Latest Articles from ZooKeys Latest 65 Articles from ZooKeys https://zookeys.pensoft.net/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 17:36:14 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://zookeys.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from ZooKeys https://zookeys.pensoft.net/ Nomenclatural history of Megalonyx Jefferson, 1799 (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Pilosa, Megalonychidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/117999/ ZooKeys 1195: 297-308

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1195.117999

Authors: Loren E. Babcock

Abstract: Both authorship and spelling of the extinct giant sloth genus Megalonyx and its type species, M. jeffersonii (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Pilosa, Megalonychidae), have been inconsistent. The genus-group name has been cited with two different authorships and three dates, and it has been spelled with two different suffixes. The species-group name has been cited with four different authors and dates, and it has been spelled with two different endings. Megalonyx Jefferson, 1799 is the first valid use of the genus-group name; the correct original spelling has the –onyx suffix. The type species of Megalonyx is Megatherium jeffersonii Desmarest, 1822; the correct original spelling has an –ii ending. A vernacular word, megalonyx, refers to species classified in the genus Megalonyx Jefferson, 1799.

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Short Communication Mon, 18 Mar 2024 13:56:42 +0200
New stenurothripid thrips from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber (Thysanoptera, Stenurothripidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/117754/ ZooKeys 1192: 197-212

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1192.117754

Authors: Dawei Guo, Michael S. Engel, Chungkun Shih, Dong Ren

Abstract: Hitherto, only two species of the thysanopteran suborder Terebrantia have been reported from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber (Myanmar). This is here expanded through the discovery of two new genera and species, described and figured as Parallelothrips separatus gen. et sp. nov. and Didymothrips abdominalis gen. et sp. nov., both of the family Stenurothripidae. Both taxa have key apomorphies of the Stenurothripidae, allowing for a confident assignment as to family. Both species have characteristic comb-like anteromarginal setae, which are discussed along with structural differences between the two sexes. Cycad pollen was found on the thrips’ bodies, providing further evidence that Thysanoptera were pollinators of gymnosperms during the mid-Cretaceous.

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Research Article Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:06:46 +0200
A crane fly of the genus Gynoplistia Macquart (Diptera, Limoniidae) from the early Miocene of New Zealand https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/115536/ ZooKeys 1192: 103-110

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1192.115536

Authors: André Nel, Uwe Kaulfuss

Abstract: The first fossil limoniid fly from the Miocene Fossil-Lagerstätte of Foulden Maar in New Zealand is described on the basis of an isolated well-preserved wing. The specimen is tentatively attributed to a new species Gynoplistia fouldensensis sp. nov. in the large extant genus Gynoplistia, which is well diversified in the country. It is the second fossil record of this genus, the first one being an isolated wing from the Cretaceous Weald Clay Formation in the United Kingdom.

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Research Article Tue, 20 Feb 2024 18:08:27 +0200
Replacement names for two species of Orthacanthus Agassiz, 1843 (Chondrichthyes, Xenacanthiformes), and discussion of Giebelodus Whitley, 1940, replacement name for Chilodus Giebel, 1848 (Chondrichthyes, Xenacanthiformes), preoccupied by Chilodus Müller & Troschel, 1844 (Actinopterygii, Characiformes) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/108571/ ZooKeys 1188: 219-226

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1188.108571

Authors: Loren E. Babcock

Abstract: Three species assigned to the same nominal genus of Paleozoic xenacanthiform shark have been combined with the name Orthacanthus gracilis (Chondrichthyes, Xenacanthiformes, Orthacanthidae). Orthacanthus gracilis (Giebel, 1848), which was originally combined as Chilodus gracilis Giebel, 1848, is the senior synonym; it has priority over both Orthacanthus gracilis (Newberry, 1857), which was originally combined as Diplodus gracilis Newberry, 1857, and Orthacanthus gracilis Newberry, 1875a. Proposed species-group replacement names are Orthacanthus lintonensis nom. nov. for O. gracilis (Newberry, 1857) and Orthacanthus adamas nom. nov. for O. gracilis Newberry, 1875a. Chilodus gracilis Giebel, 1848 is designated as the type species of Chilodus Giebel, 1848; this species becomes the type species for Giebelodus Whitley, 1940, which is a replacement name for Chilodus Giebel, 1848 (preoccupied by Chilodus Müller & Troschel, 1844, Actinopterygii). Giebelodus Whitley, 1940 is a junior subjective synonym of Orthacanthus Agassiz, 1843.

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Short Communication Mon, 8 Jan 2024 09:08:24 +0200
A new species of Umbilia Jousseaume, 1884 (Mollusca, Cypraeidae) from the Pliocene fauna of the Roe Plains, Western Australia https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/106338/ ZooKeys 1169: 1-13

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1169.106338

Authors: Paul C. Southgate, Thane A. Militz

Abstract: A new morphologically distinct species of cowry (family Cypraeidae Rafinesque, 1815) is described from the Late Pliocene Roe Calcarenite of the Roe Plains, Western Australia. Previously assigned to Umbilia hesitata (Iredale, 1916), the new species differs morphometrically from related taxa and is differentiated from U. hesitata by a number of shell features including a prominent, projecting protoconch, less extended posterior and anterior terminals, coarser columellar teeth extending onto the base, and well-developed, thickened anterior flanges, supporting a rounded anterior extremity with blunt anterior tips. Umbilia tomdarraghi sp. nov. is the third Umbilia species to be described from the Pliocene.

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Research Article Wed, 5 Jul 2023 19:20:11 +0300
Fossil Carychiidae (Eupulmonata, Ellobioidea) from the Lower Pleistocene Nashua Formation of Florida, with the description of a new species https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/102840/ ZooKeys 1167: 89-107

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1167.102840

Authors: Adrienne Jochum, Estée Bochud, David Haberthür, Harry G. Lee, Ruslan Hlushchuk, Roger W. Portell

Abstract: Recent fossil shell mining for a new rail line in the Orlando area of Orange County, Florida has uncovered two species of the ellobioid genus Carychium O. F. Müller, 1773 in a bed of freshwater marl from the Lower Pleistocene Nashua Formation. To taxonomically interpret these finds, the well-preserved shells were imaged via high-resolution X-ray tomography (micro-CT) to view significant internal diagnostic characters such as the columellar configuration and the degree of lamellar sinuosity and their relationship in context to the entire shell. The image data are compared to that of type material and extant and fossil Carychium species inhabiting the SE USA, Mexico, Central America, and Jamaica. Based on these results, the species Carychium floridanum G. H. Clapp, 1918 and Carychium nashuaense sp. nov. are identified from fossil shells dating from the Early Pleistocene. This work documents the first fossil members of C. floridanum and the first fossil Carychium from the SE USA.

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Research Article Wed, 14 Jun 2023 09:58:01 +0300
Ilyocypris leptolinea Wang & Zhai, sp. nov., an ostracod (Ostracoda, Crustacea) from the late Quaternary of Inner Mongolia, northern China https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/94224/ ZooKeys 1137: 109-132

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1137.94224

Authors: Qianwei Wang, David J. Horne, Jiawei Fan, Ruilin Wen, Robin J. Smith, Min Wang, Dayou Zhai

Abstract: Ilyocypris leptolinea Wang & Zhai, sp. nov. is described from late Quaternary sediments in central-eastern Inner Mongolia, northern China. The new species, which has a carapace shape and pitted surface typical of the genus, is characterised by double rows of fine, densely arranged marginal ripplets, separated by an inner list, along both anterior and posterior calcified inner lamellae in the left valve. Outline analysis and Principal Component Analysis indicate that its morpho-space overlaps with I. bradyi Sars, 1890, I. japonica Okubo, 1990, and I. mongolica Martens, 1991, which have living or fossil representatives in Inner Mongolia, but it is clearly discriminated from I. innermongolica Zhai & Xiao, 2013. Judging from the relatively coarse lithology dominated by silt and sand, and the lack of accompanying brackish-water ostracods, I. leptolinea Wang & Zhai, sp. nov. may have lived in a relatively shallow freshwater lake. It perhaps can be added to the list of species that went extinct during the Quaternary, but the timing and process of extinction await further investigation.

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Research Article Thu, 22 Dec 2022 11:41:45 +0200
The family Polycentropodidae (Insecta, Trichoptera) in mid-Cretaceous Burmese Amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/93999/ ZooKeys 1134: 171-183

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1134.93999

Authors: Wilfried Wichard, Chunpeng Xu

Abstract: Three described species, Neureclipsis triangula sp. nov., Neureclipsis acuta sp. nov., and Neureclipsis obtusa sp. nov., expand the Neureclipsis cluster to six species dominating the Polycentropodidae in Burmese amber. The new species Plectrocnemia ohlhoffi sp. nov. and Plectrocnemia bowangi sp. nov. of the Polycentropus cluster add to the comparatively low occurrence of Polycentropodidae in Burmese mid-Cretaceous amber.

