Pachymerini

Bridwell, 1929

Genus Guides

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Pachymerini is a tribe of seed beetles ( Chrysomelidae, Bruchinae) established by Bridwell in 1929. Members are primarily associated with legume seeds as . The tribe includes several of economic importance due to their seed-feeding habits.

Caryedon by (c) Simon Hinkley & Ken Walker, Museum Victoria, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Caryedon by (c) Simon Hinkley & Ken Walker, Museum Victoria, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Caryobruchus gleditsiae by (c) Dan Johnson, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Dan Johnson. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pachymerini: //ˌpækɪməˈraɪnaɪ//

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Identification

Pachymerini can be distinguished from other bruchine tribes by the structure of the male genitalia, particularly the form of the lobe and internal sac . Members generally have a more robust body form compared to some other bruchine tribes, with the often showing reduced .

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Distribution

Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with strongest representation in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Distribution closely follows that of their legume plants.

Diet

Larvae feed internally within seeds, primarily of Fabaceae (legumes). may feed on pollen or not feed at all.

Host Associations

  • Fabaceae - larval Primary ; larvae develop inside seeds

Ecological Role

As seed , members play a role in regulating plant and influencing seed bank dynamics. Some may facilitate seed through their activity.

Human Relevance

Several are significant agricultural pests of stored legumes, including beans and peas. Pachymerus species in particular are known pests in Africa and elsewhere.

Similar Taxa

  • AcanthoscelidiniAnother large tribe of Bruchinae; differs in male genitalia structure and generally more slender body form
  • BruchiniThe type tribe of Bruchinae; distinguished by genitalic and larval morphological characters

More Details

Taxonomic History

The tribe has undergone significant taxonomic revision, with moved in and out based on phylogenetic studies. Current composition reflects molecular and morphological analyses.

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