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ISSN 0035-418
INTRODUCTION
The early Diplopoda collections of the Muséum d’histoire
naturelle de Genève (MHNG) were greatly enriched by
the material brought back from the expeditions of Henri
de Saussure to Mexico and the Antilles in 1854-1856 and
of Aloïs Humbert to Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) in 1858-
1860.
Saussure published accounts of the species he had
collected on his expedition (Saussure, 1859a, b, 1860).
Humbert also published a monograph on the species he
had collected (Humbert, 1865). They then collaborated on
further publications, concentrating primarily on the fauna
of the Americas (Humbert & Saussure, 1869a, b, 1870;
Saussure & Humbert, 1872). Late in his career, assisted
by Leo Zehntner, Saussure returned to the Myriapoda to
bring Humbert’s unfi nished monograph on the Diplopoda
of the Geneva region to publication (Humbert, 1893).
Zehntner had been engaged as assistant in the MHNG in
1890, working there for four years. He returned for six
months in 1900 to work as Saussure’s personal assistant
and went on to have a distinguished career as an applied
entomologist in Java and Brazil (Hauser, 1972).
It was presumably this resumption of interest in the group
that led to Saussure being asked to study the material
collected for Grandidier’s Madagascar series (associated
with Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle in Paris) and
by Voeltzkow’s expedition to that island (associated with
the Senckenberg Naturmuseum, Frankfurt). Since these
publications form a distinct entity in both faunistic and
stylistic terms, they are here considered fi rst, and an
account of Humbert and Saussure’s earlier works will be
published elsewhere. In the publications considered here
Saussure and Zehntner described 76 species of millipede,
nearly all from Madagascar, the few exceptions coming
from Zanzibar and the Seychelles.
Saussure & Zehntner’s Madagascar publications are often
cited with the date 1902 (see Krabbe, 1982 for example)
but are actually three publications with different dates
(Jeekel, 1971). The article on Voeltzkow’s expedition
(Saussure & Zehntner, 1901) appeared in September
1901 even though the fascicle in which it was published
bears the date 1902. The fi rst twelve plates associated
with the volume in Grandidier’s Madagascar series were
published in 1897 and represent the fi rst valid publication
of the species names although not accompanied by a
description (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897). The last three
plates (13-15) appear to have been published together
with the text (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902), contrary to
the information on the title page preceding the plates
which was also delivered with the text in 1902.
Many of the specimens are accompanied by identifi cation
labels giving only limited locality information; in many
cases there are two such labels, one in pencil, in the
handwriting of Zehntner or Jean Carl (MHNG assistant,
curator and then assistant director between 1900 and 1943,
and a distinguished Diplopoda taxonomist in his own
right). Given that the labels appear to be contemporary
with the descriptions, specimens with such labels are
presumed to be types even if this is not explicitly stated
on the label.
Revue suisse de Zoologie (March 2017) 124(1): 53-65
The Diplopoda (Myriapoda) of Madagascar described by
Henri de Saussure and Leo Zehntner
John Hollier1 & Thomas Wesener2
1 Muséum d’histoire naturelle, C.P. 6434, CH-1211 Genève 6, Switzerland. E-mail: john.hollier@ville-ge.ch
2 Zoologisches Forschungsmuseum Alexander Koenig, Leibniz Institute for Animal Biodiversity, Adenauerallee 160,
D-53113 Bonn, Germany. E-mail: T.Wesener@zfmk.de
Abstract: Henri de Saussure and Leo Zehntner described 76 species of millipede in three publications on the fauna of
Madagascar (including additions from other islands). These species are listed alphabetically; the holdings of the Muséum
d’histoire naturelle de Genève and the whereabouts of type specimens identifi ed in other institutions are discussed, and
the currently valid combination is given for each species. Spirobolus sikorae is transferred to the genus Hylekobolus.
Keywords: Millipedes - Grandidier - Voeltzkow - Sikora - Geneva - Paris - type catalogue.
Manuscript accepted 24.11.2016
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.322665
54 J. Hollier & T. Wesener
(Muséum de Paris), Province d’Imerina (Sikora).” They
also mention a specimen from Mauritius as a variety,
but this should not be considered a syntype. The MHNG
collection contains four specimens in alcohol in two
jars under the name Spirostreptus amubulator. Both jars
contain identifi cation labels with “Madagascar” written
on them. The jar with two ♂ and one ♀ also contains
a tube with dissected parts including gonopods and the
label “Sph. ambulator n.” All of these specimens are
presumably syntypes. The specimen from Mauritius,
also stated to be in the MHNG in the original description
could not be found. According to Krabbe (1982) there is
type material in the MNHN, but the species is not listed
in their online database.
A junior synonym of Sechelleptus argus (Attems, 1896)
anale Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 4, fi g. 4 [Sphae-
rotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 30-32) gave the description
of the ♀ and the locality information “Antananarivo
(British Museum, 2 ♀ adultes et des jeunes).” They also
reported a ♀ from “Madagascar. Côte Sud-Ouest (Alfred
Grandidier).” No specimens found in the MHNG. As
the specimens from the BMNH are considered lost, the
female specimen from the MNHN (MNHN CB007/
MY2917) was selected as the lectotype by Wesener &
Wägele (2008: 76).
Zoosphaerium anale (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
anomalum Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 56, pl. 15, fi g. 7
[Sphaerotherium].
Madagascar. Isaka (Muséum de Paris, récolté par M.
Alluaud). One ♂.
No specimens found in the MHNG. The holotype is in
the MNHN (MNHN CB009/MY2919) according to their
online database and Wesener & Wägele (2008).
Zoosphaerium anomalum (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
antimena Saussure & Zehntner, 1901: 453-454, fi g. 33
[Spirostreptus].
Insulis Nossibé et Sacatia leg. Voeltzkow. One broken ♂
and an unspecifi ed number of ♀.
The MHNG collection contains two specimens in alcohol
under the name Spirostreptus antimena. There is no data
label but the identifi cation labels have “Madagascar, Dr
Voeltzkow” written on them, indicating that they are
syntypes. There is also a vial with dissected gonopods in
the jar. According to Krabbe (1982) there is type material
in the SMF but their online database does not list this
species.
Eumekius antemina (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
betaminena Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 10, fi g. 38
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 274-276) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar.
The nomenclature generally follows Enghoff (2003);
changes made in subsequent revisions are mentioned in
the text. The generic placement of some names remains
uncertain and we follow Enghoff in placing some genus
names in inverted commas or with a question mark.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT
The species are listed alphabetically. The format for each
is:
specifi c epithet Author, publication: page [Original
generic placement].
Provenance as given in the original description,
depository. Type series.
