European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25

http://dx.doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2015.115

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

ISSN 2118-9773

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2015 • Bresseel J. & Constant J.

Research article

urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:F149CAD2-808E-4260-9DEC-8849CF83B100

The new genus of stick insect Lobofemora from Vietnam, with the

description of three new species (Phasmida: Phasmatidae: Clitumnini)

Joachim BRESSEEL 1 & Jerome CONSTANT 2

12 Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, O.D. Phylogeny and Taxonomy, Entomology,

Vautier street 29, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium.

1 Email: [email protected] (corresponding author)

2 Email: [email protected]

1 urn:lsid:zoobank.org:author:3C4EF358-9716-46F0-8575-26BElEDE4349

2 urn:lsid:zoobank.org:author:6E6072Al-9415-4C8D-8E60-2504444DB290

Abstract. The new genus Lobofemora gen. nov. is described from Vietnam to accommodate three new

species: L. bachmaensis sp. nov. (Bach Ma National Park, central Vietnam), L. bidoupensis sp. nov.

(Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park, central Vietnam) and L. scheirei sp. nov., the type species (Cat Tien

National Park and Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve, south Vietnam). It is provisionally placed in the tribe

Clitumnini Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893. The genus is the only known Clitumnini which shows tegmina

and sometimes alae in the males. Females show conspicuous foliaceous lobes on the median femora.

Males and females of all species and the eggs of L. scheirei sp. nov. and L. bidoupensis sp. nov. are

described and illustrated. An identification key to the species and a distribution map are provided. The

definition of the tribe Clitumnini sensu Hennemann & Conle (2008) is slightly adapted to include the

new genus and the tribal placement is discussed. The male of L. scheirei sp. nov. is able to stridulate by

rubbing the outer margins of the tegmina against the subcostal and radial veins of the alae.

Keywords. Phasmatodea, stridulation, Global Taxonomic Initiative, South-East Asia, walking stick.

Bresseel J. & Constant J. 2015. The new genus of stick insect Lobofemora from Vietnam, with the description of

three new species (Phasmida: Phasmatidae: Clitumnini). European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25. http://dx.doi.

org/10.5852/eit.2015.115

Introduction

The tribe Clitumnini Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893 was recently re-diagnosed and revised on the

generic level by Hennemann & Conle (2008). The tribe comprises fourteen genera, some of which

are very species rich, e.g., Ramulus Saussure, 1862 (171 species, see Brock 2015) and Entoria Stal,

1875 (31 species, see Brock 2015). Recent expeditions to Vietnam in the frame of a Global Taxonomic

Initiative project by the authors and Vietnamese colleagues have revealed three congeneric new species

that could not be attributed to any known genus. Following the key of Hennemann & Conle (2008),

the new genus belongs in the tribe Clitumnini showing the following typical features: small to medium

sized species with body lengths ranging from 71.2 to 95.5 mm in females and 52.5 to 74.0 mm in males;

elongate legs; sexual dimorphism distinct; antennae shortened with the scapus enlarged, laterally dilated

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European Journal of Taxonomy 115 : 1-25 ( 2015 )

and consisting of less than 28 segments; both sexes with short, roughly cylindrical cerci; males with the

anal segment consisting of two movable semitergites which are minutely dentated interiorly and lack a

developed sclerotised external vomer. Furthermore, the very elongate eggs and hairy appendages on the

outer border of the capitulum is a character shared with three other genera of Clitumnini.

The new genus, however, violates several characters of Clitumnini; hence, it is remarkable and interesting

in several aspects. The mesothorax is less than 2.5 x the combined length of head and prothorax in

females. The median segment is about as long as the metanotum. Tegmina and often alae present in

males, males have teeth on the mesofemora and have a granulose thorax. Females with back of the head

raised and/or conical.

The new genus is described below as Lobofemora gen. nov. and is currently known from different localities in

Central and South Vietnam. Lobofemora scheirei sp. nov. was found in the lowlands of Dong Nai Biosphere

Reserve and Cat Tien National Park, both located in Southern Vietnam. Lobofemora bidoupensis sp. nov.

is described from the highlands of Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park and Lobofemora bachmaensis sp. nov. is

recorded from Bach Ma National Park in the Annamite Mountains, Central Vietnam.

Material and methods

Due to their nocturnal behaviour, most Phasmida including the genus Lobofemora gen. nov. were collected

at night. A light-weight and water-proof head torch, Petzl MYO RXP, was used during searching the

vegetation. The females were kept alive in a plastic box for producing eggs. Hatchlings of the different

species were reared to adulthood by the first author and Dr Bruno Kneubiihler (Switzerland). The wild

caught specimens were euthanized with ethyl acetate fumes. The specimens were then stored in airtight

plastic “zip”-bags in wood chips (used in rodent cages) and sprinkled with ethyl acetate (EtOAc) to

prevent rotting, mould and keeping the specimens flexible. The bags are then frozen on arrival and the

specimens are mounted later on.

The egg morphology follows the terminology of Clark Sellick (1997, 1998). The description of the

colouration is based on live specimens.

Acronyms used for the collections

BMNH

FHC

MNHU

RBINS

RMNH

VNMN

ZMUH

ZSMC

Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom

Frank Hennemann Collection, Hohenecken, Germany

Museum fur Naturlcunde der Humboldt-Universitat, Berlin, Germany

Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Belgium

Nationaal Natuurhistorisch Museum (Naturalis), Leiden, The Netherlands

Vietnam National Museum of Nature, Vietnamese Academy of Sciences, Hanoi, Vietnam

Zoologisches Museum, Universitat Hamburg, Germany

Zoologische Staatssammlung Miinchen, Germany

Results

Family Phasmatidae Gray, 1835 sensu lato

Subfamily Clitumninae Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893

Tribe Clitumnini Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893

We follow the definition of the tribe proposed by Hennemann & Conle (2008: 67), except for the

following characters:

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BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

E The length of the median segment: Clitumnini have the median segment strongly shortened and at

most % the length of the metanotum; Lobofemora gen. nov. has the median segment about as long as

the metanotum.

