On the Nomenclature and Classification of the Meloidae (Coleoptera)

Authors

  • Richard B. Selander

Abstract

Forty-three available family-group names (and three unavailable names) in Meloidae are listed as a basis for establishing nomenclatural priority. Available genus-group names, 256 in number, are listed alphabetically with indication of the type species of each; this is followed by a list of 23 names proposed or used at the genus-group level that are unavailable in zoological nomenclature. Finally, a classification of the family Meloidae to the subgeneric level is presented in which names at the family-group and genus-group levels are treated in a manner consistent with the provisions of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. This classification recognizes three subfamilies (Eleticinae, Meloinae, and Horiinae), 10 tribes, 15 subtribes, 116 genera, and 66 subgenera. The subtribes Pyrotina and Lydina (properly Alosimina), of the tribe Cerocomini, are combined with the subribe Lyttina. The tribe Stenoderini, of the subfamily Horiinae, is defined to include Stenodera Eschscholtz. Epispasta Selander is transferred from Cerocomini to Meloini. Recently proposed changes in classification at the genus-group level are incorporated. In addition, Gynapteryx Fairmaire and Germain is placed in the synonymy of Picnoseus Solier; Afromeloe Schmidt and Lampromeloe Reitter, formerly treated as subgenera of Meloe Linnaeus, are elevated to full generic rank; and Zonitolytta Pic is reduced to subgeneric rank in Nemognatha Illiger.

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Published

1991-06-01

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Section

Articles