Integrative Approaches for Precise Identification and Range Delimitation of the Three Most Common European Leiopus species (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)

Abstract

Leiopus nebulosus (Linnaeus, 1758), L. linnei Wallin, Nylander & Kvamme, 2009 and L. femoratus Fairmaire, 1859 are the three most common European species of the long-horn beetle genus Leiopus Audinet-Serville, 1835. These species have often been misidentified due to their general morphological similarities. This study addresses the need for a simple and reliable method to differentiate L. nebulosus, L. linnei, and L. femoratus. Through the examination of a long series of specimens, specific morphological traits were identified, such as the shape of the femora on all legs and the width of the prosternal process, which allow for rapid and accurate differentiation between the three species. The findings led to the refinement of the diagnostic criteria for these species and the development of a straightforward identification key. Ecological niche modelling was employed to construct accurate global distribution maps for all three species. Additionally, the proposal to conserve the name Leiopus linnei under Article 23.9 of the Code was made.