Number of specimens in the MHNG, label data of type
specimens. Type specimens identifi ed in other collections.
Other information.
Currently valid combination
The following abbreviations are used in the list:
BMNH The Natural History Museum, London
MHNG Mus éum d’histoire naturelle de Genève
MNHN Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, Paris
NHMW Naturhistorisches Museum, Vienna
SMF Senckenberg Naturmuseum, Frankfurt
TW Thomas Wesener
The specimens in the MNHN have two series of specimen
identifi cation numbers; those in the online database that
have the prefi x MY and those previously applied in the
collections that have the prefi x CB, HC or HB. These are
both cited where we have both numbers.
CATALOGUE
alluaudi Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 58-60, pl. 15, fi g. 8
[Sphaerotherium].
Madagascar. Fort Dauphin (leg. Alluaud, Musée de
Paris). Unspecifi ed number of ♂ and ♀.
The MHNG collection contains one ♀ specimen in
alcohol under the name Sphaerotherium alluaudi. The
identifi cation labels have only “Madagascar” for the
locality but the specimen is probably part of the type
series. A ♂ specimen in the MNHN was designated as
lectotype by Wesener & Sierwald (2005a: 8). There
are also two ♀ paralectotypes in the MNHN (MNHN
CB006/MY2925).
Zoosphaerium alluaudi (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
ambulator Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 7, fi g. 8, pl. 9,
fi g. 31 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 243-246, pl. 14, fi g. 12) gave
a description of both sexes and the locality information
“Madagascar. Robillard (Musée de Genève), M. Catat
Madagascar Diplopoda of de Saussure and Zehntner 55
Antananarivo (Sikora)”. The MHNG collection contains
parts of at least three specimens in alcohol under the name
Spirostreptus betaminena. There is no data label, but the
identifi cation labels have “Madagascar” written on them.
There is also a vial with the dissected gonopods of two
specimens and the label “Spirostreptus betaminena S + Z
♂.” These specimens are presumably syntypes.
Sechelleptus betaminena (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
betsilea Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 10, fi g. 43
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901: 455-456, fi gs 47-49) gave
a description of both sexes and the locality information
“Madagascar occidentalis, Mayunga leg. Voeltzkow
(Musée de Genève)”. Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 263)
stated that the specimens were deposited in the MHNG.
The MHNG collection contains parts of at least three
specimens in alcohol under the name Spirostreptus
betsileus. There is no data label but the identifi cation
labels have “Madagascar occident.” written on them.
There is also a vial with dissected gonopods in the jar.
These specimens are presumably all syntypes.
Charactopygus betsilea (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
bicolor Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 227, pl. 15, fi g. 14
[Spirostreptus].
There is no description to accompany the illustration,
and in the text the name is simply presented as a junior
synonym of Spirostreptus fulgens Saussure & Zehntner,
1901 before the description of the species. This strongly
suggests that the plate was created some time before it
was published in 1902. There are no specimens under
this name in the MHNG.
A junior synonym of Sechelleptus fulgens (Saussure &
Zehntner, 1901)
bivalvis Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 7, fi g. 17
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 192-194) gave a description,
the locality information “Madagascar. (leg. Dr Keller,
musée de Genève)” and stated that they had one ♀. No
specimens found in the MHNG. The whereabouts of the
holotype is unknown. Considered a nomen dubium by
Krabbe (1982). The generic placement is uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” bivalvis Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
blandum Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 63-65, pl. 15, fi gs
9-10 [Sphaerotherium].
Madagascar. Col de Sakavalana (Muséum de Paris,
Alluaud), Andrahomana. Three ♂.
The MHNG collection contains one specimen in alcohol
under the name Sphaerotherium blandum. Both of the
identifi cation labels in the jar have “Madagascar” written
on them. The jar also contains a vial with dissected
telopods and the label “Sph. blandum n.” indicating
that the specimen is part of the type series. According to
their online database the MNHN have the two syntypes
collected by Alluaud (MY2921 and MY2922); the
mature male at the MNHN (CB011) was referred to
as the holotype and the immature male as paratype by
Wesener & Wägele (2008: 63); the male used for their
redescription was designated as lectotype by Wesener
(2016: 83).
Zoosphaerium blandum (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
caelebs Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 2, fi g. 7, pl. 9, fi g.
27 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 255-258) gave the description
of the ♂, stating that they had one immature specimen,
and the locality information “Madagascar (Muséum de
Paris)”. No specimens found in the MHNG. According
to Krabbe (1982) the holotype is in the MNHN, but it is
not listed in their online database. Considered a nomen
dubium by Krabbe (1982). The generic placement is
uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” caelebs Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
campanulatum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 4, fi g. 6
[Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 28-30) gave a description
and the locality information “Madagascar. Côte Sud-
Ouest (Alfred Grandidier 1 ♂)”. The MNHN online
database lists the holotype (MY2926). The MHNG
collection contains a card mount associated with the label
“Sphaerotherium campanulatum S & Z ♂ Madagascar”
but the mount has a ♀ second pair of legs showing the
vulvas, and is clearly not part of the type series.
Zoosphaerium campanulatum (Saussure & Zehntner,
1897)
collaris Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 11, fi g. 45
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 119-121), placing the
species in the genus Rhinocricus, gave a description
of the ♀ and the locality information “Madagascar,
3 ♀ récoltées par A. Grandidier (Muséum de Paris).”
However, the original description gives measurements
for four individuals. The MHNG collection contains one
pinned specimen under the name Rhinocricus collaris.
This specimen has the labels “Madagascar, Grandidier”,
“Spirobolus collaris S & Z ♀” and “No=39” indicating
that it is a syntype. The MNHN has two female syntype
specimens (Wesener et al., 2009b: 119) under the number
MNHN HB015. The genus Rhinocricus is the type genus
of the family Rhinocricidae, a family never subsequently
recorded from Madagascar (Marek et al., 2003). As
all known specimens are females, the real generic and
family placement of this species remains uncertain.
“Rhinocricus” collaris (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
56 J. Hollier & T. Wesener
colossus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 7, fi g. 9, pl. 10,
fi g. 39 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 240-243) gave a description
of the ♀ and the locality information “Madagascar. Une
seule femelle capturée sur la côte Ouest de l’île par
Alfred Grandidier.” No specimens found in the MHNG.
According to Krabbe (1982) the holotype is in the MNHN
but it is not listed in their online database. Considered a
nomen dubium by Krabbe (1982). The generic placement
is uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” colossus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
convolutus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 2, fi g. 10, pl.
