Larval Sphindidae (Coleoptera : Cucujoidea): phylogenetic implications and new descriptions

Anew phylogenetic hypothesis of Sphindidae (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea) is presented, based on a cladistic analysis of 15 larval morphology characters in addition to 39 adult morphology characters modified from a previous study by McHugh (1993). Results from the combined cladistic analyses show larval characters supporting several previously established relationships and resolving the placement of Notosphindus McHugh & Wheeler. The sister-group relationship between Carinisphindus McHugh and Sphindus Megerle in Dejean is not supported by the combined analyses. Larval characters did not show a disproportionately strong impact on the more basal nodes. Incongruence length difference analysis found an insignificant level of discordance (P = 0.197) between the adult and larval based data sets. Larval Notosphindus slateri McHugh & Wheeler, Genisphindus minor McHugh and Carinisphindus purpuricephalus McHugh & Lewis are described for the first time, representing the first larval descriptions for these genera. A literature review of immature stages of sphindid beetles and a generic level key to larvae of the family are provided.