Laemophloeus suturalis Reitter, 1876

Thomas, Michael C., 2015, A review of New World Laemophloeus Dejean (Coleoptera: Laemophloeidae): 3. Nearctic species, Insecta Mundi 2015 (450), pp. 1-35 : 12

Laemophloeus suturalis Reitter

Fig. 15 , 43-46

Laemophloeus suturalis Reitter, 1876:50

Types: Thomas (2014) discussed the possible fate of the type of this widespread species.

Diagnosis. The combination of glabrous dorsal surface, testaceous coloration with infuscate elytral base and suture ( Fig. 15 ), simple scape and uncurved antennomere XI ( Fig. 46 ) are diagnostic for this species. Length, 1.9mm - 3.0mm.

Distribution. Mexico, Central and South America. In the Nearctic, only in extreme southern Florida.

Specimens examined. 26 in the FSCA.

USA: FLORIDA: Broward Co.: Ft. Lauderdale, west of airport; Miami-Dade Co.: Castellow Hammock; Homestead, Camp Owaissa-Bauer.

Discussion. This widely distributed Neotropical species seems to form a close-knit group with L. terminalis and L. insulatestudinorum Thomas. The basal plates of the male genitalia ( Fig. 44 ) are somewhat broader in South Florida specimens, approaching those of L. terminalis ( Fig. 48 ), than in specimens from farther south, but otherwise they are indistinguishable.

Figures

Figure 15. Laemophloeus suturalis, male habitus.

Figures 43-46. Laemophloeus suturalis. 43) Head and pronotum. 44) Aedeagus. 45) Parameres. 46) Antennal club.

Figures 47-50. Laemophloeus terminalis. 47) Head and pronotum. 48) Aedeagus. 49) Parameres. 50) Antennal club.