6, fi g. 3 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901) gave a description of
both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar
(Grandidier et Voeltzkow)”. The MHNG collection
contains two specimens (one ♂ and one ♀) in alcohol
under the name Spirostreptus convolutus. One of the
identifi cation labels reads “Spirostreptus convolutus Sss.
et Zt., Type!, Madagascar, Dr Voeltzkow leg.” indicating
that they are syntypes. The Grandidier specimen(s) are
presumably in the MNHN but are not listed in their
online database. No specimens are listed in the SMF
online database.
A junior synonym of Sechelleptus pyrhozonus
(Gerstäcker, 1873)
coquerelianum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 1, fi g. 2,
pl. 5, fi g. 11, [Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 42-45, pl. 15, fi g.1) gave a
description and the locality information “Madagascar.
(Muséum de Paris, 2 ♀ de grande taille, 1 ♀ and 2 ♂ moins
grand, collectés par Coquerel)” for the type series. After
the description they also discussed a number of smaller
or damaged specimens, including some in the MHNG,
but these probably cannot be considered syntypes. The
MHNG collection contains four pinned specimens
and two in alcohol under the name Sphaerotherium
coquerellianum. The pinned specimens are accompanied
by a card mount with one the ♀ second pair of legs
showing the vulva, glued to it and “Sphaerotherium
coquerelianum, ♀ 2o piece” written on it. The leg is much
too large to be associated with the specimens present
and must be part of one of the syntypes. The other dry
specimens are probably amongst the small specimens
mentioned but not syntypes. The identifi cation labels
in the jar have “Madagascar” written on them and these
specimens may be part of the type series. The material
at the MNHN contained six ♂ type specimens (MNHN
CB034), one of which was selected as a lectotype by
Wesener & Wägele (2008: 22). Additional material at the
MNHN that was potentially part of the type series are one
♂ and eight ♀ (MNHN CB035) all leg. Grandidier (n°
217), and one ♂ and one ♀ (MNHN CB036), all of these
specimens having been labelled in the same handwriting.
Zoosphaerium coquerelianum (Saussure & Zehntner,
1897)
corallipes Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 143-146, pl. 15,
fi g. 3 [Spirobolus].
Madagascar. Fort Dauphin (Muséum de Paris, M. Ch.
Alluaud). Three ♂ and one ♀.
The MHNG collection contains one specimen in alcohol
under the name Spirobolus corallipes. One of the
identifi cation labels has the locality “♂ Madagaskar Fort
Dauphin” written on it, indicating that it is part of the
type series. There is a vial with dissected parts including
gonopods in the jar. There is a label indicating that the
specimen was studied by Hoffman, and that he identifi ed
the genus as Aphistogoniulus. Wesener et al. (2009a: 36)
designated a ♂ in the MNHN as lectotype, and one ♀ and
one immature as paralectotypes (MNHN HB020).
Aphistogoniulus corallipes (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
coriaceus Saussure & Zehntner, 1901: 450, fi g. 34
[Spirostreptus].
Insula Nossibé, lectus Voeltzkow. Unspecifi ed number of
♂ and ♀.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 215-217, pl. 14, fi g. 11) gave
the same information. The MHNG collection contains
two specimens in alcohol under the name Spirostreptus
coriaceus. There is no data label but the identifi cation
labels have “Nosibé” written on them and the specimens
are presumably syntypes. The MNHN online database
lists two syntypes (MY1829), although the specimens are
reported to have been collected by Grandidier. According
to Krabbe (1982) there are type specimens in the SMF,
although these are not listed in their online database.
Sechelleptus coriaceus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1901)
curvicauda Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 8 fi g. 24
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 126) placed this name in
synonymy with S. urophorus Pocock, 1893. They state
that the illustrations were based on three ♀ collected by
Lantz in the Seychelles and deposited in the MNHN.
Nevertheless, the MHNG collection contains one
specimen in alcohol under the name Spirobolus urophorus
with two identifi cation labels that indicate that it is a
syntype of S. curvicauda. The MNHN online database
lists one specimen (MY9803) which is presumably
another syntype although not explicitly stated to be one.
A junior synonym of Eucarlia urophorus (Pocock, 1893)
dauphini Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 228-230, pl. 15,
fi g. 15 [Spirostreptus].
Madagascar. Fort Dauphin (M. Alluaud). Unspecifi ed
number of ♂ and ♀.
The MHNG contains one specimen in alcohol under the
Madagascar Diplopoda of de Saussure and Zehntner 57
name Spirostreptus dauphini. There is no data label, but
one of the identifi cation labels has “Madagascar, Fort
Dauphin” written on it, indicating that it is a syntype.
There is also a vial containing the gonopods in the tube.
According to Krabbe (1982) there are type specimens in
the MNHN but their online database does not list this
species.
Sechelleptus dauphini (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
digitale Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g. 16
[Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 55-56) give the description
of the ♂ and the locality information “Madagascar.
Tananarive (Muséum de Paris, M. Catat).” No specimens
found in the MHNG. The MNHN have a ♂ specimen
(MNHN CB019) referred to as the holotype by Wesener
& Wägele (2008: 10).
A junior synonym of Zoosphaerium neptunus (Butler,
1872)
dorsopunctatus Saussure & Zehntner, 1901: 441-442,
fi gs 12-13 [Spirobolus].
Insula Nossibé. Fragments of unspecifi ed number of ♂
and ♀.
No specimens found in the MHNG. The whereabouts
of the type specimens is unknown. Shelley & Lehtinen
(1999) placed this name in synonymy with the common
tropical tramp species Trigoniulus corallinus (Gervais).
A junior synonym of Trigoniulus corallinus (Gervais,
1841)
dorsovittatum Saussure & Zehntner, 1901: 446-447, fi gs
28-32 [Pygodon].
Ile Nossibé, récoltés par le Dr A. Voeltzkow. Two ♂ and
two ♀.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 167-170; pl. 13, fi g. 7)
gave the similar information but did not specify the
number of specimens. The MHNG collection contains
two specimens in alcohol under the name Pygodon
dorsovittatus. There is no data label but the identifi cation
labels in the jar have “Nosibé, Voeltzkow” written on
them, indicating that they are part of the type series. The
head, several segments and the gonopods of the ♂ are in a
vial in the jar. Wesener & Enghoff (2009: 85) designated
the ♂ as lectotype and the ♀ as paralectotype.
Spiromimus dorsovittatus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1901)
exaratus Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 279, pl. 15, fi g. 18
[Spirostreptus].
Madagascar, sommet de Ivohitsombé. Ch. Alluaud,
Muséum de Paris. One immature ♂.
No specimens found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe
(1982) the holotype is in the MNHN, but it is not listed
in their online database. Considered a nomen dubium by
Krabbe (1982). The generic placement is uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” exaratus Saussure & Zehntner, 1902
fangaroka Saussure & Zehntner, 1901: 452-453, fi g. 35
[Spirostreptus].
