Bulletin of Entomological Research

Table of Contents - 1997 - Volume 87, Issue 01  

Original Articles

Smicronyx species (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), economically important seed predators of witchweeds (Striga spp.) (Scrophulariaceae) in sub-Saharan Africa

D. M. Andersona1 and M. L. Coxa2

a1 Systematic Entomology Laboratory, United States Department of Agriculture, c/o National Museum of Natural History, NHB Stop 168, Washington DC 20560, USA

a2 International Institute of Entomology, 56 Queen's Gate, London SW7 5JR, UK

Abstract

The taxonomy of three species of Smicronyx that are potential biocontrol agents of witchweeds (Striga spp.) in West Africa is revised. The two most abundant species are identified as Smicronyx (Afrosmicronyx) umbrinus Hustache and S. (Smicronyx) guineanus Voss. A third species is described as Smicronyx (Afrosmicronyx) dorsomaculatus Cox, sp. n. Diagnostic descriptions and a key, to separate adults of the three species from each other and from Sharpia bella Faust, are presented. Mature larvae of the three Smicronyx species are separated through a key and diagnoses. A lectotype is selected for Smicronyx umbrinus. All available host and distribution data are summarized for each species.

(Accepted July 10 1996)