. Apex of prosternal process slender and pointed. Apical ventrite on one side with a minute knob (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: External, extreme, apex of penis not distinctly extended, nor sharp (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite (Fig.
Ethiopia, Cameroon, Zaire, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, South Africa (Fig.
Largely unknown. Collected in a light trap.
Namibia: East Caprivi, Mudumu NP, Buffalo Trails Camp.
(5 exs.). Holotype: male: “Namibia-Exp. ZMB 1992, East Caprivi: Mudumu NP: Buffalo Trails Camp, lux ca. 18°10'S/23°26'E, 12.3. 1992 leg. M. Uhlig” (ZMHB). – Paratypes: Same as holotype (1 ex. ZMHB); “Namibia-Exp. ZMB 1992, Kavango: Popa Falls 18°07'S, 21°35'E, lux, 26.2.-3.3. 1993 leg. M. Uhlig” (2 exx. ZMHB, 1 ex. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus minimus is probably most closely related to L. canthydroides and L. inornatus. The three species can be separated by comparison of the body size and differences in the shape of male genitalia. Laccophilus canthydroides is larger than L. minimus. Difference in the shape of penis apex is a useful feature for the separation of L. minimus from L. inornatus; interior frontal process of penis apex is blunt in L. minimus, while corresponding feature in L. canthydroides and L. inornatus is angled and sharp.
Body length 2.8–3.1 mm, width 1.5–1.6 mm. Elytra uniformly ferrugineous; generally with two pale spots on base of each elytron (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Impunctate, except at eyes; with very fine, irregular punctures. Areas with punctures extend towards middle of head-disc, leaving still a broad impunctate area in between. Rather shiny, although very finely microsculptured. Reticulation double but large meshes weakly developed and difficult to discern.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous; no distinct colour pattern. Rather shiny, finely to very finely microsculptured; reticulation double. Size categories of meshes, especially in middle, difficult to separate, because of extensive reduction of meshes (especially small meshes rudimentary). Laterally, microsculpture stronger. Frontally and laterally with fine, irregular punctures, which is absent basally in middle and on disc of pronotum.
Elytra: Ferrugineous. Each elytron laterally with vague paler area and basally, generally, with two minute, pale spots (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, without distinct colour pattern. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Sternal microsculpture in part indistinct. Ventrites with fine, slightly curved striae. Apical ventrite with an asymmetric, sharp knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous. Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged; with distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Internal part of penis apex is large and rounded; not angled and sharp (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite lacks asymmetric knob (Fig.
The name minimus is a Latin comparative adjective meaning “the smallest”. It here refers to the small body-size of the new species.
Namibia (Fig.
Almost unknown. Collected at light.
Ivory Coast: Bingerville.
(26 exs.). Holotype: male: “Coll. Mus. Tervuren, Cote d’Ivoire: Bingerville VI. 1962 J, Decelle (MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus eboris is also a species close to L. inornatus, L. canthydroides and L. minimus. Laccophilus eboris belongs to the smaller species among them and it has unicoloured, dark elytra without any signs of paler spots. Additionally the apical grove at internal edge of penis distinguishes L. eboris from the other species, which lack a similar feature on penis apex.
Body length 3.2–3.3 mm, width 1.6–1.7 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern quite uniform with minor variation (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous; posteriorly sometimes slightly darker. Dark area not distinctly delimited but vague. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes very fine and weakly developed; in part rudimentary. Large meshes, when discernible, may contain 2–5 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes; with fine irregular punctures. Areas of punctures extended inwards but leave a distinct gap without punctures in middle of head-disc.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, basally with a distinct, blackish to dark brown area. Frontally at area between eyes, generally, with a vague darker area, which may be rather indistinct. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes weakly developed, in part rudimentary. When discernible, large meshes may contain 2–5 small meshes. Almost impunctate. Along margins except at base in the middle, with fine to very fine, scattered, irregular punctures.
Elytra: Blackish ferrugineous, posteriorly slightly paler but with no distinct colour pattern (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous, abdomen slightly darker; ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Prothorax distinctly paler; pale ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Ventrites with fine, slightly curved striae. Almost impunctate; apically on abdomen with fine, irregular punctures. Apical ventrite quite strongly modified, asymmetric with a sharp, lateral knob and rude grooves on one side and fine surface-structures on the other side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly extended and enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Outline of frontal edge of penis almost straight; apex with a small but clearly discernible cavity (in part seen in illustration) (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
The Latin noun ebur means ivory and the species name eboris is the genitive form of it, simply associating the species with the Ivory Coast.
Ivory Coast (Fig.
Almost unknown. A number of labels give light collection with a UV lamp.
Laccophilus leonensis
References after 1920 are in part referring also to other Laccophilus species but L. leonensis.
Sierra Leone: Rhobomp.
(1 ex.). Holotype: female: “Sierra Leone Rhobomp Moquerys / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
(13 exs.). Sierra Leone: “Makeni 12°03'W 8°53'N 27.11.1993 light trap 19-21 / Cederholm, Danielsson & Hall leg. / L. leonensis Régb. det. Persson” (8 exs. MZLU; habitus in Fig.
From other species in this species group L. leonensis is distinguished by one-coloured, quite dark elytra and mainly pale pronotum (colour contrast strong; distinctly bicoloured) in combination with minor details in penis apex; apex of penis smooth and not wrinkled.
Body length 3.0–3.3 mm, width 1.6–1.8 mm. Elytra lack distinct colour pattern; almost uniformly dark brown to dark ferrugineous, lacking pale spots (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, rarely head becomes posteriorly gradually, slightly darker. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation indistinctly double; large meshes only slightly, more strongly developed in comparison with small meshes. Large meshes contain 3–6 small meshes. Impunctate, except at eyes, with fine, irregular punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, mediobasally often with dark ferrugineous area. Rather shiny, although microsculptured. Reticulation double. Large meshes, especially on disc weakly developed; only slightly coarser in comparison with fine meshes. Large meshes, in general, contain 3–6 fine meshes. Impunctate, except at margins, with very fine, scattered punctures. Mediobasally impunctate.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous to dark brown to dark ferrugineous (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous, abdomen posteriorly slightly darker, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Almost impunctate. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Abdomen basally with some fine and curved striae. Metacoxal plates besides stridulatory apparatus, anteriorly with 7–8 shallow, transversely located furrows which in part are confluent. Apical ventrite asymmetric; with one distinct, lateral knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged; with suckers.
