Morphological and Micromorphological Description of the Larvae of Two Endemic Species of Duvalius (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechini)

Simple Summary The Duvalius cave beetles have a wide distribution in the Palearctic region. They have distinct adaptations to life in soil and subterranean habitats. Our present study intends to extend the knowledge on the morphology of cave Carabidae by describing two larvae belonging to different species of Duvalius and the ultrastructural details with possible implications in taxonomy and ecology. These two species are endemic for limited areas in the northern and north-western Romanian Carpathians. Our study provides knowledge on the biology and ecology of the narrow endemic cave beetles and their larvae are important in conservation and to establish management measures. Endemic species are vulnerable to extinction and, at the same time, an important target of global conservation efforts. The morphological and ultrastructural descriptions of the larvae of two cave species of Trechini-Duvalius (Hungarotrechus) subterraneus (L. Miller, 1868) and Duvalius (Biharotrechus) paroecus (J. Frivaldszkyi, 1865)-are presented in this paper. The interest in studying these larvae lays in their rarity and the limited distribution of the Duvalius species. The larvae were collected from caves in the Romanian Carpathians and were examined under a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopy. New important taxonomical and fine morphological characteristics are discussed together with conclusions on the larvae microhabitat as part of the measures to be taken by a proper management of caves.

Automated summary

The study focuses on the morphology and ultrastructure of larvae of Duvalius cave beetles, aiming to expand knowledge on these species for conservation and management purposes. The larvae of two species were collected from caves in the Romanian Carpathians, providing valuable insights into their rare characteristics and limited distribution.