Taxonomic modifications in Tylospilus Stål (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae: Asopinae): redescription of T. nigrobinotatus (Berg), description of a new species and an updated identification key for the genus

Abstract

The systematics of the New World Asopinae genera is still not completely understood, thus hampering their study in many areas of biological science. Tylospilus Stål is one of the less known genera among New World predatory stink bugs, despite its common occurrence and potential as a biological control agent in crops. Here, we make a contribution to the knowledge of Tylospilus; the species Tylospilus nigrobinotatus (Berg, 1879) is redescribed, and based upon the examination of type specimens, T. armatus Thomas, 1992 is considered to be a junior synonym of the above species. Furthermore, a new species is herein described, and an updated identification key for the species of Tylospilus is provided.