Valgini
Mulsant, 1842
Genus Guides
1Valgini is a small tribe of scarab beetles within the Cetoniinae. Members are characterized by their compact, flattened bodies covered with and -like setae—a trait shared only with the unrelated Hopliini among scarab tribes. Most occur in the Old World, with some representatives in the New World. are flower visitors, with males possessing specially modified brush-like mouthparts for nectar feeding. Many species exhibit termitophily, with larvae developing in galleries.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Valgini: /ˈval.dʒɪ.ni/
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Images
Distribution
Most occur in the Old World. New World representatives are present but less diverse.
Life Cycle
are laid in galleries; larvae feed on wood within these galleries. The nature of the termite association—whether obligatory or facultative—remains unclear.
Behavior
males visit flowers to feed on nectar using brush-like mouthparts; females do not visit flowers. Adults do not feed on pollen.
Similar Taxa
- HopliiniShares the distinctive trait of and -like setae with Valgini, though the two tribes are not closely related and differ in and distribution.
- Other Cetoniinae tribesValgini can be distinguished by the combination of compact flattened body form, -like setae covering and surfaces and legs, and male-specific flower-visiting with modified mouthparts.