Overview of Described Mexican Genera of the
Staphylinid Subfamily ALEOCHARINAE
DRAFT, 2 November 1998
by. James S. Ashe
Tribes listed alphabetically. Subtribes
not used in some tribes where many
genera have not been assigned to subtribe.
Aleochara Gravenhorst 1802
Coprochara Mulsant & Rey 1874 (subgenus)
Xenochara Mulsant & Rey 1874 (subgenus)
Maseochara Sharp 1883 (subgenus)
Emplenota Casey 1884 (subgenus)
Pace 1990a). Members of the five subgenera that occur in Mexico often show distinct habitat preferences,
though these may overlap broadly: members of the subgenus Aleochara are found on animal dung,
decaying plant material and occasionally in caves; members of the subgenus Coprochara are found an
carrion, animal dung, and rotting organic debris such as decaying plants and seaweed; members of the
subgenus Xenochara are found in association with various decaying substances such as animal dung,
moss, decaying mushrooms and occasionally in animal burrows and caves; members of the subgenus
Maseochara are found primarily in decaying cacti where the adults and larvae are associated with syrphid
fly larvae; members of the subgenus Emplenota are restricted to the seashore where they occur abundantly
in rotting seaweed containing Diptera larvae (Klimaszewski 1984). Mexican Aleochara have been
collected from pitfall traps baited with dung or carrion, rotting fungi, in and under cow and horse dung, in
and under carrion, in rotting cactus stalks, under rotting seaweed on beaches, and by flight intercept traps
(new data). All species of Aleochara for which life history data are known are predators on the eggs and
larvae of cyclorraphus Diptera as adults, and ectoparasitoids of Diptera pupae as larvae. Newly hatched first
instar larvae actively search for fly pupae. The larva chews a hole in the puparium, enters and feeds on the fly
pupae inside (Klimaszewski 1984). Over 300 species of Aleochara are known from all parts of the World
except Antarctica (Klimaszewski 1984).
Aleochara (Coprochara) bimaculata Sharp, 1887: 147-148
BC, MEX, OAX, PUE, GUAN
Aleochara (s. str.) centralis Sharp, 1883:
146 (NOTE: Klimaszewski, 1984 placed Aleochara
stygialis Sharp, 1887: 775, as a junior synonym)
COL, JAL, VER
Aleochara composita Casey, 1906: 164
DF
Aleochara (Coprochara) densissima Bernhauer, 1906: 345
BC
Aleochara (Maseochara) depressa (Sharp), 1883: 284
DUR, HIL, MICH
Aleochara (Maseochara) duplicata Sharp, 1883: 156 (as Maseochara)
VER
Aleochara (Maseochara) gracilis Sharp, 1883: 155 (as Maseochara)
GUAN
Aleochara (s. str.) hidalgo Klimaszewski, 1990, 174
HIL
Aleochara (Xenochara) lacertina Sharp, 1883: 149
TAB, VER
Aleochara (s. str.) lata Gravenhorst, 1802: 186
"Mexico", reported by Blackwelder, 1944
Aleochara (s. str.) lateralis Erichson, 1839:
"Mexico"
Aleochara (s. str.) lustrica
Say, 1836 (NOTE: Klimaszewski, 1989 placed Aleochara serrata Sharp,
1883: 147, and Aleochara (s. str.) pauper Sharp, 1883: 147 as junior
synonyms)
VER, OAX, CHIA, HIL
Aleochara (Xenochara) mexicana Sharp, 1883:
149 (NOTE: Klimaszewski, 1989 placed Aleochara
miradoris Sharp, 1883: 152, as a junior synonym)
PUE, VER, OAX, CHIA, HIL,
Aleochara (Coprochara) notula Erichson,
1839: 167 (NOTE: Bernhauer 1944 proposed the name
Aleochara pernix Blackwelder 1944: 167, as a replacement name for
A. nitidicollis Casey, 1906: 160,
which, in turn, Klimaszewski 1984 placed as a junior synonym of Aleochara
(Coprochara) notula
Erichson, 1839)
VER, JAL, CHIA, GUER
Aleochara obscuricollis Say, 1834: 468
"Mexico"
Aleochara (Maseochara) opacella Sharp, 1883:
154 (NOTE: Klimaszewski, 1989 placed Aleochara
(Maseochara) hoegei Sharp, 1887:777, and Aleochara decipiens
Casey, 1906: 169, considered
questionable in Mexico by Blackwelder, 1944, as junior synonyms)
DUR, HIL, MEX, PUE, VER
Aleochara (Xenochara) otongo Klimaszewski, 1990:172
HIL, CHIA
Aleochara (Xenochara) oxypodia Sharp, 1883:
150 (NOTE: Klimaszewski, 1984 placed this species
as a junior synonym of Aleochara taeniata, but in Klimaszewski,1990
treated it as a valid species.)
CHIA
Aleochara (Emplenota) pacifica (Casey), 1893: 290
BC
Aleochara (Xenochara) puberula Klug, 1834: 139
GUER, HAL, OAX
Aleochara (Xenochara) quadrata Sharp, 1883: 149
"Mexico"
Aleochara (Xenochara) sallaei Sharp, 1883: 152
GUAN
Aleochara (Maseochara) semivelutina Sharp, 1883: 154 (as Maseochara)
PUE, GUAN, VER
Aleochara (Coprochara) sulicicollis Mannerheim, 1843: 225
BC
Aleochara (Xenochara) taeniata Erichson, 1839: 165
GUER
Aleochara (Maseochara) valida LeConte, 1858:
16 (NOTE: Klmaszewski, 1989 placed Aleochara
(Maseochara) robusta Sharp, 1883: 155, as a junior synonym)
DUR, PUE
Aleochara (Xenochara) verberans Erichson, 1830: 164
VER, PUE
Aleochara (Coprochara) verna Say, 1836: 156
GUER
One additional described species occurs in Guatemala (Sharp 1883, Blackwelder 1944).
Two described species of Ocyota are known, one from Mexico and one from Guatemala.
Lohse & Lucht (1989) placed Ocyota as a junior synonym of Euryalea. However, Assing and
Wunderle (1997) showed that Ocyota Sharp is a valid genus that is most closely related to
Pseudocalea Luze. Revision and key to described species: Assing & Wunderle (1997).
Ocyota fortepunctata Bernhauer, 1910: 391
GER
Atheta Thomson 1858
Leptonia Sharp 1883 (subgenus)
habitat types in Mexico. The genus Atheta represents one of the most taxonomically difficult groups in the
Aleocharinae. Thousands of species have been described from all over the world. The genus has been
considered in a broader sense, with very many subgenera, or, in more recent treatments, it has been
considered in a narrower sense, with many of the subgenera treated as genera (see Seevers 1978 for a
discussion of the classification history of Atheta and the tribe Athetini). Atheta is treated here in a broader
sense (similar to the tribe Athetini, in part, of Seevers 1978) because most of the Mexican (and other
Neotropical) representatives have not been assigned to genera or subgenera, and the classification of the
Mexican representatives has not been studied in any comprehensive way. Because of uncertainty about
generic and subgeneric limits of Neotropical members of Atheta, Leptonia, with 1 described species
(L. picta Sharp) from Mexico, is here treated as a subgenus of Atheta (as done by Bernhauer &
Scheerpeltz 1926, Blackwelder 1944); however, Pace (1986, 1990a, and elsewhere) treated it as a
genus. Considerable care and additional study is required to work with this group of taxa. Therefore,
caution in generic identifications (and conclusions based on such identifications) is urged for any studies
dealing with Atheta and related genera. Members of Atheta are dominant insect predators that are
found in abundance "... in decaying animal and vegetable materials - carcasses, dung, decaying fungi,
fruit and vegetation. ... flowers, stream and pond shores, bird and mammal nests, and ant nests."
