Latest Articles from ZooKeys Latest 83 Articles from ZooKeys https://zookeys.pensoft.net/ Fri, 29 Mar 2024 12:44:15 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://zookeys.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from ZooKeys https://zookeys.pensoft.net/ Systematic revision of the ant subfamily Leptanillinae (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/107506/ ZooKeys 1189: 83-184

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1189.107506

Authors: Zachary Griebenow

Abstract: The genus-level taxonomy of the ant subfamily Leptanillinae (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is here revised, with the aim of delimiting genus-level taxa that are reciprocally monophyletic and readily diagnosable based upon all adult forms. This new classification reflects molecular phylogenetics and is informed by joint consideration of both male and worker morphology. Three valid genera are recognized in the Leptanillinae: Opamyrma, Leptanilla (= Scyphodon syn. nov., Phaulomyrma, Leptomesites, Noonilla syn. nov., Yavnella syn. nov.), and Protanilla (= Anomalomyrma syn. nov., Furcotanilla). Leptanilla and Protanilla are further divided into informal, monophyletic species groups. Synoptic diagnoses are provided for all genera and informal supraspecific groupings. In addition, worker-based keys to all described species within the Leptanillinae for which the worker caste is known are provided; and male-based keys to all species for which males are known, plus undescribed male morphospecies for which molecular data are published. The following species are described as new: Protanilla wallacei sp. nov., Leptanilla acherontia sp. nov., Leptanilla belantan sp. nov., Leptanilla bethyloides sp. nov., and Leptanilla najaphalla sp. nov.

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Monograph Tue, 16 Jan 2024 10:44:13 +0200
Another new species of the genus Habrophlebia Eaton, 1881 (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae) from the Maghreb https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/112796/ ZooKeys 1186: 47-70

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1186.112796

Authors: Majida El Alami, Laurent Vuataz, Sara El Yaagoubi, Michel Sartori

Abstract: A new species belonging to the genus Habrophlebia Eaton, 1881 is described at the nymphal stage from the Rif Mountains of Morocco. This species presents unique features, such as the chorionic arrangement of the egg and the ornamentation of the posterior margin of abdominal tergites. It is compared to all west European Habrophlebia species and a table with discriminating characters is given. A phylogenetic reconstruction based on COI sequences fully supports the hypothesis of a new species in the Rif Mountains, with possible further distribution in southern Spain.

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Research Article Mon, 11 Dec 2023 20:12:40 +0200
A new species of the Baetis fuscatus group (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Morocco https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/109298/ ZooKeys 1180: 27-50

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1180.109298

Authors: Sara El Yaagoubi, Laurent Vuataz, Majida El Alami, Jean-Luc Gattolliat

Abstract: Baetis rifensis sp. nov. is the first representative of the Baetis fuscatus group to be described from the Maghreb. It was collected from streams in the Rif region of northern Morocco. All species of the B. fuscatus group are morphologically very similar, with slight differences in colour. Thus, in addition to morphological description, species delimitation based on genetic evidence was carried out. The new species was compared with other members of the B. fuscatus group from the Palaearctic region.

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Research Article Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:27:07 +0300
A new species of the genus Alainites Waltz & McCafferty, 1994 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from the north of Morocco https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/107829/ ZooKeys 1176: 221-241

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1176.107829

Authors: Majida El Alami, Laurent Vuataz, Sara El Yaagoubi, Jean-Luc Gattolliat

Abstract: A new species of Alainites is described from northern of Morocco Alainites albai sp. nov. It can be separated from the other west Palearctic species by the gill number, the spination of the distal margin of tergites, the leg setation, and the paraproct shape and spination. This species is widespread in the study area but never abundant. It prefers small to medium streams with slow flow, and does not seem to be very sensitive to pollution and water logging activities.

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Research Article Tue, 29 Aug 2023 11:16:00 +0300
Life history and biogeography of the enigmatic mantid Nilomantis floweri (Mantodea, Nanomantidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/107204/ ZooKeys 1173: 275-295

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1173.107204

Authors: Zohreh Mirzaee, Saber Sadeghi, Francesco Ballarin, Thomas Schmitt, Marianna Simões, Martin Wiemers

Abstract: The biology and distribution patterns of the Sahelian mantid species Nilomantis floweri are still insufficiently known. For the first time, records are confirmed of this species from Iran and the distribution map of its native range is updated. Records are compiled from the Sahel zone of North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Iran. Detailed information on its biology, oothecal characteristics, male genitalia variation, and intraspecific molecular diversity in the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase are provided, and ecological niche modelling was used to gain insight into the overall species distribution and understand its climatic niche limits. Genetic analysis revealed only one haplotype shared between Iran and Oman. The Iranian populations likely represent two distinct clusters, both more related to the diverse Oman haplotypes than to each other. Based on new data, N. floweri appears to be mostly associated with coastal areas in southwestern Asia, with the vast majority of records found along the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and Oman Gulf coasts. This distribution contrasts markedly with N. floweri records in the Sahel, where most collections have been reported in the transitional zone between the southern Sahara and arid thorn savannah, far off the coast. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of this still enigmatic mantid species.

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Research Article Fri, 4 Aug 2023 17:49:37 +0300
DNA barcoding and morphology reveal European and western Asian Arctia villica (Linnaeus, 1758) as a complex of species (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/95225/ ZooKeys 1159: 69-86

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1159.95225

Authors: Antonio S. Ortiz, Rosa M. Rubio, Josef J. de Freina, Juan J. Guerrero, Manuel Garre, José Luis Yela

Abstract: Currently, the genus Arctia Schrank, 1802 includes approximately 16 species in the Palaearctic region, depending on the taxonomic interpretation. Here, populations of the Arctia villica (Linnaeus, 1758) morphospecies complex were studied from Europe to the Middle East (Turkey, northern Iran) by molecular methods. Morphological treatment has traditionally revealed the presence of five nominal taxa: A. villica (Linnaeus, 1758), A. angelica (Boisduval, 1829), A. konewkaii (Freyer, 1831), A. marchandi de Freina, 1983, and A. confluens Romanoff, 1884. The molecular approach tests whether they represent well-delimited species. Subsequently, this study corroborates the suitability of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) marker sequence for species delimitation. In total, 55 barcodes of the Arctia villica complex were compared, and two molecular species delimitation algorithms were applied to reveal the potential Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs), namely the distance-based Barcode Index Number (BIN) System, and the hierarchical clustering algorithm based on a pairwise genetic distances approach using the Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP). The applied ASAP distance-based species delimitation method for the analysed dataset revealed an interspecific threshold of 2.0–3.5% K2P distance as suitable for species identification purposes of the Iberian A. angelica and the Sicilian A. konewkaii and less than 2% for the three taxa of the A. villica clade: A. villica, A. confluens, and A. marchandi. This study contributes to a better understanding of the taxonomy of the genus Arctia and challenges future revision of this genus in Turkey, the Caucasus, Transcaucasia as well as northern Iran using standard molecular markers.

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Research Article Tue, 25 Apr 2023 22:01:27 +0300
Baetidae (Baetidae, Ephemeroptera) in the Maghreb: state of the art, key, and perspectives https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/94586/ ZooKeys 1139: 137-163

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1139.94586

Authors: Jean-Luc Gattolliat, Boudjéma Samraoui, Nadhira Benhadji, Lina Kechemir, Sonia Zrelli, Sara El Yaagoubi, Majida El Alami El Moutaouakil, Michel Sartori

Abstract: Among mayflies, Baetidae are often considered as easy to recognise at the family level, but difficult to identify at lower level. In several faunistic or ecological studies, the identification remains at the family level; Baetidae are generally considered as widespread and ubiquitous, therefore as poorly informative for ecological studies or bioassessments. Here, a straightforward identification key is offered to larvae of the ten genera of Baetidae reported from Maghreb based on easily observable and understandable characters. The diversity, ecology, and distribution of each taxonomic unit (genera or subgenera) are discussed and the main difficulties for deeper identification are pointed out. Future challenges and remaining taxonomic riddles for Maghrebian Baetidae are detailed.

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Research Article Fri, 13 Jan 2023 17:06:37 +0200
Two new species of Centroptilum Eaton, 1869 from North Africa (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/91017/ ZooKeys 1131: 71-97

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1131.91017

Authors: Thomas Kaltenbach, Laurent Vuataz, Boudjéma Samraoui, Sara El Yaagoubi, Majida El Alami, Jean-Luc Gattolliat

Abstract: Based on recently collected larvae from Algeria and Morocco, the species delimitation within the genus Centroptilum Eaton, 1869 in that region is validated. Two new species are described and illustrated, one from north-eastern Algeria, and one from North Morocco, using an integrated approach with morphological and molecular evidence. A table summarising the morphological differences between the new species and Centroptilum luteolum (Müller, 1776) from Central Europe is provided. Further, molecular evidence for additional undescribed species of Centroptilum in other regions of the West Palearctic is provided and discussed.

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Research Article Tue, 22 Nov 2022 17:53:32 +0200
Ecdyonurus aurasius sp. nov. (Insecta, Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae, Ecdyonurinae), a new micro-endemic mayfly species from Aurès Mountains (north-eastern Algeria) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/89613/ ZooKeys 1121: 17-37

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1121.89613

Authors: Besma M. Dambri, Nadhira Benhadji, Laurent Vuataz, Michel Sartori

Abstract: Ecdyonurus aurasius sp. nov., a micro-endemic species reported from several streams within the Aurès Mountains (north-eastern Algeria), is described and illustrated at nymphal, subimaginal and imaginal stages of both sexes. Critical morphological diagnostic characters distinguishing the new species are presented, together with molecular affinities as well as notes on the biology and distribution of the species.

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Research Article Mon, 12 Sep 2022 17:37:08 +0300
A new species of the genus Prosopistoma Latreille, 1833 (Ephemeroptera, Prosopistomatidae) from Morocco https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/83539/ ZooKeys 1117: 203-218

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1117.83539

Authors: Majida El Alami, Mokhtar Benlasri, Michel Sartori, Laurent Vuataz, Mohamed Ghamizi

Abstract: We describe a new species of Prosopistoma collected in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Prosopistoma maroccanum sp. nov. appears to be morphologically more similar to the European highly endangered P. pennigerum (Müller, 1785) than to the other Maghrebian species, P. alaini Bojkova & Soldán, 2015. A gene tree including the few available barcode sequences of Palearctic Prosopistoma specimens is provided. Possible affinities with West African species are also discussed.

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Research Article Mon, 15 Aug 2022 18:30:00 +0300
Catalogue of the Diptera (Insecta) of Morocco— an annotated checklist, with distributions and a bibliography https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/62644/ ZooKeys 1094: 1-466

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1094.62644

Authors: Kawtar Kettani, Martin J. Ebejer, David M. Ackland, Gerhard Bächli, David Barraclough, Miroslav Barták, Miguel Carles-Tolrá, Milos Černý, Pierfilippo Cerretti, Peter Chandler, Mohamed Dakki, Christophe Daugeron, Herman De Jong, Josef Dils, Henry Disney, Boris Droz, Neal Evenhuis, Paul Gatt, Gustavo Graciolli, Igor Y. Grichanov, Jean-Paul Haenni, Martin Hauser, Oumnia Himmi, Iain MacGowan, Bruno Mathieu, Mohamed Mouna, Lorenzo Munari, Emilia P. Nartshuk, Oleg P. Negrobov, Pjotr Oosterbroek, Thomas Pape, Adrian C. Pont, Grigory V. Popov, Knut Rognes, Marcela Skuhravá, Vaclav Skuhravý, Martin Speight, Guy Tomasovic, Bouchra Trari, Hans-Peter Tschorsnig, Jean-Claude Vala, Michael von Tschirnhaus, Rüdiger Wagner, Daniel Whitmore, Andrzej J. Woźnica, Tadeusz Zatwarnicki, Peter Zwick

Abstract: The faunistic knowledge of the Diptera of Morocco recorded from 1787 to 2021 is summarized and updated in this first catalogue of Moroccan Diptera species. A total of 3057 species, classified into 948 genera and 93 families (21 Nematocera and 72 Brachycera), are listed. Taxa (superfamily, family, genus and species) have been updated according to current interpretations, based on reviews in the literature, the expertise of authors and contributors, and recently conducted fieldwork. Data to compile this catalogue were primarily gathered from the literature. In total, 1225 references were consulted and some information was also obtained from online databases. Each family was reviewed and the checklist updated by the respective taxon expert(s), including the number of species that can be expected for that family in Morocco. For each valid species, synonyms known to have been used for published records from Morocco are listed under the currently accepted name. Where available, distribution within Morocco is also included. One new combination is proposed: Assuania melanoleuca (Séguy, 1941), comb. nov. (Chloropidae).