Male genitalia: Apex of penis characteristic; smooth and not wrinkled (Fig.
Female: Almost as male but, apical ventrite symmetric (Fig.
Sierra Leone (Fig.
Almost unknown. Sampled at light collection.
Laccophilus villiersi
Congo Brazzaville: Odzala.
(5 exs.). Holotype: male: “Data in NHRS JLKB 000030290 / Odzala Congo Octobre / Museum Paris Mission A. Descarpentries et A. Villiers 1963-1964 / Type / R. Mouchamps det. 65 Laccophilus villiersi nsp” (MNHN). – Paratypes: Same data but “JLKB 000030291 / Allotype” (1 ex. MNHN); same data, but “JLKB 000030292-000030294 / Paratype” (3 exs. MNHN; habitus in Fig.
(4 exs.). Central African Republic: “La Maboke 6-9.6. 1973 Linnavuori leg.” (1 ex. MZH). – Gabon: “Lagune Iguéla Ntchongorovié (Savane) 22-24.8. 1998 Bilardo” (1 ex. CSR); “Libreville 3.8. 1973 Bilardo & Pederzani” (2 exs. NHMB).
Besides L. melas, L. villiersi is characterized by mainly dark body colour in this species group. Laccophilus villiersi is smaller than L. melas. In both species diagnostic, important features are exhibited by apex of the penis; provided with processes in L. villiersi while almost smooth in L. melas.
Body length 2.8–3.0 mm, width 1.6 mm. Habitus as in Fig.
Head: Ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous. Slightly mat, with fine reticulation which is double. Larger meshes weakly developed; when discernible they contain 2–6 fine meshes. Impunctate, except in small area at eyes where punctation is fine and irregularly distributed.
Pronotum: Ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous; lacks distinct colour pattern. Slightly mat although finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; large meshes discally in part weakly developed, when discernible they contain 2–5 fine meshes. Impunctate, except at anterior margin where fine, irregular punctures discernible.
Elytra: Blackish ferrugineous, with pale, small, humeral spots (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous; abdomen slightly darker but no distinct colour pattern formed. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. Almost impunctate. Metacoxal plates with a few, shallow, transverse furrows. Abdomen with a few, fine, somewhat curved striae. Prosternal process slender, posteriorly somewhat extended, apically pointed. Apical ventrite with an asymmetrically located knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis small; anterior edge somewhat rounded and internal edge of apex with a small extension (Fig.
Female: Externally almost as male. Pro- and mesotarsus narrow. Apical ventrite shape almost symmetric (Fig.
Central African Republic, Gabon, Congo Brazzaville (Fig.
Not known.
Laccophilus melas
Zaire: Garamba National Park.
(14 exs.). Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo Belge, P.N.G. Miss. H. De Saeger II / gd/11 4-X-1951 Réc. 2511, H. de Saeger / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I.P.N.C.B.) / Guignot det., 1957 Laccophilus melas sp. n. Holotypus” (MRAC; habitus in Fig.
(4 exs.). Cameroon: “Nanga Eboko / 7-10. 59 Lenczy” (1 ex. CGW). – Zaire: “PNG II/gd/11, 19.8. 1952 De Saeger 3956” (1 ex. MRAC, 1 ex. MZH); “PNG PpK.51/g/9, 2, 4, 1952 De Saeger 3272” (1 ex. MRAC).
Laccophilus melas is particularly characterized by black to blackish ferrugineous colour of body. Pale colour reduced to two minor spots on pronotum posterior to eyes and to very fine, small, pale spots on humeral region and laterally posterior to middle on elytra. Penis exhibits also minor but diagnostically useful characters; penis quite large, evenly curved and apex outline rounded; basally with an enlargement (vide also diagnosis of L. villiersi on p. 248).
Body length 3.1–3.5 mm, width 1.7–1.9 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern reduced to a few pale spots (Fig.
Head: Blackish to dark ferrugineous. Submat, finely reticulated. Reticulation double; large meshes extensively rather indistinct; only slightly more strongly developed than fine meshes. Large meshes generally contain 3–6 fine meshes. Punctation almost absent; frontally at eyes fine, irregular punctures discernible.
Pronotum: Blackish to dark ferrugineous. At foremargin slightly paler; posterior to eyes close to foremargin, with minute yellowish spot. Submat, finely reticulated; reticulation double. Minor differences between mesh-size classes. Large meshes generally contain 3–6 small meshes. At margins fine punctures may be discerned.
Elytra: Blackish to dark ferrugineous. Laterally, slightly posterior to middle with a minute yellowish spot (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Submat, finely reticulated. Almost impunctate. Metacoxal plates in provided with a broad stridulatory file, delimitation of which is vague. Prosternal process slender, apex somewhat extended backwards, pointed. Transversely located, shallow furrows discernible on anterior half of metacoxal plates. Apical ventrite on one side with a distinct knob (Fig.
Legs: Protarsus slender, claws equally long and slightly curved. Pro- and mesotarsus with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis comparatively large, evenly curved and apex outline rounded; lacks processes or extensions. At base, ventrally, with a distinct enlargement (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite almost symmetric, lacks lateral knob (Fig.
Cameroon, Zaire (Fig.
Unknown.
Laccophilus livingstoni
Malawi: Monkey Bay, Dambo.
