Study the taxonomy of Iranian species of Laccophilus Leach, 1817 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)

Abstract

In this study, the taxonomy of five new species of Laccophilus are described from Iran: L. hyalinus, L. minutus, L. sharpi, L. maindroni and L. poecilus. They can be easily distinguished from each other by the differences between the pattern of their elytra, shape of their prosternal process, hind coxal process. Additionally, size and shape of their penis and parameres, the position of denticles on their penis can be as other diagnostic features which be seen between these five species. Pattern of elytra is testaceous, without stripes in L. hyalinus and L. minutes, testaceous with wavy lines in L. poecilus and yellow to brown with blakish zigzag line in L. sharpi. Prosternal process doesn't reach to midcoxa in L. hyalinus and L. minutes. Penis has a small denticle at the apex of the dorsal surface in L. hyalinus, microdenticle medially in L. minutes. However, penis does not have any denticles in L. sharpi, L. maindroni and L. poecilus. Illustrations and photos of habitus, genitals and other morphological differences are provided for each species, as well as a key of the species is made ready.