2. Relative length of mesothorax: Clitumnini have the mesothorax at least 2.5 x the combined length of

head and prothorax; Lobofemora gen. nov. has the mesothorax shorter than twice the combined length

of head and prothorax.

Genus Lobofemora gen. nov.

urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:5EBCBEFl-D0EA-4433-9B85-287709869730

Type species

Lobofemora scheirei sp. nov. by present designation.

Etymology

The name of the new genus is formed by the juxtaposition of lobus (Latin), meaning lobe and “femora”.

The name refers to the foliaceous lobes on the median legs of the females.

Diagnosis

Differing from all other know genera of Clitu mnin i by the following combination of characters:

1. Females with back of head more or less strongly raised, granulose and conical.

2. Males with at least some scale-like tegmina present, sometimes with developed alae.

3. Median segment about as long as or longer than metanotum.

4. Females with conspicuous enlarged lobes on mesofemora and males occasionally with dorsal teeth

on the mesofemora.

5. Mesothorax less than 2.5 x the length of head and pronotum combined.

6. Semi-tergites of males very short and broad and thorax densely granulose.

Description

Male

Head. Longer than wide, slightly tapering posteriorly and granulose. Vertex elongated. Dorsal portion

of head flattened, with two definite spines positioned at posterior margin of eyes and projecting dorsally.

Eyes circular and strongly projecting hemispheric ally. Scapus flattened dorso-ventrally and rounded

laterally. Pedicellus cylindrical.

Thorax. Pronotum shorter than head and slightly widening posteriorly. Anterior margin incurved

and raised, followed by faint, median longitudinal impression, not reaching posterior margin. Central

transverse impression not reaching lateral edges of pronotum. Mesonotum granulose, widening posteriorly.

Fine median longitudinal line. Tegmina completely developed or present as small scales. Alae absent,

micropterous or brachypterous. Metanotum shorter than median segment. Meso- and metasternum with

posteriorly, between legs, Y-shaped impression, antero-laterally resulting in two minute pseudo-foramina.

Abdomen. Abdominal segments slightly granulose and with fine median, longitudinal line. Tergum X

with median, longitudinal carina, apically split into two semi-tergites. Inner apical rim of semi-tergites

armed with several spines. Apex of semi-tergites obliquely pointing downwards. Posterolateral angles

rounded. Poculum rounded, slightly projecting over apex of abdominal tergum IX. Apex of poculum

narrower and rounded. No sclerotised vomer present. Cerci short, not reaching apex of tergum X,

incurving, circular in cross-section, apices rounded.

Legs. Profemora slightly longer than head and thorax combined; compressed and curved basally.

Anterodorsal carina with few, small serrations.

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European Journal of Taxonomy 115 : 1-25 ( 2015 )

Female

Head. Longer than wide, slightly tapering posteriorly and strongly granulose. Vertex elongated and

with a shallow longitudinal impression. Dorsal portion of head flattened, with transverse, laterally acute

ridge at posterior margin of eyes. Eyes circular and projecting hemispherically. Antennae short, with

scapus strongly dorso-ventrally flattened and with lateral margins rounded. Apical half with very short

segments.

Thorax. Pronotum shorter than head and granulose. Anterior margin incurved and raised, followed

by median longitudinal impression, not reaching posterior margin. Transverse im pression in middle,

not reaching lateral edges of pronotum. Mesonotum granulose, with fine median longitudinal line.

Metanotum with anterior margin weakly incurved and raised, longer than wide and strongly granulose.

Meso- and metasternum as in male.

Abdomen. Terga granulose, with fine median, longitudinal line. Tergum X with median, longitudinal

carina; notched posteriorly; posterolateral angles rounded. Epiproct elongated. Subgenital plate slightly

elongated, just projecting over apex of tergum X and with median longitudinal carina; apex acute. Cerci

short, not reaching apex of tergum X. Gonapophyses VIII elongated, reaching apex of epiproct.

Legs. Pro femora longer than head, pronotum and mesonotum combined; compressed and curved basally.

Anterodorsal carina with small serrations. Mesofemora with posterodorsal carina, with two to three

lobes, anterior one being most prominent. Protibiae longer than head and thorax combined. Mesotibiae

slightly longer than mesofemora. Metatibiae shorter than pro femora.

Distribution

Currently known from different localities in Central and South Vietnam (see map Fig. 1).

Species included and distribution

Lobofemora bachmaensis sp. nov. [Bach Ma National Park]

Lobofemora bidoupensis sp. nov. [Bidoup Nui Ba National Park]

Lobofemora scheirei sp. nov. [Cat Tien National Park and Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve]

Keys to the species of Lobofemora gen. nov.

Males

1. Alae developed, projecting over posterior margin of median segment (Fig. 6D, H).

. L. scheirei sp. nov.

- Alae scale-like or absent (Figs 2D, H; 4D, H).2

2. Tegmina scale-like, flattened, just projecting over anterior margin of metanotum; alae absent

(Fig. 2D, H); posterodorsal carina of mesotibiae with conspicuous triangular tooth (Fig. 2B).

. L. bachmaensis sp. nov.

- Tegmina reaching halfway along metanotum, convex; alae scale-like (Fig. 4D, H); posterodorsal

carina of mesotibiae unarmed (Fig. 4B). L. bidoupensis sp. nov.

Females

1. Mesofemora with two lobes on posterodorsal carina: more basal one prominent; more apical one

present as subapical triangular spine (Fig. 3D); vertex projecting posteriorly, almost reaching

halfway along pronotum length (Fig. 3E, I). L. bachmaensis sp. nov.

- Mesofemora with three lobes on posterodorsal carina: most basal one most prominent and gradually

becoming smaller; most apical one present as subapical triangular spine (Figs 5D, 7D); vertex rounded

or slightly elongated posteriorly, not surpassing y 3 of pronotum length (Figs 5E, I; 7E, I).2

4

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

2. Posterodorsal carina of profemora armed with two enlarged triangular bispinose teeth; medioventral

carina of metatibiae armed with two small triangular lobes anteriorly (Fig. 5D); vertex rounded

posteriorly (Fig. 5E, I). L. bidoupensis sp. nov.