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Research Article Fri, 9 Dec 2022 17:59:21 +0200
A fossil species found living off southern California, with notes on the genus Cymatioa (Mollusca, Bivalvia, Galeommatoidea) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/95139/ ZooKeys 1128: 53-62

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1128.95139

Authors: Paul Valentich-Scott, Jeffrey H. R. Goddard

Abstract: A small bivalve mollusk previously only known from the Pleistocene of Los Angeles County has recently been found living intertidally near Santa Barbara, California. The bivalve has been determined to be Cymatioa cooki (Willett, 1937), a member of the Galeommatoidea J.E. Gray, 1840. We document the habitat for the newly discovered C. cooki, and compare it to C. electilis (Berry, 1963), the other extant member of this genus recorded from the region. Cymatioa cooki is rare, and while many galeommatoid species have been shown to be commensal with other invertebrates, we have been unable to determine any specific commensal relationships for it.

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Research Article Mon, 7 Nov 2022 10:08:49 +0200
A new species of Austrocypraea (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Cypraeidae) from the Pliocene of Flinders Island, Tasmania https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/90917/ ZooKeys 1123: 173-185

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1123.90917

Authors: Paul C. Southgate, Mike Roberts

Abstract: A new morphologically distinct species of cowry (family Cypraeidae Rafinesque, 1815) is described from the Pliocene of Flinders Island, Tasmania. Austrocypraea jimgracei sp. nov. differs morphologically from other members of the genus and is particularly characterised by the development of a heavily callused labral margin, with a distinct marginal edge that bends up towards the dorsum centrally. This feature is unique within the genus. The new taxon is only the second known Austrocypraea from the Pliocene. A revised key to the known Austrocypraea fossil species is presented.

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Research Article Fri, 7 Oct 2022 11:08:59 +0300
Two new species of Itaphlebia (Insecta, Mecoptera, Nannochoristidae) from the late Middle Jurassic of China https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/85378/ ZooKeys 1108: 175-188

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1108.85378

Authors: Yizi Cao, Xiaodan Lin, Chungkun Shih, Dong Ren

Abstract: Two new species of Itaphlebia Sukatsheva, 1985, I. procera sp. nov. and I. elegana sp. nov., are described and illustrated from the latest Middle Jurassic Jiulongshan Formation of Daohugou, Inner Mongolia, China. Based on fossil specimens with wings, these new species are established and assigned to Itaphlebia by a combination of three forewing characters: Sc with three branches ending at C, the four-branched Rs (R2 to R5) originating distad of M (vs. three-branched RS (R2+3 undivided) in all other fossil and extant nannochoristids), and M forking with four branches; and a hind wing character of Sc simple and short, terminating at C well before the pterostigma. Furthermore, this is the first report of long and robust setae present on the anal veins of the forewing for I. elegana sp. nov. in fossil Nannochoristidae.

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Research Article Fri, 24 Jun 2022 18:25:38 +0300
A braconid wasp (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from the Lower Cretaceous amber of San Just, eastern Iberian Peninsula https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/83650/ ZooKeys 1103: 65-78

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1103.83650

Authors: Sergio Álvarez-Parra, Enrique Peñalver, Xavier Delclòs, Michael S. Engel

Abstract: Braconid parasitoid wasps are a widely diversified group today, while their fossil record from the Mesozoic is currently poorly known. Here, we describe Utrillabracon electropteron Álvarez-Parra & Engel, gen. et sp. nov., from the upper Albian (Lower Cretaceous) amber of San Just in the eastern Iberian Peninsula. The holotype specimen is incomplete, although the forewing and hind wing venation are well preserved. The new taxon is assigned to the subfamily †Protorhyssalinae (Braconidae) and, based on characteristics of the wing venation, seems to be closely related to Protorhyssalus goldmani Basibuyuk & Quicke, 1999 and Diorhyssalus allani (Brues, 1937), both from Upper Cretaceous ambers of North America. We discuss the taxonomy of the Cretaceous braconids, considering †Seneciobraconinae as a valid subfamily. We also comment on possible relationships within †Protorhyssalinae, although a phylogenetic analysis is necessary. Additionally, a checklist is included of braconids known from Cretaceous ambers.

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Research Article Mon, 30 May 2022 15:59:32 +0300
Nothotytthonyx, a new genus of Malthininae (Coleoptera, Cantharidae) from mid-Cretaceous amber of northern Myanmar https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/81701/ ZooKeys 1092: 19-30

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1092.81701

Authors: Yan-Da Li, Gabriel Biffi, Robin Kundrata, Di-Ying Huang, Chen-Yang Cai

Abstract: A new fossil genus and species of Cantharidae, Nothotytthonyx serratus Li, Biffi, Kundrata & Cai gen. et sp. nov., is reported from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. The new species is tentatively attributed to the extant subfamily Malthininae based on a combination of characters, including the symmetrical apical maxillary palpomeres, shortened elytra, pronotum with arched margins and well-defined borders, tibiae with apical spurs, and tarsal claws simple, although its well-developed gonostyli are atypical in Malthininae. The discovery of Nothotytthonyx also suggests a possible Gondwanan origin for Malthininae.

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Research Article Mon, 4 Apr 2022 17:32:19 +0300
A new species of beaded lacewings (Neuroptera, Berothidae) from mid-Cretaceous Myanmar amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/79396/ ZooKeys 1092: 93-104

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1092.79396

Authors: Sihang Zhang, Yihong Yang, Jiayi Chen, Liming Liu, Zhendong Cao, Sanping Xie

Abstract: A new species of Berothidae, Jersiberotha musivum sp. nov., is described and illustrated from mid-Cretaceous (lowest Cenomanian) Myanmar amber. It is easily distinguished from other species of Berothidae by the configuration of the wing venation including: forewing with distinct areas of infuscation surrounding cross-veins and vein forks, all cross-veins simple prior to ScP-RA fusion, presence of two cross-veins ra-rp; absence of inner or outer graduate series of cross-veins; RP with three branches; and absence of ma-mp cross-veins and cua-cup cross-veins; while hind wing has cross-vein 1r-m absent. The previous diagnoses of Iceloberotha Grimaldi, 2000 and Jersiberotha Grimaldi, 2000 are quite unclear because some characters occur mosaically in both genera. In order to solve this problem and distinguish J. musivum from other species in the family, a new key to species of Berothidae from Myanmar amber has been provided and the diagnoses of Iceloberotha and Jersiberotha have been revised.

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Research Article Mon, 4 Apr 2022 17:21:23 +0300
The first fossil Coleoptera record from the Volyn Region, Ukraine, with description of a new Glesoconomorphus (Coleoptera, Mycteridae) in syninclusion with Winterschmidtiidae (Acari) and a key to species https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/75391/ ZooKeys 1068: 189-201

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1068.75391

Authors: Dmitry Telnov, Evgeny E. Perkovsky, Dmitry V. Vasilenko, Shûhei Yamamoto

Abstract: Glesoconomorphus ekaterinae sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Mycteridae), representing the first ever fossil species of Coleoptera from the Volyn Region of Ukraine and the first mycterid from late Eocene Rovno amber, is described and illustrated. A key to species of the fossil mycterid genus Glesoconomorphus Alekseev, Pollock & Bukejs, 2019 is presented. The systematic position of Glesoconomorphus within Eurypinae J. Thomson, 1860 is briefly discussed. The oldest finding of phoretic Winterschmidtiidae Oudemans, 1923 mites, found on the type specimen of the new beetle species, is reported.

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Research Article Mon, 8 Nov 2021 13:11:10 +0200
New archidermapteran earwigs (Dermaptera) from the Middle Jurassic of Inner Mongolia, China https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/72720/ ZooKeys 1065: 125-139

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1065.72720

Authors: Shurong Xiong, Michael S. Engel, Lifang Xiao, Dong Ren

Abstract: Two new species of Archidermaptera are described and figured from the Middle Jurassic Jiulonghsan Formation of Daohugou, Inner Mongolia, China. Aneuroderma oiodes gen. & sp. nov. is described in the family Protodiplatyidae and Sinopalaeodermata concavum sp. nov. is established in the family Dermapteridae. Both new species share the typical characters of the extinct suborder Archidermaptera (e.g., pentamerous metatarsi, filiform and multimerous cerci, externalized ovipositor). Aneuroderma gen. nov. is compared with other genera of the Protodiplatyidae, while S. concavum sp. nov. allows us to emend the diagnosis of the genus Sinopalaeodermata. We briefly discuss the diversity of Archidermaptera and challenges to understanding relationships among this mid-Mesozoic diversity.

