Description of the first instar larvae of three species of Meloe with a key to the triungulins of Central European species of this genus (Coleoptera: Meloidae)

Abstract

The first instar larvae (triungulins) of Meloe (Meloegonius Reitter) rufiventris Germar, 1817, M. (Micromeloe Reitter) uralensis Pallas, 1777 and M. (Eurymeloe Reitter) scabriusculus Brandt & Erichson, 1832 are described, which were before unknown. The systematic relationship to closely related species is discussed. A key is included which allows to identify all triungulins of the genus Meloe from Central Europe.

Keywords

• taxonomy
• coleoptera
• meloidae
• first instar larvae
• meloe rufiventris
• meloe uralensis
• meloe scabriusculus
• key