- Posterodorsal carina of profemora unarmed; medioventral carina of metatibiae without triangular

lobes anteriorly (Fig. 7D); vertex slightly elongated posteriorly (Fig. 7E, I). L. scheirei sp. nov.

20° N

16°N

12°N

0 Lobomedaura bachmaensis sp. nov.

% Lobomedaura bidoupensis sp. nov.

Lobomedaura scheirei sp. nov.

108°E

Fig. 1 . Distribution map of the species of Lobofemora gen. nov.

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European Journal of Taxonomy 115 : 1-25 ( 2015 )

Fig. 2. Lobofemora bachmaensis sp. nov. $, holotype. A. Habitus, dorsal view. B. Habitus, lateral

view. C. Habitus, ventral view. D. Anterior part of body, dorsal view. E. Apex of abdomen, dorsal view.

F. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. G. Apex of abdomen, ventral view. H. Anterior part of body, lateral

view. D-H = not to scale.

6

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

Fig. 3. Lobofemora bachmaensis sp. nov. §, paratype. A. Habitus, dorsal view. B. Habitus, lateral view.

C. Habitus, ventral view. D. Right median leg, detail. E. Anterior part of body, dorsal view. F. Apex of

abdomen, dorsal view. G. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. H. Apex of abdomen, ventral view. I. Anterior

part of body, lateral view. D-I = not to scale.

7

50 mm

European Journal of Taxonomy 115 : 1-25 ( 2015 )

Fig. 4. Lobofemora bidoupensis sp. nov. holotype. A. Habitus, dorsal view. B. Habitus, lateral view.

C. Habitus, ventral view. D. Anterior part of body, dorsal view. E. Apex of abdomen, dorsal view.

F. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. G. Apex of abdomen, ventral view. H. Anterior part of body, lateral

view. D-H = not to scale.

8

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

Fig. 5. Lobofemora bidoupensis sp. nov. A-I. paratype. A. Habitus, dorsal view. B. Habitus, lateral

view. C. Habitus, ventral view. D. Right median leg, detail. E. Anterior part of body, dorsal view.

F. Apex of abdomen, dorsal view. G. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. H. Apex of abdomen, ventral view.

I. Anterior part of body, lateral view. J-N. Egg. J. Detail of micropylar plate. K. Lateral view. L. Ventral

view. M. Detail of polar area. N. Detail of operculum. O. Eggs. D-I, O = not to scale.

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European Journal of Taxonomy 115 : 1-25 ( 2015 )

>

Fig. 6. Lobofemora scheirei sp. nov. holotype. A. Habitus, dorsal view. B. Habitus, lateral view.

C. Habitus, ventral view. D. Anterior part of body, dorsal view. E. Apex of abdomen, dorsal view.

F. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. G. Apex of abdomen, ventral view. H. Anterior part of body, lateral

view. D-H = not to scale.

10

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

Fig. 7. Lobofemora scheirei sp. nov. paratype. A. Habitus, dorsal view. B. Habitus, lateral view.

C. Habitus, ventral view. D. Right median leg, detail. E. Anterior part of body, dorsal view. F. Apex of

abdomen, dorsal view. G. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. H. Apex of abdomen, ventral view. I. Anterior

part of body, lateral view. D-I = not to scale.

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European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25 (2015)

Lobofemora bachmaensis sp. nov.

um:lsid:zoobank.org:act:87AC14B9-A8A9-48E8-98C4-69A8A8162F67

Figs 1, 2, 3, 10A-C

Etymology

The species epithet refers to the type-locality, Bach Ma National Park in central Vietnam.

Type material

Holotype

VIETNAM: “Coll. I.R.Sc.N.B., C Vietnam, Bach Ma N.P., 16°12’N 107°52 , E, 12-17.vii.2011, leg.

J. Constant & J. Bresseel, I.G.: 31.933” (RBINS).

Paratypes (l 8, 3 5 ?, 1 $ nymph)

VIETNAM: same collection data as for holotype (RBINS; 1 8, 1 $: VNMN).

Description

Male (Fig. 2)

Measurements. See Table 1.

Body. Complete body more or less uniformly brown with blackish markings, somet im es with vague

longitudinal darker line. Basitarsi and curved anterior part of profemora paler. Prosternum with

conspicuous black, longitudinal median line.

Head. Longer than wide, slightly tapering posteriorly and granulose. Vertex elongated, projecting over

anterior margin of pronotum. Dorsal portion of head flattened, with two definite spines projecting

dorsally at posterior margin of eyes. Eyes circular and strongly projecting hemispherically. Antennae

projecting over posterior margin of median segment, with 23 segments. Scapus strongly flattened dorso-

ventrally and laterally rounded. Pedicellus cylindrical.

Thorax. Pronotum almost rectangular and granulose, shorter than head and slightly widening posteriorly.

Anterior margin incurved and raised, followed by faint, median longitudinal impression, not reaching

posterior margin. Central transverse impression not reaching lateral edges of pronotum. Mesonotum

about five times as long as pronotum and strongly granulose, widening posteriorly; three larger, spinose

tubercles on each side, with largest one in middle; fine median longitudinal line. Tegmina with inner

portion blackish and outer portion pale cream coloured, short, flattened and just projecting over anterior

margin of metanotum; apically rounded. Alae absent. Metanotum with faint median line, shorter than

median segment.

Abdomen. Abdominal segments II-V gradually increasing in length; V-VI about the same length,

slightly granulose and with fine median, longitudinal line. Granules more concentrated along median

line. Tergum VII shorter than tergum II. Tergum VIII about half as long as tergum II, slightly widening

posteriorly. Tergum IX shorter than VIII and tectiform. Tergum X about as long as VIII and with median

longitudinal carina; apically split into two semi-tergites. Inner apical rim of semi-tergite armed with

several spines; apex obliquely pointing downwards. Posterolateral angles rounded. Poculum rounded,

slightly projecting over apex of abdominal tergum IX. Apex of poculum narrower and rounded. Cerci

short, not reaching apex of tergum X, incurving, circular in cross-section, with apices rounded.

Legs. Profemora slightly longer than head and thorax combined; compressed and curved basally.

