Serraticollini

B.E. White, 1942

Genus Guides

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Serraticollini is a tribe of leaf beetles in the Galerucinae, Chrysomelidae. The tribe was established by B.E. White in 1942 and contains the Aulacothorax, which was historically classified among the flea beetles (Alticini). The tribe is distinguished by morphological characteristics that separate it from the Alticini, particularly in the structure of the and pronotum.

Aulacothorax copalina 362761201 by Justin Williams. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.Aulacothorax copalina 262722994 by Justin Williams. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.Aulacothorax copalina 262723001 by Justin Williams. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Serraticollini: //ˌsɛrətiˈkɒlɪnaɪ//

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Identification

Serraticollini can be distinguished from the superficially similar Alticini (flea beetles) by the serrate or pectinate , from which the tribe derives its name. Members lack the enlarged hind characteristic of flea beetles that enable jumping. The pronotum structure also differs from Alticini, with distinct lateral margins.

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Distribution

The Aulacothorax, the primary representative of Serraticollini, has a worldwide distribution with strong representation in the Indomalayan realm, where 40 of 51 described occur.

Similar Taxa

  • AlticiniHistorically confused with Serraticollini; distinguished by enlarged hind for jumping and non-serrate

Misconceptions

Aulacothorax was long considered a problematic member of Alticini due to superficial similarities, but morphological studies confirmed its distinct tribal status.

More Details

Taxonomic history

The tribe Serraticollini was erected to accommodate Aulacothorax, which had been difficult to place within the Galerucinae. The name refers to the saw-toothed (serrate) characteristic of the group.

Sources and further reading