(6 exs.). Holotype: male: “Paratype / Nyasaland, swamp, Monkey Bay 28.1. 1948 / L. livingstoni O-C. (AMGS; by mistake labelled as paratype).” – Paratypes: “Holotype / Nyasaland Livingstonia, stream by homestead 22.10. 1948 J.O.C. / L. livingstoni O-C. / Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / Laccophilus livingstoni J. O.C., M.E Bacchus det. 1978, Holotype/Brit. Mus. 1978-308” (1 ex. BMNH); same, but labelled as “Allotype” (1 ex. BMNH). [Comment: The specimens are pinned together. Label information fits with paratypes, but does not fit with what is given for the holotype in the original description.]; “Paratype / Nyasaland stream 20 mi. From Dedza on lower Lilongwe rd. 30.9. 1948 / L. livingstoni sp. n. Det. J. Omer-Cooper” (2 exs. AMGS); (Tanzania)“Zanzibar Pemba 6. September 1955 J.R. Fowler” (1 ex. AMGS).
(13 exs.): Tanzania: “Lake Malawi Matema 1.7. 1979 M. Stoltze leg. / L. bergeri Guignot Holmen det.” (2 exx. ZMUC); “Zanzibar, Manganpwani Rd. 13.9. 1955 JOC.” (2 exs. AMGS). – Malawi: “Mulanje Mnts env. 22-28.12. 2001 Kantner” (3 exs. NHMB, 1 ex. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Examination of holotype reveals that L. livingstoni is a good species and not a junior synonym of L. inornatus Zimmermann.
Laccophilus livingstoni is closest related to L. insularum. There are, however, some differences in shape of apex of penis; anterior outline of it being almost straight in L. livingstoni and clearly curved in L. insularum. Laccophilus livingstoni also resembles quite much of L. garambanus regarding colour pattern of body. Laccophilus garambanus is, however, smaller and have more extensive pale colour on posterior half of elytra.
Body length 3.3–3.6 mm, width 1.8–2.0 mm. Dorsal colour pattern quite uniform, exhibits only some variation (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous; posteriorly at pronotum narrowly, slightly darker. Discally, with two, small, dark spots which sometimes are vague. Punctation slightly irregularly distributed, at eyes and from there towards central part, fine to very fine. Submat, finely microsculptured. Reticulation double, but in part this is rather indistinct. Large meshes contain 2–6 finer meshes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, with vague darker areas. At margins with fine to very fine, irregularly distributed punctures. Reticulation double; large meshes in part lack small meshes, and in part, contain 2 to 5 small meshes.
Elytra: Blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Anteriorly with an irregular, subbasal series of pale spots which often are in part confluent. Posteriorly, with vague, pale and irregular stripes (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; ventrites laterally somewhat darker. Rather shiny, although very finely reticulated. Ventrites with sparse but distinct striae pointing inwards and backwards. Almost impunctate. Ventrite posterior to apex of abdomen with a few rather irregular punctures; on one side provided with a sharp knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis angled (not evenly curved); external outline apically extended and sharp (Fig.
Female: Externally as male but pro- and mesotarsus fairly long and slender. Apical ventrite lacks sharp knob (Fig.
Malawi, Tanzania, Mozambique (Fig.
Insufficiently known. The species has been collected from both running and standing waters.
Madagascar: Ankarafantsika NP, Mahajanga, Boeny (S16.30271, E046.80995).
(35 exs.): Holotype: male: “Madagascar Mahajanga: Boeny Ankarafantsika NP, S16.30271, E046.80995, 75 m.a.o. 8.12. 2009 Water net, field# MAD09–39 Bergsten et al.” (NHRS). – Paratypes: “Madagascar (95)25.ix. 2001 Ranohira (Fianarantsoa), right affl. of Riv. Ihazofotsy nr Isalo Ranch, stagnant areas/750 m asl, 21.0°C 0.005 mS/cm/Gerecke & Goldschmidt collectors BMNH(E) 2004-46” (BMNH; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus insularum is very closely related to L. livingstoni, occurring in mainland of Africa. Clear differences in appearance of penis apex show that they are not conspecific, but represent good species (vide diagnosis of L. livingstoni on p. 250).
Description (Only diagnostic differences from description of L. livingstoni considered.): Body length 3.0–3.6 mm, width 1.7–2.0 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern uniform; pale spots on elytra may sometimes be in part reduced or expanded (Figs
Head: Uniformly pale; posteriorly not darker.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, basally with vague, darker area.
Elytra: Basal, pale markings variable in size; sometimes somewhat extended (Figs
Ventral aspect: Apical ventrite (Fig.
Male genitalia: Penis apex distinct; outline rounded and apex expanded both at external and internal edge (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite (Fig.
The name insularum is a Latin noun in genitive plural form meaning “belonging to the island”. It refers to the fact that the new species is only known from Madagascar.
Madagascar (Fig.
Insufficiently known. At least once collected in a river, in stagnant sites of the water body.
Laccophilus garambanus
Zaire: Parc National Garamba.
(7 exs.). Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Congo Belge, P.N.G. Miss. H. De Saeger II/gd/14s, 4-VIII-1951 Réc. H. De Saeger, 2209 / Coll. Mus. Congo (ex. coll. I.P.N.C.B.) / Guignot det., 1957 Laccophilus garambanus sp. n.” (MRAC; immature specimen). – Paratype: male and female: “Congo Belge, P.N.G. Miss. H. De Saeger II/gc/10, 28-VIII-52 H. De Saeger. 3987 / Paratype / F. Guignot det., 1959 Laccophilus garambanus sp. n.” (1 ex. IRSNB; habitus in Fig.
(11 exs.). Zaire: “PNG II/fd/12, 10.3. 1952, 3180” (1 ex. MRAC); “P.N.G. II/gd/10, 14-IX-52, 4099” (3 exs. IRSNB); “Tshuapa, Mbandaka ca. 0.03N - 18.28E, 1964 Stam” (2 exs. RMNH); “Tshuapa, Mbandaka ca. 0.03N - 18.28E, 3-4.4. 1964 Stam” (1 ex. RMNH); “Thsuapa-Mbandaka ca. 0.03N - 18.28E, a.l. 1964 Stam (1 ex. RMNH); “Quqilhatville 3-4.4. 1963 Stam 3-4.4. 1963 / at light (2 exs. RMNH); “Quqilhatville 20-21.1. 1962 Stam 3-4.4. 1962 / at light (1 ex. MZH).
