Derelomus subcostatus
Boheman, 1844
Derelomus subcostatus Boheman, 1844 is a flower weevil (Curculionidae: Derelomini) now synonymized with D. chamaeropis (Fabricius, 1798). It belongs to the D. ephippiger group, comprising 12 species associated with male inflorescences of palms (Arecaceae). The species participates in -site pollination mutualisms, developing within palm flowers while effecting pollination.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Derelomus subcostatus: //ˌdɛrɛˈloʊməs ˌsʌbkɒˈsteɪtəs//
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Identification
As a junior synonym of D. chamaeropis, specimens previously identified as D. subcostatus should be referred to D. chamaeropis. The can be distinguished from other Derelomus species groups by its association with palm inflorescences and membership in the D. ephippiger group, characterized by specific morphological traits detailed in Haran et al. (2025).
Habitat
Male inflorescences of palms (Arecaceae: Chamaerops, Cocos, Phoenix).
Host Associations
- Chamaerops L. - breeding sitemale inflorescences; association inferred from D. ephippiger group membership
- Cocos L. - breeding sitemale inflorescences; association inferred from D. ephippiger group membership
- Phoenix L. - breeding sitemale inflorescences; association inferred from D. ephippiger group membership
Behavior
Participates in -site pollination mutualism with palm . develop within male palm inflorescences, with larvae feeding on floral tissues. Adult activity is confined to palm inflorescences.
Ecological Role
of palms through -site pollination mutualism. The weevil's reproductive dependence on palm flowers ensures pollen transfer between plants.
Similar Taxa
- Derelomus ephippiger Gyllenhal, 1836Congeneric member of the same group; shares palm associations and -site pollination
- Derelomus signatus Gyllenhal, 1836Belongs to a different group associated with Vachellia (Fabaceae) rather than palms; distinct preferences
- Derelomus pallidus Fåhraeus, 1844Belongs to a different group associated with Achariaceae and Ebenaceae; distinct preferences
More Details
Taxonomic status
D. subcostatus was proposed as a new synonym of D. chamaeropis (Fabricius, 1798) by Haran et al. (2025), with the latter name having priority. The synonymy was established through morphological examination and molecular analyses.
Species group placement
The D. ephippiger group contains 12 , the largest species group in the revised Afrotropical and Mediterranean Derelomus fauna. Group members share specialized adaptations for exploiting palm male inflorescences as breeding sites.