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Research Article Tue, 26 Oct 2021 09:41:22 +0300
A new cockroach (Blattodea, Corydiidae) with pectinate antennae from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/67216/ ZooKeys 1060: 155-169

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1060.67216

Authors: Guanyu Chen, Lifang Xiao, Junhui Liang, Chungkun Shih, Dong Ren

Abstract: A new species of fossil cockroach, Fragosublatta pectinata gen. et sp. nov., is described from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. The new species is assigned to the family Corydiidae based on the following combination of characters: pronotum with tubercles, tegmina obovate with smallish anal region and spinules on the antero-ventral margin of the front femur (type C1). The new species is the second reported cockroach with ramified antennae. This finding broadens the diversity of Blattodea in mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber and provides further evidence of convergent evolution for antennal structures among different insect lineages.

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Short Communication Fri, 24 Sep 2021 14:06:17 +0300
New mimarachnids (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Fulgoroidea) in mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/66434/ ZooKeys 1057: 37-48

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1057.66434

Authors: Xiao Zhang, Yunzhi Yao, Dong Ren, Hong Pang, Huayan Chen

Abstract: A new genus and species, Multistria orthotropa gen. et sp. nov., and a new species, Dachibangus hui sp. nov., of Mimarachnidae are described from the mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. These new taxa display unique wing color patterns and extend the Mesozoic diversity of Mimarachnidae. The evolution of wing venation, phylogenetic placement of Mimarachnidae, and anti-predation defenses of this family in Burmese amber forest are briefly discussed.

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Research Article Wed, 25 Aug 2021 11:46:52 +0300
The first queen-worker association for Cretaceous Formicidae: the winged caste of Haidomyrmex cerberus https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/66920/ ZooKeys 1048: 69-78

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1048.66920

Authors: Yuanyuan Guo, Chungkun Shih, De Zhuo, Dong Ren, Yunyun Zhao, Taiping Gao

Abstract: Two queen ant specimens, one alate and one dealate, from mid-Cretaceous (Late Albian–Early Cenomanian) Burmese amber are herein reported as belonging Haidomyrmex cerberus Dlussky, 1996. This is the first discovery and documentation of an alate queen in Haidomyrmex. Compared with workers of Haidomyrmex cerberus, alate and dealate queens are larger in body size, have smaller compound eyes, a longer antennal scape, more complex mandibles, and a relatively large-sized metasoma. It is hypothesized that these differences are due to caste differences.

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Short Communication Wed, 7 Jul 2021 12:22:25 +0300
Onthophagus pilauco sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae): evidence of beetle extinction in the Pleistocene–Holocene transition in Chilean Northern Patagonia https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/61706/ ZooKeys 1043: 133-145

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1043.61706

Authors: Francisco Tello, José R. Verdú, Michele Rossini, Mario Zunino

Abstract: The South American Pleistocene–Holocene transition has been characterized by drastic climatic and diversity changes. These rapid changes induced one of the largest and most recent extinctions in the megafauna at the continental scale. However, examples of the extinction of small animals (e.g., insects) are scarce, and the underlying causes of the extinction have been little studied. In this work, a new extinct dung beetle species is described from a late Pleistocene sequence (~15.2 k cal yr BP) at the paleoarcheological site Pilauco, Chilean Northern Patagonia. Based on morphological characters, this fossil is considered to belong to the genus Onthophagus Latreille, 1802 and named Onthophagus pilauco sp. nov. We carried out a comprehensive revision of related groups, and we analyzed the possible mechanism of diversification and extinction of this new species. We hypothesize that Onthophagus pilauco sp. nov. diversified as a member of the osculatii species-complex following migration processes related to the Great American Biotic Interchange (~3 Ma). The extinction of O. pilauco sp. nov. may be related to massive defaunation and climatic changes recorded in the Plesitocene-Holocene transition (12.8 k cal yr BP). This finding is the first record of this genus in Chile, and provides new evidence to support the collateral-extinction hypothesis related to the defaunation.

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Research Article Tue, 15 Jun 2021 17:04:41 +0300
Drawing the Excalibur bug from the stone: adding credibility to the double-edged sword hypothesis of coreid evolution (Hemiptera, Coreidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/67730/ ZooKeys 1043: 117-131

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1043.67730

Authors: Royce T. Cumming, Stephane Le Tirant

Abstract: A new genus and species of exaggerated antennae Coreidae is described from Myanmar amber of the Late Cretaceous (Cenomanian stage). Ferriantenna excalibur gen. et sp. nov. appears related to another Cretaceous coreid with exaggerated antennae, Magnusantenna Du & Chen, 2021, but can be differentiated by the fourth antennal segment which is short and paddle-like, the undulating shape of the pronotum and mesonotum, and the shorter and thicker legs. The new coreid, with elaborately formed antennae and simple hind legs instead of the typical extant coreid morphology with simple antennae and elaborately formed hind legs, begs the question: why were the elaborate features of the antennae lost in favor of ornate hind legs? Features that are large and showy are at higher risk of being attacked by predators or stuck in a poor molt and subjected to autotomy and are therefore lost at a higher rate than simple appendages. We hypothesize that because elaborate antennae play an additional significant sensory role compared to elaborate hind legs, that evolutionarily it is more costly to have elaborate antennae versus elaborate hind legs. Thus, through the millenia, as coreid evolution experimented with elaborate/ornate features, those on the antennae were likely selected against in favor of ornate hind legs.

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Research Article Mon, 14 Jun 2021 15:31:39 +0300
First fossil record of the mayfly family Vietnamellidae (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) from Burmese Amber confirms its Oriental origin and gives new insights into its evolution https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/66435/ ZooKeys 1036: 99-120

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1036.66435

Authors: Roman J. Godunko, Alexander V. Martynov, Arnold H. Staniczek

Abstract: The small, monophyletic mayfly family Vietnamellidae Allen, 1984 has so far only been known from a few extant species of the genus Vietnamella Tshernova, 1972, which are all distributed in the Oriental Realm (Vietnam, Thailand, China, and India). Herein we report the first fossil record of Vietnamellidae based on a male and female imago from Mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. We establish the new genus Burmella gen. nov. to accommodate these two new Mesozoic specimens. Their attribution to Vietnamellidae is supported by the rounded shape of the hind wings with arched outer margin, the course of thoracic sutures, and characteristics of venation, especially of MP and Cu of the forewings and associated intercalary veins of the cubital field. At the same time, Burmella gen. nov. clearly differs from Vietnamella by a diminished number of longitudinal and cross veins in the hind wings, and by the different shape of male genitalia. This first fossil record of Vietnamellidae supports an age of at least 100 Ma for this taxon.

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Research Article Mon, 10 May 2021 11:37:24 +0300
New species and material of Hagloidea (Insecta, Ensifera) from the Yanliao biota of China https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/63571/ ZooKeys 1033: 183-190

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1033.63571

Authors: Jun-Jie Gu, Xin Yang, Rong Huang, Guijun Yang, Yanli Yue, Dong Ren

Abstract: A new species of Cyrtophyllitinae, Archaboilus polyneurus sp. nov. Gu, Yue & Ren, is described from the Middle Jurassic Jiulongshan Formation, Daohugou Village, Inner Mongolia, China. The species is characterized by its ScA reaching the anterior wing margin at the level of the divergence of M+ CuA, distally branched RP, lengths of free CuA and free M equal, and numerous branches of CuA + CuPaα. A new fossil of Liassophyllum caii Gu & Ren, 2012 is described which increases knowledge of its wing venation and indicates that Liassophyllum should be assigned to the Tuphellidae.

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Research Article Thu, 22 Apr 2021 10:03:34 +0300
†Camelosphecia gen. nov., lost ant-wasp intermediates from the mid-Cretaceous (Hymenoptera, Formicoidea) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/57629/ ZooKeys 1005: 21-55

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1005.57629

Authors: Brendon E. Boudinot, Vincent Perrichot, Júlio C. M. Chaul

Abstract: Fossils provide primary material evidence for the pattern and timing of evolution. The newly discovered “beast ants” from mid-Cretaceous Burmite, †Camelosphecia gen. nov., display an exceptional combination of plesiomorphies, including absence of the metapleural gland, and a series of unique apomorphies. Females and males, represented by †C. fossor sp. nov. and †C. venator sp. nov., differ in a number of features which suggest distinct sexual biologies. Combined-evidence phylogenetic analysis recovers †Camelosphecia and †Camelomecia as a clade which forms the extinct sister group of the Formicidae. Notably, these genera are only known from alate males and females; workers, if present, have yet to be recovered. Based on ongoing study of the total Aculeata informed by the beast ant genera, we provide a brief diagnosis of the Formicoidea. We also provide the first comprehensive key to the major groupings of Mesozoic Formicoidea, alongside a synoptic classification in which †Zigrasimeciinae stat. nov. and †Myanmyrma maraudera comb. nov. are recognized. Finally, a brief diagnosis of the Formicoidea is outlined.

