Taxonomic review of Syzeuxis Hampson, 1895, with a discussion of biogeographical aspects (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae)

Abstract

The genus Syzeuxis Hampson, 1895 is reviewed. In addition to the 11 species known worldwide, two new species are described: S. furcalineas sp. nov. from Assam, India and S. pavonata sp. nov. from Yunnan, China. One new synonymy is given: S. miniocalaria Xue, 1999 is sunk in S. heteromeces Prout, 1926. All the known species are redescribed and lectotypes are designated for S. magnidica Prout, S. subfasciaria (Wehrli) and S. nigrinotata (Warren). Generic characters based on all species are summarized. Illustrations of moths and genitalia are presented. The tribal placement of the genus is discussed, with the conclusion that it should be placed in the tribe Trichopterygini. A pilot phylogenetic study based on morphological characters of Syzeuxis indicates that four species-groups can be identified. The biogeographical aspects of the genus are also discussed. Copyright © 2012 · Magnolia Press.