Insula Nossibé, leg. Voeltzkow. Unspecifi ed number of
♂ and ♀.
The MHNG collection contains parts of at least two
specimens in alcohol under the name Spirostreptus
fangaroka. The specimens are together in a vial, and
there is a second vial containing gonopods in the jar.
The two identifi cation labels in the jar have the localities
“Madagascar” or “Nosibé” written on them, and the
specimens are presumably syntypes. According to
Krabbe (1982) there is type material in the NHMW.
Isophyllostreptus fangaroka (Saussure & Zehntner, 1901)
fraternum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g. 10
[Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 50-51) gave a description
of the ♀, stating that they had one specimen, and the
locality information “Madagascar (Muséum de Paris, M.
Catat)”. No specimens found in the MHNG. According
to their online database and Wesener & Wägele (2008:
71) the holotype is in the MNHN (CB024/MY2940). The
name is a junior homonym of S. fraternum Butler, 1872
and has therefore been replaced.
Zoosphaerium fraternarium Jeekel, 1999 (replacement
name)
fulgens Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 10, fi g. 40
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901: 449; fi g. 37) gave a
description of the ♀ and the locality information
“Madagascar occidentalis (Dr Voeltzkow)”. The MHNG
collection contains three specimens in alcohol under the
name Spirostreptus fulgens. One of the identifi cation
labels has “♀ Madagascar” written on it, but the other
has “♂♀ Madagascar” and the jar also contains two vials
with dissected parts; one with gonopods, the other with a
gnathochilarium (which was mentioned in the description
as the Unterlippe). It is probable that the ♀ specimen with
dissected mouthparts is a syntype. According to Krabbe
(1982) there is type material in the SMF, but it is not
listed in their online database.
Sechelleptus fulgens (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
globiclunis Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 7, fi g. 13
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 227-228) gave a description
of the ♀ and the locality information “Madagascar.
Alfred Grandidier (Muséum de Paris).” No specimens
found in the MHNG.
According to Krabbe (1982) there is type material in the
MNHN, but this is not listed in their online database.
Considered a nomen dubium by Krabbe (1982). The
generic placement is uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” globiclunis Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
58 J. Hollier & T. Wesener
globulus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 4, fi g. 3
[Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 34-36) gave a description of
the ♂ and the locality information “Nosy Bé (Muséum
de Paris).” The MHNG collection contains one specimen
in alcohol under the name Sphaerotherium globulus.
There is also a vial containing the ends of the telopods
in the jar. Both identifi cation labels in the jar have “♂
Nosibé” written on them, indicating that the specimen
is a syntype. The MNHN has one ♂ specimen (MNHN
CB025/MY2941), that was identifi ed as conspecifi c
with Z. voeltzkowianum (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
by Wesener & Wägele (2008: 43), and designated as
lectotype by Wesener (2016: 83).
A junior synonym of Zoosphaerium voeltzkowianum
(Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
grandidieri Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 9, fi g. 33
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 141-143) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar.
1 ♂ jeune et 2 ♀ récoltés par M. Grandidier”. The
MHNG collection contains parts of two specimens in
alcohol under the name Spirobolus grandidieri. Both
identifi cation labels have “♂♀ Madagascar” written on
them, and there is also a printed label reading “TYPE”,
indicating that they are syntypes. The MNHN has one ♀
specimen labelled “type” (MNHN HC001).
Spirobolus (Trigoniulus) grandidieri Saussure &
Zehntner, 1897
grandidieri Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 10, fi g. 41
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 232-234) gave a description
of the ♀, stating that they had one specimen, and the
locality information “Madagascar. Alfred Grandidier.”
No specimens found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe
(1982) the holotype is in the MNHN, but it is not listed in
their online database.
A junior synonym of Seychelleptus pyrhozonus
(Gerstäcker, 1873)
hova Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g. 23
[Polydesmus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure and Zehntner (1901: 436-437) placed the
species in the subgenus Polydesmus (Pterodesmus),
gave a cursory description and the locality information
“Nossibé”. Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 91-93) placed
the species in the subgenus Polydesmus (Tubercularium),
and gave a description of both sexes and the locality
“Madagascar (Sikora) 1 ♀ et plusieurs ♂. D’autres ♀ de
Nossibé récoltées par le docteur Voeltzkow”. Since the
original illustrations of 1897 included ♂ characters, the
specimens collected by Sikora must be part of the type
series. The MHNG collection contains six specimens
in alcohol in two jars under the name Tubercularium
hova. The identifi cation labels in the fi rst jar, with four
specimens in three vials, have “Madagascar (Sikora)”
written on them. The identifi cation labels in the second
jar, with two specimens in separate vials, have “Nossibé,
Dr Voeltzkow” written on them. These specimens are all
syntypes. Golovatch & Hoffman (1989) refer to syntypes
in the SMF, but these are not listed in the SMF online
database.
Dalodesmus hova (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
hova Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 11, fi g. 44
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 146-150) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar.
Divers ♂ and 1 ♀ récoltés par M. Grandidier. D’autres
mâles récoltés par M. Lanz et par M. Catat (Muséum de
Paris). The MHNG collection contains four specimens in
alcohol in two jars under the name Spirobolus hova. One
contains one specimen and a vial containing the gonopods.
The identifi cation labels have “♂ Madagascar” written
on them, and there is a separate label reading “Type.”
This specimen is presumably one of the type series.
There is also a label indicating that Hoffman studied the
specimen and considered that the specimens belonged to
the genus Aphistogoniulus. The other jar contains much
more recently collected and identifi ed specimens which
are obviously not part of the type series. Wesener et al.
(2009: 34) designated a ♂ specimen in the MNHN as
lectotype.
Aphistogoniulus hova (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
hova Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 4, fi g. 7, pl. 7, fi g.
11 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901: 454-455, fi gs 43-46) gave
a description of the ♂ and the locality information
“Madagascar (Sikora); Nossibé (Voeltzkow).” The
MHNG collection contains fi ve specimens in alcohol
in two jars under the name Spirostreptus hova. One jar,
containing three specimens, has “Nosibé, Dr Voeltzkow”
written on the identifi cation labels, indicating that they
are syntypes. The other contains an identifi cation label
indicating that the specimens were determined by Carl
and are thus not part of the type series. According to
Krabbe (1982) there is type material in the SMF but it is
not listed in their online database.
