Hidden diversity in the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest: the discovery of Jurasaidae, a new beetle family (Coleoptera, Elateroidea) with neotenic females

Researchers have uncovered a new beetle family, Jurasaidae, within the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest, one of the planet's most biodiverse yet endangered ecosystems. This discovery, based on newly collected material, introduces three species in two genera, distinguished by their soft-bodied, neotenic females and varying degrees of morphological divergence across life stages. Phylogenetic analysis places Jurasaidae as a basal lineage within Elateroidea, closely related to rare click beetles (Cerophytidae), with shared larval traits such as modified mouthparts supporting this classification. The limited dispersal capability and cryptic lifestyle of the wingless females, tied to long-term stable habitats, underscore the Atlantic rainforest's critical role in biodiversity conservation. This finding highlights the ongoing potential for new discoveries even in well-studied insect groups like beetles.

Rosa, S. P., Costa, C., Kramp, K., & Kundrata, R. (2020). Hidden diversity in the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest: the discovery of Jurasaidae, a new beetle family (Coleoptera, Elateroidea) with neotenic females. Scientific Reports, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-58416-6