Andris Bukejs , Andrei A. Legalov

A new species of the genus Dorytomus Germar, 1817 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) from Baltic amber

Introduction

A new species of the genus dorytomus germar, 1817 (coleoptera: curculionidae) from baltic amber. Discover Dorytomus groehni Bukejs & Legalov sp. n., a new beetle species (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) described from Eocene Baltic amber, highlighting its unique morphology.

Abstract

A new species, Dorytomus groehni Bukejs & Legalov sp. n. is described and illustrated from Eocene Baltic amber. The new species differs from D. nudus Legalov, 2016 primarily in longer and wider body size, narrower and longer rostrum, slightly convex interstriae distinctly wider than elytral striae and finely punctate pronotum with semierect setae.

Review

This manuscript presents the description of a new fossil species, *Dorytomus groehni* sp. n., belonging to the genus *Dorytomus* (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) from Eocene Baltic amber. The identification and formal description of new species, particularly from significant fossil deposits like Baltic amber, are crucial for advancing our understanding of insect evolution, paleobiodiversity, and the phylogenetic history of extant groups. This paper makes a valuable contribution to the field of paleoentomology and curculionid systematics by expanding the known fossil record of this widespread weevil genus. The authors have meticulously characterized *Dorytomus groehni* sp. n. based on fossil material. The abstract clearly outlines the key diagnostic features distinguishing the new species from its closest known fossil relative, *D. nudus Legalov, 2016*. These differences, including body size, rostrum dimensions, elytral interstriae characteristics, and pronotal punctation and setation, provide a robust basis for its taxonomic separation. Such detailed morphological comparisons are essential for accurate species delineation in both extant and fossil taxa, ensuring the validity and utility of the new description. The context of Baltic amber further underscores the significance of this discovery, offering a rare glimpse into the insect fauna of the Eocene epoch. Overall, this appears to be a well-executed and important piece of descriptive taxonomy. The clear and concise differentiation provided in the abstract suggests that the full manuscript likely contains comprehensive illustrations and detailed morphological descriptions, which are paramount for such works. The addition of *Dorytomus groehni* sp. n. to the fossil record enriches our understanding of weevil diversity during the Eocene and contributes valuable data for future phylogenetic analyses of the genus *Dorytomus*. This publication will undoubtedly be of interest to coleopterists, paleontologists, and researchers studying insect evolution and amber inclusions.

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