A junior synonym of Charactopygus atratus (Karsch,
1881)
imbecillum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g. 20
[Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 60-61) gave a description
Madagascar Diplopoda of de Saussure and Zehntner 59
and one ♂ and one ♀ have identifi cation labels. They are
accompanied by two card mounts, one with telopods glued
to it, the other with a ♀ second pair of legs, each with an
identifi cation label. The three smaller specimens are each
labelled “WEST MADAGASC.” and “VOELTZKOW”
and have identifi cation labels. One ♂ has a card mount
on the pin with the telopods glued to it and one ♀ has
a card mount on the pin with the second pair of legs
glued to it. There is a third card mount with a ♀ second
pair of leggs glued to it and an identifi cation label, but
it is not clear which specimen this belongs with. There
are also ten specimens in alcohol in two jars under the
name of Sphaerotherium libidinosum. One jar with four
specimens has “Madagascar” written on the identifi cation
labels. The other with seven specimens, one separated
in a vial, a vial containing parts of a pair of telopods,
also has “Madagascar” written on the identifi cation
labels. All of these specimens are presumably part of the
type series. There are also a number of more recently
collected and identifi ed specimens in alcohol under
the name Zoosphaerium libidinosum; these are clearly
not part of the type series. The MNHN online database
lists 13 syntypes in three lots (MY2965, MY2966 and
MY2969), one ♂ (MNHN CB034) was selected as the
lectotype by Wesener & Wägele (2008: 22), while fi ve
other ♂ became paralectotypes. Two additional vials
(MNHN CB035 & 036) with one ♂ and eight ♀ and
one ♂ and one ♀, respectively, were also determined as
paralectotypes.
Zoosphaerium libidinosum (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
macilentus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 6, fi g. 4
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 220-222) gave a description
of the ♂ and the locality information “Ile Maurice.
Robillard (Musée de Genève).” The MHNG collection
contains one specimen in alcohol under the name
Spirostreptus macilentus. The jar also contains a vial with
the gonopods in it. One of the identifi cation labels has “Ile
Maurice” written on it and the other has “Madagaskar.” It
seems likely that the latter is a lapsus calami and that the
specimen is a syntype.
Sechelleptus macilentus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
madecassus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 3, fi g. 1, pl.
4, fi g. 12 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 252-255) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar.
1 ♂ récolté par le Dr Coquerel; 2 ♀ des Iles Seychelles
de très grande taille, récoltées par Rousseau (Muséum de
Paris).” No specimens found in the MHNG. According to
Krabbe (1982) the type material is in the MNHN, but it is
not listed in their online database.
A junior synonym of Sechelleptus seychellarum
(Desjardins, 1835)
of both sexes and the locality information “Nosy Bé
(Muséum de Paris).” The MHNG collection contains two
specimens in alcohol under the name Sphaerotherium
imbecillum. The jar also contains a vial with the ends of
the telopods and a label “Sphaerotherium imbecillum Sss.
& Z. ♂”. Both identifi cation labels in the jar have only
“Madagascar” written on them, but there is no reason
to suppose that these are not syntypes. There are two ♂
syntypes in the MNHN (MNHN CB031). This name,
together with Z. globulus, was placed as a junior synonym
of Z. voeltzkowianum by Wesener & Wägele (2008: 43);
the MNHN specimen used for their redescription was
designated as lectotype by Wesener (2016: 83).
A junior synonym of Zoosphaerium voeltzkowianum
(Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
labialis Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 10, fi g. 42
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 268-269) gave a description
of the ♀ and the locality information “Nosy Bé. Espèce
récoltée par M. Humblot (Muséum de Paris).” The number
of specimens is not given, but in discussing the variation
they mentioned “les petits individus” indicating more
than one. The MHNG collection contains two specimens
in alcohol under the name Spirostreptus labialis. The
identifi cation labels in the jar have “Nosibé” written
on them and the specimens are presumably syntypes.
According to Krabbe (1982) there is type material in the
MNHN, but this is not listed in their online database.
Considered a nomen dubium by Krabbe (1982). The
generic placement is uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” labialis (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
leprosus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 7, fi g. 14
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 239-240) gave a description
of the ♀ and the locality information “Madagascar.
Fianarantsoa, 1 ♀ et un second individu incomplet
(Musée de Genève).” No specimens found in the MHNG.
The whereabouts of the type specimens is unknown. This
is not S. leprosus sensu Attems (1914) who, according to
Jeekel (1999), misidentifi ed a specimen of S. macilentus.
Sechelleptus leprosus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
libidinosum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 4, fi g. s, pl.
15, fi g. 2 [Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 69-72) gave a description
and stated that they had several specimens of both sexes
from “Madagascar, collectés par Alfred Grandidier, par
Coquerel (Muséum de Paris) et par Sikora (Musée de
Genève)” as well as some immature specimens “de la
côte occidentale récoltés par M. Voeltzkow.” The MHNG
collection contains nine pinned specimens. The six larger
specimens have a label reading “Madagascar” on the pin,
60 J. Hollier & T. Wesener
malagassum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 6, fi g. 2
[Polyzonium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 285-287) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar.
Plusieurs ♀ et un ♂ récoltés par A. Grandidier (Muséum
de Paris). Nosy Bé. Une ♀ capturée par le docteur
Voeltzkow”. The MHNG collection contains three ♀
specimens in alcohol (currently on loan) under the
name Polyzonium malagassum. These specimens
are presumably part of the type series. According to
their online database there are types (one ♂ and fi ve
♀; MY2843) in the MNHN; the ♂ was selected as
the lectotype by Wesener (2014: 588), who placed the
name in synonymy with the widespread tropical tramp
Rhinotus purpureus (Pocock, 1894).
A junior synonym of Rhinotus purpureus (Pocock, 1894)
metazonalis Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 224, pl. 15, fi g.
17 [Spirostreptus].
Madagascar. Col de Sakavalaba (Muséum de Paris, Ch.
Alluaud). One ♂.
No specimens found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe
(1982) the holotype is in the MNHN, but it is not listed in
their online database.
Sechelleptus metazonalis (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
micromelas Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 9, fi g. 29
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 218-220) gave a description
of the ♂ and the locality information “Madagascar.
Sikora 2 ♂ (Musée de Genève)”. The MHNG collection
contains two broken specimens in alcohol under the
name Spirostreptus micromelas. There is also a vial
containing a number of fragments including the front of
a head, a gnathochilarium and a single gonopod. Both
identifi cation labels in the jar have “Madagascar” and one
has “Sikora” written on it, indicating that the specimens
are syntypes.
Spirostreptus micromelas Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
moramangae Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 9, fi g. 25
[Alloporus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 175-178) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar.
Antananarivo, forêt de Moramanga (F. Sikora 3 ♀, 1 ♂:
Musée de Genève).” The MHNG collection contains
parts of at least three specimens in alcohol under the
name Alloporus moramangae. There is a vial with
dissected parts, including the gonopods, in the jar. The
identifi cation labels both have “Madagascar” written on
them and the specimens are presumably syntypes.
