Oochrotus unicolor Lucas, 1852, in France: updated distribution, faunistics and ecology (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Diaperinae)

Abstract

Oochrotus unicolor Lucas, 1852 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) is a rarely collected and little-known myrmecophilous with reduced eyes darkling beetle, mostly living deep in the nests of seed-harvesting ants belonging to the genus Messor Forel, 1890 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae). As of now, few data are available and the distribution of the species in France needs to be updated, particularly due to the recent discovery of new localities and new administrative departments. Oochrotus unicolor is currently known in six Mediterranean departments: Pyrénées-Orientales, Aude, Hérault, Bouches-du- Rhône, Var and Alpes-Maritimes (from west to east), with a total of only 24 localities, including historical data. We detail and discuss the commensalism of the species. A distribution map and photos of adults are also provided.