Cameroon: “Ngoundéré 27.7. 1969” (1 female ex. NHMB).
Laccophilus garambanus is characterized by distinct, although somewhat variable, elytral colour pattern. It is distinguished from other species in this species group by the appearance of male genitalia (penis is quite robust, short, apical external outline almost straight), besides characteristic, elytral colour pattern.
Body length 2.9–3.2 mm, width 1.6–1.8 mm. Elytral colour pattern variable (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous, partly often slightly darker but lacks clearly delimited, dark area. Submat, finely microsculptured; reticulation simple and dense. At eyes, finely and irregularly punctate.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, medially with large area slightly darker; ferrugineous (delimitation of area generally vague). Submat to rather shiny, finely microsculptured; reticulation fine and dense; indistinct traces of double reticulation discernible. When discernible large meshes contain 3–6 small meshes. Almost impunctate.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous to blackish ferrugineous, with variable, ferrugineous to pale ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, abdomen slightly darker in comparison with rest of ventral aspect. Submat to rather shiny, extensively with very fine microsculpture. Almost impunctate. Stridulatory apparatus fine but clearly discernible; consisting of about 25 narrow but quite long ridges. Apex of prosternal process slender, somewhat extended and pointed. Apical ventrite as in Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis quite robust, short, apical external outline almost straight; extreme external apex broadly rounded (Fig.
Female: Apical ventrite simple (Fig.
Zaire (Fig.
Almost unknown. Sampled at light collection.
Laccophilus flavopictus
Laccophilus bergeri
Laccophilus segmentatus
Laccophilus flavopictus: Angola: Humpata.
Laccophilus bergeri: Zaire (DRC): Elisabethville.
Laccophilus segmentatus: South Africa: Transvaal, Ermelo.
(6 exs.). Laccophilus flavopictus: Holotype (monotypy): male: “P.Y. v d Kellen Humpata Afr. trop / Laccophilus flavopictus sp. n. type / type / flavopictus Régimbart sp. n.” (RMNH).
Laccophilus bergeri: Holotype: male: “Holotypus / Coll. Mus. Congo Elisabethville lumière XI-50/VI-51 Ch. Seydel / Type / R. Det. J. 6182 / Guignot det. 1953 Laccophilus bergeri Guign. Type, male” (MRAC; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus segmentatus: Holotype: male: “Type, male-symbol / Type / Transvaal, sluggish stream nr Ermelo 7. 12. 1948 J. O-C / Brit. Mus. 1957-660 / Laccophilus sp. n. J. Balfour-Browne det. / L. segmentatus O-C.” (BMNH).
(25 exs.). Zaire: “Elisabethville (à la lumière) 1957-1958 Seydel” (1 ex. MRAC). – Zambia: “Mwinilunga District, Ikelenge, nr Kalene, Zambezi Rapids / Pinhey 3.5. 1963 M.V. light trap” (4 exs. BMNH, 1 ex. MZH); “NC, Mkushi env. E 16-18.12. 2004 Snizek leg.” (1 ex. NHPC); “Northern Province 15 km E Luwingu 3-4.12. 2007 1400 m Kudrna Jr. leg. / L. bergeri Guign. det. Pederzani” (2 exs. CFP); “100 km SW Serenje 7.12. 2002 Kantner” (1 ex. NHMB). – Malawi: “Dedza Sept. 1948 O-C. / small stream” (1 ex. AMGS); “Dedza Sept. 1948 O-C.”(4 exs. AMGS); “Dedza dam, lower Lilongwe rd 29.IX. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS); “Dedza Hotel, dam 29.IX. 1948” (1 ex. AMGS). – Zimbabwe: “Inyanga N. 1948 JOC. / L. segmentatus O-C. = L. bergeri Guign. Det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Stream Rusapi 13.XI. (?) 1948 / L. segmentatus O-C. det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS); “Marandellas 2.11. 1948 J. Omer-Cooper” (3 exs. MNHN). – Swaziland: “Mbabane 5.XII. 1948 J.O.C. / L. segmentatus O-C. = L. bergeri Guign. Det. J. Omer-Cooper” (1 ex. AMGS). – South Africa: “Natal Durban Umgeni Tragardh” (1 ex. AMGS); “Laccophilus sp. n. J. Balfour-Browne / Paratype / Vlei nr Wasserman’s Beacon 6.12. 1948 / L. segmentatus O-C.” (1 ex. AMGS).
Male holotypes of the three involved taxa, L. flavopictus, L. bergeri, and L. segmentatus, have been examined and found to be conspecific. Because L. flavopictus is the oldest available name, it is also the valid name of the species.
Laccophilus flavopictus is characterized by the following combination of features: Elytra almost black to blackish ferrugineous; basally provided with a quite narrow but distinct, transverse, pale ferrugineous marking and by non-hooked penis apex. Externally it resembles of some species not located in this species group, eg. L. luctuosus and L. secundus. Presence of a stridulation apparatus and shape of male genitalia, however, shows that L. flavopictus belongs to another species group than these two species.
Body length 3.4–3.7 mm, width 1.9–2.0 mm. Colour pattern generally distinct and exhibits only minor variation; sometimes in part, dark areas with somewhat vague delimitation (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; posteriorly at pronotum darker; dark ferrugineous. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured; reticulation double (in part indistinct). Large meshes when discernible, contain 2–5 small meshes. At eyes and in a narrow, transverse area between eyes with very fine, somewhat irregular punctures; medially punctures indistinct and hardly visible.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and basally with a medial, dark marking (Fig.
Elytra: Blackish ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous, with distinct pale ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous, abdominal ventrites at least in part darker, ferrugineous to dark ferrugineous. Stridulatory apparatus consists of about 30 fine ridges. Submat, finely microsculptured. Abdomen provided with fine, slightly sparse, curved striae. Apical ventrite provided with a sharp knob on one side (other side lacks knob) (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slender, somewhat extended and provided with suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis comparatively long, slightly angled; apical outline rounded to almost straight (Figs
Female: Externally as male but apical ventrite almost symmetric, lacking sharp knob (Fig.