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Catalogue Tue, 12 Apr 2022 09:47:10 +0300
Morphological investigation of genital organs and first insights into the phylogeny of the genus Siciliaria Vest, 1867 as a basis for a taxonomic revision (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Clausiliidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/67081/ ZooKeys 1077: 1-175

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1077.67081

Authors: Willy De Mattia, Susanne Reier, Elisabeth Haring

Abstract:

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Research Article Tue, 14 Dec 2021 13:32:31 +0200
A review of tangle-veined flies (Nemestrinidae, Diptera) in Egypt https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/70743/ ZooKeys 1071: 11-42

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1071.70743

Authors: Arafa Elsayed El-Hashash, Haitham Badrawy Mousa Badrawy, Ayman Mohyie-Eldin Ibrahim

Abstract: The Egyptian fauna of the genus Nemestrinus Latreille, 1802 is revised. In 1967, Steyskal and El-Bialy listed 12 species from the region, but only six species are now recognized. The primary type specimens of the species N. aegyptiacus (Wiedemann, 1828), N. rufipes (Olivier, 1810), and N. lateralis Wiedemann, 1828 (N. lateralis being a synonym of N. rufipes) deposited in the Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin, Germany were examined. Two species (N. abdominalis Olivier, 1811 and N. fascifrons (Bigot, 1888) are placed as new synonyms of N. ater (Olivier, 1811), and N. ruficornis Macquart, 1840 is synonymized with N. rufipes (Olivier, 1811). Nemestrinus jullieni (Efflatoun, 1925) is confirmed as a synonym of N. aegyptiacus. Furthermore, three species (N. caucasicus Fischer, 1806, N. pallipes (Olivier, 1811), and N. persicus Lichtwardt, 1909) have been removed and are doubtful records from Egypt. A key to the species, lists of specimens examined, and Illustrations and distributions for each species are provided. The status of species of doubtful occurrence in Egypt is discussed.

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Research Article Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:14:56 +0200
Taxonomic complexity in the genus Merodon Meigen, 1803 (Diptera, Syrphidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/62125/ ZooKeys 1031: 85-124

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1031.62125

Authors: Ante Vujić, Snežana Radenković, Laura Likov, Sanja Veselić

Abstract: The genus Merodon Meigen, 1803 is distributed across the Palaearctic and Afrotropical Regions. The present work summarizes the knowledge from recent taxonomic and systematic revisions and includes an identification key for the five monophyletic lineages (namely albifrons, aureus, avidus-nigritarsis, desuturinus and natans), 24 species groups, two species subgroups and 10 unplaced species, along with diagnosis and illustrations. A list of 234 taxa, including 194 described and 40 undescribed species, is appended. Most of the species are distributed in the Palaearctic (209 taxa, 181 described), while 27 species (14 described) are known from the Afrotropical Region. Three lineages (aureus, desuturinus and natans) are present in the Afrotropical Region, as well as in the Palaearctic. The Afrotropical melanocerus species group of the desuturinus lineage and the bombiformis species group of the aureus lineage are endemic to the Afrotropical Region, and all other species groups belong to the Palaearctic fauna. The albifrons lineage contains six species groups (albifrons, constans, equestris, geniculatus, ruficornis and rufus) and two unplaced taxa. The aureus lineage includes five species groups (aureus, bombiformis, funestus, nanus and spinitarsis). The avidus-nigritarsis lineage is divided into 10 species groups (aberrans, aurifer, avidus, clavipes, fulcratus, italicus, nigritarsis, pruni, serrulatus and tarsatus) and eight unplaced taxa. The desuturinus lineage contains two species groups: the Afrotropical melanocerus group, with the melanocerus and planifacies subgroups plus the species M. cuthbertsoni Curran, 1939, and the Palaearctic murorum species group. The natans lineage consists of the natans species group plus the species M. segetum Fabricius, 1794.

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Research Article Wed, 14 Apr 2021 23:38:36 +0300
A reassessment of the genus Oligoneuriopsis Crass, 1947 (Ephemeroptera, Oligoneuriidae, Oligoneuriellini) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/56649/ ZooKeys 985: 15-47

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.985.56649

Authors: Helen M. Barber-James, Sonia Zrelli, Zohar Yanai, Michel Sartori

Abstract: The distinction between the two closely related genera Oligoneuriella Ulmer, 1924 and Oligoneuriopsis Crass, 1947 has been much debated. First described from South Africa, Oligoneuriopsis seemed to be a clearly defined genus. However, as the known distribution of the genus widened and knowledge on it expanded, species delimitation based on morphology became less clear due to overlap in several apparently defining morphological characters, especially in the nymphs. This work attempts to reassess Oligoneuriopsis morphology in the context of all currently known species. The type species, Oligoneuriopsis lawrencei Crass, 1947 is redescribed at the imaginal and nymphal stages and a neotype is designated. The putative nymph of Oligoneuriopsis dobbsi (Eaton, 1912) is described based on material collected around Mt Elgon (Kenya). The adults of Oligoneuriella orontensis Koch, 1980 are described for the first time and the species is transferred to the genus Oligoneuriopsis (Oligoneuriopsis orontensis comb. nov.). Egg structure is also described for the first time for the species Oligoneuriopsis skhounate and O. orontensis. Some biogeographical considerations are also given. It is likely that more species will still be discovered, especially in Africa.

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Research Article Thu, 5 Nov 2020 16:12:36 +0200
The species of Timarcha Samouelle, 1819 described by Linnaeus (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/57158/ ZooKeys 986: 55-80

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.986.57158

Authors: José Miguel Vela, Miguel Ángel Alonso-Zarazaga, Mauro Daccordi

Abstract: Linnaeus described five species presently included in the genus Timarcha: Chrysomela goettingensis, Tenebrio caeruleus, Tenebrio laevigatus, Tenebrio latipes, and Tenebrio rugosus. After a study of the relevant material, the identity of these species has been established. The following synonyms are proposed or confirmed: Timarcha goettingensis (Linnaeus, 1758) = T. latipes (Linnaeus, 1767), syn. nov.; Timarcha caerulea (Linnaeus, 1758), comb. nov. = T. balearica Gory, 1833, syn. nov. = T. balearica Pérez Arcas, 1865, syn. nov.; Timarcha rugosa (Linnaeus, 1767) = T. scabra (Olivier, 1807), syn. conf. = T. generosa Erichson, 1841, syn. conf.; Timarcha laevigata (Linnaeus, 1767) = T. tenebricosa (Fabricius, 1775), syn. conf.. The type of Tenebrio caeruleus is a Chrysomelidae currently belonging to genus Timarcha and therefore can no longer be considered a Tenebrionidae (Helops caeruleus) nor the type species of genus Helops. For the sake of nomenclatural stability, an application to the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature to change the relative precedence of Timarcha caerulea and retain usage of T. balearica will be made. An application to change the relative precedence of Timarcha laevigata has been submitted, which would lead to the conservation of usage of T. tenebricosa as valid. Lectotypes are designated for Chrysomela goettingensis, Tenebrio latipes, Tenebrio caeruleus, Timarcha balearica Gory, T. balearica Pérez Arcas, Tenebrio rugosus, Chrysomela scabra, Timarcha generosa, Tenebrio laevigatus, and Chrysomela tenebricosa. For each of the valid species the diagnosis, distribution, and host-plant data are reported.

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Research Article Thu, 5 Nov 2020 02:21:14 +0200
An update and revision of the Andrena fauna of Morocco (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Andrenidae) with the description of eleven new North African species https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/54794/ ZooKeys 974: 31-92

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.974.54794

Authors: Thomas James Wood, Denis Michez, Diego Cejas, Patrick Lhomme, Pierre Rasmont

Abstract: Morocco has a diverse bee fauna, but one that has also been relatively understudied in recent years. Here a revision of the species-rich genus Andrena is presented that reveals eleven new species for science and substantially improves our understanding of North African Andrena. From Morocco, Andrena (Aciandrena) semiadesus Wood, sp. nov., Andrena (Aciandrena) triangulivalvis Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Campylogaster) sparsipunctata Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Carandrena) hebescens Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Cnemidandrena) niveofacies Wood sp. nov., Andrena (incertae sedis) tenebricorpus Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Notandrena) acutidentis Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Poliandrena) breviceps Wood sp. nov., and Andrena (Poliandrena) farinosoides Wood sp. nov. are described and their ecology is discussed. Andrena (Aciandrena) astrella Warncke, 1975 is synonymised with Andrena (Aciandrena) fulica Warncke, 1974 syn. nov. The unknown female of Andrena (Nobandrena) ounifa Warncke, 1974, and the unknown male of Andrena (Poliandrena) guichardi Warncke, 1980 are described. Andrena (incertae sedis) gafsensis Wood sp. nov. from Tunisia is described due to its similarity to Andrena tenebricorpus. Andrena (Poecilandrena) nigriclypeus Wood sp. nov. from Algeria is also described as it was collected within 10 km of the Moroccan border. A further 18 species are recorded in Morocco for the first time. Andrena (Melandrena) nitida (Müller, 1776) and Andrena (Notandrena) nitidiuscula Schenck, 1853 are removed from the Moroccan list due to historic problems in the application of these names to Mediterranean taxa.

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Research Article Wed, 7 Oct 2020 00:46:29 +0300
Catalogue, distribution, taxonomic notes, and conservation of the Western Palearctic endemic hunchback beetles (Tenebrionidae, Misolampus) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/53500/ ZooKeys 963: 81-129

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.963.53500

Authors: Natalia Rosas-Ramos, Paloma Mas-Peinado, Diego Gil-Tapetado, Ernesto Recuero, José L. Ruiz, Mario García-París

Abstract: Hunchback darkling beetles of the Ibero-Maghrebian genus Misolampus Latreille, 1807 (Tenebrionidae, Stenochiinae) encompass six species: M. gibbulus (Herbst, 1799), M. goudotii Guérin-Méneville, 1834, M. lusitanicus Brême, 1842, M. ramburii Brême, 1842, M. scabricollis Graells, 1849, and M. subglaber Rosenhauer, 1856. Previously known distribution ranges of the species were delineated using many old records, the persistence of such populations being questionable under the current situation of global biodiversity loss. Additionally, the status of geographically isolated populations of the genus have been the subject of taxonomic controversy. An exhaustive bibliographical revision and field search was undertaken, and the Misolampus collection of the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC) was revised. The aims are to (i) provide an updated geographic distribution range for the species of Misolampus; (ii) to determine the taxonomic status of controversial populations; (iii) to provide a catalogue for Misolampus; and (iv) to discuss the conservation status of these saproxylic beetles. As a result, a catalogue including synonymies and type localities, geographical records, diagnoses, and information on natural history for all species of Misolampus is presented. The results reveal that the distribution ranges of the species of Misolampus have not undergone a reduction in the last century, and indicate the presence of the genus in areas where it had never been recorded before. The morphological variability of M. goudotii drove the proposal of different taxa that are here formally synonymised as follows: M. goudotii Guérin-Méneville, 1834 = M. erichsoni Vauloger de Beaupré, 1900, syn. nov. = M. peyerimhoffi Antoine, 1926, syn. nov.

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Research Article Mon, 24 Aug 2020 00:32:42 +0300
An unexpected new species of Habrophlebia from Algeria (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/51244/ ZooKeys 953: 31-47

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.953.51244

Authors: Lina Hanane Kechemir, Michel Sartori, Abdelkader Lounaci

Abstract: We describe a new species of Habrophlebia, H. djurdjurensis sp. nov., based on nymphal, imaginal, and egg stages obtained by sampling from the Great Kabylia watershed, north-central Algeria. The new species was previously identified as H. cf. fusca by Lounaci et al. 2000. Habrophlebia djurdjurensis is in fact more related to H. vaillantorum Thomas, 1996 but can be separated by characters on the nymphs and male imago. This is the fourth species of Habrophlebia reported from North Africa.

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Research Article Mon, 27 Jul 2020 14:31:09 +0300
Geology and paleontology of the Upper Cretaceous Kem Kem Group of eastern Morocco https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/47517/ ZooKeys 928: 1-216

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.928.47517

Authors: Nizar Ibrahim, Paul C. Sereno, David J. Varricchio, David M. Martill, Didier B. Dutheil, David M. Unwin, Lahssen Baidder, Hans C. E. Larsson, Samir Zouhri, Abdelhadi Kaoukaya

Abstract: The geological and paleoenvironmental setting and the vertebrate taxonomy of the fossiliferous, Cenomanian-age deltaic sediments in eastern Morocco, generally referred to as the “Kem Kem beds”, are reviewed. These strata are recognized here as the Kem Kem Group, which is composed of the lower Gara Sbaa and upper Douira formations. Both formations have yielded a similar fossil vertebrate assemblage of predominantly isolated elements pertaining to cartilaginous and bony fishes, turtles, crocodyliforms, pterosaurs, and dinosaurs, as well as invertebrate, plant, and trace fossils. These fossils, now in collections around the world, are reviewed and tabulated. The Kem Kem vertebrate fauna is biased toward large-bodied carnivores including at least four large-bodied non-avian theropods (an abelisaurid, Spinosaurus, Carcharodontosaurus, and Deltadromeus), several large-bodied pterosaurs, and several large crocodyliforms. No comparable modern terrestrial ecosystem exists with similar bias toward large-bodied carnivores. The Kem Kem vertebrate assemblage, currently the best documented association just prior to the onset of the Cenomanian-Turonian marine transgression, captures the taxonomic diversity of a widespread northern African fauna better than any other contemporary assemblage from elsewhere in Africa.