(Seevers 1978, pp. 88-89).
Atheta cognata (Sharp), 1883, 181
"Mexico", reported in Blackwelder, 1944
Atheta (Hypsostiba) dampfi Bernhauer, 1929: 200
"Mexico: Tlaloc"(probable state of Mexico)
Atheta (Hydrosmecta) depresseola (Casey), 1911: 140
DF
Atheta diffusa Fauvel, 1901, 89
"Mexico" reported in Blackwelder, 1944
Atheta (Aloconota) flexibilis (Casey), 1911, 137
COAH
Atheta longipennis (Sharp), 1883: 190
MEX
Atheta sallaei (Sharp), 1883: 183
VER
Atheta (Dimetrota) silvarum Bernhauer, 1929: 203
VER
Atheta (Glossola) tenuicauda Bernhauer, 1929: 199
"Mexico: Chalpingo"(MEX)
Atheta (s. str.) truncicola Bernhauer, 1929: 204
"Mexico: Desierto de los Leones"(MEX)
Atheta (s. str.) veracruzensis Bernhauer, 1929: 202
VER
C. hermani has also been collected from leaf litter mixed with rotting figs in Chiapas (new data).
Frank & Thomas (1996) transferred Charoxus from the tribe Aleocharini, where it was placed by
Kistner (1981) to the Athetini. Kistner (1981) noted that several species have been collected from
the receptacles of figs. Further collecting has confirmed the occurrence of both larvae and adults in
the receptacles of figs, where they presumably feed on emerging fig wasps (however, larvae often
have their guts filled with fig pollen). Adults appear to enter the fig soon after the fig wasps produce
an exit burrow (J.S. Ashe, personal observations, Frank & Thomas 1996). 6 described species are
known from Mexico south to Panama and Paraguay (Kistner 1981), and 1 described species is known
from Florida (Frank & Thomas 1996). Numerous undescribed species are found in South America.
Charoxus bicolor Kistner 1981: 591
VER
Charoxus hermani Kistner 1981: 595
PUE, CHIA (KSEM, Ashe)
Neoleptoglossa Bernhauer & Schubert 1926
or habits of members of Leptoglossula in Mexico, but we have seen specimens of 3 species collected
from leaf litter litter in Chile. About 8 species of Leptoglossula are described, all except L. solskyi are
known only from Chile (Bernhauer 1944, Pace 1987c).
Leptoglossula solskyi (Duvivier), 1883: 120
"Mexico" (reported in Blackwelder 1944)
Bernhauer (1929) treated Parademosoma as a subgenus of Oxypoda. Pace (1990a) transferred the
taxon to generic rank in the tribe Athetini (= Callicerini). Only two described species of Parademosoma
are known, the one mentioned above and another from Bolivia (Pace 1990a).
Parademosoma opaciventris (Bernhauer), 1929: 207
VER
Only one other species of Pontomalota (P. terminata Ahn & Ashe) is known from the north-central
coast of California. These flightless beetles inhabit the mid to upper littoral intertidal zone of sandy beaches
which contain masses of decaying seaweed. During the daytime adults may be found among, and in sand
under, decaying seaweed. At night and on darkly cloudy days they are often found crawling on the sand
near the maximum extent of the waves in very large numbers. Adults feed on other intertidal invertebrates
(Ahn & Ashe 1992). Nothing is known of the larvae or development of Pontomalota. Revision and key
to species in Ahn & Ashe (1992).
Pontomalota opaca (LeConte), 1986: 28
BC
Blackwelder 1944). The Guatemalan species are found in association with gilled and polypore
mushrooms (Sharp 1883, new data). Six species of Thamiaraea are known from the Neotropical
region, distributed from Guatemala to Argentina (Blackwelder 1944), and about 60 described species
are known from throughout the World (Hoebeke 1988a). However, the Central American species placed
in Thamiaraea by Sharp do not seem to be congeneric with the Holarctic species. Their placement
here needs additional study.
One other species is known from California to Alaska. Both species are found under
seaweed and debris on Pacific Coast beaches. Thinusa has been placed in the aleocharine
tribe Phytosini until recently (see for example Seevers, 1978), but Ahn & Ashe(1992), and
later Ahn (1977) pointed out the large number of characters shared between Thinusa and
Pontomalota, and Ahn (1977) transferred Thinusa to the tribe Athetini. Ahn (1977) provides
a revision and key to known species.
Thinusa maritima (Casey), 1885: 312
BC
Autalia Leach 1819 (FIRST RECORD of genus for Mexico)
Sierra Madre del Sur in Oaxaca and Guerrero (Hoebeke 1988b, Hoebeke & Ashe 1994). Members
of Autalia are found in Mexico and Central America in temperate oak-pine montane forests and cloud
forests where they have been sifted from deep leaf litter and taken in flight intercept traps (Hoebeke &
Ashe 1994). About 22 species of Autalia are known from the Holarctic region, Africa, Indonesia and
the Neotropical region. Key to the 5 described Neotropical species in Hoebeke & Ashe (1994).
Autalia phricotrichosa Hoebeke 1988
CHIA
Autalia yoopaa Hoebeke & Ashe 1884
GER, OAX
Lingafelter from Guerrero (62.3 km. NE Atoyac de Alveraz), and G. foretmaculata Ashe & Lingafelter
from Chiapas (10 km W El Bosque) (Ashe and Lingafelter 1996). Eleven species are described from
Mexico and Central America, including 3 species from Guatemala (that could occur in Mexico), and two
from South America (Ashe and Lingafelter 1996, Sharp 1883, Blackwelder 1944). Members of Gansia
occur in low to mid-elevation montane tropical forests and cloud forests where they are are commonly
associated with rotting leaves and branches of tree falls and leaf litter. They appear to feed on fungal hyphae
and spores (Ashe and Lingafelter 1996). Ashe & Lingafelter (1996) provide a revision and key to the
species of Mexico and central America. (first record of genus from Mexico).
Gansia andersoni Ashe & Lingafelter 1996
CHIA
Gansia flavata Ashe & Lingafelter 1996
GER
Gansia fortemaculata Ashe & Lingafelter
CHIA
recognized: Ophioglossa s. str. Fauvel 1886, and Antrogastra Bernhauer 1912. The members of the
two subgenera are easily distinguished by the fact that members of Antrogastra have large, cavernous
transverse excavations on the first three abdominal terga, while those of the typical subgenus do not
(Fenyes 1918-21). No mexican species are currently assigned to the typical subgenus, but we have
seen several species (3+) from Chiapas, Guerrero and Oaxaca that may belong to this group (KSEM,
new records). In addition, we have seen Mexican specimens of several species that may represent
undescribed genera related to Ophioglossa. However, the relationship between the two subgenera of
Ophioglossa and Eudera Fauvel, as well as the presumptive undescribed genera related to them, most
be clarified before these taxa can be correctly assigned. Little information about the habitat of habits of
the Mexican species is available; however, specimens from other parts of the Neotropics have been
collected in sifted leaf litter, flowerfall + litter, fruitfall + litter, rotting banana leaves, treefall litter, and in
flight intercept traps and in diverse forest types including lowland tropical forest, mid-elevation montane
tropical forests, cloud forests, and oak-pine forests. About 11 species of Ophioglossa have been
described from Mexico through Chile, and one species of questionable placement from New Guinea.
Ophioglossa mexicana (Bernhauer), 1929: 198
VER
genera, hypothesized phylogenetic relationships among genera and a survey of gland systems in addition
to a systematic review.