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Research Article Fri, 18 Dec 2020 18:30:48 +0200
Description of a new species of Eucinetidae (Coleoptera, Scirtoidea) from Cretaceous Burmese amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/39335/ ZooKeys 982: 1-9

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.982.39335

Authors: Xueyong Du, Adam Slipinski, Zhenhua Liu, Hong Pang

Abstract: Eucinetus parvus sp. nov. is described from late Cretaceous Burmese amber, representing the second record of Eucinetidae from the Burmese amber and the first species of the family with simple, not piercing, mouthparts. A comparison between Mesocinetidae and Eucinetidae is provided.

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Research Article Mon, 2 Nov 2020 13:13:04 +0200
Genus-level revision of the Alycaeidae (Gastropoda, Cyclophoroidea), with an annotated species catalogue https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/53583/ ZooKeys 981: 1-220

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.981.53583

Authors: Barna Páll-Gergely, Sheikh Sajan, Basudev Tripathy, Kaibaryer Meng, Takahiro Asami, Jonathan D. Ablett

Abstract: 412 species-group names (including 11 replacement names), and 14 genus-group names of the Alycaeidae have been introduced to date. Type materials of 85% (336) of the known species and subspecies were examined, a further 5% (19) of the taxa were studied using available non-type material, and for another 6% (22) the original descriptions were sufficiently detailed to evaluate their taxonomic status. Only 3% of the taxa (12) could not be examined. Special attention was paid to the sculpture of the embryonic whorls and the sutural tube-microtunnel system in order to provide a novel classification for this group. In this study 363 taxa (320 species or 43 subspecies) are accepted within the family Alycaeidae. Of these, 22 have been described by the lead author and his coauthors in previous publications. In addition, there are 18 species that were formerly classified in Cycloryx and now belong to Pincerna due to its synonymy with Cycloryx. Among the remaining 323 species, 209 (65%) are transferred here to another genus, whilst 114 (35%) have remained in their original genus. Seven genera are accepted. While some questions (e.g., the distinction between Pincerna and Alycaeus) remained unanswered, this revision made three main achievements: (1) The Dicharax species were identified based on the absence of spiral striation on the entire shell; (2) the Metalycaeus species were identified based on the spiral striation of the protoconch; (3) and Stomacosmethis was separated from Alycaeus based on the extremely short sutural tube. Five nominal species are being synonymised with other species, and eight species are now treated as subspecies. The following replacement names are proposed: Dioryx urnula niosiensis Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus urnula var. daflaensis Godwin-Austen, 1914; Dioryx urnula rotundus Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus urnula var. globosus Godwin-Austen, 1914; Pincerna crenilabris juttingae Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus crenilabris laevis van Benthem Jutting, 1959; Pincerna crenilabris korintjiensis Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus crenilabris latecostatus van Benthem Jutting, 1959; Dicharax conicus jatingaensis Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus conicus var. nanus Godwin-Austen, 1914; Metalycaeus godwinausteni Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus neglectus Godwin-Austen, 1914; and finally Metalycaeus suhajdai Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus varius Godwin-Austen, 1914.

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Monograph Thu, 29 Oct 2020 16:28:41 +0200
A remarkable new species of the rove beetle genus Anthobium Leach, 1819 from Eocene Baltic amber (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Omaliinae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/53940/ ZooKeys 973: 89-101

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.973.53940

Authors: Alexey V. Shavrin, Shûhei Yamamoto

Abstract: An unusual new omaliine species, Anthobium alekseevi sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Eocene Baltic amber, tentatively placed in the megadiverse genus Anthobium Leach, 1819. A new monotypic species-group is established. The new species can easily be distinguished from other species of the genus by the larger body, shape of the subrectangular pronotum, and the presence of a median carina on the prosternum and large, subtriangular tooth on the inner side of each mesotibia, likely exhibiting a peculiar sexual dimorphism in the male. Based on the study of the specimen with support of microtomographic images, a brief comparative analysis of a new species with described extant species of Anthobium is provided.

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Research Article Mon, 5 Oct 2020 15:43:15 +0300
Protanthomyza grimaldii sp. nov., a further member of the extinct subfamily Protanthomyzinae (Diptera, Anthomyzidae) from Baltic amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/51435/ ZooKeys 973: 1-15

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.973.51435

Authors: Jindřich Roháček

Abstract: A new fossil species, Protanthomyza grimaldii sp. nov. (Diptera, Anthomyzidae), is described from Baltic amber (Eocene, 48–34 Ma) based on two (male and female) inclusions. It is the ninth species of the †genus Protanthomyza Hennig, 1965 and †subfamily Protanthomyzinae Roháček, 1998. Adult morphology of P. grimaldii sp. nov. revealed that the rich chaetotaxy of the thoracic pleuron, two anal veins and presence of the anteroventral process of the epandrium are plausibly shared by all species of Protanthomyza. Relationships of the new species, which belongs to a group lacking the ctenidial spine on the fore femur, are discussed.

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Research Article Mon, 5 Oct 2020 13:11:45 +0300
A new macrolepidopteran moth (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Geometridae) in Miocene Dominican amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/54461/ ZooKeys 965: 73-84

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.965.54461

Authors: Weiting Zhang, ChungKun Shih, YuHong Shih, Dong Ren

Abstract: A new genus and species of fossil moth, Miogeometrida chunjenshihi Zhang, Shih & Shih, gen. et sp. nov., assigned to Geometridae, is described from Miocene Dominican amber dating from 15–20 Mya. The new genus is characterized by the forewing without a fovea, R1 not anastomosing with Sc, no areole formed by veins R1 and Rs, R1 and Rs1 completely coincident, M2 arising midway between M1 and M3, anal veins 1A and 2A fused for their entire lengths; and the hind wing with Rs running close to Sc + R1 and M2 absent.

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Research Article Thu, 3 Sep 2020 19:19:56 +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
The value of a single character: the Paleogene European land snail Ferussina Grateloup, 1827 is likely a cyclophorid (Gastropoda, Caenogastropoda) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/50135/ ZooKeys 918: 29-40

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.918.50135

Authors: Barna Páll-Gergely, Thomas A. Neubauer

Abstract: Ferussina Grateloup, 1827 is a European Paleogene land snail genus, which is currently classified in its own family, the Ferussinidae Wenz, 1923 (1915), in the superfamily Cyclophoroidea. The shell of this genus is remarkable by its last quarter whorl turning towards the apex instead of away from it, which is an unusual trait in terrestrial snails. We show, however, that this trait has evolved at least nine times in terrestrial Eupulmonata and Caenogastropoda, and it does not justify distinction at the family level in any of the reported cases. This observation suggests the systematic position of Ferussina should not be based on the apexward-turning last quarter whorl alone but instead on the general morphology of the shell. As a result, we re-evaluate the systematic position of the Ferussinidae and treat it as a subfamily of the Cyclophoridae.

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Research Article Thu, 12 Mar 2020 03:49:49 +0200
A new species of Astreptolabis in mid-Cretaceous amber from northern Myanmar, with the discovery of the first male of Astreptolabidinae (Dermaptera) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/38845/ ZooKeys 911: 101-112

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.911.38845

Authors: Yue Mao, Michael S. Engel, Dong Ren, Taiping Gao

Abstract: A new species of one of the basal families among extant Dermaptera, Pygidicranidae, is described from mid-Cretaceous amber of Myanmar based on two females and a male. Astreptolabis laevis sp. nov., belongs to the extinct subfamily Astreptolabidinae, sharing the diagnostic combination of features typical of this group, such as the well-developed compound eyes, large pronotum, and straight and tubular cerci. The discovery of a male with its genitalia partly exerted permits characterization of traits for the subfamily and provides further information on the uniqueness and affinities of the subfamily. In addition, the extended hind wing allows for a comparison between the folding mechanism between these fossils and their modern counterparts, demonstrating considerable conservatism in hind wing evolution among Dermaptera.

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Research Article Wed, 12 Feb 2020 11:07:20 +0200
Revision of fossil Metretopodidae (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) in Baltic amber – Part 4: Description of two new species of Siphloplecton Clemens, 1915, with notes on the new S. jaegeri species group and with key to fossil male adults of Siphloplecton https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/47118/ ZooKeys 898: 1-26

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.898.47118

Authors: Roman J. Godunko, Christian Neumann, Arnold H. Staniczek

Abstract: The Siphloplecton jaegeri species group is established here for three extinct species, namely for the earlier described Siphloplecton jaegeri Demoulin, 1968, and for two new species from Eocene Baltic amber, Siphloplecton landolti sp. nov. and Siphloplecton studemannae sp. nov. Based on the well-preserved specimens of these species, a diagnosis is provided for the newly established species group. Representatives of the S. jaegeri species group are characterized by the presence of large, medially contiguous eyes, stout pointed setae along the outer margin of the foretibia, three intercalaries in the cubital field of the forewing, and elongated penis lobes, which are apically triangular or rounded, medially contiguous, and with a V-shaped cleft apically. Further new specimens of the S. jaegeri species group are documented that cannot be attributed to species level due to their poor preservation. Finally, a key to male adults of fossil species of Siphloplecton is given.

