Global Phylogenetic Framework and Revised Classification for the Carpophilinae (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea: Nitidulidae)
Abstract
The ecologically diverse beetle family Nitidulidae, has a long history of taxonomic and systematic problems. Many taxa within the family lack modern treatments, and many of the classifications that have been presented are disputed among authors. One of the groups where these issues are the most extensive is the subfamily Carpophilinae. This economically important lineage of approximately 250 described species for the world are considered pests in several systems; this including field crops, stored products, and fruit orchards. The lineage also contains species that serve as pollinators for unique systems. This combination of closely related pest and beneficial taxa within the Carpophilinae makes the subfamily an important target for systematic research. This work is a culmination of several approaches with the common goal of increased taxonomic understanding and a robust global phylogenetic framework for the Carpophilinae. A detailed taxonomic history, generic redescriptions, an annotated checklist for North America, type designations for species often used to define complexes and subgenera, and a treatment of the genus Ctilodes Murray, all work towards a better understanding of this complex group of sap beetles. In addition to morphological and nomenclatural work, a phylogeny using molecular data was generated with 5 genetic loci for 37 ingroup taxa from around the world, covering the four most diverse genera and 11 of 13 subgenera currently considered. Analyses provide high support for many existing genera, support for a proposed new genus, and revealed further support for the paraphyly of many of the proposed subgeneric groups.
Degree
M.S.
Advisors
Zaspel, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Entomology|Systematic biology
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