Eburniogaster Seevers 1938
Three described species of Eburniogaster are known from Arizona, Texas and Mexico (Seevers 1957).
Eburniogaster anahuaci Seevers, 1957: 136
MIC
described species of Termitonidia are known from Arizona and Mexico (Seevers 1957). Key to
described species in Seevers (1957).
Termitonidia jaliscensis Seevers, 1957: 138
JAL
Termitonidia michoacani Seevers, 1957: 138
MICH
Termitonidia tarascani Seevers, 1957: 139
MICH
Termitonasus Borgmeier 1959:290
(Kistner & Jacobson 1976). 1 additional species of Termitonanus is known. Key to species and
overview of behavior and glandular ultrastructure in Kistner & Jacobson (1976).
Termitonasus alzadae Kistner & Jacobson, 1976: 26
SIN
(Kistner & Jacobson 1976). One additional described species of Termitosynodes is known from
Ecuador (Seevers 1957). Key to described species, and overview of behavior and glandular
ultrastructure in Kistner & Jacobson (1976).
Termitosynodes hirsutus Kistner & Jacobson 1976: 6
GUE
(Kistner & Jacobson 1976). Four described species of Trachopeplus are known from British Guiana
and Ecuador as well as Mexico. Key to described species in Kistner & Jacobson (1976).
Trachopeplus carlislei Kistner & Jacobson, 1976: 16
GUE
(Kistner & Jacobson 1976). Xenogaster includes 8 described species from Mexico and Brazil.
Key to non-Mexican species in Seevers (1957).
Xenogaster mexicanus Kistner & Jacobson, 1976:27
GUE
Nigriphilus Jacobson et al. 1986:148.
nigriceps (Seevers 1960, Kistner & Jacobson 1976). N. mexicanus was originally described in the genus
Thyreoxenus by Seevers (1960) and was transferred to Nigriphilus by Jacobson et al. (1986).
N. mexicanus is the only known species of Nigriphilus and is only known from Mexico.
Nigriphilus mexicanus (Seevers), 1960:830
CAM, GUE
Jacobson et al. 1987). Three described species of Beyeria are known from Arizona and Mexico (Jacobson
& Kistner 1992). Key to described species in Jacobson & Kistner (1992).
Beyeria suavis (Mann), 1925: 76
JAL
melanocephalum xipe Wheeler (Seevers 1965) [Jacobson & Kistner (1992) state that the host should
now be listed as Neivamyrmex melanocephalus (Emery)]. This is the only described species of
Crematoxenus, and it is only known from Mexico.
Crematoxenus aenigma Mann, 1921: 548
HID
sumichrasti (Norton) (Jacobson & Kistner 1992), and 1 undescribed species from San Luis Potosi (near
Xilitla) collected with Neivamyrmex sp. (KSEM, new data). In Costa Rica specimens of Ecitosius were
found in the center of the raiding and emigration columns where they appeared to be well integrated into
the colony (Jacobson & Kistner 1992). Two described species of Ecitosius are known form Costa Rica
and Mexico (Jacobson & Kistner 1992). Key to described species in Jacobson & Kistner (1992).
Ecitosius robustus Seevers, 1965: 273
CHIA
myrmecophilous with Neivamyrmex impudens (Mayr) (Jacobson & Kistner 1992). Only two described
species of Neivaphilus are known, both only known from Mexico. N. watkinsi was found in an emigration
column, and N. palequensis was found in a raiding column of their host ant (Jacobson & Kistner 1992).
Key to described species in Jacobson & Kistner (1992).
Neivaphilus palenquensis Jacobson & Kistner, 1992:149
CHIA
Neivaphilus watkinsi Jacobson & Kistner, 1992: 147
CHIA
myrmecophilous with Neivamyrmex leonardi Wheeler (Jacobson & Kistner 1992). Only two species of
Pulicomorpha are known; both are only known from Baja California, and both occur together in columns
of their host ant (Jacobson & Kistner 1992). Key to described species in Jacobson & Kistner (1992).
Pulicomorpha coeca Mann, 1924: 88
BC
Pulicomorpha manni Jacobson & Kistner, 1992: 103
BC
Klimaszewski from Veracruz (Klimaszewski 1982b, Klimaszewski and Génier 1985), and A. ferruginea
(Sharp) from Chiapas (KSEM, first record for Mexico). Specimens representing undetermined species are
known from Chiapas, Campeche and Veracruz. 14 species are known from the Neotropical regions, Africa
and Australia. Species are riparian, in mud under stones and associated with litter and other debris along the
edges of streams and other bodies of water (Klimaszewski 1979, Ashe personal observations). Key to
species Klimaszewski (1979, 1882b).
Adinopsis ferruginea (Sharp), 1883: 294
CHIA
Adinopsis myllaenoides (Kraatz), 1857: 38
CAM, CHIA
Adinopsis pubescens Klimaszewski 1982: 332
VER
Diglotta Champion 1887
species, as others of the genus, is found in the intertidal zone of sandy sea beaches, active at night (Moore
& Orth 1979b). The genus as now restricted includes 2 species in Europe, 1 in Fiji, and 3 on the east (1)
or west (2) coasts of North America (Haghebaert 1991).
Diglotta pacifica Fenyes
BC
among genera by Kistner & Jacobson (1990).
burchelli (Kistner & Jacobson 1990). Adults of Ecitomorpha are "... primarily hunting guests that can
survive in the bivouacs and the emigration columns but ... are mostly found hunting in the raiding columns"
(Kistner & Jacobson 1990, p. 454). Ecitomorpha includes one described species.
Ecitomorpha arachnoides Wasmann, 1889: 187
OAX, VER
myrmecophilous with Eciton spp. (Kistner & Jacobson 1990). Behavior and position in the column is
similar to that of Ecitomorpha (see above). Ecitophya currently includes 5 described species distributed
from Mexico to Brazil, Peru and Bolivia. Key to described species in Listener & Jacobson (1990).
Ecitophya gracillima Mann, 1925: 74
OAX, VER
Ecitophya simulans (Wasmann), 1889: 187
OAX, VER
Kistner & Jacobson 1990). This is the only known species of Ecitoschnierla, and it is only known from
the type locality (Chiapas, Esculentia, Rancho Esperanza) in Mexico (Kistner & Jacobson 1990). The
habits and nature of the beetle-ant interactions of E. impressa are not known.
Ecitoschnierla impressa (Seevers), 1965: 291
CHIA
of genus found with Labidus praedator; Seevers 1965). Ecitogaster includes described 6 species
distributed from Mexico to Brazil (Seevers 1965).
Ecitogaster mexicanus Seevers, 1965: 302
V
among genera in Hoebeke (1985).
In addition, three other described species are known from Guatemala (Blackwelder 1944). Blackwelder
(1944) also lists A. intricatus (Casey) as occurring in Mexico, but we have been unable to confirm this
record. Casey (1906, p. 234) gives the locality for A. intricatus as "New Mexico (Gallup)", and Hoebeke
(1985) does not give any Mexican localities for this species. However, A. intricatus occurs from Alberta
and Sackatchewan to southern Arizona and New Mexico and could be expected to occur at higher
elevations in adjacent regions of northwestern Mexico. Little is known of the habitats and habits of
Aleodorus. Hoebeke (1985) notes that North American species have been taken from leaf litter and
similar habitats, especially in relatively wet areas such as along streams and ditches. Over 12 described
species of Aleodorus are known from Canada and the United States south to Brazil and Peru (Blackwelder
1944, Hoebeke 1985, 1993, Pace 1990b). Key to North American species in Hoebeke (1985) and some
South American species by Pace (1990b).