Zaire, Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Swaziland (Fig.
Diagnosis. Small to medium sized species; length of body 2.8–3.4 mm, width 1.6–1.9 mm.
Body shape oval; body dorsoventrally flattened. All recognized species with dark ferrugineous elytra, provided with distinct pale ferrugineous, basal, transverse marking. Posteriorly on elytra with variable, pale spots or irregular, pale stripes (Fig.
Prosternal process slender, posteriorly extended, apically pointed. Apical ventrite modified; posterior part on both side of midline excavated and medial part forms a backwards extending process. Apical ventrite of male provided with asymmetrical knob on one side of ventrite (Fig.
Paramere with slight modification; apically distinctly enlarged (Fig.
Species composition and distribution. Three species are recognized in this species group. Distribution covers Africa south of Sahara and Madagascar.
1 | Penis narrows gradually towards slender apex (Fig. |
L. laeticulus (p. 257) |
– | Penis narrows abruptly at broad apex (Fig. |
2 |
2 | Penis, lateral aspect, quite straight; apical dent indistinct (Fig. |
L. occidentalis (p. 259) |
– | Penis, lateral aspect, curved; apical dent clearly discernible (Fig. |
L. transversovittatus (p. 260) |
Laccophilus laeticulus
Records, published later than
Guinea.
(1 ex.): Holotype: male: “Guinée / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
(1 ex.). Sierra Leone: “Sierra Leone Freetown A. Mocquerys 1889 / Museum Paris coll. Maurice
Laccophilus laeticulus is especially characterized by distinct elytral colour pattern and peculiar, narrow apex of penis. It is closely related to L. occidentalis sp. n., also occurring on mainland of the African continent. Male genitalia must be examined for correct determination. Apex of penis narrows in L. laeticulus while clearly broader in L. occidentalis. Subbasal pale marking on elytra in L. laeticulus is generally broader than corresponding marking in L. occidentalis. See also diagnosis of L. transversovittatus occurring in Madagascar (p. 260).
Body length 3.1–3.2 mm, width 1.7 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern uniform (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous. Submat, finely and somewhat indistinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double. Difference between size-categories of meshes minor and separation accordingly difficult. Large meshes, when discernible, contain about 3–5 small meshes. Head impunctate, except at eyes; with fine, scattered punctures. A few separate punctures may be discerned in centre of head between eyes.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous, frontally and at base in middle with a somewhat vague dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous area. Submat, finely and somewhat indistinctly microsculptured. Reticulation double. Difference between size-categories of meshes of microsculpture minor and separation accordingly difficult. Large meshes, when discernible, contain about 3-5 small meshes. Frontally and laterally with very fine, rather sparse punctures, which in part may be difficult to discern.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous, with distinct, pale ferrugineous markings (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous, posteriorly gradually darker but exhibits no distinct colour pattern. Slightly mat, finely microsculptured. In part reticulation reduced and obliterated. Almost impunctate. Basal ventrites with fine, curved striae. Prosternal process rather slender, apex extended and pointed. Metacoxal plates with some indistinct, shallow furrows. Fine stridulatory apparatus file consists of broad, fine ridges. Apical ventrite asymmetric, with lateral, triangular knob (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged, extended. With distinct suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis curved; narrows distinctly towards apex, provided with a small and blunt hook (Figs
Female: Unknown.
Guinea, Sierra Leone (Fig.
Unknown.
Sierra Leone: Makeni.
(96 exs.). Holotype: male: “Sierra Leone: Makeni 12°03'W, 8°53'N, 27.XI. 1993 loc. 9 light trap 18-21 / Lund University Sierra Leone Expedition 1993 leg. L. Cederholm-R. Danielsson-R. Hall / Laccophilus laeticulus Régimbart Det. AN Nilsson -94” (MZLU). – Paratypes: Same data as holotype (7 exs. MZLU, 6 exs. MZH; habitus in Fig.
Very close to L. laeticulus and L. transversovittatus. Correct determination requires study of male genitalia. Diagnostic features for separation of the three species is given under diagnosis of L. laeticulus (p. 258) and L. transversovittatus (p. 260).
Body length 2.8–3.3 mm, width 1.6–1.9 mm. Dorsal, colour pattern distinct, quite uniform (Fig.
Head and pronotum: As in L. laeticulus.
Elytra: As in L. laeticulus but pale basal marking generally somewhat narrower in L. occidentalis. Pale markings posterior to middle often reduced to small, separate spots (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Apical ventrite (Fig.
Legs: As in L. laeticulus.
Male genitalia: Penis in apical half broad, narrows only moderately towards apex (Figs
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lacks sharp knob (Fig.
The name occidentalis is a Latin adjective meaning “western”. It here refers to the wide range of the new species in western part of Africa, south of Sahara.
Gambia, Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Zaire (Fig.
Almost unknown. Sometimes collected at light.
Madagascar: Isalo, Menamaty River.
(32 EXS.). Holotype: male: “MAD: FIAN: Isalo Menamaty R, degraded river with lots of vegetation, used by women to wash clothes in P41AM01, 11.5. 2006 N-22°33.001 E45°24.074, 757 m leg. Bergsten et al / BMNH(E) 741824” (NHRS). – Paratypes: Same as holotype (5 exs. NHRS, 2 exs. NMW, 2 exs. MZH); “MAD, FIAN. Isalo, Running water, P41B, N -22.546, E 45.397, 773 m, 11.5. 2006 Bergsten / BMNH(E) DNA voucher” (6 exs. NHRS); “MAD, FIAN. Isalo, Menamaty R, degraded river, N -22.55, E -45,401: 757 m, 11.5. 2006 Bergsten et al. leg / BMNH(E) voucher” (5 exs. NHRS); “Madagascar: Mahajunga Melaky btw. Morafenobe-Ambohijanahary S18.19091, E045.19986, 290 m.a.o. 19.12. 2009 water net, field# MAD09-74 leg. J. Bergsten, N. Jönsson, T. Ranarilalatiana, H.J. Randriamihaja” (5 exs. NHRS; habitus in Fig.
