Cryptocephalomorpha thom Choi, Nomura & Park 2026, sp. nov.

Researchers have identified and described a new species of Cryptocephalomorpha beetle, named Cryptocephalomorpha thom, distinguished by its large size (over 6 mm) and unique morphological traits. This discovery is notable for combining the robust body structure typical of larger congeners with reduced elytral chaetotaxy found in smaller Oriental species. The species was recognized through a comparative analysis of external diagnostic characters, including body shape, coloration, elytral lateral structure, and sexual dimorphism, which were consistent across specimens from Cambodia and Thailand. The study employed detailed morphological examinations and measurements to differentiate C. thom from known congeners, particularly C. maxima, highlighting its incurved elytral margin and absence of the elytral lateroapical seta. The research also noted sexual dimorphism in abdominal sternite VI and tarsal adhesive setae, providing further evidence for conspecificity.

Choi, J. B., Nomura, S., Kwon, T., Choi, E., & Park, J. K. (2026). Cryptocephalomorpha thom Choi, Nomura & Park 2026, sp. nov. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.21302742