Anterodorsal carina with few, small serrations. Serrations mostly anteriorly. Other carinae unarmed.

Mesofemora slightly shorter than head, pro- and mesonotum combined. Posterodorsal carina with two

12

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

enlarged triangular spines, one central and one subapical. Anteroventral carina with single triangular

subapical spine. Metafemora longer than mesofemora, but shorter than profemora. Protibiae longer

than profemora and unarmed. Mesotibiae slightly longer than mesofemora. Posterodorsal carina with

triangular spine in basal half. Anterodorsal carina with minute subapical spine. Ventral carinae unarmed.

Metatibiae with minute saw-like spines in apical half on the outer carinae.

Female (Figs 3, 10A-C)

Measurements. See Table 1.

Body. Complete body more or less uniformly brown with blackish markings, somet im es with vague

longitudinal darker line. Basitarsi and curved anterior part of profemora paler. Prosternum with

conspicuous black, longitudinal median line.

Head. Longer than wide, slightly tapering posteriorly and strongly granulose. Vertex elongated, almost

reaching halfway pronotum. Vertex with enlarged granules apically and asymmetrical: vertex split by

shallow longitudinal impression, right hump slightly more pronounced than left one. Dorsal portion

of head flattened, with transverse, laterally acute ridge at posterior margin of eyes. Eyes circular and

projecting hemispheric ally. Antennae short, with 25 segments. Scapus strongly flattened dorso-ventrally

and rounded laterally. Pedicellus slightly flattened dorso-ventrally. Apical half with very short segments,

apical segment about as long as three preceding segments together. Genae granulose.

Thorax. Pronotum trapezoidal, widening posteriorly; shorter than head and slightly granulose. Anterior

margin incurved and raised, followed by median longitudinal impression, not reaching posterior margin.

Central transverse impression not reaching lateral edges of pronotum. Mesonotum about four times as

long as pronotum and strongly granulose, with fine median longitudinal line. Lateral edges with some

larger blunt tubercles. Metanotum with anterior margin weakly incurved and raised, longer than wide

and strongly granulose. Median segment 1.5 times longer than wide and granulose.

Abdomen. Abdominal segments II-VI gradually increasing in length, granulose and with fine median,

longitudinal line. Tergum VII about as long as tergum II; sometimes with stalked, irregularly shaped

tubercles. Tergum VIII shorter than tergum II, slightly widening posteriorly. Posterior margin weakly

incurved. Tergum IX with anterior margin slightly convex, posterior margin slightly narrower and

tectiform. Tergum X about as long as IX and with median, longitudinal carina; notched posteriorly and

with posterolateral angles rounded. Epiproct elongated, slightly shorter than abdominal tergum X and

with median, longitudinal carina; tectiform and apically rounded. Subgenital plate elongated, slightly

projecting over apex of tergum X, with median longitudinal carina; apex acute. Cerci short, not reaching

apex of tergum X. Gonapophyses strongly elongated, reaching apex of epiproct.

Legs. Pro femora longer than head, pronotum and mesonotum combined; compressed and curved basally.

Anterodorsal carina with small serrations, more prominent anteriorly. Posterodorsal carina indistinct

with sometimes (two out of three specimens) an enlarged triangular lobe. Ventral carina present and

unarmed. Mesofemora with postero-dorsal carina with two lobes; anterior one most prominent. Anterior

lobe resulting in different spines; other lobe with one apical spine. Anteroventral carina with three

lobes. Basal lobe less prominent and inconspicuous; median and subapical ones with several spines.

Posteroventral carina with base more prominent and one subapical lobe. Metafemora with posterodorsal

carina sparsely serrated with triangular spines. Posteroventral carina with small triangular lobe basally

and with two spines subapically; the latter strongly elongated and “wire”-like (absent in one of the

females). Protibiae longer than head and thorax combined. Dorsal carina with small, inconspicuous

triangular lobes. Mesotibiae about as long as mesofemora. Posterodorsal carina with conspicuous lobe

basally; anterodorsal carina with minute triangular spine near apex. Medioventral carina with conspicuous

lobe mirroring the one on posterodorsal carina, and with minute black serrations. Metatibiae shorter than

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European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25 (2015)

Table 1. Measurements (mm) of Lobofemora bachmaensis sp. nov. HT = holotype; PT = paratype(s).

HT $

pt 22

PT $

Body

74.0

87.3-95.5

69.2

Head

4.1

6.5-7.5

3.6

Pronotum

2.4

3.6-4.2

2.8

Mesonotum

14.0

15.3-16.6

12.8

Metanotum

3.7

5.5-6.0

3.7

Median segment

6.2

5.8-6.2

6.0

Profemora

34.8

31.6-32.1

29.6

Mesofemora

17.1

16.2-17.0

16.3

Metafemora

24.5

22.9-25.1

22.3

Protibiae

39.7

35.5-36.7

30.9

Mesotibiae

18.4

16.7-17.6

19.2

Metatibiae

29.4

27.3-28.2

27.0

Tegmina

0.8

—

pro femora; postero ventral carina with few triangular serrations; posterodorsal carina with subapical

triangular spine.

Egg

Unknown.

Distribution

So far only known from Bach Ma National Park in central Vietnam (Fig. 1).

Lobofemora bidoupensis sp. nov.

urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:BA44BAFF-F44A-4476-ABF5-536CADC27B0E

Figs 1, 4, 5, 8, 10D-G

Etymology

The species epithet refers to the type-locality, Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park in central Vietnam.

Type material

Holotype

VIETNAM: “Coll. I.R.Sc.N.B., Vietnam, Lam Dong prov., Bidoup-Nui Ba N.P, 12 0 26’N 108°30’E,

21-25.vii.2014, night coll.. Leg. J. Constant & J. Bresseel, GTI Project, I.G.: 32.779” (RBINS).

Paratypes (10 SS, 4 ? ?)

