Variation in elytral maculation of Cylindera sauteri (Horn, 1912) and Cylindera pseudocylindriformis (Horn, 1913) (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) in Taiwan

Abstract

The intraspecific variation in elytral maculation of Cylindera (Cylindera) sauteri (Horn, 1912) and Cylindera (Cylindera) pseudocylindriformis (Horn, 1913) (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) has not previously been studied in detail. We examined 211 specimens of C. sauteri from 100 localities and 102 specimens of C. pseudocylindriformis from 39 localities throughout Taiwan. Additional field surveys of C. sauteri were conducted to reduce potential collecting bias and to better document the natural frequency of maculation patterns. In C. pseudocylindriformis, the humeral spot showed pronounced sexual dimorphism, whereas the shape and thickness of the apical lunule varied with latitude. These patterns have not previously been reported for this species. Our results demonstrate that the full range of intraspecific variation should be considered before taxonomic conclusions are drawn from limited material.