Gymnognathus
Schoenherr, 1826
fungus weevils
Species Guides
2- Gymnognathus chiricahuae
- Gymnognathus triangularis(Triangular-necked Fungus Weevil)
Gymnognathus is a of fungus weevils ( Anthribidae) comprising more than 90 described . Members of this genus are predominantly associated with tropical moist forests, with some species occurring in subtropical humid forests at orographic rain barriers. At least one species, G. barclayi, exhibits apparent mimicry of calyptrate flies based on pronotal coloration patterns.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Gymnognathus: //dʒɪmˈnɒɡnəθəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Gymnognathus can be distinguished from related anthribid by features including the color and distribution of on the pronotum, ventrites, and , as well as pronotal width and pygidial spine development. The longitudinal stripes on the pronotum in some species resemble the patterning of tachinid or muscid flies.
Habitat
Tropical moist forests; some occur in subtropical humid forests where orographic conditions create increased humidity.
Distribution
Primarily Neotropical; documented from the southern Bolivian Andes (Tucuman-Bolivian forest) and other tropical regions. At least one is possibly to the Tucuman-Bolivian forest.
Behavior
G. barclayi has been observed to exhibit apparent mimicry of calyptrate flies (Tachinidae or Muscidae) based on the arrangement of longitudinal stripes on the pronotum.
Similar Taxa
- G. bohlsiClosely related distinguished by coloration and distribution on pronotum, fourth ventrite and , pronotal width, and pygidial spine development.
More Details
Conservation significance
The discovery of Gymnognathus in the Tucuman-Bolivian forest highlights this ecoregion as an hotspot for insects. The spatially restricted and threatened nature of this forest warrants re-assessment of its conservation status.