VIETNAM: 6 $$, 1 $: same collection data as for holotype (RBINS); 4 $$, 3 $ $: “Coll. I.R.Sc.N.B.,

ex breeding J. Bresseel 2015, origin: Vietnam, Lam Dong prov., Bidoup-Nui Ba N.P, 12°26’N 108°30’E,

21-25.vii.2014, J. Constant & J. Bresseel, GTI Project, I.G.: 32.779” (RBINS; 1 <$, 1 ?: VNMN).

Description

Male (Figs 4, 8F-G, 10D)

Measurements. See Table 2.

Body. Base of femora pale brown, darkening towards apex. Tibiae mottled black and pale brown. Head

with dorsal surface pale brown. Body darker brown with some black markings.

14

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

Head. Longer than wide, slightly tapering posteriorly and granulose. Vertex slightly elongated. Dorsal

portion of head flattened with two spines projecting dorsally at posterior margin of eyes. Eyes circular

and strongly projecting hemispherically. Antennae with 21 segments. Scapus strongly flattened dorso-

ventrally and rounded laterally. Pedicellus cylindrical. Upper part of genae granulose.

Thorax. Pronotum longer than wide, almost rectangular and granulose, shorter than head; anterior

margin incurved, followed by median longitudinal impression not reaching posterior margin; short,

central, transverse impression not reaching lateral edges of pronotum. Mesonotum about six times as

long as pronotum and strongly granulose, widening posteriorly, with fine median longitudinal line.

Tegmina brown, short and slightly tapering posteriorly, not projecting over metanotum. Alae present as

small scales, brown.

Abdomen. Abdominal segments II-V gradually increasing in length, V-VI about the same length, slightly

granulose. Tergum VII shorter than tergum III. Tergum VIII about half as long as tergum II, slightly

widening posteriorly. Tergum IX shorter than VIII and tectiform. Tergum X about as long as VIII and

with median longitudinal carina; apically split into two semi-tergites. Inner apical rim of semi-tergite

armed with several spines. Apex of semi-tergites obliquely pointing downwards; posterolateral angles

rounded. Poculum rounded, slightly projecting over apex of abdominal tergum IX. Apex of poculum

narrower and rounded. Cerci short, not reaching apex of tergum X, cylindrical in cross-section, with

apices rounded.

Legs. Pro femora slightly longer than head and thorax combined; compressed and curved basally;

dorsal carinae with few, minute spines; ventral carinae unarmed. Mesofemora longer than pro- and

mesonotum combined; posterodorsal carina with two triangular spines and minute spine subapically;

other carinae with few minute spines. Metafemora longer than head, pro-, meso- and metanotum

combined; posterodorsal carina with four minute spines. Protibiae longer than profemora and unarmed.

Mesotibiae slightly longer than mesofemora; medioventral carina with conspicuous, small triangular

lobe. Metatibiae with minute saw-like spines in apical half on all carinae; medioventral carina with

conspicuous triangular spine in anterior half.

Female (Figs 5, 8A-E, 10E-G)

Measurements. See Table 2.

Body. Complete body ranging from uniformly brown to mottled brown-black with some green and

white markings. Prosternum with conspicuous black, longitudinal line.

Head. Longer than wide, slightly tapering posteriorly and granulose. Vertex slightly elongated and slightly

asymmetrical: vertex split by shallow longitudinal impression; right portion slightly more pronounced

than left one. Dorsal portion of head flattened, with transverse, laterally acute ridge at posterior margin

of eyes; ridge split centrally by longitudinal depression. Eyes circular and projecting hemispherically.

Antennae short with 24-26 segments. Scapus strongly flattened dorso-ventrally and rounded laterally,

with outer lobe more prominent. Pedicellus slightly cylindrical; first antennomere about as long as the

following two segments combined. Apical half with very short segments; apical segment about as long

as four preceding segments combined. Upper part of genae tuberculate.

Thorax. Pronotum trapezoidal, widening posteriorly; shorter than head and granulose. Anterior margin

incurved and raised, followed by median longitudinal impression not reaching posterior margin. Central

transverse impression not reaching lateral edges of pronotum. Mesonotum about four times as long

as pronotum and strongly granulose, slightly widening posteriorly, with fine median longitudinal line.

Metanotum subquadrate with anterior margin weakly incurved and raised; strongly granulose and

with median tubercle subapically. Median segment slightly longer than wide, anterior portion slightly

15

European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25 (2015)

Fig. 8. Lobofemora bidoupensis sp. nov., captive reared specimens (photographs by the authors). A-E. $.

A. Lateral view. B. Dorsal view. C. Anterior part of body, lateral view. D. Apex of abdomen, dorsal view.

E. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. F-G. f. F. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. G. Lateral view.

16

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

granulose. Mesosternum with posteriorly, between legs, Y-shaped impression resulting into two small

pseudo-foramina. Metasternum with posteriorly, between legs, X-shaped impression resulting in two

small pseudo-foramina anteriorly.

Abdomen. Abdominal segments II-V gradually increasing in length, granulose and with fine median,

longitudinal line; larger granules along median line. Terga V-VI nearly equal in length. Tergum VII

shorter than VI. Tergum VIII shorter than tergum VI, slightly widening posteriorly; posterior margin

weakly incurved. Tergum IX with anterior margin slightly convex; posterior margin slightly narrower.

Tergum X slightly longer than IX and with median, longitudinal carina; strongly notched posteriorly;

posterolateral angles rounded. Terga IX-X with lateral edges more pronounced and lobe-like. Epiproct

elongated; about 2 /a as long as abdominal tergum X and with very shallow apical notch. Subgenital plate

elongated, slightly projecting over apex of tergum X; apical half with median longitudinal carina; apex

rounded. Cerci short, not reaching of apex tergum X, cylindrical in cross-section, with apices rounded.

Gonapophyses strongly elongated, reaching apex of epiproct.