Sechelleptus moramangae (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
musicus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 6, fi g. 1
[Sphaeropoeus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 75-77) gave a description,
the locality information “Madagascar, récolté par A.
Grandidier” and stated that they had seen at least one
♂. The single male specimen at the MNHN (CH038),
collected by A. Grandidier and lacking the telopods, was
selected as the lectotype (Wesener & Sierwald, 2005b).
The MHNG collection contains dissected parts including
the telopods glued to a card mount with the labels
“Madagascar, Grandidier” and “Sphaeromimus musicus
S et Z ♂” on the pin and the label “musicus S et Z, org.
copul. ♂, organes de stridulation, Madagascar” pinned in
the box next to it; these are probably part of the lectotype.
Sphaeromimus musicus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
nigrita Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 6, fi g. 6
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 210-212), using the
orthography nigritus, gave a description of both sexes and
the locality information “Madagascar. Antananarivo (F.
Sikora): plusieurs individus ♀, 1 ♂ (Musée de Genève)”.
The MHNG collection contains parts of more than ten
specimens in alcohol under the name Spirostreptus
nigrita. Many of the specimens are broken; four parts,
presumably all from the ♂, have been placed in a vial
separately from the rest. The identifi cation labels in the
jar have only “Madagascar” written on them, but the
specimens are presumably syntypes.
Sechelleptus nigritus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
phthisicus Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 213-214, pl. 15,
fi g. 16 [Spirostreptus].
Madagascar. Fort Dauphin (Muséum de Paris, M.
Alluaud). One ♂.
No specimens found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe
(1982) the holotype is in the MNHN but it is not listed in
their online database.
Spirostreptus phthisticus Saussure & Zehntner, 1902
pictus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 8, fi g. 20
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 234-236) gave a description
of the ♂, stating that they had one specimen, and the
locality information “Madagascar. Tananarive, M. Catat
(Muséum de Paris).” No specimens found in the MHNG.
According to Krabbe (1982) the holotype is in the
MNHN, but it is not listed in their online database.
Spirostreptus pictus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
piliger Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g. 19
[Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 36-38, pl. 15, fi g. 4), using
Madagascar Diplopoda of de Saussure and Zehntner 61
the orthography piligerum, gave a description and the
locality information “Madagascar (Muséum de Paris 2
♂ récoltés par M. Catat. Musée de Genève 2♂)”. The
MHNG collection contains two pinned specimens and
one specimen in alcohol under the name Sphaeriotherium
piliger. Both pinned specimens have identifi cation labels
but no data labels, and both have a card mount on the
pin with dissected parts glued to it; in one case the head
and telopods, in the other parts of the telopods. The jar
containing the specimen in alcohol contains identifi cation
labels with “Madagascar” written on them. These are
presumably all part of the type series. The only male
specimen in the MNHN (MY2973/CB040) was referred
to as the holotype by Wesener & Wägele (2008: 57) and
was designated as lectotype by Wesener (2016: 84).
Zoosphaerium piligerum (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
platylabum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g. 9, pl.
15, fi g. 5 [Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 54-55) gave a description
of the ♂ and the locality information “Madagascar.
Tananarive (Muséum de Paris, M. Catat).” The MHNG
collection contains a pair of telopods in alcohol under
the name Sphaerotherium platylabum. A label in the
vial containing the parts reads “S. platylabum S. et Z.,
org. copul.” It seems very likely that this is part of the
specimen in the MNHN (CB041/ MY2974) referred to
as the holotype by Wesener & Wägele (2008: 50), who
noted that the anterior telopods were missing.
Zoosphaerium platylabum (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
praslina Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 10, fi g. 37
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 124-126), using the
orthography S. (Spiromanes) praslinus, gave a
description, the locality information “Iles Seychelles
- Port Praslin, récoltés par M Alluaud (Muséum de
Paris)” and stated that they had seen two ♂ and two
♀. No specimens found in the MHNG. The MNHN
online database indicates three specimens (MY9480)
which are presumably syntypes although not explicitly
stated to be. As the only available male type specimen
is immature, Mauriès (1980) compared it to a juvenile
Spirostrophus naresi, a synonym of the widespread
tramp Leptogoniulus sorornus (Butler, 1876) and found
that they are allospecifi c.
Spirobolus praslinus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
priapus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897 pl. 4, fi g. 5
[Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 61-63) gave a description
of both sexes but no indication of the type locality
or collector. No specimens found in the MHNG. The
single ♀ specimen at the MNHN (CB042/MY2975) was
designated as lectotype by Wesener & Wägele (2008:
30).
Zoosphaerium priapus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
prozonalis Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 231
[Spirostreptus].
Madagascar (Musée de Genève). One ♀.
The MHNG collection contains one ♀ specimen in
alcohol under the name Spirostreptus prozonalis. The jar
contains a data label “Ouest-Madagascar, M Voeltzkow.”
This specimen is presumably the holotype. The generic
placement of this species is uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” prozonalis Saussure & Zehntner, 1902
pygidiale Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g. 8, pl. 14,
fi g. 22 [Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 32-33) gave a description,
the locality information “Madagascar. Fianarantsoa (A.
Grandidier, plusieurs individus de la partie orientale).
Tananarive (Muséum de Paris, M. Catat). Ile Maurice
(Robillard, musée de Genève)” and indicated that they had
seen many specimens. The MHNG collection contains
12 pinned specimens under the name Sphaerotherium
pygidiale. There are four specimens labelled “Ile
Maurice Robillard”, and four pinned specimens without
locality labels on the pins but with “Madagascar (doubles
Grandid.)” written on the species name label in the box.
Two card mounts on separate pins with dissected parts
glued to them are placed with these specimens, each
with an identifi cation label; one is correctly labelled as
the second pair of legs of a ♀, showing the vulvas, the
other is of the same part but incorrectly labelled as ♂.
These specimens are clearly part of the type series. There
are four more specimens, one of which has the label
“Madagascar, Robillard”, which have been identifi ed
(although only two have identifi cation labels) as a ♂
variety, presumably the one mentioned in the description
of 1902. These specimens should not be regarded as
syntypes. There are also two specimens in alcohol under
the name Sphaerotherium pygidiale, accompanied by
a vial containing fi ve pairs of telopods, some broken.
The identifi cation labels in the jar have “Madagascar”
written on them and the specimens are presumably part
of the type series. The MNHN online database lists fi ve
syntypes in three lots (MY2976, MY2977 and MY2978)
in their collection, of which one ♂ (MNHN CB043) was
designated as the lectotype by Wesener & Wägele (2008:
10).