Aleodorus crenatus (Sharp) 1883: 235
GUAN, VER
part). At least 26 Neotropical species have been assigned to Falagria (Blackwelder 1944, in part);
however, placement of Neotropical species in Falagria is uncertain since few of the taxa have been
reexamined since Hoebeke (1985) elevated the subgenus Myrmecocephalus to generic rank (see below).
Described species of Falagria are known from almost every zoogeographic region (Seevers 1978).
Falagria denigrata Erichson, 1839: 52
"Mexico" (reported in Blackwelder 1944)
Falagria infirma Sharp, 1883: 233
"Mexico" (reported in Blackwelder 1944)
Falagria pergracilis Schubert, 1909: 287
VER
Panama, M. opacula (Sharp) from Veracruz (Cordoba), and M. mexicana (Pace) from Veracruz
(Jalapa) (Sharp 1983, Blackwelder 1944, in part, Pace 1990b) and 12+ unnamed species from throughout
the highland areas in Mexico (KSEM new records). Elevated from subgenus of Falagria by Hoebeke
(1985). Mexican species have been collected form woodchips, treefall litter and woodchips, treefall litter,
leaf litter in rock cracks, under loose pine bark, under hardwood bark, litter along stream, bromeliads and
in moss (KSEM new data). Several species currently only known from the southwestern United States
probably also occur in northwestern Mexico (see Hoebeke 1985). Myrmecocephalus is a large genus with
numerous species occurring in all zoogeographic regions (Hoebeke 1985). Key to the species known from
America north of Mexico in Hoebeke (1985).
Myrmecocephalus concinnus (Erichson), 1839: 51
PUE
Myrmecocephalus gracilipes (Sharp), 1883: 238
PUE
Myrmecocephalus mexicana (Pace), 1990:
VER
Myrmecocephalus opacula (Sharp), 1883: 239
VER
Subtribe BOLITOCHARINA
Querretaro, Veracruz, and Oaxaca (new records). Specimens of Hongophila have been found in
cloud forests and temperate montane forests where they are usually associated with leathery or woody
polypore mushrooms on logs, or on fungusy logs, and rarely on gilled mushrooms (Ashe personal
observations). One species of Hongophila is described from the montane regions of Arizona (Ashe 1992).
larvae of many genera described in Ashe (1986), feeding behavior and biology in Ashe (1993).
All species are found in and feed on fresh mushrooms (Agaricales and Polyporaceae) as larvae
and adults (Ashe 1984).
Veracruz. Adults and larvae of Agaricomorpha are characteristic inhabitants of woody and
leathery polypore mushrooms on logs (Ashe 1984). Only one described species is currently
assigned to Agaricomorpha, from the southwestern United States. However, numerous undescribed
species occur in Mexico and Central America (Ashe 1984).
and Veracruz. Two species are described from Guatemala (Sharp 1883). Both adults and larvae
are found on woody or leathery polypore mushrooms on logs, especially Coriolus versicolor,
Trametes spp. and related mushrooms, as well as on various resupinate polypores (Ashe 1984,
new data). 5 species are described from Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama and the West Indies
(Blackwelder 1944).
mushrooms on logs, as well as on persistent gilled mushrooms on logs (e.g., Pleurotus and related
mushrooms, new data) and occasionally on woody polypore mushrooms (Ashe 1984, 1986). Females
of at least some species construct egg chambers in the host fungus and guard the eggs until hatching
(Ashe 1986, 1987). Currently only seven described North American species are assigned to Eumicrota,
but several described West Indian and Central American species currently included in Gyrophaena
should be assigned to this genus, and a number of undescribed species occur in Mexico, Central
America and South America (Ashe 1984).
20 undescribed species (KSEM, new data) from widespread localities in Mexico. Adults and larvae
of most species of Gyrophaena are found on fleshy gilled mushrooms, though some species are abundant
on persistent gilled mushrooms on logs and fleshy polypores (Ashe 1984, 1986). Ashe (1986, 1987) has
reviewed available information about the life history and habits of members of Gyrophaena. Over 400
species of Gyrophaena are described from all parts of the World.
Gyrophaena arrowi Bernhauer, 1910: 390
VER
Gyrophaena azteca Casey, 1906: 284
PUE
Gyrophaena calida Bernhauer, 1910: 389
VER, TAB
Gyrophaena cordovensis Bernhauer, 1929: 197
VER
Gyrophaena flavipes Sharp, 1883: 258
VER
Gyrophaena mexicana Bernhauer, 1910: 388
GUER
Gyrophaena miranda Sharp, 1883: 261
VER
Gyrophaena mutanda Fenyes, 1918: 102 (NOTE:
Proposed as a replacement name for G. aequalis
Bernhauer, 1910: 390) by Fenyes, 1918)
"Mexico"
Gyrophaena nemoralis Bernhauer, 1929: 197
"Chapingo"(MEX)
Gyrophaena punctatissima punctatissima Bernhauer, 1929: 196
"Desierto (de los Leones)"(MEX)
Gyrophaena punctatissima pubicollis Bernhauer, 1929: 197
VER
P. sallaei (Sharp) (new synonomy, transferred form Gyrophaena) from Veracruz (Sharp 1883),
and 4+ unnamed species (Ashe 1984, KSEM new records) from Chiapas, Jalisco, and San Luis Potosi.
Two species described in Gyrophaena by Sharp (1883) (G. gracilicornis Sharp and G. occulta Sharp)
from Guatemala should also be placed in Phanerota (NEW COMBINATION). Larvae and adults of
Phanerota are found on fleshy gilled mushrooms (Ashe 1984), but some species are also common on
more persistent gilled mushrooms on logs [e.g., Pleurotus and related species (Ashe 1982)], and fleshy
polypore mushrooms on logs (especially Polyporus and Favolus) (new data). The natural history of the
Nearctic species P. fasciata (Say) was reviewed by Ashe (1981). Two subgenera of Phanerota are
described (Phanerota Casey and Acanthophaena Cameron). All New World species are in the typical
subgenus. Members of Phanerota occur throughout the World in tropical and subtropical forested regions,
though some also occur in temperate North America and Asia (Ashe 1984).
Phanerota peninsularis Casey, 1906: 289
BC
Phanerota sallaei (Sharp), 1883: 264
VER
Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Oaxaca, Puebla, and Veracruz (KSEM, new records). Two described
species are known from Guatemala (Blackwelder 1944, Ashe 1984). Members of Probrachida are
widespread in montane tropical forests, cloud forests, oak-pine forests and other temperate forests
throughout Mexico. They are most commonly found in sifted forest litter and in litter associated with
old tree falls, but they have also been found on gilled and polypore mushrooms and on fungusy logs.
A few have been taken in flight intercept traps (KSEM new data). Ashe (1984) transferred 6 Neotropical
species of Brachida to the new genus Probrachida (type species Brachida modesta Sharp) and stated
that probably all described New World species of Brachida should be placed in Probrachida. However,
he overlooked the fact that Bierig (1939b) described a new genus Brachycantharus (type species
Brachycantharus gibber Bierig) in which he included two species (B. batesi Sharp, B. carinatus Sharp)
which Ashe also included in Probrachida. The validity of Probrachida Ashe in relation to
Brachycantharus Bierig has not been investigated. However, at least some of the Mexican species may
actually belong to Brachycantharus. At least 13 Neotropical species have been variously assigned to
Brachida, Probrachida or Brachycantharus (Blackwelder 1944, Ashe 1984, Pace 1990a), distributed
from Mexico to Argentina.