Legs. Profemora longer than head, pro-, meso- and metanotum combined; compressed and curved

basally; anterodorsal carina with small serrations, more prominent anteriorly; posterodorsal carina

armed with two enlarged triangular bispinose teeth; posteroventral carina sometimes with few serrations

anteriorly. Mesofemora with postero-dorsal carina with three definite lobes; anterior one most prominent

and gradually becoming smaller; anterior and central lobes resulting in different spines; other lobe

with one apical spine; anterodorsal carina with few, small triangular lobes resulting in different minute

spines; anteroventral carina with three small lobes resulting in minute spines. Posteroventral carina

with one small lobe in apical half. Metafemora with posterodorsal carina armed with four triangular

spines resulting in minute small spines; anterodorsal carina sometimes with some minute spines;

posteroventral carina with few small spines. Protibiae about as long as head and thorax combined;

posterodorsal carina with few inconspicuous triangular lobes; anterodorsal carina with small serrations

over its complete length; posteroventral carina with few minute spines. Mesotibiae slightly longer than

mesofemora; posterodorsal carina with conspicuous lobe anteriorly and few small serrations posteriorly;

medioventral carina with conspicuous lobe mirroring the one on posterodorsal carina and with minute

black serrations; other carinae with few, small serrations. Metatibiae shorter than pro femora; dorsal

carinae and postero- and anteroventrally with minute serrations; medioventral carina armed with two

small triangular lobes basally.

Egg (Fig. 5J-0)

Measurements (in mm). Length: 3.0-3.5; width: 1.2; height: 1.5.

Elongate-oval, general colouration, light brown with black patches. Capsule oval in cross section, with

the surface granulose. Anteriorly with short brown fringes along the anterior margin of the capsule. Dorsal

side slightly concave. Micropylar plate more or less inverted heart shaped, with a median impression

posteriorly. Anteriorly triangular, then widening, posterolateral angles only slightly projecting over

micropylar cup. Micropylar cup definite, followed by relatively long median line. Micropylar plate

and median line coloured as capsule. Ventral side slightly convex. Polar area with shallow indention.

Operculum slightly darker than capsule, with central dark, circular marking.

Distribution

So far only known from Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park in central Vietnam (Fig. 1).

17

European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25 (2015)

Table 2. Measurements (mm) of Lobofemora bidoupensis sp. nov. HT = holotype; PT = paratype(s).

HT $

pt 22

PT $

Body

52.5

71.2-77.8

55.0

Head

2.7

4.5M.7

2.7

Pronotum

1.8

2.6-2.7

2.0

Mesonotum

11.2

13.6-16.4

11.7

Metanotum

1.8

3.6-3.9

2.5

Median segment

4.7

4.3-4.4

4.4

Profemora

26.3

25.1-29.2

28.2

Mesofemora

15.8

15.8-15.5

16.9

Metafemora

20.3

21.3-24.5

21.5

Protibiae

31.1

30.1-33.1

33.8

Mesotibiae

17.8

16.6-18.4

19.3

Metatibiae

25.0

25.3-27.0

27.1

Tegmina

1.4

—

Lobofemora scheirei sp. nov.

urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:9CE86F8D-E644-4A37-A278-DB4D99971378

Figs 6, 7, 9, 10H-J

Etymology

The species epithet refers to the Flemish TV show presenter Mr Fieven Scheire. We dedicate this new

species to Fieven both in recognition of his efforts in raising public awareness of science (including

taxonomy), especially for young people, in his TV shows, and as a present for his recent wedding.

Type material

Holotype

VIETNAM: <$: “Coll. I.R.Sc.N.B., Vietnam, Dong Nai Biosphere Res. 11°18’N 107 o 06’E, 25.vi-6.

vii.2012, night collecting, Feg. J. Constant & J. Bresseel, I.G.: 32.161” (RBINS).

Paratypes (39 88, 28 55, 17 eggs)

VIETNAM: 12 88, 12 $$: same collection data as for holotype (RBINS; 1 8, 1 $: VNMN); 5 88,

5 $$: “Coll. I.R.Sc.N.B., Vietnam, Cat TienN.P., 11°26’N 107°26 , E, 6-16.vii.2012, Feg. J. Constant &

J. Bresseel, I.G.: 32.161” (RBINS; 1 8, 1 $: VNMN); 12 eggs: “Coll. I.R.Sc.N.B., ex breeding J. Bresseel

i.2015, origin: Vietnam, Cat Tien N.P, ll 0 26’N 107 o 26’E, 6-16.vii.2012, J. Constant & J. Bresseel”

(RBINS; 2: VNMN); 22 88, H $5,5 eggs: “Ex culture F. Hennemann 2015, Origin: S-Vietnam, Earn

Dong Prov., Cat Tien N.P, ll 0 26’N 107°26 , E, leg. J. Constant & J. Bresseel 6.-16.VII.2012” (3 88,

1 $: MNHU; 3 88, 1 $: ZMUH; 4 88, 1 $: ZSMC; 3 88, 1 $: RMNH; 4 88, 2 $$: BMNH; 5 88,

5 $$,5 eggs: FHC).

Additional material

VIETNAM: 25 88, 23 $$,45 eggs: “Ex culture F. Hennemann 2015, Origin: S-Vietnam, Lam Dong

Prov., Cat Tien N.P, ll 0 26’N 107°26’E, leg. J. Constant & J. Bresseel 6-16.VII.2012” (FHC).

Description

Male (Figs 6, 9I-M, 10H)

Measurements. See Table 3.

18

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

Body. Complete body blackish-brown. Profemora dark brown, paler basally. Protibiae light brown.

Other femora pale brown with darker apex. Corresponding tibiae pale brown.

Head. Longer than wide, slightly tapering posteriorly and granulose. Vertex slightly elongated. Dorsal

portion of head flattened, with two spines projecting dorsally at posterior margin of eyes. Eyes circular

and strongly projecting hemispherically. Ante nn ae almost reaching posterior margin of median segment,

with 23 segments. Scapus strongly flattened dorso-ventrally and rounded laterally. Pedicellus cylindrical.

Upper part of genae granulose.

Thorax. Pronotum trapezoidal and granulose, widening posteriorly; shorter than head; anterior margin

incurved and raised, followed by median longitudinal impression not reaching posterior margin. Central

transverse impression not reaching lateral edges of pronotum. Mesonotum about six to seven times as

long as pronotum and strongly granulose, widening posteriorly; with fine median longitudinal line.