A junior synonym of Zoosphaerium neptunus (Butler,
1872)
radamae Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 9, fi g. 32
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 269-272) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar,
62 J. Hollier & T. Wesener
Antananarivo, Ankarata (altitude 2,000 pieds) [F. Sikora]
(Musée de Genève).” The MHNG collection contains
body parts of at least ten specimens in alcohol under
the name Spirostreptus radamae. The specimens are in
one tube, and a separate vial contains gonopods and a
gnathochilarium labelled as ♂ and a gnathochilarium
labelled as ♀, the two sexes being separated by a
cotton wool plug. The identifi cation labels have only
“Madagascar” written on them but these specimens are
presumably syntypes.
Charactopygus radamae (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
rubripes Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 11, fi g. 48
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 154-155; pl. 13, fi g. 6) gave
a description of both sexes and the locality information
“Madagascar. Forêts d’Andrangoloaka (Fr. Sikora).
Plusieurs individus adultes ♂ et ♀.” The MHNG
collection contains six specimens in alcohol under the
name Spirobolus rubripes. The specimens are in one
tube, with a second vial containing a partially dissected
head and a pair of gonopods. Two identifi cation labels
in the jar have “Madagascar (Sikora)” written on them,
indicating that they are part of the type series. Wesener
et al. (2009b: 40) designated a ♂ specimen in MNHN
as the lectotype and one ♂ and two ♀ as paralectotypes
(MY9723).
Zehntnerobolus rubripes (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
sakalava Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g. 22
[Polydesmus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901: 437; fi gs 8-10) placed the
species in the subgenus Polydesmus (Pterodesmus),
gave a cursory description and the locality information
“Nossibé”. Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 93, pl. 14,
fi g. 20) placed the species in the subgenus Polydesmus
(Tubercularium), gave a description of the ♂ and the
locality information “Ile de Nosy Bé (Voeltzkow), 1 ♂.
Madagascar (Grandidier), 1 ♀ mutilée”. The MHNG
collection contains one ♀ in alcohol under the name
Phymatodesmus sakalava. The specimen is broken and
the identifi cation label in the vial in which it is contained
has “♀ Madagascar (Sikora)” written on it. This specimen
is probably not a syntype, but the species is not listed
in the online databases of the SMF or the MNHN and a
lapsus calami cannot be ruled out.
Eutubercularium sakalava (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
sakalava Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 11, fi g. 46
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 138-140; pl. 13, fi g. 1) gave
a description of the ♀ and a juvenile ♂, the latter as a
variation which means that it should not be considered
a syntype. They also gave the locality information
“Madagascar. Forêt de Moyamanga (F. Sikora).” The
MHNG collection contains two specimens in alcohol
under the name Spirobolus sakalava. The ♀ specimen
is loose in the jar, the ♂ is in a vial. The identifi cation
labels have only “Madagascar” written on them, but there
is little doubt that these specimens are part of the type
series, and there is a label reading “TYPE” in the jar.
Wesener et al. (2009a: 38) designated the ♀ specimen in
the MNHN (MY6573) as lectotype.
Aphistogoniulus sakalava (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
sakalava Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 9, fi g. 28
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901: 456-457, fi gs 50-52) gave
a description of both sexes and the locality information
“Madagascar occidentalis (♀ ♂ a Voeltzkow lecti).” No
specimens found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe
(1982) the type material is in the SMF, but it is not listed
in their online database.
Charactopygus sakalava (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
sansibaricum Saussure & Zehntner, 1901: 437-438, fi g.
11 [Strongylosoma].
Zanzibar, Kokotoni, leg. Voeltzkow. Two ♂.
The MHNG contains one specimen in alcohol under
the name Strongylosoma sansibarica. The specimen
is in a vial, and there is also a micro vial containing
two gonopods. The identifi cation labels in the jar have
“Zanzibar Dr Voeltzkow” written on them, indicating
that the specimen is a syntype. An undated typed label
states that Hoffman examined the specimen, regarding it
as a type but was uncertain of the generic placement. The
other syntype is presumably in the SMF but it is not listed
in their online database.
Strongylosoma sansibaricum Saussure & Zehntner, 1902
scabricollis Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 8, fi g. 23
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 199-200) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar -
M. Catat et M. Lantz (Muséum de Paris)”. No specimens
found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe (1982) the
type material is in the MNHN, but it is not listed in their
online database
Sechelleptus scabricollis (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
sculptus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 7, fi g. 10
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 201-204) gave a description
of the ♂ and the locality information “Madagascar. 1 ♂
récolté par M. Lantz (Muséum de Paris)”. No specimens
found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe (1982) there
are type specimens in the MNHN and the NHMW. The
species is not listed in the MNHN online database, or in
Enghoff (2003).
Spirostreptus sculptus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
Madagascar Diplopoda of de Saussure and Zehntner 63
seychellarum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 8, fi g. 21,
pl. 10, fi g. 36 [Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 122-124) gave a description,
the locality information “Iles Seychelles, récoltés M.
Lantz (Muséum de Paris)” and stated that they had
seen three ♂ and one ♀. The generic placement was
given as Spirostreptus in plate 8, Spirobolus in plate
10 and Spirobolus (Spiromanes) in the description. No
specimens found in the MHNG. The MNHN online
database lists three specimens (MY3516) which are
presumably syntypes although not explicitly stated to be.
Spiromanes seychellarum (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
sikorae Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 10, fi g. 35
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 136-137) gave a description
of the ♀ and the locality information “Madagascar.
Récoltées par F. Sikora, 2 ♀ (Musée de Genève).” The
MHNG collection contains two specimens in alcohol
under the name Spirobolus sicoranus. They are in
separate tubes, and accompanied by a vial containing a
gnathochilarium. The identifi cation labels in the jar have
“Madagascar” written on them. There is also a label
reading “TYPE” and a 2012 TW identifi cation label. A
label in one of the tubes indicated that it was intended to
designate a lectotype, but this designation has not been
published. The new generic placement follows TW’s
2012 determination of the specimens.
Hylekobolus sikorae (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897) comb.
nov.
spinipes Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 9, fi g. 30
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 204-205) gave a description
of the ♀ and the locality information “Madagascar. M.
Catat (Muséum de Paris).” No specimens found in the
MHNG. According to Krabbe (1982) the type material is
in the MNHN, but it is not listed in their online database.
Considered a nomen dubium by Krabbe (1982). The
generic placement is uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” spinipes Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
stridulator Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 66-67, pl. 15, fi g.
6 [Sphaerotherium].
Madagascar. Col de Sakavalana, leg. Alluaud (Muséum
de Paris). One ♂.
No specimens found in the MHNG. The MNHN has a
single ♂ (MY2981/CB045) identifi ed as the holotype by
Wesener & Wägele (2008: 63).
