The Rediscovery and Life History of the Enigmatic Weevil <i>Hypera libanotidis</i> (Coleoptera: Curculionidae): A Description of the Mature Larva and Pupa After More than a Century.

Abstract

Last instar larva and pupa of <i>Hypera libanotidis</i> Reitter, 1896 (Curculionidae: Hyperini) are described for the first time and compared with 44 other hyperine taxa. Larval morphology generally matches the diagnostic characters of Hyperini but shows distinctive traits, including thorn-like setae on conspicuous black protuberances, relatively long body setae, and dense spiculate coverings in larvae and pupae. Several unusual pupal characters, such as an atypical mesocoxal seta and a peculiar spiracular covering, further distinguish this species. These characters indicate close morphological affinity with species within the subgenus <i>Eririnomorphus</i> and also the genus <i>Metadonus</i>, suggesting a potentially close phylogenetic relationship. Biological observations confirm typical hyperine traits, including ectophytic larval feeding, cryptic coloration, and cocoon construction prior to pupation. Larval coloration, especially in early instars, partly corresponds with the host plant <i>Libanotis pyrenaica</i>. Larvae pupate in mesh-like cocoons on host plant remains, and no larval parasitism was observed. The species is associated with xerothermic loess grasslands, with adults apparently overwintering.