Tegmina blackish, short and with definite hump; slightly tapering posteriorly and with apex rounded;

external margin densely covered with minute tubercles. Alae projecting over apex of median segment;

costal area coloured as elytra, anal area greyish brown; subcostal and radial veins densely covered with

minute tubercles.

Abdomen. Abdominal segments II-V gradually increasing in length, V-VI about equal in length,

slightly granulose and with fine median, longitudinal line; granules more concentrated along median

line. Tergum VII shorter than tergum III. Tergum VIII about half as long as tergum II, slightly widening

posteriorly. Tergum IX shorter than VIII and tectiform. Tergum X about as long as VIII and with median

longitudinal carina; apically split into two semi-tergites. Inner apical rim of semi-tergite armed with

several spines; apex obliquely pointing downwards; posterolateral angles rounded. Poculum rounded,

slightly projecting over apex of abdominal tergum IX. Apex of poculum narrower and rounded. Cerci

short, not reaching apex of tergum X, cylindrical in cross-section, with apices rounded.

Legs. Pro femora slightly longer than head and thorax combined; compressed and curved basally;

anterodorsal carina with few, small serrations anteriorly; other carinae unarmed. Mesofemora about

as long as pro- and mesonotum combined; posterodorsal carina variably with few triangular spines.

Metafemora longer than head, pro-, meso- and metanotum combined and unarmed. Protibiae longer

than profemora and unarmed. Mesotibiae slightly longer than mesofemora; anterodorsal carina with

minute subapical spine; anteroventral carina with minute spine situated more basally than spine on

anterodorsal carina; posteroventral carina with minute spine more basally than spine on anteroventral

carina. Metatibiae with minute saw-like spines in posterior half on all carinae.

Female (Figs 7, 9A-H, 101—J)

Measurements. See Table 3.

Body. Colouration variable. Most specimens more or less uniformly brown with some black markings;

some specimens with head, legs and apex of abdomen red-brown and very pale fawn body. Prosternum

with conspicuous black, longitudinal median line.

Head. Longer than wide, slightly tapering posteriorly and granulose. Vertex slightly elongated and

asymmetrical: vertex split by shallow longitudinal impression, right hump slightly more pronounced

than left one. Dorsal portion of head flattened, with transverse, laterally acute ridge at posterior margin

of eyes. Eyes circular and projecting hemispherically. Antennae short, with 23-25 segments, most

females possess 25 segments. Scapus strongly flattened dorso-ventrally and rounded laterally, with outer

lobe more prominent. Pedicellus slightly flattened dorso-ventrally. First antennomere about as long as

following two ones combined. Apical half of antenna with very short segments; apical segment about as

long as four preceding segments combined. Upper part of genae granulose.

19

European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25 (2015)

Fig. 9. Lobofemora scheirei sp. nov., captive reared specimens (photographs by Dr B. Kneubiihler).

A-H. A. Dorsal view. B. Ventral view. C. Lateral view. D. Dorsolateral view, morph whitish with

head, apex of abdomen and legs chestnut brown. E. Head, lateral view. F. Apex of abdomen, dorsal

view. G. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. H. Apex of abdomen, ventral view. I-M. <f. I. Dorsal. J. Wing

spread, lateral view. K. Head and thorax, lateral view. L. Apex of abdomen, lateral view. M. Apex of

abdomen, dorsal view. N. Nymph. O. Eggs. P-S. Egg. P. Detail of micropylar plate. Q. Ventral view.

R. Detail of operculum. S. Detail of polar area. T. Eggs laid in a slice of sponge.

20

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

Fig. 10. Lobofemora gen. nov. spp., photographs in natura by the authors. A-C. L. bachmaensis sp. nov.,

Bach MaNational Park. A-B. §, 11 Jul. 2011. C. §, 14 Jul. 2011. D-G. L. bidoupensis sp. nov., Bidoup-

Nui Ba National Park. D. 22 Jul. 2014. E-F. $, 25 Jul. 2014. G. ?, 23 Jul. 2014. H-J. L. scheirei

sp. nov. H-I. Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve, 30 Jun. 2012. H. J. J. §, Cat Tien National Park,

9 Jul. 2012.

21

European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25 (2015)

Thorax. Pronotum trapezoidal, widening posteriorly; shorter than head and granulose; anterior margin

incurved and raised, followed by median longitudinal impression not reaching posterior margin. Central

transverse impression not reaching lateral edges of pronotum. Posterior margin with small posteromedian

tubercle. Mesonotum about 3.7 times as long as pronotum and strongly granulose, widening posteriorly;

fine median longitudinal line; tiny vestigial wing remnants posterolaterally. Metanotum with anterior

margin weakly incurved and raised, subquadrate and strongly granulose. Median segment slightly longer

than wide; anterior portion strongly granulose. Meso- and metasternum with posteriorly, between legs,

Y-shaped impression resulting in two small pseudo-foramina.

Abdomen. Abdominal segments II-VI gradually increasing in length, granulose and with fine median,

longitudinal line; larger granules along median line. Tergum VII about as long as tergum III; sometimes

with stalked, irregularly shaped tubercles. Tergum VIII shorter than tergum II, slightly widening

posteriorly; posterior margin weakly incurved. Tergum IX with anterior margin slightly convex; posterior

margin slightly narrower. Tergum X about as long as IX and with median, longitudinal carina; strongly

notched posteriorly; posterolateral angles rounded. Terga IX-X with lateral edges more pronounced and

lobe-like. Epiproct elongated, about 2 /s as long as abdominal tergum X, and with median, longitudinal

carina; tectiform and with shallow apical notch. Subgenital plate elongated, slightly projecting over

apex of tergum X; apical half with median longitudinal carina; apex rounded. Cerci short, not reaching

apex of tergum X, cylindrical in cross-section, with apices rounded. Gonapophyses strongly elongated,

reaching apex of epiproct.

