Tropimerus hovorei Click here for a complete larger view

Diagnosis.--Key characters: Ommatidial size fine (Fig. 39b); transvese ridges on pronotal disc absent; raised ivory calli on elytra absent; pro- and metafemoral carinae absent; mesofemoral carinae present (Fig. 23); procoxal cavities open posteriorly (Fig. 18); median pronotal callus absent; long, coarse, erect hairs absent; elytra without large, pale maculations; elytral apices rounded and produced acuminately, without spines; meso- and metafemora clavate (Fig. 37b); third antennomere twice as long as fourth. Length: 6-8 mm.

Distribution and Diversity.--México to Costa Rica. Two species.

Discussion.--No specimens of Tropimerus were available for dissection and disarticulation and therefore were not included in the phylogenetic analysis. In form and habits they are most similar to Stenosphenus, which they closely resemble. They are distinguished by their uniquely acuminate, unspined elytral apices, the less anteriorly rounded and constricted pronotum; and the presence of mesofemoral carinae. Giesbert (1987) also discusses the presence of a sixth abdominal sternite in males. This is always present, however, but usually not visible because it is withdrawn into the abdomen.