Cephaloxynum Bernhauer 1907
1 of the subgenus Ponticulus from Sonora (Cananea), 1 of the typical subgenus from Veracruz
(Huatusco) (Bernhauer 1910; new data). The last species was collected under bark of a hardwood log,
the probable habitat of the other species (Newton 1988; new data). The genus was moved here from
Staphylininae by Newton (1988), who listed 7 named species from the southern U.S.A. (Texas)
to Argentina.
Cephaloxynum (Ponticulus) perplexum Bernhauer, 1910: 350
VER
are known from Guatemala (Blackwelder 1944). Mexican specimens have been found under bark
of logs (the typical habitat of members of this genus) and under bark with fermenting sap. Over 20
species of Homalota have been described from throughout the Neotropical region (Blackwelder
1944). Members of the genus occur throughout the world.
Diestota Mulsant & Rey 1870
also occurs in Guatemala (Sharp 1883). An additional nine described species are known from Guatemala
(Blackwelder 1944). Little is known of the habits and habitats of members of the genus Diestota.
Diestota is most diverse in the Neotropics and Hawaii. Over 25 described species of Diestota are
known from the Neotropical region, from Mexico to Argentina and the West Indies, and over 50 species
are known for all regions of the world.
Diestota civica Sharp, 1887: 779
MEX
Diestota funebris Sharp, 1883: 252
GUAN
Diestota funesta Sharp, 1883: 247
"Mexico" (state not known)
Diestota laticornis Sharp, 1883: 248
TAB, VER
Diestota proxima Sharp, 1883: 249
VER
Numerous specimens of an unnamed species have been collected on two separate occasions in montane
tropical forest near Jalapa, Veracruz on and under loose bark of fungusy logs (Ashe personal
observations) and from cloud forest litter in Chiapas (KSEM, new data). Silusa includes 8 described
species in Central America (Blackwelder 1944) as well as over 30 species in all other regions of the
World except New Zealand and the arctic and antarctic regions.
one Mexican species also in Costa Rica. Adults and larvae live in the web-covered burrows of hepialid
moth larvae on the trunks of living trees, in temperate and subtropical forests (Ashe 1990, 1993).
The genus includes two additional species from Costa Rica and Panama. Key to described species in
Ashe (1993).
Tachiona deplanata Sharp, 1883: 284
VER
Tachiona elegans Ashe, 1993: 233
GUER
Tachiona mexicana Ashe, 1993: 235
PUE
Tachiona monteverdensis Ashe, 1990:226
CHIA, VER
Tachiona nitida Ashe & Wheeler, 1988: 183
VER
Tachiona oaxacaensis Ashe, 1993: 236
OAX
Hoplomicra Sharp 1883 (genus NOT RECORDED from Mexico)
Although Sharp 1883 noted the similarity of members of this genus to Gyrophaena, and Blackwelder
(1944) included it in the subtribe "Gyrophaenae", there is little evidence that Hoplomicra is correctly
placed with the subtribe Gyrophaenina as recognized by Ashe (1984). Its correct placement has not
been investigated. Only the single species noted above is known.
Hoplandria Kraatz 1857
Mexican specimens have been collected from litter along base of escarpment along stream,
carrion trap, cloud and oak/pine forest litter, riparian alder forest leaf litter, treefall litter, at light
and in flight intercept trap samples. Over 60 described species of Hoplandria are known from
throughout the Neotropical region (Seevers 1978, Génier 1989, Pace 1990a, 1990b). Other
described species occur in tropical areas of the Indo-Australian region and Madagascar (Génier
1989), but Seevers (1978) questioned the generic assignment of the Asian species and Génier
(1989) questioned the generic placement of the Madagascar species.
Hoplandria acuminata (Sharp), 1883: 216
VER
Hoplandria azteca Pace, 1990: 170
MEX
Hoplandria bifoveicollis Pace, 1990: 166
DUR
Hoplandria cava Pace, 1990: 164
VER
Hoplandria flavicans Sharp, 1883: 222
GUAN
Hoplandria lugubris Sharp, 1883: 223
VER
Hoplandria lateralis (Melsheimer), 1844: 32
CHIA, CHIH, DUR, NL, OAX, SON, TAM
Hoplandria oaxacaensis Pace, 1990: 73
OAX
Hoplandria peltata (Erichson), 1840: 72
(NOTE: Klimaszewski, 1987, transferred
Aleochara peltata Erichson, 1840, to Hoplandria)
"Mexico"
Hoplandria sallaei (Sharp), 1883: 215
VER
Hoplandria sharpiana Pace, 1990: 174 (replacement
name for Hoplandria peltata Sharp,
1883: 223, nec Hoplandria peltata (Erichson), 1840: 172)
PUE
but specimens of N. meticola Casey were found in abundance in Datura flowers in southern Arizona.
Two species are known, from Arizona and Mexico.
Nosora azteca Casey 1911: 146
MOR
Federal, Hidalgo and Veracruz (KSEM, new data). Little is known of the habits of members of
Platandria. Génier & Klimaszewski quote Blatchley (1910) that specimens of P. carolinae are
locally abundant in Indiana on leathery fungi on beech stumps. Numerous specimens of P. carolinae
from eastern United States have been collected in wild cherry (Prunus sp.) flowers and dogwood
flowers (Cornus sp.) and on foliage (KSEM, new data), and specimens of several presumably undescribed
species from Ecuador and Costa Rica have been collected on undetermined flowers, ivory palm flowers,
treefall litter and cloud forest leaf litter (KSEM, new data). There are 5 described species of Platandria,
from the United States, Mexico and Costa Rica (Génier & Klimaszewski 1986, Pace 1990b). Review and
key to species described prior to 1986 in Génier & Klimaszewski (1986).
Platandria azteca Pace 1990
DF
species from Chiapas, Guerrero, Jalisco, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, Tamaulipas, and Veracruz (KSEM,
new data). In Mexico, specimens have been collected from 400-2400m. They appear to be most
abundant and diverse in mid-elevation montane tropical forests, cloud forests and oak-pine forests.
Little is known of the habits of members of Tinotus. Mexican specimens have been collected from
fig-fall + litter, rotting oranges + litter, Atta nest, freshly cut stump with much extruding sap, sifted litter
along stream and by flight intercept trap (new data). About 13 described species of Tinotus are known
from the United States, Mexico, Guatemala, Brazil, Europe and Africa.
Tinotus flavescens Sharp 1883: 171
MEX
Cypha Leach 1819
species is known from Guatemala (Sharp 1883). Little is known about the habits of habitat of members
of Cypha. About 18 species of Cypha are known from the Holarctic and Neotropical Regions.
Cypha fenyesi (Bernhauer), 1910: 388
VER
Bernhauer), from Veracruz (Cordoba) and 2+ unnamed species, Oaxaca and San Luis Potosi
(KSEM new records), collected from under bark, wet oak/pine litter, cloud forest leaf litter and by
beating. Frank (1972) treated Holobus as a subgenus of Oligota, but Seevers (1978) pointed out
that it should be treated as a separate genus. Over 25 species have been assigned to Holobus from
North and South America, West Indies, Europe, Southeast Asia and Africa (Bernhauer and
Scheerpeltz 1926, Frank 1972).
Holobus nova (Bernhauer), 1929: 195
VER
Guatemala (Sharp 1887). Habits and habitats of Oligota species are not well known, but at least
some species prey on phytophagous mites (Frank 1972). Over 60 described species have been
assigned to Oligota in at least 5 subgenera (not including Holobus, see above) from all
zoogeographic regions.