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Monograph Tue, 21 Apr 2020 14:23:34 +0300
Cranial variability and differentiation among golden jackals (Canis aureus) in Europe, Asia Minor and Africa https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/39449/ ZooKeys 917: 141-164

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.917.39449

Authors: Stoyan Stoyanov

Abstract: Golden jackal (Canis aureus) expansion in the last decades has triggered research interest in Europe. However, jackal phylogeny and taxonomy are still controversial. Morphometric studies in Europe found differences between Dalmatian and the other European jackals. Recent genetic studies revealed that African and Eurasian golden jackals are distinct species. Moreover, large Canis aureus lupaster may be a cryptic subspecies of the African golden jackal. Although genetic studies suggest changes in Canis aureus taxonomy, morphological and morphometric studies are still needed. The present study proposes the first comprehensive analysis on a wide scale of golden jackal skull morphometry. Extensive morphometric data of jackal skulls from Europe (including a very large Bulgarian sample), Asia Minor, and North Africa were analysed, by applying recently developed statistical tools, to address the following questions: (i) is there geographic variation in skull size and shape among populations from Europe, Anatolia and the Caucasus?, (ii) is the jackal population from the Dalmatian coast different?, and (iii) is there a clear distinction between the Eurasian golden jackal (Canis aureus) and the African wolf (Canis lupaster sensu lato), and among populations of African wolves as well? Principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis were applied on the standardized and log-transformed ratios of the original measurements to clearly separate specimens by shape and size. The results suggest that jackals from Europe, Anatolia and the Caucasus belong to one subspecies: Canis aureus moreotica (I. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1835), despite the differences in shape of Dalmatian specimens. The present study confirmed morphometrically that all jackals included so far in the taxon Canis aureus sensu lato may represent three taxa and supports the hypothesis that at least two different taxa (species?) of Canis occur in North Africa, indicating the need for further genetic, morphological, behavioural and ecological research to resolve the taxonomic uncertainty. The results are consistent with recent genetic and morphological studies and give further insights on golden jackal taxonomy. Understanding the species phylogeny and taxonomy is crucial for the conservation and management of the expanding golden jackal population in Europe.

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Research Article Mon, 9 Mar 2020 05:21:37 +0200
Host plant associations in Western Palaearctic Longitarsus flea beetles (Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini): a preliminary phylogenetic assessment https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/32430/ ZooKeys 856: 101-114

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.856.32430

Authors: Daniele Salvi, Paola D’Alessandro, Maurizio Biondi

Abstract: Longitarsus Latreille (Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini) is a very large genus of phytophagous insects, with more than 700 species distributed in all zoogeographical regions. Patterns of host use have been a central topic in phytophagous insect research. In this study a first assessment is provided to test the hypothesis that host-plant association is phylogenetically conserved in Western Palaearctic Longitarsus species. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods were used to infer a phylogeny based on DNA sequence data from two mitochondrial genes from 52 Longitarsus species from the Western Palaearctic. In agreement with the host phylogenetic conservatism hypothesis, a strict association between most of the recovered clades and specific plant families was found, except for species associated with Boraginaceae. Low phylogenetic resolution at deep nodes limited the evaluation of whether closely related Longitarsus clades are associated with the same plant family or to closely related plant families.

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Research Article Mon, 17 Jun 2019 16:00:14 +0300
The complete mitogenome of Helix pomatia and the basal phylogeny of Helicinae (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Helicidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/33057/ ZooKeys 827: 19-30

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.827.33057

Authors: Ondřej Korábek, Adam Petrusek, Michail Rovatsos

Abstract: A complete mitochondrial genome of the Roman snail Helix pomatia Linnaeus, 1758 has been sequenced. The length and gene order correspond to that of other available helicid mitogenomes. We used the mitogenome sequence to reappraise the relationships among the four presumed principal groups of the helicid subfamily Helicinae. The results support the idea that the subfamily is divided between two western Palaearctic diversification centres: Iberian Peninsula and western Maghreb in the west, and Anatolia, the Aegean and Caucasus in the east. One group, the tribe Helicini, diversified in the east and the remaining three currently recognised tribes in the west. However, the exact relationships among lineages of the non-Helicini tribes could not be resolved.

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Research Article Tue, 5 Mar 2019 16:24:22 +0200
Presence of a stridulatory apparatus in the manca stages of isopods (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/23018/ ZooKeys 801: 501-518

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.801.23018

Authors: Giuseppe Montesanto

Abstract: Armadillo officinalis Duméril, 1816 (Armadillidae) is a widespread terrestrial isopod species in the Mediterranean basin and on the western coasts of the Black Sea. The species is adapted to live in xeric environments and has mainly nocturnal habits. This species is capable of producing stridulations, which is nowadays recognized as a synapomorphy of the genus. In both sexes, these vibrations are produced by a line of scales on the propodus of pereopod 4 and 5. The main goals of this study are: to describe the manca stages of Armadillo officinalis; to detect the presence of the stridulatory apparatus in the manca stages; to evaluate the differences of such apparatus in the various manca stages. The manca stages (I, II, III) of Armadillo officinalis are described for the first time showing: i, the shortest duration (known in literature) of the manca stage I (approximately 30 minutes); ii, the presence of a rudimental stridulatory organ that may be of great importance in terms of evolutionary aspects and adaptation to terrestrial life. Notes on the reproductive biology are also reported. Furthermore, some considerations on future perspectives for A. officinalis as a model species in biotremology are also discussed.

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Research Article Mon, 3 Dec 2018 10:13:49 +0200
A review of the family Trichopolydesmidae in North Africa with a description of a new species from Tunisia https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/28270/ ZooKeys 786: 117-128

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.786.28270

Authors: Nesrine Akkari, Jean-Paul Mauriès

Abstract: A new species of the genus Haplocookia Brölemann, 1915 is described from Cap Bon Peninsula in Tunisia (North Africa) and a historical account of the poorly understood genera Haplocookia and Heterocookia Silvestri, 1898 is provided. Comments on the taxonomy of the family Trichopolydesmidae are presented, as well as an identification key to the trichopolydesmid species hitherto known from North Africa and an updated list of the Polydesmida in the region.

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Research Article Wed, 26 Sep 2018 11:04:05 +0300
The genus Mercuria Boeters, 1971 in Morocco: first molecular phylogeny of the genus and description of two new species (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea, Hydrobiidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/26797/ ZooKeys 782: 95-128

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.782.26797

Authors: Khadija Boulaassafer, Mohamed Ghamizi, Diana Delicado

Abstract: The western Palearctic freshwater snail genus Mercuria (Caenogastropoda: Hydrobiidae) comprises 26 species primarily distributed in lowland localities of Western Europe and North Africa. Although this genus in North Africa has received considerable attention in terms of species discoveries through morphological descriptions, its distribution and phylogenetic patterns remain unknown. Based on morphological and mitochondrial DNA (mtCOI) evidence, this study examines the three Mercuria species (M. bakeri, M. tingitana, and M. targouasensis) from Morocco identified so far. Besides expanding on information regarding the anatomy of these species, two new species (M. midarensis sp. n. and M. tensiftensis sp. n.) are described for this region and phylogenetic relationships inferred between these species and the European M. emiliana and M. similis. All Moroccan and European species were recovered as independent entities according to these phylogenetic inferences (uncorrected p-distances 2.8–8.5%) and DNA barcode data. Moroccan Mercuria species clustered with M. emiliana from Spain, although basal relationships within this clade were not well supported. Given that factors such as the season when specimens are collected, habitat type, and parasites could be responsible for the remarkable intraspecific variation observed in shell and penis morphology, it is proposed that the most efficient approach to delimit and identify Mercuria species is to combine morphological descriptions with genetic data.

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Research Article Mon, 27 Aug 2018 15:45:51 +0300
The quest for the identity of Orthoceratium lacustre (Scopoli, 1763) reveals centuries of misidentifications (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/26329/ ZooKeys 782: 49-79

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.782.26329

Authors: Marc Pollet, Andreas Stark

Abstract: Recently, a species of Orthoceratium was collected in Greece that differs morphologically from the European species commonly presumed to be Orthoceratium lacustre (Scopoli, 1763). Verification of the identity of the Greek species through comparison with 460 specimens of Orthoceratium from 17 West Palaearctic and one Afrotropical country, and examination of existing type material, revealed that the species recognized as O. lacustre in northwestern Europe for over 250 years is actually O. sabulosum (Becker, 1907), the other known species in the genus, which was originally described from Tunisia. Although the types of O. lacustre have been lost, a comparison of the distribution ranges of both species in Europe provided evidence that the species collected in Greece is conspecific with O. lacustre. Both species have distinct distributions in the West Palaearctic, with O. lacustre largely restricted to the northern border of the Mediterranean basin, and O. sabulosum more widespread, occurring in northwestern Europe, the western, southern, and eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the Afrotropical Region (Tanzania). Both species are redescribed and fully illustrated, a neotype is designated for O. lacustre and a lectotype for O. sabulosum, and a key to males and females is provided. The misidentifications that lasted for over two centuries are explained by the omission by previous authors to study the type specimens, and inaccuracies in species descriptions and keys.

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Research Article Thu, 16 Aug 2018 21:56:18 +0300
New records of the endemic Sicilian land snail species Marmorana (Murella) muralis (O. F. Müller, 1774) from the north of Tunisia (Pulmonata, Gastropoda) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/25740/ ZooKeys 775: 131-147

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.775.25740

Authors: Issaad Kawther Ezzine, Najet Dimassi, Beat Pfarrer, Khaled Said, Eike Neubert

Abstract: Marmorana (Murella) muralis is known as an endemic species of Sicily Island, which is introduced in many European countries. Here, M. (M.) muralis is recorded from the north of Tunisia. In order to confirm the identification of samples collected from several localities, shell morphology, details of genital organs and two mitochondrial markers (COI and 16S) were investigated. The results of the molecular study, as well as the morphological and anatomical studies confirm the identification of all Tunisian samples as M. (M.) muralis. The analysis of mitochondrial markers shows a low divergence between Sicilian and Tunisian samples suggesting a recent introduction of M. (M.) muralis to the North of Tunisia. The comparison of morphological characters of M. (M.) muralis with shell characters of Murella nicollei described by Pallary (1926) confirms that the latter should be considered as synonym of M. (M.) muralis.

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Research Article Thu, 19 Jul 2018 16:03:44 +0300
Checklist of ladybirds of Algeria with two new recorded species (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/23895/ ZooKeys 774: 41-52

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.774.23895

Authors: Mohamed Amin Lakhal, Djelloul Ghezali, Oldřich Nedvěd, Salaheddine Doumandji

Abstract: An updated and corrected checklist of species of ladybird beetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) known in Algeria now contains 75 species belonging in ten tribes. New country records include the European species Oenopia conglobata and the invasive Asian species Harmonia axyridis. Sampling data is provided for 14 species found during a faunistic survey performed mostly in agroecosystems, together with host plant and prey species.

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Checklist Thu, 12 Jul 2018 12:45:23 +0300
Taxonomic revision of the Graphipterus serrator (Forskål) group (Coleoptera, Carabidae): an increase from five to 15 valid species https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/22366/ ZooKeys 753: 23-82

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.753.22366

Authors: Ittai Renan, Thorsten Assmann, Amnon Freidberg

Abstract: The south-west Palaearctic Graphipterus serrator group is revised. The systematic concept of the G. serrator group has undergone many changes during the last two centuries, and several different classifications have been published in recent decades. Here, the numerical taxonomy approach is used with the morphological characterization similarity level of the sympatric taxa in order to delimit allopatrically occurring taxa at the species and subspecies level. A key to the species and distribution maps are provided along with analyses of the conservation status and habitat preferences of the taxa. The Graphipterus serrator group currently comprises 16 taxa. Five new species are described: Graphipterus magnus Renan & Assmann, sp. n., Graphipterus mauretensis Renan & Assmann, sp. n., Graphipterus piniamitaii Renan & Freidberg, sp. n., Graphipterus sharonae Renan & Assmann, sp. n., and Graphipterus stagonopsis Renan & Assmann, sp. n. In addition, five taxa are revalidated to full species status: Graphipterus heydeni Kraatz, 1890, stat. rest. (lectotype designated), Graphipterus multiguttatus (Olivier, 1790), stat. rest. (lectotype designated), Graphipterus peletieri Laporte de Castelnau, 1840, stat. rest. (the frequently used name lepeletieri is an error), Graphipterus rotundatus Klug, 1832, stat. rest. (lectotype designated), and Graphipterus valdanii Guérin-Méneville, 1859 stat. rest., and a full species status is proposed for Graphipterus reymondi Antoine, 1953, stat. n. One new synonymy is proposed: Graphipterus kindermanni Chaudoir, 1871, syn. n. of Carabus multiguttatus Olivier, 1790. Lectotype designations were made for Graphipterus heydeni, Graphipterus minutus Dejean, 1822, Graphipterus multiguttatus, and Graphipterus rotundatus. Neotype designations were made for Graphipterus reichei Guérin-Méneville, 1859, Graphipterus intermedius Guérin-Méneville, 1859, and Graphipterus valdanii Guérin-Méneville, 1859.

