Talk:Dryophthorini

Dryophthorini (length about 3.6 mm), from New Zealand (note shape of eyes)

Distribution

• New Zealand
  • Biostatus: adventive
  • Genera (1): ?Dryophthorus
  • NOTE: the New Zealand record is based on an undescribed/unidentified species of Dryophthorus, as reported from New Zealand by Kuschel (1990: 38, 75). While the species is certainly well-established in the Auckland area, the image on this page of an Auckland specimen indicates that it may be a Stenommatus. This latter genus is currently considered valid and distinct from Dryophthorus, and 'can be separated from Dryophthorus by the compound eyes that stretch ventrally under the head, where the latter [Dryophthorus] has eyes that are more ovoid and positioned laterally on the head' (Davis & Engel, 2006: 193). Although this character could well define only a derived species group of Dryophthorus, thus rendering that genus paraphyletic, I am reluctant to call the New Zealand species a Dryophthorus while Stenommatus is still considered to be a valid genus.

References

• Davis, S.R.; Engel, M.S. 2006: Dryophthorine weevils in Dominican amber (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science, 109(3-4): 191-198. DOI: 10.1660/0022-8443(2006)109[191:DWIDAC]2.0.CO;2 JSTOR
• Kuschel, G. 1990: Beetles in a suburban environment: a New Zealand case study. DSIR Plant Protection report, (3) ISSN: 0114-8818 ISBN 0-477-02596-X PDF