The larva ofPolposipus herculeanus, with observations on its biology and phylogeny (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Tenebrioninae)

摘要

Abstract.The larva ofPolposipus herculeanusSolier from the Seychelles is described for the first time. An historical resume of the taxonomy and distribution of the species is given, along with biological and rearing notes. The relationships of the genus as indicated by larval characters are discussed and a summary of the known larvae of the Coelometopini and Tenebrionini groups of the Tenebrioninae is provided. Supplementary descriptions of the adult defensive glands, female reproductive tube and ovipositor are included and discussed with regard to the recent findings of TschinkelDoyen (1980) on the phylogeny of the Tenebrionidae.It is concluded thatPolposipusaccords in both larval and internal adult features to the Coelometopini group(sensuTschinkelDoyen, 1980) and that the Misolampini (= Eutelini = Nodotelini), in whichPolposipusis at present placed, may be synonymous with the Coelometopinisensu stricto.Larval evidence also supports the view that the Coelometopini is closely allied to the Cnodalonini and Strongyliini which together comprise a group quite distinct from the Tenebrioninisensu stricto.