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Monograph Thu, 26 Apr 2018 16:22:32 +0300
At home at least: the taxonomic position of some north African Xerocrassa species (Pulmonata, Geomitridae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/13066/ ZooKeys 712: 1-27

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.712.13066

Authors: Issaad Kawther Ezzine, Beat Pfarrer, Najet Dimassi, Khaled Said, Eike Neubert

Abstract: In order to clarify the systematic position of Helix latastei Letourneux in Letourneux & Bourguignat, 1887, and Helix latasteopsis Letourneux & Bourguignat, 1887, a comprehensive approach using morphological and molecular methods is presented. The investigation of the genital organs of both species showed that they belong to the genus Xerocrassa Monterosato, 1892 with two very small dart sacs and a few tubiform glandulae mucosae. In our phylogenetic analysis using the mitochondrial markers COI, 16S and the nuclear cluster 5.8-ITS2-28S, the results of the anatomical research were confirmed. Thus, the genus Ereminella Pallary, 1919, which is based on H. latastei, becomes a junior synonym of Xerocrassa. A review of the genus-level taxa Xerobarcana Brandt, 1959, and Xeroregima Brandt, 1959, showed that these should also be considered as synonyms of Xerocrassa. A third species, Helix lacertara Bourguignat, 1863 from Algeria was found to be closely related to X. latastei based on its shell morphology. A map showing the distribution of the three species treated is supplied.

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Research Article Thu, 26 Oct 2017 02:18:56 +0300
Revision of Massylaea Möllendorff, 1898 (Stylommatophora, Helicidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/15001/ ZooKeys 694: 109-133

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.694.15001

Authors: Houria Bouaziz-Yahiatene, Beat Pfarrer, Ferroudja Medjdoub-Bensaad, Eike Neubert

Abstract: In this paper some helicoid species from eastern Algeria are investigated using a morphological and molecular approach. The investigation of the genital organs of M. massylaea (Morelet, 1851), the type species of the genus Massylaea Möllendorff, 1898, showed the same autapomorphic character states as are considered typical for Eobania P. Hesse, 1913. These findings are fully supported by the genetic analysis using two mitochondrial and three nuclear markers. Thus, the latter genus has to be considered a synonym of the former. Currently, three species are known to comprise the genus, viz. M. massylaea, M. constantina (E. Forbes, 1838), and M. vermiculata (O. F. Müller, 1774). Several nominal taxa from northern Africa are synonymised with one of the species mentioned here under Massylaea. The generic position of the so-called “Massylaea” species from the High Atlas Mountains in southern Morocco remains unresolved.

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Research Article Tue, 29 Aug 2017 05:37:03 +0300
Updated catalogue and taxonomic notes on the Old-World scorpion genus Buthus Leach, 1815 (Scorpiones, Buthidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/12206/ ZooKeys 686: 15-84

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.686.12206

Authors: Pedro Sousa, Miquel Arnedo, D. James Harris

Abstract: Since the publication of the ground-breaking “Catalogue of the scorpions of the world (1758–1998)” (Fet et al. 2000) the number of species in the scorpion genus Buthus Leach, 1815 has increased 10-fold, and this genus is now the fourth largest within the Buthidae, with 52 valid named species. Here we revise and update the available information regarding Buthus. A new combination is proposed: Buthus halius (C. L. Koch, 1839), comb. n. from Portugal and Spain. B. halius is removed from junior synonymy with Buthus occitanus (Amoreux, 1789), and proposed as a senior synonym of B. ibericus Lourenço & Vachon, 2004, syn. n. Moreover, following I.C.Z.N. article 23.9.2 we propose to maintain as valid B. ibericus (nomen protectum) and to consider the disued B. halius as a nomen oblitum. Buthus europaeus tridentatus Franganillo, 1918 is proposed as a junior synonym of B. occitanus (Amoreux, 1789), syn. n. Buthus sabulicola Touloun, 2012 is proposed as a junior synonym of Buthus bonito Lourenço & Geniez, 2005, syn. n. Buthus occitanus tunetanus neeli Gysin, 1969 is proposed as an informal senior synonym of Buthus tassili Lourenço, 2002, informal syn. n. Two taxa are rised to species rank, Buthus nigrovesiculosus Hirst, 1925, stat. n. and Buthus parroti Vachon, 1949, stat. n.. We further confirm the restricted distribution of B. occitanus that is confined to southeastern France and northwestern Iberian Peninsula and does not occur in North Africa. Additionally, Androctonus barbouri (Werner, 1932), comb. n. from the Agadir region of Morocco, is hereby transferred to the genus Androctonus. We summarize and provide a critical appraisal of the diagnostic characters currently in use for the genus. The catalogue section considers the names for species, subspecies and varieties that have been used for Buthus scorpions. Information about types, including collection numbers and localities are included when available. Finally, an annotated listing of synonymies and an updated bibliography are given.

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Catalogue Mon, 24 Jul 2017 11:41:16 +0300
Faunistic notes on Cryptophagidae and Latridiidae of Talassemtane National Park, Western Rif, Morocco, with the description of a new species (Coleoptera, Cucujoidea) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/11347/ ZooKeys 668: 69-82

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.668.11347

Authors: José Carlos Otero, Yousra Benyahia, Hervé Brustel

Abstract: In order to contribute to the knowledge of beetles (Coleoptera) of the mountainous region of Morocco, Talassemtane National Park (Western Rif, Chefchaouen district, Morocco) was surveyed. This is an exceptional protected area of the Mediterranean Intercontinental Biosphere Reserve (RIBM). The checklist was made using different traps combined with active periodical searches during 2013–2015. A total of 153 beetles belonging to 19 species from four subfamilies (Cryptophagidae: Cryptophaginae and Atomariinae; Latridiidae: Latridiinae and Corticariinae) was collected. Dienerella (Cartoderema) talassemata, a new species (Coleoptera: Latridiidae) was compared to other morphologically related species. One species is recorded for the first time for North Africa; three species are new records for Morocco. In addition, amongst the species listed, three are endemic to Morocco: Dienerella talassemtana sp. n., Caenoscelis humifera and Dienerella besucheti.

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Research Article Wed, 12 Apr 2017 02:02:21 +0300
Distribution and species identification in the crustacean isopod genus Dynamene Leach, 1814 along the North East Atlantic-Black Sea axis https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/10240/ ZooKeys 635: 1-29

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.635.10240

Authors: Pedro E. Vieira, Henrique Queiroga, Filipe O. Costa, David M. Holdich

Abstract: Sphaeromatid isopods, such as Dynamene, are common and abundant members of the invertebrate fauna of littoral and shallow sublittoral substrates. Six species of Dynamene occur in the northern hemisphere. Only two species exist outside this range, in Australia. The distribution of the various species in the NE Atlantic-Black Sea axis has been controversial due to the difficulty in the identification of the different species. This has led to inaccurate records of their distribution, ultimately generating uncertain or faulty assessments on the biodiversity of these habitats. An update and a clarification about the distribution of this genus is therefore in order. In this study, we describe the distribution of Dynamene species in the light of new records from the NE Atlantic Ocean and its associated islands, and the Mediterranean, Black and Red Seas, and from re-examination of museum and several authors’ personal collections. Based on these observations, we extend the northern and southern limits of D. bidentata (Adams); the western and southern limits of D. magnitorata Holdich; the northern, eastern and western limits of D. edwardsi (Lucas); and the eastern and western limits of D. bifida Torelli. The range of Dynamene tubicauda Holdich is extended, but is still only known from the eastern Mediterranean. We also clarify the synonymy of D. torelliae Holdich with D. bicolor (Rathke), and the occurrence of D. bicolor in the Black Sea. New distribution maps of the six Dynamene species are presented. Illustrated keys to the adult males and females of the northern hemisphere species are provided.

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Research Article Wed, 23 Nov 2016 13:48:34 +0200
First record of the genus Pycnodictya with its subspecies P. galinieri galinieri from Egypt (Orthoptera, Acrididae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/10162/ ZooKeys 630: 105-114

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.630.10162

Authors: Asmaa A. Haggag

Abstract: The band-winged Pycnodictya galinieri galinieri (Reiche & Fairmaire, 1849) and its genus Pycnodictya Stål, 1873 (Orthoptera: Acrididae: Oedipodinae) are recorded for the first time for the Egyptian fauna. The species was collected from Gabal Elba, in the southeastern corner of Egypt. This record expands the known distributional range of P. galinieri towards the north of Africa. Descriptions of the genus and the Egyptian subspecies are given using multiple diagnostic characters. The descriptions are supplemented by drawings and photographs of the specimen collected. It is proposed that the genus Pycnodictya belongs to the tribe Locustini.

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Review Article Wed, 9 Nov 2016 00:21:18 +0200
The tiger beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Cicindelinae) of Israel and adjacent lands https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/7383/ ZooKeys 578: 115-160

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.578.7383

Authors: Andrey V. Matalin, Vladimir I. Chikatunov

Abstract: Based on field studies, museums collections and literature sources, the current knowledge of the tiger beetle fauna of Israel and adjacent lands is presented. In Israel eight species occur, one of them with two subspecies, while in the Sinai Peninsula nine species of tiger beetles are now known. In the combined regions seven genera from two tribes were found. The Rift Valley with six cicindelids species is the most specious region of Israel. Cylindera contorta valdenbergi and Cicindela javeti azari have localized distributions and should be considered regional endemics. A similarity analysis of the tiger beetles faunas of different regions of Israel and the Sinai Peninsula reveal two clusters of species. The first includes the Great Rift Valley and most parts of the Sinai Peninsula, and the second incorporates most regions of Israel together with Central Sinai Foothills. Five distinct adult phenological groups of tiger beetles can be distinguished in these two clusters: active all-year (three species), spring-fall (five species), summer (two species), spring-summer (one species) and spring (one species). The likely origins of the tiger beetle fauna of this area are presented. An annotated list and illustrated identification key of the Cicindelinae of Israel and adjacent lands are provided.

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Research Article Fri, 8 Apr 2016 17:39:23 +0300
Review of Afraustraloderes rassei Bouyer, 2012: description of its female and a new species of Pixodarus Fairmaire, 1887 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Prioninae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/6112/ ZooKeys 558: 77-93

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.558.6112

Authors: Anders Bjørnstad, Elizabeth Grobbelaar, Renzo Perissinotto

Abstract: The original description of Afraustraloderes rassei Bouyer, 2012 included a female that is now recognized as a separate species belonging to the genus Pixodarus and here described as P. spiniscapus sp. n. The true female of A. rassei has also been obtained recently and is, therefore, here described. The synonymy of P. exasperatus with P. nyassae, proposed earlier by Santos Ferreira (1980), is here supported. Conversely, the earlier inclusion of A. rassei in the tribe Hopliderini is rejected, on the basis of a key set of characters established by Quentin and Villiers (1972, 1975). Afraustraloderes rassei appears to be restricted to the Cape Floral Region, exhibiting larval development in trunks and roots of dead Proteaceae plants. Conversely, P. spiniscapus has so far only been recorded in the eastern part of South Africa and appears to be associated with bushveld vegetation.

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Research Article Mon, 1 Feb 2016 23:49:41 +0200
Faunistic and bibliographical inventory of the Psychodinae moth-flies of North Africa (Diptera, Psychodidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/6593/ ZooKeys 558: 119-145

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.558.6593

Authors: Hanan Afzan, Boutaïna Belqat

Abstract: All published records for the 49 species of moth flies known from North Africa are reviewed and discussed: Morocco (27 species), Algeria (33 species), Tunisia (18 species) and Egypt (five species). In addition, records of seven species of Psychodinae new to the fauna of Morocco are added, of which three are new mentions for North Africa (Table 1) and one is a new record for Egypt. Telmatoscopus squamifer Tonnoir, 1922 is transferred to the genus Iranotelmatoscopus Ježek, 1987, comb. n. Satchelliella reghayana Boumezzough & Vaillant, 1987 is transferred to the genus Pneumia Enderlein, 1935, comb. n. Pneumia aberrans Tonnoir, 1922 is transferred to the subgenus Logima.

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Checklist Mon, 1 Feb 2016 02:04:54 +0200
GPS tracking data of Lesser Black-backed Gulls and Herring Gulls breeding at the southern North Sea coast https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/6173/ ZooKeys 555: 115-124

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.555.6173

Authors: Eric W.M. Stienen, Peter Desmet, Bart Aelterman, Wouter Courtens, Simon Feys, Nicolas Vanermen, Hilbran Verstraete, Marc Van de Walle, Klaas Deneudt, Francisco Hernandez, Robin Houthoofdt, Bart Vanhoorne, Willem Bouten, Roland-Jan Buijs, Marwa M. Kavelaars, Wendt Müller, David Herman, Hans Matheve, Alejandro Sotillo, Luc Lens

Abstract: In this data paper, Bird tracking - GPS tracking of Lesser Black-backed Gulls and Herring Gulls breeding at the southern North Sea coast is described, a species occurrence dataset published by the Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO). The dataset (version 5.5) contains close to 2.5 million occurrences, recorded by 101 GPS trackers mounted on 75 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 26 Herring Gulls breeding at the Belgian and Dutch coast. The trackers were developed by the University of Amsterdam Bird Tracking System (UvA-BiTS, http://www.uva-bits.nl). These automatically record and transmit bird movements, which allows us and others to study their habitat use and migration behaviour in great detail. Our bird tracking network is operational since 2013. It is funded for LifeWatch by the Hercules Foundation and maintained in collaboration with UvA-BiTS and the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ). The recorded data are periodically released in bulk as open data (http://dataset.inbo.be/bird-tracking-gull-occurrences), and are also accessible through CartoDB and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF).

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Data Paper Wed, 20 Jan 2016 15:18:06 +0200
A new species of the genus Baeoura from Morocco, with a key to the West Palaearctic species (Diptera, Tipuloidea, Limoniidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/5994/ ZooKeys 532: 99-105

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.532.5994

Authors: Ouafaa Driauach, Boutaïna Belqat

Abstract: The genus Baeoura is represented in Morocco by two species, Baeoura ebenina Starý, 1981, and Baeoura staryi sp. n. The new species is described and illustrated, and a key to the West Palaearctic species of Baeoura is presented.