Oligota apicata Erichson, 1937: 365
"Mexico" (reported in Blackwelder 1944)
Oligota centralis Sharp 1883:293
MOR, OAX (reported in Frank 1979)
Oligota parva Kraatz, 1862: 300
"Mexico"
Rica and Panamá, myrmecophilous with Labidus praedator (Smith) (Jacobson & Kistner 1991).
Two described species of Pseudomimeciton are known from Mexico, Central America and Brazil.
Key to described species in Jacobson and Kistner (1991).
Pseudomimeciton antennatum (Mann), 1926: 451
CHIA
Ecitoxenidia Wasmann 1902
Ecitoxenidia are known from the southern United States, Mexico, Costa Rica and Brazil. Revision
and key to described species in Kistner, Ashe & Jacobson (1996).
Ecitoxenidia ashei Kistner, 1996: 68
PUE
Sharp from Veracruz (Cordoba) (CAS, Fenyes Coll.) (FIRST RECORD of the species for Mexico), and
2 undescribed species from San Luis Potosi (El Salto Falls) and Chiapas (12 km N Ocozocuatla) (KSEM,
new data). The adults and probable larvae of the undescribed species from San Luis Potosi were abundant
in an Atta refuse pile. Adults of this species were repeatedly observed to attack and drag injured or
weakened ants to the edges of the pile where they hide beneath leaves and detritus, presumably to feed on
the ants. Several adults of the undescribed species from Chiapas were found at night along the edges of a
large column of Atta where they were observed to attack weakened ants and drag them beneath nearby
leaves, also presumably to feed (new data). Two species of Falagonia have been described, from Mexico,
Guatemala and Panama.
Falagonia mexicana Sharp, 1883:213
VER, GUAN
Falagonia crassiventris Sharp, 1883, 213
VER
the genus Labidus (Seevers 1965). Three described species of Labidoculex are known from Mexico,
Brazil, Argentina and Bolivia; all are associated with species of Labidus (Seevers 1965).
Labidoculex antennalis Seevers, 1965: 254
VER
species (Kistner, Ashe & Jacobson 1996). Six described species of Microdonia are known from the
United States south to Costa Rica, all associated with various species of Neivamyrmex (Kistner, Ashe
& Jacobson 1996). Revision and key to species in Kistner, Ashe and Jacobson, 1996.
Microdonia jacobsoni Kistner, 1996: 53
CHIA
Microdonia mexicana Kistner, 1996: 57
SLP
Microdonia nitidiventris (Brues), 1904: 250
NL
from Guatemala. Specimens of Orphnebius are fairly common in flight intercept trap samples, and
are occasionally found in leaf litter (new data). About 10 described species of Orphnebius are
known form the Neotroptical Region, distributed from Mexico to Brazil and Peru (Blackwelder 1944,
Pace 1986, 1990a). Other species are known from southeast Asia and surrounding areas.
genus are known, distributed from Texas in the United States to Argentina. Species are associated
with army ants of the genera Eciton, Labidus and Neivamyrmex. Adults are found on the margins
or within the columns of ants and follow the trails of their hosts with a high degree of host specificity
(Jacobson & Kistner 1998). World revision, key to species, phylogeny and overview of known hosts
and behavior in Jacobson & Kistner (1998).
Tetradonia laticeps Jacobson & Kistner, 1998: 192
SLP
Tetradonia newtoni Jacobson & Kistner, 1998: 194
VER
Tetradonia marginalis Reichensperger, 1935:215
SLP, OAX, VER
Tetradonia palenquensis Jacobson & Kistner, 1998: 244
CHIA
Camponotus and Formica species (Hoebeke 1976). This species has been collected at higher elevations
in July and August (Hoebeke 1976). Five described species of Xenodusa are known, primarily from
the United States. Key to species in Hoebeke (1976).
Xenodusa sharpi Wasmann, 1896: 251
DF, HID, MOR
Gulf Coast of North America (Mississippi) (Seevers 1978).
Say (Mann 1914). Zyras is a very large and complex genus with over 500 species wordwide assigned
to at least 35 subgenera (Seevers 1965, 1978). At least some of these have been reported to be
myrmecophilous (see above and Seevers 1965), but others may be free-living or only facultatively
associated with ants (new data). Seevers (1978) reports that the New World species found with army
ants are primarily associated with rubbish heaps of Eciton. The 69 described Neotropical species
assigned to Zyras (Seevers 1978) have not been reviewed in any comprehensive way and the limits
of the genus and species assignments in the New World are uncertain.
Zyras atra Schubert, 1909: 288
VER
Zyras diluta (Sharp), 1883: 201
VER
Zyras fauveli (Sharp), 1883: 199
VER
Zyras flavicornis Solsky, 1870: 258
VER
Zyras strigosipennis (Schubert), 1909: 288
VER
Zyras tapinomatis Mann, 1914: 176
COAH(?) ("San Miguel", as reported by Mann, 1914)
species from San Luis Potosi, Sonora, Tampaulipas and Veracruz (new records). Members of
Anacyptus occur in wood and under bark, and are sometimes found with termites especially
Reticulitermes, Prorhinotermes and Coptotermes (new record) (Seevers 1957, 1978). Specimens
were once collected with Neivamyrmex army ants (Seevers 1957). Only a single species of Anacyptus
has been described. The known distribution of the genus extends from the southeastern and southwestern
United States to Guatemala (new record), and Cuba (Seevers 1957).
Anacyptus testaceus (LeConte), 1853: 30
SLP, VER
Bryothinusa Casey 1904
from Sonora (Moore & Legner 1975b, Moore & Andrews 1985). Specimens of B. catalinae from
Cedros Island were collected in intertidal rock crevices (Moore & Andrews 1985). Moore & Orth
(1979a) describe the habitat of B. catalinae in southern California and describe the larva of this species.
The systematic position of Bryothinusa has been problematic. Moore (1956) treated Bryothinusa
as a member of the tribe Phytosini. Sawada (1971) transferred the genus from the tribe Phytosini to
the tribe Myllaenini. Later, Pace (1987a) included it in the tribe Diglottini. It seems likely that the tribes
Myllaenini and Diglottini are very closely related (new data), and Bryothinusa is certainly more correctly
placed with members of these tribes than with members of the Phytosini. 19 species of Bryothinusa are
described from Mexico, California, Japan, Hong Kong, Perim Island, Samoa and Singapore.
Bryothinusa catalinae Casey, 1904: 313
BC
Bryothinusa rothi Moore & Legner 1875
SOR
Baja California, M. hopi Klimaszewski from Chiapas and Veracruz, and M. potawatomi Klimaszewski
from Baja California (Klimaszewski 1982a), and at least 10+ unnamed species from throughout
Mexico including 2+ flightless species with very short elytra and reduced eyes from cloud forests of the
Sierra de Oaxaca (KSEM new records). In addition, 5 species are known from Guatemala (Sharp
1883). The species of Myllaena are hydrophilous and are associated with the edges of streams, lakes,
rivers and other bodies of water (Klimaszewski 1982a). Mexican specimens have been collected from:
moss at water's edge, washing sand and gravel on shore, sifted from leaf litter along stream, cloud forest
leaf litter, bryophyte encrusted rocks new waterfall, moss alongside ornamental pond, treading margin of
stream, treefall litter, pine forest litter, oak/pine forest leaf/log litter, oak forest leaf litter,
oak/pine/liguidambar forest litter, and by flight intercept trap (KSEM new data). Although members of
Myllaena are typically associated with the margins of bodies of water, some mexican species appear to be
typically found in leaf litter of cool temperate wet forests such as cloud forests and wet oak/pine forests
Note collecting data above). About 60 described species of Myllaena are known from all regions of the
world except the Arctic and Antarctic (Klimaszewski 1982a). Klimaszewski (1982a) gives keys to the
North American species, including the Mexican species listed here.