A junior synonym of Zoosphaerium blandum (Saussure
& Zehntner, 1902)
sulcicollis Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 2, fi g. 8, pl. 7,
fi g. 18 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 196-199) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar
♂♀ (Alfred Grandidier) – Petit individus (Sikora).” No
specimens found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe
(1982) there is type material in the MNHN, although this
is not listed in their online database.
Sechelleptus sulcicollis (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
tricolor Saussure & Zehntner, 1902: 272-274
[Spirostreptus].
Madagascar, leg. Catat (Muséum de Paris). One ♀.
No specimens found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe
(1982) the holotype is in the MNHN although it is not
listed in their online database. The generic placement is
uncertain.
?Charactopygus tricolor (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
univirgatus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 11, fi g. 47
[Spirobolus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901: 444-445; fi gs 16-19,
56-58) placed this species in the genus Spiromimus.
They gave a description of both sexes and the locality
information “Madagascar, 1 ♀ adulta. Insula Nossibé, ♂
Dr. Voeltzkow legit.” No specimens found in the MHNG
or MNHN. The syntypes are presumably in the SMF, but
they are not listed in their online database.
Spiromimus univirgatus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
vagabundus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 7, fi g. 7, pl.
8, fi g. 22 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 179-181) placed the species
in the genus Thyropygus. They gave a description of both
sexes and the locality information “Madagascar (Muséum
de Paris), ♀ ♂ jeunes. Sumatra, Lahat (Musée de Genève)
2 ♀.” The MHNG collection contains one specimen in
alcohol under the name Thyropygus vagabundus. There
is a vial containing the gnathochilarium in the jar. The
identifi cation labels in the jar have “♀ Sumatra” written
on them, indicating that the specimen is a syntype. The
MNHN presumably has other syntypes but these are not
listed in their online database. According to Enghoff
(2003) the Madagascar provenance of T. vagabundus is
probably an error.
Thyropygus vagabundus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
vermiculus Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 9, fi g. 26
[Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901: 457-458, fi gs 53-55) gave
a description of both sexes and the locality information
“Madagascar occidentalis. Individua plurima a
Voeltzkow lecta.” The MHNG collection contains parts
of at least three specimens in alcohol under the name
Spirostreptus vermiculus. The specimens are in a tube
64 J. Hollier & T. Wesener
and there is a smaller vial containing a pair of gonopods
and two gnathochilaria. One of the identifi cation labels in
the jar has “Madagascar occid.” written on it, indicating
that these specimens are syntypes.
Eumekius vermiculus (Saussure & Zehntner, 1897)
versicolor Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 7, fi gs 15-16,
pl. 8, fi g. 19 [Spirostreptus].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 236-239) gave a description
of both sexes and the locality information “Madagascar.
♀ ♂ jeunes récoltés par M. Catat (Muséum de Paris):
plusieurs ♀ et un jeune ♂ récoltés par le Dr Keller (Musée
de Genève).” The MHNG contains one ♀ specimen in
alcohol under the name Spirostreptus versicolor. The jar
also contains a vial containing the gnathochilarium. The
identifi cation labels in the jar have “Madagascar” written
on them, and the specimen is presumably a syntype. The
whereabouts of the other specimens collected by Keller
is unknown. According to Krabbe (1982) there is type
material in the MNHN, but this is not listed in their
online database.
Spirostreptus versicolor Saussure & Zehntner, 1897
voeltzkowi Saussure & Zehntner, 1901: 445-446, fi gs 20-
26 [Spiromimus].
Insulae Nossibé et Satakia (Voeltzkow legit). Unspecifi ed
number of ♂ and ♀.
Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 164-166, pl. 13, fi g. 5) gave
the same information about the type series, but placed
the species in the genus Spirobolus (Spiromimus). The
MHNG collection contains six specimens in alcohol
under the name Spirobolus voeltzkowi. Four specimens
are placed in one tube with a vial containing gonopods
and an identifi cation label with “Satakia island,
Voeltzkow” written on it. One specimen in its own
tube has an identifi cation label with “Satakia island
Voeltzkow” written on it. One specimen in its own tube
has an identifi cation label with “Nossibé Voeltzkow”
written on it, the head and several attached segments,
and the gonopds are in a separate vial in the tube. These
are all part of the type series. Wesener & Enghoff (2009:
84) designated the ♂ from Nossibé as the lectotype and
an immature specimen in the MNHN as paralectotype
(MY9804).
Spiromimus voeltzkowi Saussure & Zehntner, 1901
voeltzkowianum Saussure & Zehntner, 1897: pl. 5, fi g.
21 [Sphaerotherium].
Illustration without description.
Saussure & Zehntner (1901: 435-436; fi gs 6-7 and
36) gave a description of both sexes and the locality
information “Madagascar. Plusieurs individus de Nosy
Bé, récoltés par le docteur Voeltzkow.” The same
information is given in Saussure & Zehntner (1902: 52-
53, pl. 14, fi g. 8, pl. 15, fi g. 3). The MHNG collection
contains two pinned specimens and six specimens in
alcohol (accompanied by a vial containing a broken
pair of telopods) under the name Sphaerotherium
voeltzkowianum. One of the pinned specimens has the
labels “VOELTZKOW”, “WEST MADAGASC.” and
an identifi cation label, and is clearly part of the type
series. There is a card mount with the second pair of legs
showing the vulvas on the pin. The other is a smaller
specimen and the identifi cation label has a question mark
on it; this specimen cannot be considered a type. One of
the identifi cation labels in the jar has “Madagascar, Dr
Voeltzkow” written on it, indicating that these specimens
are part of the type series. The one male specimen in the
MNHN was designated as lectotype (MNHN CB046) and
the two females as paralectotypes by Wesener & Wägele
(2008: 43). The rest of the type series is presumably
in the SMF but the species is not listed in their online
database. The MHNG collection also has a much more
recently collected and identifi ed specimen in alcohol
under the name Zoosphaerium voeltzkowianum which is
obviously not part of the type series.
Zoosphaerium voeltzkowianum (Saussure & Zehntner,
1897)
xanthopus Saussure & Zehntner, 1901: 450-451
[Spirostreptus].
Madagascar occidentalis leg. Voeltzkow. Unspecifi ed
number of ♀.
No specimens found in the MHNG. According to Krabbe
(1982) the type material is in the MNHN, but it is not
listed in their online database. Considered a nomen
dubium by Krabbe (1982). The generic placement is
uncertain.
“Spirostreptus” xanthopus Saussure & Zehntner, 1901
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thanks are due to Anita Hollier and Peter Schwendinger
for comments on the text, and to Bernd Hauser for
information about the history of the collection.
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