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Research Article Thu, 5 Nov 2015 23:12:21 +0200
Two new phragmotic ant species from Africa: morphology and next-generation sequencing solve a caste association problem in the genus Carebara Westwood https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/6057/ ZooKeys 525: 77-105

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.525.6057

Authors: Georg Fischer, Frank Azorsa, Francisco Hita Garcia, Alexander S. Mikheyev, Evan P. Economo

Abstract: Phragmotic or “door head” ants have evolved independently in several ant genera across the world, but in Africa only one case has been documented until now. Carebara elmenteitae (Patrizi) is known from only a single phragmotic major worker collected from sifted leaf-litter near Lake Elmenteita in Kenya, but here the worker castes of two species collected from Kakamega Forest, a small rainforest in Western Kenya, are studied. Phragmotic major workers were previously identified as Carebara elmenteitae and non-phragmotic major and minor workers were assigned to C. thoracica (Weber). Using evidence of both morphological and next-generation sequencing analysis, it is shown that phragmotic and non-phragmotic workers of the two different species are actually the same and that neither name – C. elmenteitae or C. thoracica – correctly applies to them. Instead, this and another closey related species from Ivory Coast are both morphologically different from C. elmenteitae, and thus they are described as the new species Carebara phragmotica sp. n. and Carebara lilith sp. n.

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Research Article Mon, 5 Oct 2015 10:28:59 +0300
Taxonomy and distribution of some katydids (Orthoptera Tettigoniidae) from tropical Africa https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/5990/ ZooKeys 524: 17-44

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.524.5990

Authors: Bruno Massa

Abstract: Results of the study of specimens collected in tropical Africa and preserved in different European collections and museums are reported and extensively illustrated. The following three new species are described: Horatosphaga aethiopica sp. n., Dapanera occulta sp. n. and Cestromoecha laeglae sp. n. In addition, new diagnostic characters or distributional data for Ruspolia differens (Serville, 1838), Thyridorhoptrum senegalense Krauss, 1877, Horatosphaga leggei (Kirby, 1909), Horatosphaga linearis (Rehn, 1910), Preussia lobatipes Karsch, 1890 and Dapanera eidmanni Ebner, 1943 are reported. Finally, Symmetropleura plana (Walker, 1869) is proposed to be transferred to the genus Symmetrokarschia Massa, 2015, Conocephalus carbonarius (Redtenbacher, 1891) to the genus Thyridorhoptrum Rehn & Hebard, 1915; the genus Gonatoxia Karsch, 1889 is proposed to be synonymized with Dapanera Karsch, 1889.

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Research Article Wed, 30 Sep 2015 19:59:15 +0300
The cushion–star Parvulastra exigua in South Africa: one species or more? https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/6145/ ZooKeys 524: 1-16

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.524.6145

Authors: Robyn P. Payne, Charles L. Griffiths, Sophie von der Heyden, Erich Koch

Abstract: The cushion–star Parvulastra exigua (Lamarck, 1816) is a widely distributed member of the temperate intertidal fauna in the southern hemisphere. In South Africa, it occurs in sympatry with the endemic Parvulastra dyscrita (Clark, 1923), the two species being differentiated predominantly by gonopore placement. Several recent studies have suggested that there may be additional cryptic species within the P. exigua complex in South Africa, based variously on color morphology, genetic evidence and the differential placement of the gonopores. This paper attempts to resolve whether one or more species are represented within P. exigua. A total of 346 P. exigua and 8 P. dyscrita were collected from sites on the west and south–west coasts of South Africa; morphological, anatomical and genetic analyses were performed to determine whether cryptic species and/or P. exigua specimens with aboral gonopores were present. Results show that neither cryptic species nor P. exigua specimens with aboral gonopores occur at these sites. This study thus refutes previous claims of the existence of aboral gonopores in South African P. exigua, and suggests that a single species is represented. The distinction between P. exigua and P. dyscrita is also confirmed, and features separating these two species are clarified and documented.

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Research Article Wed, 30 Sep 2015 09:30:13 +0300
Rediscovered parasitism of Andrena savignyi Spinola (Hymenoptera, Andrenidae) by Stylops (Strepsiptera, Stylopidae) and revised taxonomic status of the parasite https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/6035/ ZooKeys 519: 117-139

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.519.6035

Authors: Jakub Straka, Abdulaziz S. Alqarni, Katerina Jůzová, Mohammed A. Hannan, Ismael A. Hinojosa-Díaz, Michael S. Engel

Abstract: Parasitism of Andrena (Suandrena) savignyi Spinola (Hymenoptera: Andrenidae) by Stylops Kirby (Strepsiptera: Stylopidae) has been recorded only once, and from an individual collected in Egypt almost a century ago, with the parasite described as Stylops savignyi Hofeneder. The recent rediscovery of this Stylops from an individual of A. savignyi permits a reinterpretation of the species and its affinities among other Stylops. The bee was collected at flowers of Zilla spinosa (Turra) Prantl. (Brassicaceae) in Amariah, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Based on DNA barcode sequences from material sampled across Africa, Asia, and Europe, it is apparent that S. savignyi is conspecific with S. nassonowi Pierce, and we accordingly synonymize this name (syn. n.), with the latter representing the senior and valid name for the species. A differential diagnosis is provided for S. nassonowi and the morphology of the female is described, as well as the first instars.

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Research Article Tue, 1 Sep 2015 09:09:09 +0300
Re-establishment of Carabus (Cathoplius) aliai Escalera, 1944 as a separate valid species (Coleoptera, Carabidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/5107/ ZooKeys 496: 61-84

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.496.9428

Authors: Claudio Ghittino, Enrico Busato, Achille Casale

Abstract: Carabus (Cathoplius) aliai was described as a separate species by Escalera in 1944 but since the 1950–60s it has been considered as a subspecies of C. (Cathoplius) stenocephalus Lucas, 1866. This downgrading was adopted after examining only a few specimens, due to their rarity in collections. In recent years, an important population of this taxon was rediscovered in the Tan-Tan area in southern Morocco. By combining field observations with laboratory breeding experiments including hybridization trials, and through the morphological examination of a representative number of individuals, it is confirmed that C. aliai is indeed a valid species. Despite close geographic distribution, the morphological and biological characteristics of C. aliai and C. stenocephalus ifniensis Zarco, 1941, its northern substitutive taxon, are very different. Carabus aliai adults are characterized by a smaller size, a slender silhouette, a more brilliant aspect, a narrower pronotum, a coarser elytral sculpture, longer legs, and a wider and a little more curved apex of the median lobe of the aedeagus. Carabus aliai larvae are also characterized by a much smaller size and the C. aliai pupa has a narrower thoracic area and a different chaetotaxy compared to that of C. stenocephalus ifniensis. Contrary to this, C. aliai has a life cycle belonging to the annual univoltine winter semelparous type. Moreover, the duration of its development cycle is shorter. Carabus aliai is a sabulicolous steppe-wandering species with an intensive running activity, while C. stenocephalus ifniensis is a more sedentary taxon. Crossbreeding experiments showed a marked reproductive isolation between C. aliai and C. stenocephalus ifniensis. When F1 hybrids were crossed with one another, a very high mortality rate during embryonic, larval and pupal development was evident and no vital F2 neo-adults were obtained. Morphological and biological differences, together with the reproductive failure in C. aliai × C. stenocephalus ifniensis hybrids, clearly indicate that C. aliai is a separate Cathoplius species that is distributed in an area south of the Anti-Atlas chain, from Plage Blanche (Guelmim) to Lemsid and Bou Kra (south of Laâyoune). Carabus aliai is therefore both a Saharan desert endemic and an Atlantic resident. Moreover, it is the southernmost Carabus species of the western Palaearctic region.

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Review Article Thu, 16 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0300
Afrotropical Cynipoidea (Hymenoptera) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/5015/ ZooKeys 493: 1-176

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.493.6353

Authors: Simon van Noort, Matthew L. Buffington, Mattias Forshage

Abstract: The Afrotropical Cynipoidea are represented by 306 described species and 54 genera in four families: Cynipidae, Figitidae, Liopteridae and Ibaliidae, the latter represented by a single introduced species. Seven of these genera are only represented by undescribed species in the region. Seven new genus-level synonymies, one genus resurrected from synonymy, 54 new combinations, one combination reinstated, and one new replacement name are presented. We provide identification keys to the families, subfamilies and genera of cynipoid wasps occurring in the Afrotropical region (Africa south of the Sahara, including Madagascar and southern Arabian Peninsula). Online interactive Lucid Phoenix and Lucid matrix keys are available at: http://www.waspweb.org/Cynipoidea/Keys/index.htm. An overview of the biology and checklists of species for each genus are provided. This paper constitutes the first contributory chapter to the book on Afrotropical Hymenoptera.

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Research Article Wed, 1 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0300
Review of the genera Anelaphinis Kolbe, 1892 and Atrichelaphinis Kraatz, 1898 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/4725/ ZooKeys 482: 91-142

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.482.8343

Authors: Sébastien Rojkoff, Renzo Perissinotto

Abstract: New material collected recently throughout the Afrotropical region has led to a major reassessment of taxa within the genera Anelaphinis Kolbe, 1892, Atrichelaphinis Kraatz, 1898 and other closely related genera. As a result, the name Megalleucosma Antoine, 1989 is here synonymised with Anelaphinis and a lectotype is designated for the type species, Cetonia dominula Harold, 1879. The genus Atrichelaphinis is redefined and a new subgenus, A. (Eugeaphinis), is proposed for Elaphinis simillima Ancey, 1883, Elaphinis vermiculata Fairmaire, 1894, Niphetophora rhodesiana Péringuey, 1907, Atrichelaphinis deplanata Moser, 1907 (with Anelaphinis kwangensis Burgeon, 1931 as junior synonym) and Anelaphinis sternalis Moser, 1914. Additionally, three new species and one new subspecies are recognised and described in this new subgenus: A. (Eugeaphinis) bomboesbergicasp. n. from South Africa; A. (Eugeaphinis) bjornstadisp. n. from Tanzania; A. (Eugeaphinis) garnierisp. n. from south–east Africa (Tanzania, Zimbabwe); and A. (Eugeaphinis) deplanata minettiissp. n. from central Africa (Malawi, Mozambique, Congo-Kinshasa, Congo-Brazzaville, South Africa, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe). The genus Atrichelaphinis is compared to its closest relatives and two separate keys are proposed, one for Atrichelaphinis and one for the sub-Saharan genera exhibiting completely or partially fused parameres.

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Research Article Mon, 16 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0200
Discovery of an unknown diversity of Leucinodes species damaging Solanaceae fruits in sub-Saharan Africa and moving in trade (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Pyraloidea) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/4535/ ZooKeys 472: 117-162

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.472.8781

Authors: Richard Mally, Anastasia Korycinska, David J. L. Agassiz, Jayne Hall, Jennifer Hodgetts, Matthias Nuss

Abstract: The larvae of the Old World genera Leucinodes Guenée, 1854 and Sceliodes Guenée, 1854 are internal feeders in the fruits of Solanaceae, causing economic damage to cultivated plants like Solanum melongena and S. aethiopicum. In sub-Saharan Africa five nominal species of Leucinodes and one of Sceliodes occur. One of these species, the eggplant fruit and shoot borer L. orbonalis Guenée, 1854, is regarded as regularly intercepted from Africa and Asia in Europe, North and South America and is therefore a quarantine pest on these continents. We investigate the taxonomy of African Leucinodes and Sceliodes based on morphological characters in wing pattern, genitalia and larvae, as well as mitochondrial DNA, providing these data for identification of all life stages. The results suggest that both genera are congeneric, with Sceliodes syn. n. established as junior subjective synonym of Leucinodes. L. orbonalis is described from Asia and none of the samples investigated from Africa belong to this species. Instead, sub-Saharan Africa harbours a complex of eight endemic Leucinodes species. Among the former nominal species of Leucinodes (and Sceliodes) from Africa, only L. laisalis (Walker, 1859), comb. n. (Sceliodes) is confirmed, with Leucinodes translucidalis Gaede, 1917, syn. n. as a junior subjective synonym. The other African Leucinodes species were unknown to science and are described as new: L. africensis sp. n., L. ethiopica sp. n., L. kenyensis sp. n., L. malawiensis sp. n., L. pseudorbonalis sp. n., L. rimavallis sp. n. and L. ugandensis sp. n. An identification key based on male genitalia is provided for the African Leucinodes species. Most imports of Leucinodes specimens from Africa into Europe refer to Leucinodes africensis, which has been frequently imported with fruits during the last 50 years. In contrast, L. laisalis has been much less frequently recorded, and L. pseudorbonalis as well as L. rimavallis only very recently in fruit imports from Uganda. Accordingly, interceptions of Leucinodes from Africa into other continents will need to be re-investigated for their species identity and will likely require, at least in parts, revisions of the quarantine regulations. The following African taxa are excluded from Leucinodes: Hyperanalyta Strand, 1918, syn. rev. as revised synonym of Analyta Lederer, 1863; Analyta apicalis (Hampson, 1896), comb. n. (Leucinodes); Lygropia aureomarginalis (Gaede, 1916), comb. n. (Leucinodes); Syllepte hemichionalis Mabille, 1900, comb. rev., S. hemichionalis idalis Viette, 1958, comb. rev. and S. vagans (Tutt, 1890), comb. n. (Aphytoceros). Deanolis iriocapna (Meyrick, 1938), comb. n. from Indonesia is originally described and misplaced in Sceliodes, and L. cordalis (Doubleday, 1843), comb. n. (Margaritia) from New Zealand, L. raondry (Viette, 1981), comb. n. (Daraba) from Madagascar as well as L. grisealis (Kenrick, 1912), comb. n. (Sceliodes) from New Guinea are transferred from Sceliodes to Leucinodes. While Leucinodes is now revised from Africa, it still needs further revision in Asia.