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Research Article Tue, 10 Dec 2019 18:51:45 +0200
The first Elcanidae (Orthoptera, Elcanoidea) from the Daohugou fossil bed of northeastern China https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/37608/ ZooKeys 897: 19-28

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.897.37608

Authors: He Tian, Jun-Jie Gu, Xiang Chu Yin, Dong Ren

Abstract: A new species of Elcanidae (Orthoptera, Elcanoidea), Parelcana pulchmacula sp. nov., is described based on four new specimens from the Middle Jurassic Jiulongshan Formation of northeastern China. The new species differs from all other known Archelcaninae species by its combination of wing-venation characters. This new finding improves our knowledge of variation on wing venation in elcanid insects and constitutes the first record of Elcanidae from the Daohugou fossil bed (Yanliao Biota) of northeastern China.

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Short Communication Mon, 9 Dec 2019 04:32:05 +0200
A new sawfly of Megalodontesidae (Insecta, Hymenoptera, Pamphilioidea) with pectinate antennae from the Early Cretaceous of China https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/38512/ ZooKeys 893: 115-123

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.893.38512

Authors: Yimo Wang, Mei Wang, ChungKun Shih, Alexandr P. Rasnitsyn, Jun Yao, Dong Ren, Taiping Gao

Abstract: A new sawfly of Megalodontesidae, Jibaissodes peichenae sp. nov., is described from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation of Northeastern China. It is established mainly based on the pectinate antenna comprising 42 flagellomeres and the proximal 28 bearing apical rami, which gradually shorten in length toward the apex of the flagellum. The pterostigma of the forewing is infuscated apically and on the hind wing, vein 1-Rs is nearly equal to 1r-m and slightly shorter than 1-M. The first tergum is widely excised posteriorly and roundly protruding laterally alike in Megalodontes. This find supports that pectinate antennae in extant sawflies of Megalodontesidae originated at least during or before the Early Cretaceous.

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Research Article Mon, 2 Dec 2019 18:07:09 +0200
Morphometric analysis of fossil bumble bees (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Bombini) reveals their taxonomic affinities https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/32056/ ZooKeys 891: 71-118

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.891.36027

Authors: Manuel Dehon, Michael S. Engel, Maxence Gérard, A. Murat Aytekin, Guillaume Ghisbain, Paul H. Williams, Pierre Rasmont, Denis Michez

Abstract: Bumble bees (Bombus spp.) are a widespread corbiculate lineage (Apinae: Corbiculata: Bombini), mostly found among temperate and alpine ecosystems. Approximately 260 species have been recognized and grouped recently into a simplified system of 15 subgenera. Most of the species are nest-building and primitively eusocial. Species of Bombus have been more intensely studied than any other lineages of bees with the exception of the honey bees. However, most bumble bee fossils are poorly described and documented, making their placement relative to other Bombus uncertain. A large portion of the known and presumed bumble bee fossils were re-examined in an attempt to better understand their affinities with extant Bombini. The taxonomic affinities of fossil specimens were re-assessed based on morphological features and previous descriptions, and for 13 specimens based on geometric morphometrics of forewing shape. None of the specimens coming from Eocene and Oligocene deposits were assigned within the contemporary shape space of any subgenus of Bombus. It is shown that Calyptapis florissantensis Cockerell, 1906 (Eocene-Oligocene boundary, Florissant shale, Colorado, USA) and Oligobombus cuspidatus Antropov, 2014 (Late Eocene, Bembridge Marls) likely belong to stem-group Bombini. Bombus anacolus Zhang, 1994, B. dilectus Zhang, 1994, B. luianus Zhang, 1990 (Middle Miocene, Shanwang Formation), as well as B. vetustus Rasnitsyn & Michener, 1991 (Miocene, Botchi Formation) are considered as species inquirenda. In the Miocene, affinities of fossils with derived subgenera of Bombus s. l. increased, and some are included in the shape space of contemporary subgenera: Cullumanobombus (i.e., B. pristinus Unger, 1867, B. randeckensis Wappler & Engel, 2012, and B. trophonius Prokop, Dehon, Michez & Engel, 2017), Melanobombus (i.e., B. cerdanyensis Dehon, De Meulemeester & Engel, 2014), and Mendacibombus (i.e., B. beskonakensis (Nel & Petrulevičius, 2003), new combination), agreeing with previous estimates of diversification.

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Research Article Thu, 21 Nov 2019 15:48:21 +0200
First record of Cicadellidae (Insecta, Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha) from Eocene Sakhalinian amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/38828/ ZooKeys 886: 127-134

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.886.38828

Authors: Christopher H. Dietrich, Evgeny E. Perkovsky

Abstract: Sakhalotettix eocenicus gen. & sp. nov., the first leafhopper reported from middle Eocene Sakhalinian amber, is described and illustrated. The fossil cicadellid resembles modern Xestocephalini and Bathysmatophorini in some respects but, because of its unique combination of traits, cannot be placed with certainty in either group, or in any other modern cicadellid subfamily. It is, therefore, considered to be incertae sedis within Cicadellidae.

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Research Article Tue, 5 Nov 2019 12:01:45 +0200
A new species of Pheidole (Formicidae, Myrmicinae) from Dominican amber with a review of the fossil records for the genus https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/35756/ ZooKeys 866: 117-125

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.866.35756

Authors: Alexandre Casadei-Ferreira, Julio C. M. Chaul, Rodrigo M. Feitosa

Abstract: Pheidole comprises approximately 1,000 extant species distributed worldwide, being particularly diverse in the New World. In addition to its high diversity and ecological prevalence, the genus is also characterized by the predominantly intraspecific dimorphism, with major and minor workers. Currently, five fossil species are known, all of which are represented only by minor workers. A new species, †Pheidole anticua sp. nov., is described from Dominican amber, based on a major worker. Additionally, the identity of the currently known fossil species in Pheidole is discussed and †P. cordata from Baltic amber is considered as incertae sedis, resulting in no Pheidole species currently recognized for Baltic amber

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Research Article Wed, 24 Jul 2019 11:23:37 +0300
A new genus and species of berothids (Insecta, Neuroptera) from the Late Cretaceous Myanmar amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/35271/ ZooKeys 864: 99-109

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.864.35271

Authors: Qiang Yang, Chaofan Shi, Dong Ren

Abstract: A new genus and species of Berothidae is described from the Late Cretaceous (Cenomanian) Myanmar amber. Ansoberotha jiewenae gen. et sp. nov. can be easily distinguished from other berothid genera by the long antenna, the scape with ca. 100 flagellomeres, the forewing with four ra-rp, MPand CuA are pectinately branched, and the hind wing with one oblique cua-cup between CuA stem and the distal branch of CuP.

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Research Article Thu, 18 Jul 2019 14:30:18 +0300
Unexpected palaeodiversity of omaliine rove beetles in Eocene Baltic amber (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Omaliinae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/34662/ ZooKeys 863: 35-83

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.863.34662

Authors: Alexey V. Shavrin, Shûhei Yamamoto

Abstract: Fossil records of the subfamily Omaliinae are fragmentary and most of them are less informative compression fossils. Baltic amber from the mid-Eocene of northern Europe is one of the most important sources of insect fossils, but only two reliably placed omaliines have been described. Here, we provide a general overview of this subfamily in Baltic amber. In total, five new extinct species of four genera in three tribes are described and illustrated: Geodromicus balticus sp. nov. (Anthophagini), Eusphalerum kanti sp. nov. (Eusphalerini), Paraphloeostiba morosa sp. nov., Phyllodrepa daedali sp. nov., and Ph. icari sp. nov. (Omaliini). Additionally, we report on four species belonging to Eusphalerum, which remain unnamed, from the same amber deposit. The records of Eusphalerum include the first fossils of the tribe Eusphalerini, while that of Geodromicus may represent the second and the first definitive fossil record of the genus and tribe Anthophagini. Our discoveries highlight the unexpected palaeodiversity of Omaliinae in Baltic amber, further reinforcing the coexistence of thermophilous and temperate-loving beetles in Baltic amber and potentially indicating wetland and riparian habitats of amber-producing forests.

