The genus Raiboscelis Allard, 1876 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae): taxonomic history, nomenclature, morphology

Abstract

The present paper reviews the history of taxonomy and nomenclature of the genus Raiboscelis Allard, 1876. The original spelling of this genus name is Raibosceles. While Raibosceles was rarely used, the spelling Raiboscelis was adopted by many authors and is in prevailing usage. Consequently, it should be used to denote this taxon [ICZN Art. 33.3.1, and also 33.2.3.1]. The genus Hipponome Laporte, 1840 was established for Helops azureus Brullé, 1832, a valid species known as Raiboscelis azureus. Thus, Hipponome is a senior synonym of Raiboscelis. As Hipponome was not used as valid after 1899 to our knowledge, it may be declared nomen oblitum. Raiboscelis Allard, 1876 is currently used and here declared nomen protectum. The required supporting references [ICZN Art. 23.9.1.2] are annexed. The genus Raiboscelis is redefined and the relevant taxonomic characters are illustrated

Keywords

• Coleoptera
• Tenebrionidae
• Helopini
• Raiboscelis
• taxonomy
• nomenclature
• morphology