Figure - available from: African Invertebrates
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Empodiodes pusillipes sp. nov. habitats at 2 km S of Papendorp (photographed 10 September 2012), where the species was collected.
Source publication
The genus Empodiodes Oldroyd, 1972, a Southern African endemic, is revised. Six species are recognised, four previously described (E. greatheadi Oldroyd, 1972, E. melanoscopaeus Londt, 1992, E. namibiensis Londt, 2012, E. whittingtoni Londt, 1992) and two new species (E. pusillipessp. nov., E. torridussp. nov.). A key for their separation is provid...
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A taxonomic revision and redescription of the genus Eurymesosa Breuning, 1938 are presented, including a key to species. Three of the five currently accepted species are considered valid: Eurymesosa ventralis (Pascoe, 1865), Eurymesosa allapsa (Pascoe, 1866) and Eurymesosa ziranzhiyi Yamasako & Lin, 2016. Three junior synonyms are proposed for E. v...
Citations
Biodiversity encompasses the variety of life forms within a specific habitat, including both flora and fauna. Taxonomic studies play a crucial role in understanding biodiversity, particularly for red-listed species that are at risk of extinction but remain poorly studied. This research focuses on the taxonomic and morphological analysis of the seed-weevil species Schelopius planifrons (Fåhraeus, 1840), collected from the palm forests of Ramadi, Iraq. During a malacological exploration, S. planifrons was identified as a species endemic to the Mediterranean region. Detailed taxonomic classification places this weevil in the family Curculionidae and subfamily Entiminae. Morphological studies, both external and internal, were conducted using advanced laboratory techniques, including scanning electron microscopy. Key characteristics, such as the rostrum structure, body shape, and specific patterns of punctuations and scales, were documented, providing a clear differentiation from other weevil species. The unique morphology of S. planifrons , including its compact body, glossy green coloration, and distinctive spiracle and antennal features, were meticulously analyzed. The study also highlights the significance of understanding the habitat and distribution of S. planifrons in Ramadi, Iraq, which contrasts with its traditional Mediterranean range. This research contributes to the broader understanding of weevil biodiversity in Iraq and underscores the importance of taxonomic studies in documenting and preserving lesser-known species. The findings not only expand the knowledge of S. planifrons but also emphasize the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts in ecologically sensitive regions like Iraq.
To celebrate the 80 th birthday of Jason G.H. Londt, we present a collection of articles in his honour. This introduction includes a summary of Jason’s life and career, an overview of the articles in the Festschrift, lists of his scientific and popular publications and a list of species named in his honour. Jason’s contribution to Mecoptera and Asilidae research in the Afrotropics is discussed, highlighting the impressive contributions he has made to the taxonomy, biology and ecology in both groups.