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Research Article Thu, 11 Jul 2019 22:18:00 +0300
Dwarfs under dinosaur legs: a new millipede of the order Callipodida (Diplopoda) from Cretaceous amber of Burma https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/34991/ ZooKeys 841: 79-96

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.841.34991

Authors: Pavel Stoev, Leif Moritz, Thomas Wesener

Abstract: The entire Mesozoic Era is rather poor in millipede (class Diplopoda) fossils, with less than a dozen species being taxonomically described. Here, we describe the first fossil millipede of the order Callipodida, Burmanopetalum inexpectatum gen. nov. et sp. nov., found in early Cenomanian amber of Burma, 98.79±0.62 Mya. The species possesses a number of morphological traits that exclude it from all extant suborders, and Burmanopetalidea suborder nov. and Burmanopetalidae fam. nov. are here erected to accommodate it. The new suborder can be recognized by the following unique characters: pleurotergal setae absent; telson with a specific spatulate shape twice the size of the penultimate body ring; hypoproct devoid of setae; and eyes composed of five well-separated ommatidia. While the callipodidan habitus seems to have remained generally unchanged for at least 99 million years, pleurotergal and hypoproctal setation, as well as the complexity of eyes in ground-dwelling forms may have evolved recently in the order. As B. inexpectatum gen. nov. et sp. nov. is the first true callipodidan in the fossil record, the minimum age of Callipodida is thus at least 99 Mya.

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Research Article Thu, 2 May 2019 15:55:28 +0300
New dustywings (Neuroptera, Coniopterygidae) from mid-Cretaceous amber of Myanmar reveal spectacular diversity https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/31961/ ZooKeys 827: 139-152

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.827.31961

Authors: Dominika Ružičková, André Nel, Jakub Prokop

Abstract: Two new genera and species of Coniopterygidae (Neuroptera) are described and illustrated from mid Cretaceous (Cenomanian) amber of Myanmar. Mulleroconis hyalina gen. n. et sp. n., attributed to the Coniopteryginae, bears a unique combination of venation characters and an abdomen without plicatures. The second new genus, attributed to the Aleuropteryginae, i.e. Palaeoconis azari gen. n. et sp. n., displays a unique pattern of crossveins 1m-cua and 2mp2-cua, with the latter crossing the pigmented spot. A check-list of all fossil genera and species of Coniopterygidae is provided.

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Research Article Tue, 5 Mar 2019 06:11:24 +0200
A new genus and species of thorny lacewing from Upper Cretaceous Kuji amber, northeastern Japan (Neuroptera, Rhachiberothidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/28754/ ZooKeys 802: 109-120

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.802.28754

Authors: Hiroshi Nakamine, Shuhei Yamamoto

Abstract: Kujiberotha teruyukii gen. et sp. n., a remarkable new genus and species of Rhachiberothidae, is described from Upper Cretaceous amber from the Kuji area in northeastern Japan. This discovery represents the first record of this family both from Japan and from East Asia. This fossil taxon has the largest foreleg in the subfamily Paraberothinae found to date and its discovery implies that this group had higher morphological diversity in the Cretaceous than it does now. This finding also stresses the importance of the insect inclusions in Kuji amber, which have not been well explored in spite of their potential abundance.

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Research Article Tue, 4 Dec 2018 11:50:39 +0200
Revision of the lacewing genus Laccosmylus with two new species from the Middle Jurassic of China (Insecta, Neuroptera, Saucrosmylidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/28286/ ZooKeys 790: 115-126

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.790.28286

Authors: Hui Fang, Dong Ren, Jiaxi Liu, Yongjie Wang

Abstract: The genus Laccosmylus Ren & Yin, 2003 belonging to Saucrosmylidae was erected by using a single hind wing only. Based on new fossil material and re-examination of the type specimen, the diagnosis of the genus is emended with supplementary forewing characters, reported for the first time. In addition, two new species Laccosmylus cicatricatus sp. n. and Laccosmylus latizonus sp. n. are described.

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Research Article Mon, 15 Oct 2018 17:44:15 +0300
Description of a Cretaceous amber fossil putatively of the tribe Coprophilini (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Oxytelinae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/27733/ ZooKeys 782: 81-94

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.782.27733

Authors: György Makranczy, Shûhei Yamamoto, Michael S. Engel

Abstract: An unusual and well-preserved fossil staphylinid is described and figured from a single specimen in Upper Cretaceous Burmese amber. Gollandia planata gen. et sp. n. is tentatively placed in the extant oxyteline tribe Coprophilini, although it lacks a few characteristic features of present-day members of the group, likely indicating it to be either a stem group of the tribe or prove to be distinct pending future discoveries. The discovery of this genus suggests that early oxytelines were more morphologically diverse during the Cretaceous and their evolutionary history was more complicated than previously documented. Tribal placement as regards fossil oxyteline taxa is discussed.

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Research Article Fri, 17 Aug 2018 21:36:34 +0300
A primitive honey bee from the Middle Miocene deposits of southeastern Yunnan, China (Hymenoptera, Apidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/24909/ ZooKeys 775: 117-129

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.775.24909

Authors: Michael S. Engel, Bo Wang, Abdulaziz S. Alqarni, Lin-Bo Jia, Tao Su, Zhe-kun Zhou, Torsten Wappler

Abstract: While fossils of honey bees (Apini: Apis Linnaeus) are comparatively abundant in European Oligocene and Miocene deposits, the available material from Asia is scant and represented by only a handful of localities. It is therefore significant to report a new deposit with a fossil honey bee from southern China. Apis (Synapis) dalica Engel & Wappler, sp. n., is described and figured from Middle Miocene sediments of Maguan County, southeastern Yunnan Province, China. This is the first fossil bee from the Cenozoic of southern China, and is distinguished from its close congeners present at the slightly older locality of Shanwang, Shandong in northeastern China. The species can be distinguished on the basis of wing venation differences from other Miocene Apis.

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Research Article Thu, 19 Jul 2018 13:05:35 +0300
A late Pleistocene gastropod fauna from the northern Caspian Sea with implications for Pontocaspian gastropod taxonomy https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/25365/ ZooKeys 770: 43-103

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.770.25365

Authors: Thomas A. Neubauer, Sabrina van de Velde, Tamara Yanina, Frank P. Wesselingh

Abstract: The present paper details a very diverse non-marine gastropod fauna retrieved from Caspian Pleistocene deposits along the Volga River north of Astrakhan (Russia). During time of deposition (early Late Pleistocene, late Khazarian regional substage), the area was situated in shallow water of the greatly expanded Caspian Sea. The fauna contains 24 species, of which 16 are endemic to the Pontocaspian region and 15 to the Caspian Sea. The majority of the species (13) belongs to the Pyrgulinae (Hydrobiidae), a group famous for its huge morphological variability in the Pontocaspian region. The phenotypic diversity has led to an inflation of genus and species names in the literature. New concepts are proposed for many of the genera and species found in the present material, with implications for the systematics and taxonomy of the entire Pontocaspian gastropod fauna. Laevicaspia vinarskii sp. n. is described as a new species. This contribution is considered a first step in revising the Pontocaspian gastropod fauna.

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Research Article Wed, 4 Jul 2018 22:34:38 +0300
New genus and species of sisyrids (Insecta, Neuroptera) from the Late Cretaceous Myanmar amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/22310/ ZooKeys 739: 151-158

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.739.22310

Authors: Qiang Yang, Chaofan Shi, Dong Ren, Yongjie Wang, Hong Pang

Abstract: A new genus and species of Sisyridae, Stictosisyra pennyi gen. et sp. n., is described from the Late Cretaceous (earliest Cenomanian/late Albian) Myanmar amber. It can be easily distinguished from other sisyrids genera by the configuration of wing venation such as forewing with four ra-rp crossveins, M forked distal to the separation of RP1, CuA pectinate and CuP simple; hind wing 1r-m long and sinuous. Besides, the newly documented spongillaflies bore distinct, irregularly distributed spots on the forewings.

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Research Article Fri, 23 Feb 2018 07:24:46 +0200
A new Acartophthalmites Hennig from Eocene Baltic amber (Diptera, Acalyptratae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/20639/ ZooKeys 737: 125-139

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.737.20639

Authors: Ricardo Pérez-de la Fuente, Christel Hoffeins, Jindřich Roháček

Abstract: A new fossil fly species, Acartophthalmites willii sp. n. (Diptera: Acalyptratae: Opomyzoidea) from Baltic amber (Eocene, 56−33.9 Ma), is described based on a male originally assigned by Hennig (1969) to A. tertiaria Hennig, 1965, who erroneously also referred to it in the same work as “A. electrica Hennig” (unavailable name). The new species, representing the third named species of the extinct genus with unclear familial relationships Acartophthalmites Hennig, 1965, is herein described and illustrated in detail, and its systematic implications and relationships are discussed. From the morphological standpoint, the new species represents an intermediate form between the two formerly described species within the genus, therefore expanding the character combination diversity in this lineage of acalyptrate flies. The genus Acartophthalmites is considered to be most closely related to Clusiidae and, therefore, it is herein tentatively classified within the superfamily Opomyzoidea. The current work takes part of an effort to review the Acartophthalmites diversity in order to gain knowledge on the morphological data from the specimens described within the genus and ultimately enable a reliable analysis of its phylogenetic relationships with other acalyptrates.

