The distribution and evolution of cavernicolous Ptomaphagus beetles in the southeastern United States (Coleoptera; Leiodidae; Cholevinae) with new species and records

Abstract

New data show the presence of additional full-species taxa of cavernicolous Ptomaphagus beetles, bringing to 18 the number of troglobitic species in the southeastern United States. The new species are Ptomaphagus chromolithus and Ptomaphagus torodei; full species rank is given to P. solanum, P. fecundus, P. longicornis, and P. Julius; P. laticornis is resurrected from synonomy. Ptomaphagus nicholasi is placed in synonomy under P. hirtus. A phylogeny is proposed. A model of speciation is proposed with cave populations isolated during interglacials, and with probable overland dispersal and interpopulation contact during glacials.