Laccophilus transversovittatus is closely related to L. laeticulus and L. occidentalis. Diagnostic characters for all three species are found in the shape of penis apex. Apex in L. laeticulus is distinctly more slender than in the two other species. Penis of L. occidentalis is straighter than in L. transversovittatus and apical dent is almost absent while distinct in L. transversovittatus. Laccophilus transversovittatus resembles externally also of L. luctuosus, which is also a species solely recorded thus far in Madagascar. The male genitalia of L. luctuosus is, however, clearly different in comparison with L. transversovittatus.
Body length 3.2–3.5 mm, width 1.7–1.9 mm. Body appears somewhat flattened. Colour pattern exhibits only minor variation; basal, pale, transverse marking on elytra moderately broad but always distinct and only broken narrowly at suture (Fig.
Head: Pale ferrugineous; posteriorly head becomes slightly darker. Change of colour-intensity is vague. Slightly mat, finely to very finely microsculptured. Reticulation double; small meshes in part reduced and almost absent. Large meshes contain, when discernible, 3–5 small meshes. Almost impunctate. At eyes with some irregular punctures. Area of punctures continues towards middle of head as a sparse, irregular row of punctures.
Pronotum: Pale ferrugineous. Basally with a broad but quite narrow, distinct, dark ferrugineous marking. Anteriorly with a somewhat vague, dark ferrugineous to ferrugineous spot. Rather shiny, although finely to very finely microsculptured. Reticulation double. Small meshes in part reduced and almost absent. Large meshes contain, when discernible, 3–5 small meshes. Almost impunctate; laterally and anteriorly with fine but irregular punctures.
Elytra: Dark ferrugineous, with a distinct, subbasal, pale ferrugineous marking. In addition, laterally with a narrow pale area and posterior to middle and apically with some irregular, small pale spots (Fig.
Ventral aspect: Pale ferrugineous to ferrugineous; abdomen becomes gradually darker towards apex; dark ferrugineous. Rather shiny, although finely microsculptured. Reticulation of abdomen strongly reduced and extensively absent. Abdomen with fine, curved striae. Almost impunctate. Apical ventrite provided with a sharp knob on one side (Fig.
Legs: Pro- and mesotarsus slightly enlarged; provided with fine suckers.
Male genitalia: Penis in lateral aspect quite broad, distinctly angled with a small but distinct apical dent (Fig.
Female: Pro- and mesotarsus slender. Apical ventrite lacks knob (Fig.
The name transversovittatus is a Latin adjective based on a verb meaning “provided with transverse stripes”. It here refers to the transversely located, subbasal, pale area on the elytra.
Madagascar (Fig.
Collected in a degraded river with lots of vegetation, used by women to wash clothes in.
Morphological features in Laccophilus spp. 1–5 prosternal process of Laccophilus spp 6 metacoxal process, metacoxal plate with stridulation file and striated segments of abdomen in L. hyalinus 7 metacoxal process of L. isamberti 8 enlargement of epipleuron in L. pellucidus 9 bifid metacoxal spurs in L. hyalinus 10 protarsal suckers in male of L. hyalinus. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Apical ventrites 96 L. restrictus male, and 97 female 98 L. amicus female 99 L. bellus male, and 100 female 101 L. septicola male, and 102 female 103 L. pullatus male and 104 female 105 L. luteosignatus, male 106 L. benoiti male, and 107 female 108 L. addendus male, and 109 female. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Apical ventrites 147 L. cyclopis male, 148 same, but view from other direction, and 149 female 150 L. adjutor male, and 151 female 152 L. necopinus male, and 153 female 154 L. conjunctus male, and 155 female 156 L. brownei male, and 157 female 158 L. contiro male, and 159 female. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Apical ventrites 160 L. inconstans male, and 161 female 162 L. grammicus male, and 163 female 164 L. flavoscriptus male, and 165 female 166 L. burgeoni male, and 167 female 168 L. lineatus male, and 169 female 170 L. brancuccii male (broken) 171 L. incomptus male, and 172 female. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Apical ventrites 173 L. secundus male 174 female 175 same, but tip from other direction 176 L. australis male, and 177 female 178 L. desintegratus male, and 179 female 180 L. luctuosus male, and 181 female 182 L. inornatus male, and 183 female 184 L. canthydroides male, and 185 female. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Apical ventrites 186 L. minimus male, 187 female 188 L. eboris male, and 189 female 190 L. leonensis male, and 191 female 192 L. villiersi male, and 193 female 194 L. melas male, and 195 female 196 L. livingstoni male, and 197 female 198 L. insularum male, and 199 female. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 209 L. tavetensis, penis, lateral aspect 210 penis, dorsal aspect, and 211 paramere 212 L. grossus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 213 penis, dorsal aspect 214 L. rocchii, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 215 penis, dorsal aspect 216 L. morondavensis, penis, lateral aspect 217 penis, dorsal aspect, and 218 paramere. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 219 L. productus, penis, lateral aspect 220 penis, dorsal aspect, and 221 paramere 222 L. ferrugo, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 223 penis, dorsal aspect 224 L. ruficollis, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 225 L. hyalinus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 226 L. minutus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 227 L. mateui, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 228 L. sordidus, penis, lateral aspect, and 229 paramere, lateral aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 230 L. comes, penis, lateral aspect 231 penis, dorsal aspect, and 232 paramere 233 L. alluaudi, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 234 penis and paramere, dorsal aspect 235 L. furthi, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 236 penis, dorsal aspect 237 L. tigrinus, penis, lateral aspect 238 penis, dorsal aspect, and 239 paramere. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 240 L. pseustes, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, 241 penis, dorsal aspec 242 L. seyrigi, penis, lateral aspect 243 penis, dorsal aspect and 244 paramere 245 L. isamberti, penis, lateral aspect, and 246 paramere 247 L. pictipennis, penis, lateral aspect, and 248 paramere. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 249 L. continentalis, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 250 L. posticus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 251 L. inobservatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 252 L. simplicistriatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 253 L. taeniolatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 254 L. propinquus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 255 L. complicatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 256 L. irroratus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 261 L. adspersus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, 262 (L. livens, type material), penis apex, lateral aspect 263 (L. a. nigeriensis, type material), penis apex, lateral aspect, and 264 (L. a. sudanensis, type material), penis apex, lateral aspect 265 L. olsoufieffi, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 266 L. modestus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 267 L. cryptos, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 268 L. nodieri, penis and paramere, lateral aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 269 L. flaveolus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 270 L. remex (species complex), penis, lateral aspect and 271 paramere, 272 (L. concisus, type material), penis apex, lateral aspect 273 (L. turneri, type material), penis apex, lateral aspect, and 274 (L. praeteritus, type material), penis apex, lateral aspect 275 L. turbatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 276 L. pallescens, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 277 L. trilineola, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 278 L. mediocris, penis, lateral aspect, and 279 paramere. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 280 L. epinephes, penis, lateral aspect 281 paramere and 282 (L. castaneus, type material) penis apex, lateral aspect 283 L. saegeri, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 284 (L. comoensis, type material) penis apex, lateral aspect 285 L. enigmaticus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 286 L. restrictus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 287 (variation), penis apex, lateral aspect 288 L. bellus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 289 L. septicola, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 290 (L. alberticus, type material) penis apex, lateral aspect 291 L. pullatus, penis apex, lateral aspect, and 292 paramere 293 L. luteosignatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 294 penis, dorsal aspect 295 L. benoiti, penis, lateral aspect, and 296 paramere 297 L. addendus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 298 penis, dorsal aspect 299 L. vermiculosus, penis, lateral aspect, and 300 paramere. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 301 L. guignoti, penis, lateral aspect, and 302 paramere 303 L. guentheri, penis, lateral aspect, and 304 paramere 305 L. guineensis, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 306 L. bizonatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 307 L. pulcher, penis, lateral aspect, and 308 paramere. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 309 L. concettae, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 310 penis, dorsal aspect 311 L. biai, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 312 penis, dorsal aspect 313 L. deceptor, penis, lateral aspect, 314 penis apex, view from other angle, and 315 paramere 316 L. bilardoi, penis and paramere, lateral aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 317 L. decorosus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 318 L. tschoffeni, penis, lateral aspect, and 319 paramere 320 L. persimilis, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 321 L. poecilus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 322 supporting illustration of penis, lateral aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm (excl. Fig.
Male genitalia 323 L. mutatus, penis, lateral aspect, 324 penis apex, dorsal aspect, and 325 paramere 326 L. quindecimvittatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 327 L. incrassatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 328 L. empheres, penis, lateral aspect, and 329 paramere 330 L. lateralis, penis, lateral aspect, and 331 paramere. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 332 L. cyclopis, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 333 L. adjutor, penis, lateral aspect, and 334 paramere 335 L. necopinus, penis, lateral aspect, and 336 paramere 337 L. conjunctus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 338 penis apex, dorsal aspect 339 L. brownei, penis, lateral aspect, and 340 paramere 341 L. contiro, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 342 penis apex, dorsal aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 343 L. inconstans, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 344 L. grammicus, penis, dorsal aspect, 345 penis, lateral aspect, and 346 paramere 347 L. flavoscriptus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 348 L. burgeoni, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 349 penis apex, dorsal aspect 350 L. lineatus, penis, dorsal aspect, and 351 paramere and penis base, lateral aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 352 L. brancuccii, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 353 L. incomptus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 354 L. secundus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 355 penis apex, view from other angle 356 L. australis, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 357 L. desintegratus, penis, lateral aspect, and 358 paramere 359 L. luctuosus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 360 penis apex, dorsal aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Male genitalia 361 L. inornatus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 362 L. canthydroides, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 363 L. minimus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 364 L. eboris, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 365 L. leonensis, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 366 L. villiersi, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 367 L. melas, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 368 L. livingstoni, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 369 L. insularum, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 370 L. garambanus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect 371 L. flavopictus, penis and paramere, lateral aspect, and 372 (L. segmentatus type material), penis apex, lateral aspect. Scale bar 0.5 mm.
Dorsal habitus 513 L. canthydroides 514 L. minimus 515 L. eboris 516 L. leonensis 517 L. villiersi 518 L. melas 519 L. livingstoni 520 L. insularum 521 L. insularum 522 L. garambanus 523 L. flavopictus 524 L. laeticulus 525 L. occidentalis 526 L. transversovittatus. Scale bar 5.0 mm.
In a few cases we have mapped country records lacking more detailed locality information. Such records are placed in the center of relevant country and are provided with a circle around the symbol (Figs
We, herewith, express our sincere thanks to colleagues and curators listed together with the museums and collections (p. 6), for kind assistance in loan of the study material. We also thank Dr. Luca Bartolozzi (Firenze), Dr. Aino Juslén (Helsinki), Mr. Pekka Malinen (Helsinki), Ms. Marjatta Mikkonen (Helsinki), Mr. Jörgen Palmgren (Helsinki) and Ms. Ritva Talman (Helsinki) for assistance in other practical matters related to this survey. Special thanks are due to Dr. Ferdinand and Ms. Irene de Moor and Dr. Helen James for warm hospitality shown, during the stay of the senior author in Grahamstown, South Africa in 2008. Georeferenced locality lists were converted into distribution maps with the kind help of Dr. Rasa Bukontaite (at present in Stockholm). We are also grateful for the efforts made by the two referees, namely Dr. Hans Fery, Germany, and Dr. Jirí Hájek, Czech Republic – their careful work improved the manuscript a lot. Thanks are also due to the editors for excellent work.
