A reclassification of the weevil subfamily Cyclominae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Abstract

The structure of mainly the ovipositor is used to better define and constitute the tribes of the weevil subfamily Cyclominae, whose composition and classification are highly confused in existing catalogues. Eight tribes are recognised in the subfamily, Cyclomini, Amycterini, Hipporhinini, Rhythirrinini, Listroderini, Notiomimetini, Dichotrachelini and Aterpini, while Diabathrariini, Gonipterini and Viticiini are excluded from it. Based on unique modifications of the ovipositor for laying eggs into the soil, the reconstituted Cyclomini, Amycterini and Hipporhinini can be regarded as monophyletic groups, while Rhythirrinini may still comprise two separate lineages. Largely due to their unmodified ovipositor and a lack of detailed taxonomic studies, Listroderini and Notiomimetini remain undefined although better constituted, while the position of the monotypic Dichotrachelini in Cyclominae is uncertain and the tribe Aterpini remains in need of comprehensive study to determine whether any of its current genera can be retained in the subfamily. As a result, the concept of the subfamily Cyclominae as a monophyletic taxon remains in doubt. Ovipositor structure further indicates a sister-group relationship between Amycterini and Hipporhinini and is also significant in delineating higher taxa in other terricolous weevils, i.e. Brachycerinae and Microcerinae. A checklist of the genera and species of the tribe Cyclomini is provided. Several taxonomic changes are proposed, as detailed in an appendix: 7 new synonymies, 2 synonymies reinstated, 4 tribes resurrected, 4 tribes transferred and 56 genera transferred.