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Review Article Mon, 19 Jan 2015 00:00:00 +0200
Afrotropical Ophioninae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae): an update of Gauld and Mitchell’s revision, including two new species and an interactive matrix identification key https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/4276/ ZooKeys 456: 59-73

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.456.8140

Authors: Pascal Rousse, Simon van Noort

Abstract: The revision of the Afrotropical Ophioninae is updated, based on the examination of about 800–900 individuals in the South African and European museum collections. A robust interactive matrix key was built to provide quick and reliable identifications. The key is available online at http://www.waspweb.org. Two new species are described: Dicamptus maxipol sp. n. and Enicospilus gauldetmitchellorum sp. n. Numerous new distribution and biological records are provided, and noticeable morphological intra-specific variations are detailed. Enicospilus batus Gauld & Mitchell, syn. n. is considered as a junior synonym of E. luebberti (Enderlein).

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Research Article Fri, 21 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0200
A new species of redfin (Teleostei, Cyprinidae, Pseudobarbus) from the Verlorenvlei River system, South Africa https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/4230/ ZooKeys 453: 121-137

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.453.8072

Authors: Albert Chakona, Ernst R Swartz, Paul H. Skelton

Abstract: Pseudobarbus verloreni, a new species, is described from material collected in the Verlorenvlei River system on the west coast of South Africa. It differs from its congeners (except P. skeltoni, P. burchelli, and P. burgi) by the presence of two pairs of oral barbels. Pseudobarbus verloreni sp. n. can be distinguished from the three currently described double barbeled Pseudobarbus species by the following combination of characters: pigment pattern, generally deeper body relative to standard length, a longer intestine associated with the deeper body form, shorter snout relative to head length, and much shorter anterior barbels relative to head length. The new species is distinguished from P. burgi in the neighbouring Berg River system by its longer head and longer pre-dorsal length. It seems as if Pseudobarbus verloreni sp. n. has been extirpated from the Langvlei River system and face several threats to its survival in the Verlorenvlei River system.

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Research Article Tue, 11 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0200
Review of Afrotropical Figitinae (Figitidae, Cynipoidea, Hymenoptera) with the first records of Neralsia and Lonchidia for the region https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/4227/ ZooKeys 453: 37-69

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.453.8511

Authors: Simon van Noort, Matthew L. Buffington, Mattias Forshage

Abstract: The cynipoid subfamily Figitinae is poorly represented in the Afrotropical region with two genera (Figites Latreille and Xyalophora Kieffer) and six species currently known. Here we record an additional two genera (Neralsia Cameron and Lonchidia Thomson) for the region and describe three new species: Neralsia haddocki sp. n.; Xyalophora tedjoansi sp. n.; Xyalophora tintini sp. n. Benoit’s species described in 1956 are synonymized under Figites aciculatus (Benoit, 1956): Figites effossus syn. n.; F. favonius syn. n.; F. furvus syn. n.; F. fraudator syn. n. Identification keys to the figitine genera and species occurring in the Afrotropical region are provided. Online interactive Lucid Phoenix and Lucid matrix keys are available at: http://www.waspweb.org/Cynipoidea/Keys/index.htm

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Research Article Mon, 10 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0200
The genus Micatagla Argaman, 1994 in Egypt, with three new species and a new record (Hymenoptera, Bradynobaenidae, Apterogyninae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3686/ ZooKeys 397: 71-81

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.397.6768

Authors: Neveen Gadallah, Ahmed Soliman

Abstract: The genus Micatagla Argaman (Bradynobaenidae: Apterogyninae) is reviewed from Egypt, based on specimens collected from Wadi Allaqi (Aswan, Southern Egypt) and Kom Osheim (Fayoum) and those deposited in Egyptian insect collections as well as recorded data from the literature. A single species, Micatagla klugi (André), was previously recorded from Egypt. Micatagla allaqiensis sp. n., Micatagla ezzati sp. n. and Micatagla pseudorainerii sp. n. are described here. Micatagla antropovi Pagliano is also newly recorded from the Egyptian fauna. An illustrated key and a faunistic list comprising all Micatagla species recorded from Egypt are given.

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Research Article Thu, 3 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0300
A revision of the octocoral genus Ovabunda (Alderslade, 2001) (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Xeniidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3232/ ZooKeys 373: 1-41

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.373.6511

Authors: Anna Halàsz, Catherine McFadden, Dafna Aharonivich, Robert Toonen, Yehuda Benayahu

Abstract: The family Xeniidae (Octocorallia) constitutes an abundant benthic component on many Indo-West Pacific coral reefs and is ecologically important in the Red Sea. The genus Ovabunda Alderslade, 2001 was recently established to accommodate previous Xenia species with sclerites comprised of a mass of minute corpuscle-shaped microscleres. The aim of the present study was to examine type material of Xenia species in order to verify their generic affiliation. We present here a comprehensive account of the genus Ovabunda, using scanning electron microscopy to depict sclerite microstructure. We assign three Xenia species to the genus: O. ainex comb. n., O. gohari comb. n., and O. crenata comb. n.; and synonymize several other species of Ovabunda. We provide a key to Ovabunda species and conclude that they are mainly confined to the Red Sea, with some occurrence in the West Indian Ocean.

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Research Article Thu, 23 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0200
Two newly recognized species of Hemidactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from the Arabian Peninsula and Sinai, Egypt https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3570/ ZooKeys 355: 79-107

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.355.6190

Authors: Jiří Smid, Jiri Moravec, Lukáš Kratochvíl, Vaclav Gvozdik, Abdul Karim Nasher, Salem M. Busais, Thomas Wilms, Mohammed Y. Shobrak, Salvador Carranza

Abstract: A recent molecular phylogeny of the Arid clade of the genus Hemidactylus revealed that the recently described H. saba and two unnamed Hemidactylus species from Sinai, Saudi Arabia and Yemen form a well-supported monophyletic group within the Arabian radiation of the genus. The name ‘Hemidactylus saba species group’ is suggested for this clade. According to the results of morphological comparisons and the molecular analyses using two mitochondrial (12S and cytb) and four nuclear (cmos, mc1r, rag1, rag2) genes, the name Hemidactylus granosus Heyden, 1827 is resurrected from the synonymy of H. turcicus for the Sinai and Saudi Arabian species. The third species of this group from Yemen is described formally as a new species H. ulii sp. n. The phylogenetic relationships of the members of ‘Hemidactylus saba species group’ are evaluated and the distribution and ecology of individual species are discussed.

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Research Article Mon, 25 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +0200
First record and redescription of Macandrewella cochinensis Gopalakrishnan, 1973 (Copepoda, Scolecitrichidae) from the Red Sea, with notes on swarm formation https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3401/ ZooKeys 344: 1-15

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.344.5519

Authors: Mohsen El-Sherbiny, Ali M Al - Aidaroos

Abstract: During a study of the epipelagic zooplankton carried out near the fringing reef around Sharm El-Sheikh area, in the northern Red Sea, female and male specimens of the poorly known calanoid copepod Macandrewella cochinensis Gopalakrishnan, 1973 were collected. This is the first record of species occurrence in the Red Sea. Macandrewella cochinensis was previously known only from the offshore water of Cochin, south west of India. The Red Sea specimens are described in details herein to allow their comparison with the specimens from the type locality, because original description of M. cochinensis is incomplete and causes some taxonomic confusion. The most important characters that may have been overlooked in the original description are: shape of projections of the female distolateral prosomal borders, details of morphology of the asymmetrical female genital double-somite and presence of leg 5 in female.

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Research Article Tue, 22 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0300
Larinus berti sp. n. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Lixinae) from North Africa https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3379/ ZooKeys 342: 21-28

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.342.5754

Authors: Levent Gültekin, Miguel Alonso-Zarazaga

Abstract: A new species, Larinus berti sp. n. is described from Morocco and assigned to subgenus Cryphopus Petri, 1907 (Curculionidae: Lixinae; Lixini). Diagnostic characters of the new species are large size, elongate-ovate body, bisulcate sub-quadrangular rostrum, triangularly raised dorsum of rostrum, flat subgena and submentum, Y-shaped apodeme of sternite VIII of female and thin nodulus of spermatheca.

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Research Article Mon, 14 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0300
Taxonomic revision of the genus Carasobarbus Karaman, 1971 (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3291/ ZooKeys 339: 1-53

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.339.4903

Authors: Kai Borkenhagen, Friedhelm Krupp

Abstract: Representatives of the fish genus Carasobarbus Karaman, 1971 (Actinopterygii: Cyprinidae) from the Middle East and North Africa were previously placed in 14 different genus-group taxa (Barbellion, Barbus, Barynotus, Capoeta, Carasobarbus, Cyclocheilichthys, Kosswigobarbus, Labeobarbus, Luciobarbus, Pseudotor, Puntius, Systomus, Tor and Varicorhinus). The generic assignment of several species changed frequently, necessitating a re-evaluation of their taxonomic status. In this study, the genus Carasobarbus is revised based on comparative morphological examinations of about 1300 preserved specimens from collections of several museums and freshly collected material. The species Carasobarbus apoensis, C. canis, C. chantrei, C. exulatus, C. fritschii, C. harterti, C. kosswigi, C. luteus and C. sublimus form a monophyletic group that shares the following combination of characters: medium-sized barbels with a smooth last unbranched dorsal-fin ray, nine or 10 branched dorsal-fin rays and six branched anal fin-rays; scales large, shield-shaped, with many parallel radii; the lateral line containing 25 to 39 scales; the pharyngeal teeth hooked, 2.3.5-5.3.2 or 2.3.4-4.3.2; one or two pairs of barbels. The species are described in detail, their taxonomic status is re-evaluated and an identification key is provided. A lectotype of Systomus luteus Heckel, 1843 is designated. Carasobarbus Karaman, 1971, Kosswigobarbus Karaman, 1971, and Pseudotor Karaman, 1971 are subjective synonyms, and acting as First Reviser we gave precedence to the name Carasobarbus.

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Research Article Thu, 3 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0300
Revolving SEM images visualising 3D taxonomic characters: application to six species of the millipede genus Ommatoiulus Latzel, 1884, with description of seven new species and an interactive key to the Tunisian members of the genus (Diplopoda, Julida, Julidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3610/ ZooKeys 328: 5-45

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.328.5763

Authors: Nesrine Akkari, David Koon-Bong Cheung, Henrik Enghoff, Pavel Stoev

Abstract: A novel illustration technique based on scanning electron microscopy is used for the first time to enhance taxonomic descriptions. The male genitalia (gonopods) of six species of millipedes are used for construction of interactive imaging models. Each model is a compilation of a number of SEM images taken consecutively while rotating the SEM stage 360°, which allows the structure in question to be seen from all angles of view in one plane. Seven new species of the genus Ommatoiulus collected in Tunisia are described: O.chambiensis, O. crassinigripes, O. kefi, O. khroumiriensis, O. xerophilus, O. xenos, and O. zaghouani spp. n. Size differences between syntopic adult males of O. chambiensis and O. xerophilus spp. n. from Châambi Mountain are illustrated using scatter diagrams. A similar diagram is used to illustrate size differences in O. crassinigripes, O. khroumiriensis spp. n. and O. punicus (Brölemann, 1894). In addition to morphological differences, the latter three species display allopatric distribution and different habitat preferences. A dichotomous interactive key with a high visual impact and an intuitive user interface is presented to serve identification of the 12 Ommatoiulus species so far known from Tunisia. Updates on the North African Ommatoiulus fauna in general are presented.

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Research Article Tue, 3 Sep 2013 00:00:00 +0300
New data on aphid fauna (Hemiptera, Aphididae) in Algeria https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3443/ ZooKeys 319: 223-229

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.319.4340

Authors: Malik Laamari, Armelle Coeur d’Acier, Emmanuelle Jousselin

Abstract: A survey of aphids was carried out during the period 2008–2011 in different regions of Algeria by collecting and identifying aphids and their host plants. Aphids were collected from 46 host plants. Forty-six species were reported including thirty-six species which were recorded for the first time in this country and thirty species which were recorded for the first time in the Maghreb (North Africa). This study extends the number of known Algerian aphid to 156 species.

