Halocoryza Alluaud 1919, sea-side beetles of the Indian, Atlantic (sensu lato), and Pacific Oceans: a generic synopsis and description of a remarkable new species from Baja California Sur, México (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Scaritini, Clivinina)
2011

New Species of Sea-side Beetle from Baja California Sur, México

Sample size: 12 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Terry L. Erwin

Primary Institution: National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution

Hypothesis

Why does the newly discovered species Halocoryza whiteheadiana not fit the profile of other known species?

Conclusion

The new species Halocoryza whiteheadiana was found in a different habitat than previously known species, suggesting an ecological shift.

Supporting Evidence

  • A new species, Halocoryza whiteheadiana, was described from Isla Carmen, Baja California Sur, México.
  • The species was found at UV light on a beach, differing from other species that live in coralline sands or mangrove zones.
  • Two hypotheses regarding the ecological shift of this species were proposed.

Takeaway

Scientists found a new type of beetle on a beach in Mexico that lives differently from its relatives, and they want to learn why.

Methodology

The study involved reviewing collections and describing the new species based on morphological characteristics.

Limitations

The study is based on a limited number of specimens and may not represent the full diversity of the genus.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3897/zookeys.127.1748

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