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Research Article Tue, 13 Feb 2018 12:09:51 +0200
An early and mysterious histerid inquiline from Cretaceous Burmese amber (Coleoptera, Histeridae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/23126/ ZooKeys 733: 119-129

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.733.23126

Authors: Michael S. Caterino, David R. Maddison

Abstract: We describe a new genus and species of Histeridae from Upper Cretaceous Burmese amber, Amplectister tenax Caterino & Maddison, gen. & sp. n. This species represents the third known Cretaceous histerid, which, like the others, is highly distinct and cannot easily be placed to subfamily. It exhibits prosternal characters in common with Saprininae, but other characters appear inconsistent with this possibility. The abdominal venter is strongly concave, and the hind legs are enlarged and modified for grasping. We hypothesize that this represents the earliest example in Histeridae of modifications for phoresy on social insects.

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Research Article Thu, 1 Feb 2018 03:18:56 +0200
Revision of the genus-group Hystricella R. T. Lowe, 1855 from Porto Santo (Madeira Archipelago), with descriptions of new recent and fossil taxa (Gastropoda, Helicoidea, Geomitridae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/21677/ ZooKeys 732: 1-125

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.732.21677

Authors: Willy De Mattia, Marco T. Neiber, Klaus Groh

Abstract: The genus-group Hystricella R. T. Lowe, 1855 is revised on the basis of conchological, anatomical and genetic characteristics. A new genus Wollastonia gen. n., two recent species, W. jessicae sp. n. and W. klausgrohi sp. n., and one recent subspecies, W. jessicae monticola ssp. n. are described as new to science, as well as five fossil taxa, H. microcarinata sp. n., W. beckmanni sp. n., W. falknerorum sp. n., W. ripkeni sp. n., and W. inexpectata sp. n. For Helix vermetiformis R. T. Lowe, 1855, H. leacockiana Wollaston, 1878, H. oxytropis R. T. Lowe, 1831, H. duplicata R. T. Lowe, 1831 and H. oxytropis var. ß subcarinulata Wollaston, 1878 lectotypes are designated. For the taxa Helix bicarinata G. B. Sowerby I, 1824, Helix bicarinata var. ß aucta Wollaston, 1878 and Discula bulverii W. Wood, 1828 neotypes are selected. The taxa aucta and subcarinulata are elevated to specific rank. For the hitherto monospecific (sub-) genus Callina R. T. Lowe, 1855 it is shown that it is not closely related to the genus Discula but to the Hystricella-group and its generic rank is confirmed. The taxon D. bulverii W. Wood, 1828 is transferred from the genus Discula s. str. to the genus Callina. A further fossil taxon C. waldeni sp. n. is described as new to science.

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Research Article Wed, 24 Jan 2018 05:22:05 +0200
A new lineage of braconid wasps in Burmese Cenomanian amber (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/22585/ ZooKeys 730: 75-86

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.730.22585

Authors: Michael S. Engel, Diying Huang, Chenyang Cai, Abdulaziz Alqarni

Abstract: A new braconid wasp from the Upper Cretaceous (Cenomanian) amber of the Hukawng Valley in Kachin State, Myanmar is described and figured from a unique female. Seneciobracon novalatus Engel & Huang, gen. et sp. n., is placed in a distinct subfamily, Seneciobraconinae Engel & Huang, subfam. n., owing to the presence of a unique combination of primitive protorhyssaline-like traits, with an otherwise more derived wing venation. The fossil is discussed in the context of other Cretaceous Braconidae.

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Research Article Wed, 17 Jan 2018 03:34:55 +0200
The first fossil brown lacewing from the Miocene of the Tibetan Plateau (Neuroptera, Hemerobiidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/21086/ ZooKeys 726: 145-154

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.726.21086

Authors: Qiang Yang, Chaofan Shi, Xiangchuan Li, Hong Pang, Dong Ren

Abstract: A new species of Hemerobiidae, Wesmaelius makarkini Yang, Pang & Ren, sp. n. is described from the Lower Miocene, Garang Formation of Zeku County, Qinghai Province (northeastern Tibetan Plateau), China. The species is assigned to the widely distributed extant genus Wesmaelius Krüger (Hemerobiinae). The species represents the first named fossil of this family from China, which sheds light on the historical distribution of Wesmaelius and early divergences within Hemerobiinae.

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Research Article Wed, 10 Jan 2018 04:36:25 +0200
A new genus of protorhyssaline wasps in Raritan amber (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/20709/ ZooKeys 711: 103-111

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.711.20709

Authors: Michael S. Engel, Jennifer C. Thomas, Abdulaziz S. Alqarni

Abstract: A second species of protorhyssaline wasps (Braconidae) is described and figured from inclusions in Upper Cretaceous (Turonian) amber of the Raritan Formation in New Jersey, USA. Rhetinorhyssalites emersoni, gen. n., sp. n., is distinguished from other protorhyssalines, particularly the contemporaneous Protorhyssalus goldmani.

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Research Article Mon, 23 Oct 2017 02:14:56 +0300
An Early Miocene bumble bee from northern Bohemia (Hymenoptera, Apidae) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/14714/ ZooKeys 710: 43-63

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.710.14714

Authors: Jakub Prokop, Manuel Dehon, Denis Michez, Michael S. Engel

Abstract: A new species of fossil bumble bee (Apinae: Bombini) is described and figured from Early Miocene (Burdigalian) deposits of the Most Basin at the Bílina Mine, Czech Republic. Bombus trophonius sp. n., is placed within the subgenus Cullumanobombus Vogt and distinguished from the several species groups therein. The species is apparently most similar to the Nearctic B. (Cullumanobombus) rufocinctus Cresson, the earliest-diverging species within the clade and the two may be related only by symplesiomorphies. The age of the fossil is in rough accordance with divergence estimations for Cullumanobombus.

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Research Article Thu, 19 Oct 2017 01:47:33 +0300
The ground beetle genus Bembidion Latreille in Baltic amber: Review of preserved specimens and first 3D reconstruction of endophallic structures using X-ray microscopy (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Bembidiini) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/12124/ ZooKeys 662: 101-126

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.662.12124

Authors: Joachim Schmidt, Peter Michalik

Abstract: The ground beetle genus Bembidion is a highly diverse group of small predators with more than 1.200 described extant species. In contrast, only two representatives of Bembidion are known from the amber fossil record and their position within this mega-diverse genus is dubious. Here, we address the taxonomic position of these two extinct Bembidion species (B. succini Giebel, 1856 and B. christelae Ortuño & Arillo, 2010). Based on the insufficient description and the missing type specimen, B. succini, nomen dubium, cannot be assigned to the genus Bembidion and/or to the tribe Bembidiini with certainty. The subgenus Archaeophilochthus Ortuño & Arillo, 2010 was erected for the second extinct species, B. christelae, based on external characters. However, this species seems indistinguishable to members of the earlier described subgenus Philochthemphanes Netolitzky, 1943 which comprises about extant 10 species distributed in East and Southeast Asia. Furthermore, we describe two new species, B. bukejsi sp. n. and B. alekseevi sp. n., from the Eocene Baltic amber using X-ray microscopy. Based on external and genital morphology including endophallic structures, we erected the monotypic subgenus Eodontiumsubgen. n. for B. bukejsi sp. n., which is probably related to the subgenera Andrewesa Netolitzky, 1931, the Hydrium complex, or the Odontium series sensu Maddison (2012). On the other hand, B. alekseevi sp. n. can be assigned to the subgenus Eupetedromus Netolitzky, 1911. The occurrence of representatives of at least two species groups adapted to a temperate climate suggests the presence of at least locally temperate climates in Baltic amber forests.

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Research Article Wed, 22 Mar 2017 15:17:29 +0200
A new species of Lasiosmylus from the Early Cretaceous, China clarifies its genus-group placement in Ithonidae (Neuroptera) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/10103/ ZooKeys 636: 41-50

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.636.10103

Authors: Bingyu Zheng, Dong Ren, Yongjie Wang

Abstract: A new species, Lasiosmylus longus sp. n., is described from the Early Cretaceous Yixian Formation of Huangbanjigou Village, Liaoning Province, China. Based on the characters of the new species and nine new specimens of Lasiosmylus newi Ren & Guo, 1996, the generic diagnosis of Lasiosmylus is emended and the taxonomic position of Lasiosmylus Ren & Guo, 1996 is re-evaluated, and Lasiosmylus should be assigned to the ithonid genus-group.