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Research Article Tue, 30 Jul 2013 00:00:00 +0300
A revision of the continental species of Copa Simon, 1885 (Araneae, Corinnidae) in the Afrotropical Region https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3734/ ZooKeys 276: 1-37

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.276.4233

Authors: Charles Haddad

Abstract: The cryptic ground-dwelling castianeirine genus Copa Simon, 1885 (Araneae: Corinnidae) is revised in the continental Afrotropical Region. The type species of the genus, C. flavoplumosa Simon, 1885, is redescribed and considered a senior synonym of C. benina Strand, 1916 syn. n. and C. benina nigra Lessert, 1933 syn. n. It is widespread throughout the Afrotropical Region but has not been introduced to any of the associated regional islands. A new species, Copa kei sp. n., is described from South Africa. Copa agelenina Simon, 1910, originally described from a subadult female from southern Botswana, is considered a nomen dubium. Copa flavoplumosa is a characteristic species of leaf litter spider assemblages and is particularly prevalent in savanna habitats on the continent, but also occurs in various forest types, grasslands, fynbos and semi-arid Nama Karoo habitats. In contrast, C. kei sp. n. has only been recorded from Afromontane and coastal forests in south-eastern South Africa.

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Research Article Wed, 6 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0200
Two new species of zooplanktivorous haplochromine cichlids from Lake Victoria, Tanzania https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3601/ ZooKeys 256: 1-34

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.256.3871

Authors: Marnix de Zeeuw, Irene Westbroek, Martien van Oijen, Frans Witte

Abstract: Two new species of zooplanktivorous haplochromine cichlids from Lake Victoria, Tanzania, are described and illustrated. These species closely resemble each other. Their affinities to other zooplanktivorous haplochromines from Lake Victoria are discussed. Haplochromis argens sp. n., which featured under nicknames (mainly H. “argens”) in more than 50 papers, was caught both in the Mwanza Gulf and the Emin Pasha Gulf, whereas H. goldschmidti sp. n. was only found in the Emin Pasha Gulf. Of the latter species only males are available, but it seems unlikely that it represents a case of male colour polymorphism as several presumably unrelated characters differ in sympatry between the two species, suggesting that there is no gene flow. Statistical analysis revealed that the overall difference between the two species is greater than that between the populations from the two locations. Body depth of the two species in sympatry in the Emin Pasha Gulf was more similar than that of H. goldschmidti sp. n. and the allopatric population of H. argens sp. n. from the Mwanza Gulf, which may indicate an overall environmental effect. However, several measurements related to the width of snout and mouth differed more between the populations of the two species in sympatry than between the allopatric populations. In contrast to a group of zooplanktivorous species that recovered successfully after environmental changes in the lake, H. argens sp. n. is among a group that became extremely rare and probably is in danger of extinction; the conservation status of H. goldschmidti sp. n. is currently unknown.

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Research Article Wed, 2 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0200
A revision of the Afrotropical spider genus Cambalida Simon, 1909 (Araneae, Corinnidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3245/ ZooKeys 234: 67-119

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.234.3417

Authors: Charles Haddad

Abstract: The non-mimetic Afrotropical spider genus Cambalida Simon, 1909, placed within a subfamily of predominantly ant-mimicking spiders (Araneae: Corinnidae: Castianeirinae), is revised. Three species are transferred from Castianeira Keyserling, 1879 to Cambalida: C. deminuta (Simon, 1909), comb. n., C. fulvipes (Simon, 1896), comb. n. and C. loricifera (Simon, 1885), comb. n.. A fourth species, C. fagei (Caporiacco, 1939), comb. n., is transferred from Brachyphaea Simon, 1895 to Cambalida. Two species, Castianeira depygata Strand, 1916, syn. n. and C. mestrali Lessert, 1921, syn. n., are considered junior synonyms of C. fulvipes. The males of C. deminuta and C. loricifera are redescribed and their unknown females are described for the first time. The female and male of C. fulvipes and C. coriacea Simon, 1909 are also redescribed. The type material of the type species of the genus, C. insulana Simon, 1909 from Pagalu (Annobon) Island, is lost, and only immature specimens have been subsequently collected from a nearby island. The species is regarded as a nomen dubium until fresh adult material can be collected. A replacement name, Cambalida simoni nom. n. is proposed for Cambalida fulvipes Simon, 1909, the latter being a secondary junior homonym of Cambalida fulvipes (Simon, 1896). The type material of this species is also lost and it is too considered nomen dubium. The following new species are described: C. compressa sp. n. from West Africa, C. dippenaarae sp. n. from southern Africa, C. griswoldi sp. n. and C. lineata sp. n. from Madagascar, and C. unica sp. n. from Cameroon. Notes are provided on the biology of each species and the distribution of the genus in the Afrotropical Region.

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Research Article Tue, 30 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0200
Revision of the freshwater genus Atyaephyra (Crustacea, Decapoda, Atyidae) based on morphological and molecular data https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/3201/ ZooKeys 229: 53-110

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.229.3919

Authors: Magdalini Christodoulou, Aglaia Antoniou, Antonios Magoulas, Athanasios Koukouras

Abstract: Atyaephyra de Brito Capello, 1867 was described from the Mediterranean region almost 200 years ago. Since then, the genus has been recorded from various freshwater habitats in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Despite its long history, the taxonomic status of Atyaephyra species remains confusing and uncertain. Consequently numerous specimens from the known range of Atyaephyra were analysed using morphological characters and mitochondrial COI sequences in an attempt to clarify the taxonomy of this genus. The present study recognises seven Atyaephyra species, more than twice as many as previously recorded (three), four of which are considered as new. The new species are described, additional information to the original descriptions are provided for the remaining three taxa, while neotypes of A. desmarestii Millet, 1831 and A. stankoi Karaman, 1972 are designated to stabilize their taxonomy. Non-overlapping distinguishing morphological characters are used to discriminate the examined material into five species, e.g., A. desmarestii, A. stankoi, A. orientalis Bouvier, 1913, A. thyamisensis sp. n., A. strymonensis sp. n. In addition, the genetic analysis supports the existence of multiple phylogenetic clades in the broader Mediterranean area and distinguishes two new cryptic species, namely A. tuerkayi sp. n. and A. acheronensis sp. n. The geographic distribution of these species is confirmed and their phylogenetic relationships are described.

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Research Article Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0300
MOSCHweb — a matrix-based interactive key to the genera of the Palaearctic Tachinidae (Insecta, Diptera) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2895/ ZooKeys 205: 5-18

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.205.3409

Authors: Pierfilippo Cerretti, Hans-Peter Tschorsnig, Massimo Lopresti, Filippo Di Giovanni

Abstract: We provide a general overview of features and technical specifications of an original interactive key web application for the identification of Palaearctic Tachinidae genera. The full list of terminal taxa included in the key, which is the most updated list of genera currently recorded for the Palaearctic Region, is given. We also briefly discuss the need for dealing with detailed and standardized taxa descriptions as a base to keep matrix-based interactive tools easily updated, by proposing a standardized protocol.

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Data Paper Wed, 4 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0300
Revision of the Afrotropical Oberthuerellinae (Cynipoidea, Liopteridae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2862/ ZooKeys 202: 1-154

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.202.2136

Authors: Matthew Buffington, Simon van Noort

Abstract: The Afrotropical Oberthuerellinae are revised, and new dichotomous and multi-entry keys to the species of Oberthuerella, Tessmannella, and Xenocynips are provided. All previously described species in these genera are redescribed; descriptions are augmented by color images of the holotype for each species. The following 11 species are described as new: Oberthuerella cyclopia Buffington & van Noort; O. eschara Buffington & van Noort; O. kibalensis van Noort & Buffington; O. pardolatus Buffington & van Noort; O. sharkeyi Buffington & van Noort; O. simba Buffington & van Noort; Tessmannella copelandi Buffington & van Noort; T. kiplingi Buffington & van Noort; T. roberti Buffington & van Noort; Xenocynips rhothion Buffington & van Noort; and X. ronquisti Buffington & van Noort. We provide identification keys to the genera and species occurring in the Afrotropical region. Online dichotomous and interactive Lucid keys to genera and species are available at http://www.waspweb.org/Cynipoidea/Keys/index.htm

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Monograph Fri, 15 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0300
A new species of Mengenilla (Insecta, Strepsiptera) from Tunisia https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2826/ ZooKeys 198: 79-102

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.198.2334

Authors: Hans Pohl, Oliver Niehuis, Kai Gloyna, Bernhard Misof, Rolf Beutel

Abstract: A new species of Mengenilla Hofeneder, 1910 (Strepsiptera, Mengenillidae) from southern Tunisia is described. Mengenilla moldrzyki sp. n. can be distinguished from congeners by a slightly emarginated posterodorsal margin of the head, compound eyes with a light tan dorsal part, mandibles with a narrow distal part, and a v-shaped pronotum. With the description of M. moldrzyki sp. n., eleven valid species of Mengenilla are currently recognised. Mengenilla moldrzyki sp. n. is the third species of the genus with known females and female puparia. First instar larvae, endoparasitic larval stages, the male puparium and the host are unknown. The new species is also the first strepsipteran with a fully sequenced genome.

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Research Article Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 +0300
Description of a new species of Sternocoelis from Morocco with proposal of the Sternocoelis marseulii species group (Coleoptera, Histeridae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2663/ ZooKeys 181: 11-21

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.181.2953

Authors: Tomáš Lackner, Peter Hlavac

Abstract: The Sternocoelis marseulii species group is proposed based on antennal and prosternal characters. Five species are included in the group: S. marseulii (Brisout de Barneville, 1866) (Spain), S. viaticus Lewis, 1892 (Algeria), S. vaucheri Lewis, 1896 (Morocco), S. berberus Lackner & Yélamos, 2001 (Morocco) and S. yelamosi sp. n. (Morocco). The external morphology of Sternocoelis yelamosi sp. n. is described and illustrated, the illustrations of genitalia of all species of the group (except for S. vaucheri) are provided and a key to the species of the group is given.

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Research Article Fri, 6 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0300
Immature stages and ecology of two species of the South African genus Stripsipher Gory & Percheron, 1833 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae, Trichiini) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2655/ ZooKeys 180: 19-40

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.180.2315

Authors: Petr Šípek, Enrico Ricchiardi, Renzo Perissinotto

Abstract: Based on the study of newly accessible type material, Stripsipher drakensbergi Ricchiardi, 1998, is demoted to a junior synonym of S. jansoni Péringuey, 1908. The genus Stripsipher Gory & Percheron, 1833, thus, currently includes 12 species, but for none of these are larval stages and/or pupae currently known. The immature stages of S. orientalis Ricchiardi, 2008 and S. jansoni are described here for the first time and updated observations on distribution and ecology of both species are provided. Morphological affinities of Stripsipher with other Trichiini larvae are presented and the main diagnostic differences discussed. The larvae of both species are very similar to those of other representatives of the tribe Trichiini, with key differences found on the epipharynx. Based on the morphology of larvae and adults, it is suggested that Stripsipher is a member of the clade composed of Valgini, Trichiini and Cryptodontini.

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Research Article Thu, 5 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0300
Stenosoma stephenseni sp. n. (Isopoda, Idoteidae), from the southwestern Mediterranean, with a note on the nomenclatural status of Synisoma Collinge, 1917 https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2860/ ZooKeys 141: 29-44

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.141.1376

Authors: António Santos, Raquel Xavier, Saliha Zenboudji, Tristao Branco, Madalena Branco

Abstract: Recent collections of isopods in Alboran Island and Algeria included several specimens of the species Stenosoma stephenseni sp. n. This is the fourteenth species described in the genus Stenosoma Leach, 1814. Examination of two specimens collected during the Danish oceanographic cruises of the Thor (1908–10) close to the Galite Islands, and identified as S. acuminatum Leach, 1814, revealed that both belong to S. stephenseni sp. n. In light of these findings, the Mediterranean records of S. acuminatum are revised, and it is proposed that S. acuminatum is a strictly Atlantic species. An updated diagnosis for the genus Stenosoma is given, together with a key for the identification of its species. The nomenclatural status of the name Synisoma Collinge, 1917 is addressed, and although it is in prevailing usage, it is shown that Stenosoma Leach, 1814 is the valid name of the genus.

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Research Article Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0300
The subfamily Cheloninae from Egypt, with the descriptions of two new species (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2595/ ZooKeys 115: 85-102

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.115.1186

Authors: Yusuf Edmardash, Mahmoud AbdelDayem, Neveen Gadallah

Abstract: A key to the chelonine species (Braconidae) (both recorded and recently collected) from Egypt is given. It includes 16 species, of which five species are new to the Egyptian fauna and two (Phanerotoma (Phanerotoma) elbaiensis sp. n. and Phanerotoma (Bracotritoma) ponti sp. n.) are new for science. A faunistic list and the description for the two new species are added.

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Research Article Tue, 5 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0300
Belowground carabid beetle diversity in the western Palaearctic – effects of history and climate on range-restricted taxa (Coleoptera, Carabidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2381/ ZooKeys 100: 461-474

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.100.1540

Authors: Andreas Schuldt, Thorsten Assmann

Abstract: Broad-scale patterns of subterranean diversity are a fascinating but neglected part of biodiversity research. Carabid beetles adapted to belowground habitats form a particularly species-rich part of the subterranean fauna. We studied large-scale diversity patterns of these belowground carabids across the western Palaearctic and evaluated potential impacts of historical and contemporary environmental conditions on the distribution of these taxa, using available species richness and environmental data at country level. Regression modelling and variation partitioning showed a strong relationship between species richness and range in elevation. Potential effects of climatic variables, mainly those related to ambient energy input, were much weaker. We discuss the implications of this combination of effects, which suggests, concordant with the absence of subterranean carabids in northern and highest richness in southern Europe, a strong prevailing influence of historical processes on current richness distributions of these taxa. Previous studies did not provide clear indications for such an influence. In contrast to more mobile and widespread carabid beetles, dispersal limitation due to high adaptation of belowground carabids to subterranean habitats has probably hindered their re-colonization of former permafrost and glaciated regions. Hotspots of highest belowground diversity are located in regions with an assumed long-term stability of environmental conditions, correlating with patterns of other dispersal-limited taxa such as many endemic plants. Our study provides important new information in the discussion of potential determinants of the distinct geographic patterns of belowground diversity. Moreover, it contributes to a better understanding of range size related differences previously found in the distribution of diversity and environmental dependencies of widespread and range-restricted species within the highly diverse carabid beetles.