Myllaena arcana Casey, 1911: 239
VER, CHIA
Myllaena hopi Klimaszewski, 1982: 206
CHIA, VER
Myllaena potawatomi Klimaszewski, 1882: 192
BC
Myllaena serrano Klimaszewski, 1982: 210
BC
1996). Moore and Legner (1977) and Moore (1978) placed Rothium in the tribe Phytosini. However,
Ahn & Ashe (1996) provided evidence that it actually belonged the tribe Mylaenini. Specimens of
R. sonorensis were collected in the intertidal zone at night, on algae covered pitted ryolite (Moore &
Legner 1977) while those of R. guilianii were collected from intertidal rocks (Moore 1978a). Other
specimens were found in rock crevices at mid-tide level. Six described species of Rothium are known;
distributed from Mexico to Ecuador and the Galapogos Islands. Revision, phylogeny, key to most species,
and redescription of larva in Ahn and Ashe (1996).
Rothium guilianii Moore
SIN
Rothium pallidus Ahn & Ashe, 1996: 247
GUER
Rothium sonorensis Moore
SOR
Subtribe DINARDINA
Euthorax Solier 1849
and 2+ unnamed species from Chiapas, Guerrero, Morelos, and San Luis Potosi (KSEM new records).
Sharp (1883) reported that Euthorax was probably termitophilous. However, Casey (1893, p. 596)
reported that the North American species E. crinita (Casey) occurred with "... a yellow ant, apparently
of the genus Solenopsis (sic)" (page 596) and Fenyes (1918-21) reported that all species were probably
myrmecophilous. Seevers (1978) suggested that members of Euthorax may occur with ants throughout
the Neotropical region, and may extend into the Nearctic Region. Additional collecting has confirmed
the myrmecophilous nature of Euthorax. Specimens of an unnamed species of Euthorax are abundant
in nests of Solenopsis geminata in Texas (new data), and they have been found in the nests of an
undetermined species of Solenopsis in Morelos (Cuernavaca) (KSEM new data). Mexican specimens
have also been collected from leaf litter, fruitfall and at an ultraviolet light (KSEM new data). About 10
described species of Euthorax are known, mostly from throughout the Neotropical Region but some
species also occur in the United States (Blackwelder 1944, Seevers 1978).
Euthorax pictipennis (Kraatz), 1857: 41
VER
Alisalia Casey 1911 (FIRST RECORD of genus for Mexico)
in temperate oak-pine forest at an elevation of 1770 meters from streamside litter. The genus contains
8 described species from the United States and 2 described species from Haiti. We have also seen
several unnamed species from Guatemala, Costa Rica and Panama (new records).
are known from Guatemala (Sharp 1883). Mexican specimens have been collected along a river,
under stones and in moss along a stream, in flood debris near river, leaf litter near stream, and on
stones in stream at dusk (new data). Members of Bamona are usually found along the margins of
streams, ponds and other bodies of water (new data). Eleven described species of Bamona are
known, distributed from Mexico to Panama and in the United States (Blackwelder 1944,
Seevers 1978).
species is known from Guatemala (Sharp 1883). Mexican specimens have been collected from under
leaves or stones near stream, in stream debris, and near water (new data). Eight described species of
Gyronycha are known, from the United states (6 species) and from the Neotropics (2 species)
(Blackwelder 1944, Seevers 1978).
Ambodina Sharp 1883
or habits of Ambodina. To our knowledge, this genus and species has not been reported since Sharp
(1883) described it. Only 1 species is known, only from the type locality.
Ambodina granulata Sharp, 1883: 157
VER
Microglossa Stein 1868 (misspelling)
with H. nebulosa (Casey) of eastern USA (Klimaszewski & Ashe 1991). Species of Haploglossa
are usually associated with animal nests, especially bird and mammal nests. Haploglossa currently
includes about 11 described species, primarily from the Holarctic region (Klimaszewski & Ashe
1991). Key to described New World species in Klimaszewski & Ashe (1991).
Haploglossa mexicana (Sharp), 1883: 157
VER
distributed from Guatemala to Chile and Argentina. About 30 species are described from
throughout the World.
localities in Mexico. An additional 7 described species are known from Guatemala (Sharp 1883). Pace
(1990a) transferred Oxypoda (Parademosoma) opaciventris Bernhauer to the Athetini and recognized
Parademosoma as a valid genus. Specimens of Oxypoda are abundant in leaf litter and similar habitats
of cloud forests and cool temperate forests throughout Mexico (new data). Oxypoda is a cosmopolitan
genus with over 350 described species (Seevers 1978).
Oxypoda altissima Bernhauer, 1929: 206
"Mexico, Tlaloc"(Probably state of Mexico)
Oxypoda monticola Bernhauer, 1929: 206
"Mexico, Desierto (de los Leones)" (MEX)
Oxypoda nitescens Bernhauer, 1910: 392
GUER
Tetralaucopora Bernhauer 1928 [syn. Lohse & Lucht 1989?]
Parocyusa is primarily a Holarctic group with 8 Palaearctic and 2 Nearctic species as well as the
Mexican species described by Bernhauer (Seevers 1978).
Parocyusa mexicana (Bernhauer), 1910: 391
DF
Oaxaca, Hidalgo, Veracruz (KSEM, new data). 7 species are described from Guatemala (Blackwelder
1944). Mexican specimens have been collected from under bark of trees (the typical habitat of members
of this genus) and by beating foliage (new data). Over 20 species of Phloeopora have been described
from the Neotropics, disTribeted from Mexico to Chile (Blackwelder 1944, Pace 1987c), and over
45 species are known from most regions of the World.
Phloeopora grandis Sharp, 1887: 778
OAX
(Omilteme) and undetermined localities in Mexico (Blackwelder 1944, Pace 1990a). Polylobus
is known from over 35 species from the Neotropical Region, with most described species occurring
in Argentina and Chile (Blackwelder 1944, Pace 1987b, 1987c, Klimaszewski and Sturm 1991),
and about 20 species from Australia.
Polylobus flavescens Sharp, 1887: 777
"Mexico"
Polylobus mexicanus Bernhauer, 1935: 98
GUER
Polylobus miscellus Pace, 1990:75
"Mexico"
Barychara Sharp 1883 (genus NOT RECORDED from Mexico)
habits of Barychara is available. One other species of Barychara is known from Haiti (Blackwelder 1944).
Gnypeta Thomson 1858
(Sharp 1883, Blackwelder 1944), and 4+ unnamed species from Chiapas, Chihuahua and Nuevo
Leon (KSEM new records). Two additional species are known from Guatemala (Sharp 1883).
Mexican specimens have been collected by treading margin of stream, under stones and leaves
along stream, and "streamside". Specimens of Gnypeta are typically found in riparian habitats along
the margins of streams, lakes and rivers (new data). Eight species are described from the Neotropics
distributed from Mexico to Argentina, and over additional described 45 species from throughout
the world (Seevers 1978).
Gnypeta mexicana Sharp, 1883: 228
GUAN
Gnypeta nigricans Sharp, 1883: 227
GUAN
and Veracruz (KSEM new records). Three additional described species are known from Guatemala.
Mexican specimens have been collected from litter along lake, sifted litter, flood debris along stream
and at light. Eight described species of Meronera are known from the Neotropical region from
Mexico to Argentina, and 1 widespread species occurs in the United States (Blackwelder 1944,
Seevers 1978).