Financial support from Svenska Kulturfonden i Finland and Helsinki Entomological Society is gratefully acknowledged. National Research Foundation in South Africa sponsored the senior author’s stay in Albany Museum, Grahamstown, in 2008. Fieldwork in Madagascar was supported by grants to Johannes Bergsten from the Swedish Research Council, the Swedish Royal Academy of Science and Riksmusei Vänner. A Synthesys grant also financed the last authors work in Muséum National d’Historie Naturelle, Paris.
synonyms marked with *
addendus Sharp, 1882 151
adjutor Guignot, 1950 196
adspersus Boheman, 1848 97
*alberticus Guignot, 1959 145
alluaudi Régimbart, 1900 39
amicus Guignot, 1955 143
*ampliatus Régimbart, 1895 90
australis sp. n. 230
bellus sp. n. 144
benoiti Guignot, 1953 150
*bergeri Guignot, 1953 254
biai Bilardo & Rocchi, 1990 167
bilardoi Pederzani & Rocchi, 1982 170
bizonatus Régimbart, 1895 163
brancuccii sp. n. 223
*brevicollis Sharp, 1882 215
brownei Guignot, 1947 202
burgeoni Gschwendtner, 1930 212
caiaricus Guignot, 1956 175
canthydroides Omer-Cooper, 1957 242
*castaneus Guignot, 1956 134
comes Guignot, 1955 37
*comoensis Pederzani & Reintjes, 2002 136
complicatus Sharp, 1882 80
concettae Pederzani, 1983 165
*concisus Guignot, 1953 119
*congener Omer-Cooper, 1957 72
conjunctus Guignot, 1950 201
continentalis Gschwendtner, 1935 53
contiro Guignot, 1952 204
cryptos sp. n. 111
cyclopis Sharp, 1882 189
deceptor Guignot, 1953 168
decorosus sp. n. 171
demoflysi Normand, 1938 31
desintegratus Régimbart, 1895 232
eboris sp. n. 244
empheres sp. n. 185
enigmaticus sp. n. 138
epinephes Guignot, 1955 134
*espanyoli Hernando, 1990 107
*evanescens Régimbart, 1895 140
ferrugo sp. n. 25
flaveolus Régimbart, 1906 115
flavopictus Régimbart, 1889 254
flavoscriptus Régimbart, 1895 210
*flavosignatus Régimbart, 1895 210
furthi sp. n. 42
garambanus Guignot, 1958 253
*geminatus Régimbart, 1895 151
grammicus Sharp, 1882 208
grossus sp. n. 19
guentheri sp. n. 160
guignoti Legros, 1954 157
guineensis sp. n. 161
*gutticollis Régimbart, 1895 232
hyalinus (De Geer, 1774) 28
immundus Sharp, 1882 87
incomptus sp. n. 224
inconstans sp. n. 207
incrassatus Gschwendtner, 1933 184
*inflatus Wollaston, 1864 29
inobservatus sp. n. 63
inornatus Zimmermann, 1926 238
insularum sp. n. 251
irroratus Aubé, 1838 83
isamberti sp. n. 47
laeticulus Régimbart, 1895 257
lateralis Sharp, 1882 187
leonensis Régimbart, 1895 246
lineatus Aubé, 1838 214
*livens Régimbart, 1895 98
livingstoni Omer-Cooper, 1958 250
luctuosus Sharp, 1882 235
luteosignatus Gschwendtner, 1943 148
mateui Omer-Cooper, 1970 33
mediocris Guignot, 1952 132
*meii Rocchi, 2000 132
melas Guignot, 1958 248
minimus sp. n. 243
minutus (Linnaeus, 1758) 31
mirabilis Guignot, 1956 24
*mocquerysi Régimbart, 1895 154
modestus Régimbart, 1895 107
*monas Guignot, 1953 66
morondavensis Guignot, 1957 22
mutatus Omer-Cooper, 1970 181
necopinus Guignot, 1942 199
*nigeriensis Omer-Cooper, 1970 98
nodieri Régimbart, 1895 113
occidentalis sp. n. 259
olsoufieffi Guignot, 1937 105
pallescens Régimbart, 1903 125
*pampinatus Guignot, 1941 115
pellucidus Sharp, 1882 90
*perplexus Omer-Cooper, 1970 53
persimilis Régimbart, 1895 174
pictipennis Sharp, 1882 50
*pilitarsis Régimbart, 1906 90
poecilus Klug, 1834 177
*polygrammus Régimbart, 1903 187
*ponticus Sharp, 1882 177
posticus Aubé, 1838 58
*praeteritus Omer-Cooper, 1957 119
productus Régimbart, 1906 23
propinquus Omer-Cooper, 1958 79
pseustes Guignot, 1955 44
pulcher Bilardo & Rocchi, 2004 164
pullatus Omer-Cooper, 1958 147
quindecimvittatus Régimbart, 1895 182
remex Guignot, 1952 118
restrictus Sharp, 1882 140
rivulosus Klug, 1833 85
rocchii sp. n. 20
ruficollis Zimmermann, 1919 27
saegeri Guignot, 1958 136
*sanguinosus Régimbart, 1895 232
secundus Régimbart, 1895 226
*segmentatus Omer-Cooper, 1957 254
septicola Guignot, 1956 145
seyrigi Guignot, 1937 46
*shephardi Omer-Cooper, 1965 190
simplicistriatus Gschwendtner, 1932 66
*simulator Omer-Cooper, 1958 130
sordidus Sharp, 1882 35
*spadix Omer-Cooper, 1953 87
*sudanensis Omer-Cooper, 1970 99
taeniolatus Régimbart, 1889 72
tavetensis Guignot, 1941 18
*testaceus Aubé, 1837 29
tigrinus Guignot, 1959 43
*torquatus Guignot, 1956 226
*tostus Régimbart, 1895 107
transversovittatus sp. n. 260
trilineola Régimbart, 1889 130
tschoffeni Régimbart, 1895 172
turbatus Guignot, 1958 123
*turneri Omer-Cooper, 1956 119
*variegatus Germar & Kaulfuss, 1812 177
vermiculosus Gerstaecker, 1867 154
villiersi Bertrand & Legros, 1975 247
*virgatus Guignot, 1953 184
*vitshumbii Guignot, 1959 98
*wehnckei Sharp, 1882 50
*wittei Guignot, 1952 212
Georeferenced locality data for studied African Laccophilus species
Data type: Occurrence data with coordinates.
Explanation note: Tabulation of locality data with coordinates including all species records mapped in our revision of African Laccophilus (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae). Coordinates given as decimal latitude and longitude.