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Research Article Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 +0300
Marine Gastrotricha of the Near East: 1. Fourteen new species of Macrodasyida and a redescription of Dactylopodola agadasys Hochberg, 2003 https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2308/ ZooKeys 94: 1-59

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.94.794

Authors: William Hummon

Abstract: The near eastern geographical region is almost devoid of reports of macrodasyidan gastrotrichs, the exceptions themselves being part of this study. Here, as Part 1 are described fourteen new Macrodasyida from countries of the Near East (Cyprus, Egypt and Israel, representing both the Mediterranean and the Red Seas), and a redescription of the previously described Dactylopodolidae: Dactylopodola agadasys Hochberg, 2002. The new species are: Cephalodasyidae (2) - Cephalodasys dolichosomus; Cephalodasys saegailus; Dactylopodolidae (1) Dendrodasys rubomarinus; Macrodasyidae (5) - Macrodasys imbricatus; Macrodasys macrurus; Macrodasys nigrocellus; Macrodasys scleracrus; Urodasys toxostylus; Thaumastodermatidae (4) - Tetranchyroderma corallium; Tetranchyroderma rhopalotum; Tetranchyroderma sinaiensis; Tetranchyroderma xenodactylum; Turbanellidae (2) - Paraturbanella levantia; Turbanella erythrothalassia - spp. n.

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Research Article Tue, 3 May 2011 00:00:00 +0300
Jacobyana Maulik, an Indo-Malayan flea beetle genus new for the Afrotropical region with description of three new species from Central and Southern Africa (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae, Alticinae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2269/ ZooKeys 86: 47-59

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.86.804

Authors: Maurizio Biondi, Paola D'Alessandro

Abstract: In the present paper, the Indo-Malayan flea beetle genus Jacobyana Maulik, 1926 including 7 species from India, Nepal, Vietnam and Sri Lanka, is for the first time reported with three new species, J. bedzeki sp. n., J. centrafricana sp. n., and J. sudafricana sp. n., in the Afrotropical region. Micrographs of male and female genitalia, scanning electron micrographs of some diagnostic morphological characters, a key to identification and distributional data for the new species, are supplied. Finally, morphological characters of a single female from Namibia, probably to attribute to a possible further new species of Jacobyana, are also discussed.

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Research Article Sat, 19 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0200
New species and new records of Mydidae from the Afrotropical and Oriental regions (Insecta, Diptera, Asiloidea) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2422/ ZooKeys 64: 33-75

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.64.464

Authors: Torsten Dikow

Abstract: New Mydidae species are described from the Afrotropical and Oriental regions including the first records of this family from several countries in eastern Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) and Mauritania in western Africa as well as Nepal and Thailand in Asia. The new species are, Leptomydinae: Leptomydas notos sp. n. (south-western India), Leptomydas rapti sp. n. (south-central Nepal), Leptomydas tigris sp. n. (north-central Thailand); Syllegomydinae: Mydaselpidini: Mydaselpis ngurumani sp. n. (south-eastern Kenya, north-eastern Tanzania), Vespiodes phaios sp. n. (south-eastern Kenya); Syllegomydinae: Syllegomydini: Syllegomydas (Notobates) astrictus sp. n. (Kenya), Syllegomydas (Notobates) heothinos sp. n. (Kenya and Uganda), Syllegomydas (Syllegomydas) elachys sp. n. (northern Zimbabwe). Syllegomydas (Syllegomydas) proximus Séguy, 1928 is recorded from western Mauritania and re-described. Syllegomydas (Notobates) dispar (Loew, 1852), which was previously listed as incertae sedis in the Afrotropical Diptera catalogue, is re-described and illustrated based on examination of the type specimens and several additional specimens from Mozambique. Cephalocera annulata Brunetti, 1912 and Syllegomydas bucciferus Séguy, 1928, described from north-eastern India and previously unplaced in the Oriental Diptera catalogue, are newly combined with Leptomydas Gerstaecker, 1868 and together with Leptomydas indianus Brunetti, 1912, also from north-eastern India, placed in Leptomydinae. Comments on the possible synonymy of the genera of Mydaselpidini are made. Illustrations and photographs are provided to support the descriptions and future identification. A provisional dichotomous key to Mydidae genera occurring in eastern Africa (Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda) and the Oriental Region is provided. Distribution, occurrence in biodiversity hotspots and high-biodiversity wilderness areas, and seasonal incidence are discussed for all species.

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Research Article Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Five new species of Triotemnus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) from Morocco and Yemen https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2313/ ZooKeys 56: 191-206

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.56.526

Authors: Milos Knizek

Abstract: Five new species of the genus Triotemnus from Morocco and Yemen are described. Triotemnus is a new genus of Scolytinae for the Yemen region. External morphology of the new species and all morphologically related species of the genus was studied. While the new species from Morocco are morphologically similar to the known species from the corresponding region, all three newly described species from Yemen, mainly two of them living in Socotra, are morphologically very different from all other known species of the genus. Geographical distribution and the probability of endemicity are discussed.

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Research Article Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0300
The centipede genus Eupolybothrus Verhoeff, 1907 (Chilopoda: Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae) in North Africa, a cybertaxonomic revision, with a key to all species in the genus and the first use of DNA barcoding for the group https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2217/ ZooKeys 50: 29-77

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.50.504

Authors: Pavel Stoev, Nesrine Akkari, Marzio Zapparoli, David Porco, Henrik Enghoff, Gregory Edgecombe, Teodor Georgiev, Lyubomir Penev

Abstract: The centipede genus Eupolybothrus Verhoeff, 1907 in North Africa is revised. A new cavernicolous species, E. kahfi Stoev & Akkari, sp. n., is described from a cave in Jebel Zaghouan, northeast Tunisia. Morphologically, it is most closely related to E. nudicornis (Gervais, 1837) from North Africa and Southwest Europe but can be readily distinguished by the long antennae and leg-pair 15, a conical dorso-median protuberance emerging from the posterior part of prefemur 15, and the shape of the male first genital sternite. Molecular sequence data from the cytochrome c oxidase I gene (mtDNA–5’ COI-barcoding fragment) exhibit 19.19% divergence between E. kahfi and E. nudicornis, an interspecific value comparable to those observed among four other species of Eupolybothrus which, combined with a low intraspecific divergence (0.3-1.14%), supports the morphological diagnosis of E. kahfi as a separate species. This is the first troglomorphic myriapod to be found in Tunisia, and the second troglomorph lithobiomorph centipede known from North Africa. E. nudicornis is re-described based on abundant material from Tunisia and its post-embryonic development, distribution and habitat preferences recorded. E. cloudsley-thompsoni Turk, 1955, a nominal species based on Tunisian type material, is placed in synonymy with E. nudicornis. To comply with the latest technological developments in publishing of biological information, the paper implements new approaches in cybertaxonomy, including database and interactive key publishing, georeferencing of all localities via Google Earth, and ZooBank, GenBank and MorphBank registration of datasets. An interactive key to all valid species of Eupolybothrus is made with DELTA software.

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Research Article Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0300
Corrigenda: Sereno PC, Larsson HCE (2009) Cretaceous Crocodyliforms from the Sahara. ZooKeys 28: 1–143. https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2109/ ZooKeys 29: 73-74

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.29.368

Authors: Paul Sereno, Hans Larsson

Abstract:

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Corrigendum Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0200
Cretaceous Crocodyliforms from the Sahara https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2104/ ZooKeys 28: 1-143

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.28.325

Authors: Paul Sereno, Hans Larsson

Abstract: Diverse crocodyliforms have been discovered in recent years in Cretaceous rocks on southern landmasses formerly composing Gondwana. We report here on six species from the Sahara with an array of trophic adaptations that significantly deepen our current understanding of African crocodyliform diversity during the Cretaceous period. We describe two of these species (Anatosuchus minor, Araripesuchus wegeneri) from nearly complete skulls and partial articulated skeletons from the Lower Cretaceous Elrhaz Formation (Aptian-Albian) of Niger. The remaining four species (Araripesuchus rattoides sp. n., Kaprosuchus saharicus gen. n. sp. n., Laganosuchus thaumastos gen. n. sp. n., Laganosuchus maghrebensis gen. n. sp. n.) come from contemporaneous Upper Cretaceous formations (Cenomanian) in Niger and Morocco.

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Monograph Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0200
A new species of Loxosceles (Araneae, Sicariidae) from Tunisia https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2017/ ZooKeys 16: 217-225

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.16.232

Authors: Carles Ribera, Enric Planas

Abstract: A new species of the spider genus Loxosceles, L. mrazig sp. n., found in Tunisia is described and illustrated. The male bulb shows a high degree of morphological similarity to that of L. gaucho from Brazil, but the proportions of the palpal segments and the general colouration of the body reveal significant differences between the two species. A distance analysis of the sequences of the mitochondrial gene cox1 reveals that the specimen from Tunisia shows high genetic distance from L. gaucho (more than 20%). The American species L. gaucho and L. laeta form a sister group to the Mediterranean representatives (L. rufescens and the Tunisian specimen).

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Research Article Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0300
Saharo-Sindian buthid scorpions; description of two new genera and species from Occidental Sahara and Afghanistan https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/2004/ ZooKeys 14: 37-54

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.14.212

Authors: Wilson Lourenco, Bernard Duhem

Abstract: Two new genera and species of Saharo-Sindian buthid scorpions are described on the basis of single specimens collected respectively in the deserts of Occidental Sahara and the North of Afghanistan. These new scorpion taxa represent further endemic relicts in the Saharo-Sindian faunas. Comments are also included on the evolution of the desert regions of North Africa and the Middle East, as well as the possible consequences of these events on the distribution of the extant scorpion fauna.

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Research Article Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0300
The millipede genus Glomeris Latreille, 1802 (Diplopoda, Glomerida, Glomeridae) in North Africa https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/1995/ ZooKeys 12: 47-86

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.12.179

Authors: Sergei Golovatch, Jean-Paul Mauriès, Nesrine Akkari, Pavel Stoev, Jean-Jacques Geoffroy

Abstract: In North Africa, the genus Glomeris is shown to encompass 11 species, all of which are keyed. These include: G. troglokabyliana sp. n. from several caves in Algeria, G. monostriata sp. n. from a cave in Libya, G. colorata sp. n., an epigean species from Tunisia, G. anisosticta Brandt, 1841 (still a nomen inquirendum) from Algeria, G. brolemanni Schubart, 1960 from Morocco, G. carthaginiensis Schubart, 1953 (stat. n., elevated from subspecific rank) from Tunisia, G. flavomaculata Lucas, 1846 from Algeria, G. klugii Brandt, 1833 (with G. marmorata Brandt, 1833, G. fuscomarmorata Lucas, 1846 and G. maculosa Verhoeff, 1921 as new junior subjective synonyms) from Algeria and Tunisia, G. mohamedanica Attems, 1900 from Tunisia, G. punica Attems, 1900 (with G. numidia Verhoeff, 1921 as a new junior subjective synonym) from Tunisia, and G. sublimbata Lucas, 1846 from Algeria and Tunisia.

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Research Article Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 +0300
The scolopendromorph centipedes (Chilopoda, Scolopendromorpha) of Tunisia: taxonomy, distribution and habitats https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/1952/ ZooKeys 3: 77-102

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.3.51

Authors: Nesrine Akkari, Pavel Stoev, John Lewis

Abstract: The present paper provides a review of the composition, distribution and habitat preferences of the scolopendromorph centipedes of Tunisia. Five (sub-)genera and 8 (sub-)species have hitherto been reported from the country, of which two are of uncertain status. After a study of significant amount of new material collected in the period 2003-2008, 6 species, namely Scolopendra canidens Newport, 1844, S. morsitans Linnaeus, 1758, Cormocephalus gervaisianus (C.L. Koch, 1841), Otostigmus spinicaudus (Newport, 1844), Cryptops punicus Silvestri, 1896 and C. trisulcatus Brölemann, 1902, were found in the country. New illustrations and, where appropriate, brief descriptions of the species are given, along with an identification key for the Tunisian scolopendromorphs. Cryptops anomalans Newport 1844, Scolopendra oraniensis Lucas, 1846 and S. cingulata Latreille, 1829 are excluded from the country’s list since all previous records are most likely based on misidentifications. Cryptops trisulcatus and C. punicus are recorded for the first time from Tunisia and Libya, respectively. The taxonomic position of C. punicus is discussed and the species is transferred from the subgenus Trigonocryptops to Cryptops. Scolopendra morsitans scopoliana is synonymised under S. morsitans. S. canidens, O. spinicaudus and C. punicus are well adapted to arid and semidesert biotopes and have much wider ranges compared to the other three species which are restricted to the northern, more humid parts of the country. S. canidens is the only myriapod in Tunisia found in a pure sandy desert.

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Research Article Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0300