Homalotina
Heer, 1839
Genus Guides
5Homalotina is a subtribe of aleocharine rove beetles (Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) comprising seven : Anomognathus, Cephaloxynum, Holisomimus, Homalota, Neomalota, Stenomastax, and Thecturota. It represents one of the most diverse lineages within Staphylinidae with a wide distribution. Phylogenetic relationships within the subtribe have been historically poorly understood; recent morphological analyses support its monophyly based on specific character states. Generic limits remain problematic, with Homalota and Stenomastax showing evidence of polyphyly.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Homalotina: /hɔməˈloʊtɪnə/
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Identification
The subtribe is defined by two synapomorphic morphological characters in : complete postoccipital on the , and macrosetae on the posterolateral margin of the metacoxae. Three additional homoplastic characters support the group: medial setae on the prementum not extended to the apex of the ligula, medial setae on the contiguous, and a slightly sinuate posterolateral angle of the . These characters are used to distinguish Homalotina from other subtribes within Homalotini.
Images
Distribution
Widely distributed; specific range details not documented in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- Other subtribes of HomalotiniHomalotina can be distinguished from other subtribes within Homalotini by the combination of complete postoccipital , metacoxal macrosetae, and specific mouthpart and elytral characters as defined in phylogenetic analyses.
More Details
Phylogenetic instability
Generic relationships within Homalotina differ depending on analytical method (equal weighting vs. implied weighting with varying k values), indicating ongoing taxonomic uncertainty. Homalota and Stenomastax are not monophyletic as currently defined, with distributed across multiple independent clades.
Taxonomic change
Homalota flavomaculata Bernhauer was transferred to Stenomastax as S. flavomaculata (Bernhauer) based on phylogenetic analysis.