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Research Article Thu, 24 Nov 2016 20:39:36 +0200
Antarctotrechus balli sp. n. (Carabidae, Trechini): the first ground beetle from Antarctica https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/10535/ ZooKeys 635: 109-122

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.635.10535

Authors: Allan C. Ashworth, Terry L. Erwin

Abstract: Fossil elytra of a small trechine carabid are reported from the Oliver Bluffs on the Beardmore Glacier at lat. 85°S. They were compared with counterparts from the extant genera Trechisibus, Tasmanorites, Oxytrechus and Pseudocnides. The fossils share some characters but are sufficiently different to be described as a new genus and species. We named the new species Antarctotrechus balli in honour of George E. Ball who made major contributions to the study of carabids through his own research and the training of students while at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The closest extant relatives to the extinct A. balli are species of Trechisibus, which inhabit South America, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, and Tasmanorites, which inhabit Tasmania, Australia. Plant fossils associated with A. balli included Nothofagus (southern beech), Ranunculus (buttercup), moss mats and cushion plants that were part of a tundra biome. Collectively, the stratigraphic relationships and the growth characteristics of the fossil plants indicate that A. balli inhabited the sparsely-vegetated banks of a stream that was part of an outwash plain at the head of a fjord in the Transantarctic Mountains. Other insects represented by fossils in the tundra biome include a listroderine weevil and a cyclorrhaphan fly. The age of the fossils, based on comparison of associated pollen with 40Ar/39Ar dated pollen assemblages from the McMurdo Dry Valleys, is probably Early to Mid-Miocene in the range 14–20 Ma. The tundra biome, including A. balli, became extinct in the interior of Antarctica about 14 Ma and on the margins of the continent by 10–13 Ma. A. balli confirms that trechines were once widely distributed in Gondwana. For A. balli and other elements of the tundra biome it appears they continued to inhabit a warmer Antarctica for many millions of years after rifting of Tasmania (45 Ma) and southern South America (31 Ma).

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Research Article Wed, 23 Nov 2016 03:34:57 +0200
A new genus and species of Tettigarctidae from the Mesozoic of northeastern China (Insecta, Hemiptera, Cicadoidea) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/10076/ ZooKeys 632: 47-55

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.632.10076

Authors: Yan Zheng, Jun Chen, Xiaoli Wang

Abstract: A new genus Maculaprosbole of Tettigarctidae with a new species M. zhengi is described based on a complete fossil forewing from the Mesozoic of northeastern China. Due to its broad costal area and clavus, Maculaprosbole zhengi gen. et sp. n. can be attributed to the subfamily Cicadoprosbolinae. This genus is similar to the genera Sanmai and Hirtaprosbole in coloration pattern and forewing venation, respectively. However, it differs from Hirtaprosbole in crossvein r-m absent and apical CuA section strongly curved, running along the nodal line for a distance, and Sanmai in transverse coloration mainly focusing on the postnodal area. Herein, the prominent coloration pattern of this new taxon is discussed.

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Research Article Wed, 16 Nov 2016 13:37:23 +0200
Lilioceris groehni sp. n.: the first authentic species of Criocerinae (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) from Baltic amber https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/10085/ ZooKeys 618: 67-77

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.618.10085

Authors: Andris Bukejs, Michael Schmitt

Abstract: Based on a single well-preserved specimen from Eocene Baltic amber, Lilioceris groehni sp. n. is described and illustrated using phase-contrast X-ray microtomography. It is the first described species of Criocerinae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) from Baltic amber. A check-list of fossil Criocerinae is provided. Placement of Crioceris pristiana (Germar, 1813) is discussed, this species is removed from Criocerinae and placed in Coleopteraincertae sedis.

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Research Article Mon, 19 Sep 2016 02:44:01 +0300
X-ray microscopy reveals endophallic structures in a new species of the ground beetle genus Trechus Clairville, 1806 from Baltic amber (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechini) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/9283/ ZooKeys 614: 113-127

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.614.9283

Authors: Joachim Schmidt, Igor Belousov, Peter Michalik

Abstract: The third fossil species of the genus Trechus Clairville, 1806 is described from Baltic amber: T. exhibitorius sp. n. Details of external and internal morphology were analysed using X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and important diagnostic features of the internal male genital sac (endophallus) are described in detail for the first time in a fossil ground beetle. Based on these data, we could assign T. exhibitorius sp. n. to Trechus sensu stricto and this new fossil species seems to represent a basal branch of a lineage comprising species diverse groups of extant Trechus mainly distributed in the Caucasus and Anatolia. Thus, our results support previous studies suggesting that Trechus is a phylogenetically old lineage already present in the Eocene with numerous species.

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Research Article Thu, 1 Sep 2016 00:40:25 +0300
The Middle Pleistocene vertebrate fauna from Khok Sung (Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand): biochronological and paleobiogeographical implications https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/8309/ ZooKeys 613: 1-157

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.613.8309

Authors: Kantapon Suraprasit, Jean-Jacques Jaeger, Yaowalak Chaimanee, Olivier Chavasseau, Chotima Yamee, Pannipa Tian, Somsak Panha

Abstract: The fluviatile terrace deposits of Khok Sung, Nakhon Ratchasima province, have yielded more than one thousand fossils, making this the richest Pleistocene vertebrate fauna of Thailand. The excellent preservation of the specimens allows precise characterization of the faunal composition. The mammalian fauna consists of fifteen species in thirteen genera, including a primate, a canid, a hyaenid, proboscideans, rhinoceroses, a suid, cervids, and bovids. Most species correspond to living taxa but globally (Stegodon cf. orientalis) and locally (Crocuta crocuta ultima, Rhinoceros unicornis, Sus barbatus, and Axis axis) extinct taxa were also present. The identification of Axis axis in Khok Sung, a chital currently restricted to the Indian Subcontinent, represents the first record of the species in Southeast Asia. Three reptilian taxa: Crocodylus cf. siamensis, Python sp., and Varanus sp., are also identified. Faunal correlations with other Southeast Asian sites suggest a late Middle to early Late Pleistocene age for the Khok Sung assemblage. However, the Khok Sung mammalian fauna is most similar to that of Thum Wiman Nakin, dated to older than 169 ka. The Khok Sung large mammal assemblage mostly comprises mainland Southeast Asian taxa that migrated to Java during the latest Middle Pleistocene, supporting the hypothesis that Thailand was a biogeographic pathway for the Sino-Malayan migration event from South China to Java.

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Monograph Tue, 30 Aug 2016 13:27:29 +0300
A preliminary synopsis on amber scorpions with special reference to Burmite species: an extraordinary development of our knowledge in only 20 years https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/8913/ ZooKeys 600: 75-87

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.600.8913

Authors: Wilson R. Lourenço

Abstract: A preliminary study on fossil scorpions found in amber, from the Lower Cretaceous through the Palaeocene and up to the Miocene is proposed. Scorpions remain rare among the arthropods found trapped in amber. Only 24 specimens are known from Cretaceous amber, representing eight families and subfamilies, ten genera and 21 species; in parallel, 10 specimens have been recorded from Baltic amber representing seven genera and ten species. A few more recent fossils from Dominican and Mexican amber have also been described. The present study of a new scorpion specimen from the Cretaceous amber of Myanmar (Burmite) resulted in the description of one new species, Betaburmesebuthus bellus sp. n. – belonging to the subfamily Palaeoburmesebuthinae Lourenço, 2015. The new description brings further elements to the clarification of the status of this subfamily, which is now raised to family level. Once again, this new Burmite element attests to the considerable degree of diversity in the Burmese amber-producing forests.

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Research Article Wed, 22 Jun 2016 11:06:46 +0300
Two new species of Prolyda from the Middle Jurassic of China (Hymenoptera, Pamphilioidea) https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/7249/ ZooKeys 569: 71-80

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.569.7249

Authors: Chen Wang, ChungKun Shih, Alexandr P. Rasnitsyn, Mei Wang

Abstract: Two new species of the genus Prolyda Rasnitsyn, 1968, Prolyda dimidia sp. n. and Prolyda elegantula sp. n., are described and illustrated. Both specimens were well-preserved and collected from the latest Middle Jurassic Jiulongshan Formation of Daohugou Village in Inner Mongolia, China. Based on the new morphological data, a key to the five known species of Prolyda is provided. In addition, Prolyda has an enlarged first antennal flagellomere, which means it might have revert to the elongate plesiomorphic state for the antennal configuration as previously documented.

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Research Article Fri, 26 Feb 2016 00:00:00 +0200
Two new fossil genera and species of Cerocephalinae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae), including the first record from the Eocene https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/6470/ ZooKeys 545: 89-100

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.545.6470

Authors: Marcel Bläser, Lars Krogmann, Ralph Peters

Abstract: Cerocephalinae (Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae) is a small group of parasitoid wasps characterized by a number of derived diagnostic features. Their hosts are endophytic beetles. So far, 43 species of Cerocephalinae have been described, including one fossil species from the Miocene. In this study, we add two new genera and species from Baltic and Dominican amber to the fossil record. Tenuicornus dominicus gen. et sp. n. is the second genus described from Dominican amber, and Pteropilosa lailarabanorum gen. et sp. n., described from Baltic amber, represents the oldest record of the subfamily, pushing the minimum age of Cerocephalinae back to the Eocene. Diagnostic characters of both species are discussed in comparison with other Cerocephalinae. An updated key to extant and fossil Cerocephalinae is presented.

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Research Article Mon, 14 Dec 2015 03:48:47 +0200