Genus Pentastiridius Kirschbaum

Genus Pentastiridius Kirschbaum 1868: 45
Type species: Flata pallens Germar 1821.
Subgenus Nesopompe Kirkaldy 1907: 107
Type species: Oliarus (Nesopompe) felis Kirkaldy 1906.

Known species: This is a widespread genus with a single species, P. felis, present in Australia.

Australian distribution: Qld, NSW

Notes: Holzinger et al. (2002) recognised seven subgenera in Pentastiridius including Nesopompe Kirkaldy which they transferred from Oliarus. The genus is easily recognised among Australian Pentastirini by the presence of platellae on the first and second hind tarsomeres (Löcker, et al. 2006a: 99). Some of the overseas species are distinguished by relatively insignificant differences in genitalic structures. Whether these are valid species needs to be further tested. If validated, then some minor variation in the Australian material may also indicate additional undescribed species are present.

• Return to previous key page
• Restart key
• See Tribe Pentastirini checklist for list of species