Distribution and morphometrical variability of Ptomaphagus (Merodiscus) validus (Coleoptera: Leiodidae: Cholevinae)

Abstract: New data on the distribution of Ptomaphagus (Merodiscus) validus (Kraatz, 1852) from Central and south-eastern Europe are presented. The known distributional range is extended as the species is reported from northern Hungary (in the present delimitation), Slovenia, Croatia and Bulgaria for the first time; further records from Serbia and Romania are given. All available distributional records are mapped. The variability of an additional character of certain diagnostical importance (ratio of antennomere III to II) is discussed. This ratio is positively correlated to the total body size (represented by the pronotal width) in P. (M.) validus, and its values overlap in the latter species and in the closely related P. (A/.) biharicus Jeannel, 1934.

Key words: Distribution, variability, Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae, Ptomaphagus (Merodiscus) validus, Central and south-eastern Europe