A new species of Pharaxonotha (Coleoptera: Erotylidae), probable pollinator of the endangered Cuban cycad, Microcycas calocoma (Zamiaceae)

Authors

Ramiro Chavez, Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, Cuba
Julio A. Genaro, York University, Department of Biology, Toronto ON, M3J 1P3, CanadaFollow

Date of this Version

September 2005

Comments

Insecta Mundi, published by the Center for Systematic Entomology, is available online at http://centerforsystematicentomology.org/. Copyright © by Chaves and Genaro.

Abstract

Abstract:
The new species Pharaxonotha esperanzae (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea: Erotylidae: Pharaxonothinae) is described. It feeds on the pollen of the endangered Cuban cycad Microcycas calocoma (Miq.) A. DC. and breeds in its male cones. Its potential role as a pollinator of Microcycas is discussed.

Resumen:
Se describe la especie nueva: Pharaxonotha esperanzae (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea: Erotylidae: Pharaxonothinae). Ésta se alimenta del polen del cicadal cubano amenazado Microcycas calocoma (Miq.) A.DC y se reproduce en su cono masculino. Se discute su papel potencial como agente polinizador.