Meronera albicincta (Erchson), 1839:56
"Mexico" (reported in Blackwelder 1944)
species has been collected from grass trimmings, decaying roadside slash, and beating hardwood
slash in Guatemala, and was abundant in fresh treefall litter in Costa Rica. Specimens have been
collected in various forest and second growth habitats from 10 meters to 2400 meters elevation.
About 5 described species of Neolara are known, distributed from Guatemala to Brazil
(Blackwelder 1944, Pace 1990b).
of Rechota. Only a single described species is known.
from Tlaxcala. Most species of Tachyusa are riparian along the edges of streams, lakes and other
bodies of water, but a series of one Mexican species from Tlaxcala was collected under stones and
dried cow pies in a dry stream bed (new data). 8 described species of Tachyusa are known from the
Neotropics distributed from Mexico to Argentina (Blackwelder 1944), and over 40 species are
described from all parts of the World except Australia and New Zealand. The genus is most diverse in
the Holarctic Region (Bernhauer & Scheerpeltz 1926, Scheerpeltz 1934).
Tachyusa mexicana Bernhauer, 1929: 198
VER
Tachyusa seticornis Sharp, 1883: 226
"Mexico"
Tachyusa sparsa Sharp, 1883: 226
"Mexico"
Pseudophilotermes Bernhauer 1934 (genus NOT RECORDED from Mexico)
Costa Rica. Termitophilous with Coptotermes crassus. Other species of Pseudophilotermes are
also known to be associated with Coptotermes (Kistner 1971, Kistner and Jacobson 1976, Seevers
1957). Four species of Pseudophilotermes are known from Guatemala, Costa Rica and Argentina
(Seevers 1957, Kistner 1971, Kistner & Jacobson 1976). Key to species in Kistner & Jacobson (1976).
3+ unnamed species from Mexico (near Tenancingo). Chiapas (Lago de Montebello), Tamaulipas
(near Antiguo Morelas) and Yacatan (Valladolid). Little is known about the habits of Euvira; however,
Adults and larvae of Euvira diazbatresae Ashe and Kistner were collected in considerable numbers
from the communal larval web-nests of the pierid butterfly Eucheira socialis. Other Mexican specimens
were collected from bromeliads and Veronica flowers (KSEM, new data). Adults of an unnamed species
were common in the folded leaf rolls of a lepidopteran larva in the Chiriqui highlands of Panama, and were
very abundant in a canopy fogging sample of a flowering Inga tree in Peru (KSEM, new data). About 20
described species of this basically Neotropical group are known from Mexico, Nicaragua, Guatemala,
Costa Rica, Cuba, St. Vincent Island, Brazil, Argentina and the Southeastern United States (1 species)
(Ashe and Kistner 1989, Blackwelder 1944).
Euvira diazbatresae Ashe & Kistner, 1989: 95
DUR, OAX
Euvira flavicollis Bernhauer, 1910: 391
(Blackwelder 1944 questioned occurrence of this species
in Mexico)
"Mexico" (reported in Blackwelder 1944)
Euvira longula Sharp, 1883: 279
VER
Euvira minuta Sharp, 1883: 281
VER
7 described species from Guatemala (Blackwelder 1944). Specimens of 3+ unnamed species from Mexico
(Oaxaca, Puebla, San Luis Potosi) were collected under bark (KSEM, new data). Adults and larvae usually
occur under bark and are primarily fungivores (Ashe 1991a). Over 25 species of this large World-wide
genus are described from the Neotropics from Mexico to Argentina (Blackwelder 1944, Pace 1990a).
Placusa flohri Pace, 1990: 57
"Mexico"
Placusa uhligi Pace, 1990: 56
"Mexico"
known from seashores of the Pacific Rim from Japan and adjacent shores in Asia, north to Alaska and
south to Mexico. The tribe has been most frequently treated in available literature as a part of the tribe
Phytosini. Ahn and Ashe (1996) showed that the Liparocephalini form a lineage separate from the
Phytosini, and provided a phylogenetic analysis of the higher taxa.
1956, 1972). Specimens of Diaulota are found on rocks, in rock crevices, and among algae and
incrusting invertebrates on rocks in the intertidal zone (Moore 1956, new data). D. megacephala
Moore, listed in Moore (1956) as occurring in Baja California is a synonym of D. harteri Moore
(Moore 1972). Six described species of Diaulota are known from the West Coast of North America
from Mexico to Alaska and Japan. Revision and key to adults and known larvae: Ahn (1997).
Diaulota fulviventris Moore, 1956: 121
BC
Diaulota harteri Moore, 1956: 123
BC
Biophytosus Moore and Legner 1977: 465
Moore and Legner is a junior synonym of Salinamexus Moore & Legner. S. browni was collected
in the intertidal zone under boulders at low tide (Moore & Legner 1977). S. densus was probably
collected under rocks and dead fish on the sand near the high tide level (Moore 1978b). Four species
have been described in Salinamexus, the three listed below and one, S. giulianii Moore from
Washington in the United States. Ahn and Ashe (1996) have shown that S. guilianii Moore & Legner
is a species of Bryobiota. Consequently, only the three Mexican species remain in Salinamexus.
Salinamexus browni Moore & Legner
SON
Salinamexus densus Moore
SON
Salinamexus reticulatus (Moore & Legner) 1997
SON
Currently, Thinobiosus only includes this single species, known only from the type locality in Sonora.
Thinobiosus salinus Moore & Legner 1977
SON
With removal of the taxa included in the Liparocephalini
by Ahe and Ashe (1996) (see above), the number of
taxa in the tribe Phytosini is greatly reduced, and primarily includes
those intertidal aleocharines traditionally
included in the tribe that have not been placed elsewhere. The monophyly
of the tribe has not been investigated.
Most described species are known from seashores of Europe, and adjacent
northern Africa, and the east coast
of North America. Only one genus and species occurs in Mexico.
Cameronium Koch 1936
described species of Cameronium are known from Mexico, North Africa, the Red Sea and Zanzibar
(Moore 1964a).
Cameronium sonorensis Moore
SON
phylogenetic analysis by Danoff-Burg (1994), and overview of behavior in Danoff-Burg (1996).
All species are myrmecophilous with various species of Liometopum.
(Mann 1914, Danoff-Burg 1994), and D. liometopi Wasmann from Michoacán (Danoff-Burg 1994).
D. liometopi also occurs throughout the montane regions of Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado,
and D. mexicana also occurs in the montane regions of western Texas and adjacent New Mexico
(Danoff-Burg 1994).
Dinardilla liometopi Wasmann, 1901: 145
MICH
Dinardilla mexicana Mann, 1914: 176
HID
(Danoff-Burg 1944). Sceptobius wasmanni (Mann) was transferred by Seevers (1978) to Sceptobius
from the genus Apteronina Wasmann. Danoff-Burg (1994) showed that S. wasmanni (Mann) is a junior
synonym of S. dispar Sharp. At least the latter species, from Hidalgo, is myrmecophilous with Liometopum
apiculatum Mayr (Mann 1914). S. dispar also occurs in montane areas of southwestern Texas and
adjacent New Mexico, and S. schmitti also occurs throughout the mountain systems of Arizona, New
Mexico and Colorado. One other species of Sceptobius occurs in California (Danoff-Burg 1994).
Sceptobius dispar Sharp, 1883: 212
HID
Sceptobius schmidti (Wasmann), 1901: 146
DUR, MICH
(Kistner & Jacobson 1976). Also known from Panama. Two described species of Termitocola are known
from Mexico, Panama and Brazil (Seevers 1957, Kistner & Jacobson 1976). Key to described species in
Kistner & Jacobson (1976).
Termitocola cylindricornis Seevers, 1937: 8
GUER, SIN