Legs. Pro femora longer than head, pronotum and mesonotum combined; compressed and curved

basally; anterodorsal carina with small serrations, more prominent anteriorly; posterodorsal carina

indistinct; posteroventral carina sometimes with few minute serrations. Mesofemora with three lobes

on posterodorsal carina; anterior one most prominent and gradually becoming smaller; anterior lobe

resulting in different spines; two other lobes with one apical spine; antero-ventral carina with three

small lobe-like spines; posteroventral carina with one small lobe-like spine in apical half. Metafemora

with anterodorsal carina sparsely serrated; other carinae unarmed. Protibiae longer than head and thorax

combined; posterodorsal carina with inconspicuous triangular lobe positioned at about basal % of

length; anterodorsal carina with few minute serrations. Mesotibiae slightly longer than mesofemora;

posterodorsal carina with conspicuous lobe at about basal % of length; dorsal carinae with minute black

spine near apex; medioventral carina with conspicuous lobe mirroring the one on posterodorsal carina

and with minute black serrations; postero- and anteroventral carinae with minute black serrations.

Metatibiae shorter than profemora; all ventral carinae with minute black serrations; dorsal carinae

sparsely armed with minute black serrations, more concentrated subapically.

Nymph (Fig. 9N)

Newly hatched nymphs are about 17 mm long and have comparatively long legs. Antennae short, slightly

longer than head. Body entirely mottled green, brown and black.

Egg (Fig. 90S)

Measurements (in mm ). Length: 4.0; width: 1.2; height: 1.5.

Elongate-oval, general colouration light brown with black markings. Capsule oval in cross section, with

the surface granulose and with a net-like sculpturing. Anteriorly with short brown fringes along the

anterior margin of the capsule. Dorsal side slightly concave. Micropylar plate more or less bi-lobate with

a median impression anteriorly and posteriorly. Anteriorly triangular, then widening; lateral expansions

axe-shaped, with posterolateral angles projecting over micropylar cup. Micropylar cup definite, blackish

and followed by relatively long median line. Micropylar plate and median line coloured as capsule.

22

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

Table 3. Measurements (mm) of Lobofemora scheirei sp. nov. HT = holotype; PT = paratypes.

HT $

PT ??

pt S3

Body

66.5

72.3-79.9

56.3-73.4

Head

3.3

5.4-5.5

2.5-3.4

Pronotum

2.1

3.7-3.8

1.9-2.1

Mesonotum

14.3

13.2-15.7

11.1-14.8

Metanotum

Covered by wings

3.9—4.1

Covered by wings

Median segment

Covered by wings

4.2—4.9

Covered by wings

Profemora

30.0

24.6-26.9

25.2-31.2

Mesofemora

17.1

15.0-16.0

14.1-17.1

Metafemora

23.5

19.3-21.4

18.8-22.2

Protibiae

36.0

30.9-31.6

30.0-37.0

Mesotibiae

19.5

15.7-16.0

16.0-19.2

Metatibiae

27.5

24.3-24.9

23.2-27.6

Tegmina

2.8

—

1.9-2.9

Alae

9.4

—

8.5-9.5

Ventral side slightly convex. Polar area with shallow indention. Operculum slightly darker than capsule,

with deep central impression.

Distribution

So far only known from Cat Tien National Park and Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve in south Vietnam

(Fig. 1).

Biological observations

Several eggs of this species hatched and nymphs were reared in captivity using ferns (Dryopteridacea),

which seem to be their natural foodplant. Substitute plants like bramble ( Rubus L. spp., Rosaceae),

beech ( Fagus sylvatica L., Fagaceae) and Hypericum L. spp. (Hypericaceae) are also well accepted in

captivity in Europe. This species is easy to maintain in captivity. Females try to stick their eggs into

cracks and holes. Sponges cut into slices are suitable as substrate for this (Fig. 9T). Only few eggs will

lay on the cage floor (pers. comm. B. Kneubtihler, Jan. 2015). To collect eggs from wild caught females,

paper tissue was used as substrate for egg laying.

Males are capable of stridulating, but in order to do so, they have to completely open their wings. When

wings are open, the alae are not flat as in most stick insects, but have the outer margin curved downwards

(Fig. 9J). By rubbing the outer margins of the tegmina against the subcostal and radial veins of the alae

they are able to produce sound. The stridulation occurs when the specimens are disturbed.

Discussion

The currently known distribution of the genus Lobofemora gen. nov. is restricted to the southern half

of Vietnam. The three new species were found at altitudes ranging from close to sea level (in Bach Ma

National Park) up to 1600 m (in Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park).

From our observations in the field and in culture, it appears that the colouration in males is very constant,

while females show more variable patterns and colours.

When identifying specimens of Lobofemora gen. nov., one must be aware that regenerated legs do not show

the specific features of the “normal” specimens: lobes and spines are less developed and can even be absent.

23

European Journal of Taxonomy 115: 1-25 (2015)

The tribal placement of Lobofemora gen. nov. suggested herein is based on a set of characters which key

out to the tribe Clitumnini Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893. This due to having shortened antennae, that

are not longer than the profemora, with a considerably broadened scapus; pro femora that are triangular

in cross-section with the anterodorsal carina strongly raised and the medioventral carina conspicuously

displaced towards the anteroventral carina; females with strongly elongated lower gonapophyses

(gonapophyses VIII) which clearly project over the apex of the subgenital plate; eggs are elongate and

bullet-shaped, with an open internal micropylar plate and a well developed median line and lacking a

central capitulum. Furthermore, eggs have a hairy rim on the border of the capitulum. Males lack an

external vomer.

However, as mentioned above the definition of the Clitumnini had to be adapted to include this genus.

The genus actually shares and violates several morphological characters with both Clitumnini and

Medaurini Hennemann & Conle, 2008. Therefore, the genus has a fairly isolated position within the

tribe.

The beak-like ovipositor is shared with several other genera in Clitumnini, e.g., Entoria Stal, 1875,

Metentoria Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1907 and Rhamphophasma Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893.

The aberrant and remarkable characters exhibited by Lobofemora gen. nov., with especially the length

of the median segment and presence of tegmina and vestigial or shortened alae in the males, are unique

within the entire tribe Clitumnini and warrant further investigation.

As usual for stick insects that have wings in one or both sexes, the median segment is fairly long in

relation to the metanotum, an additional feature which distinguishes Lobofemora gen. nov. from all

currently known genera of the tribe Clitu mnin i

Traditionally, the presence of wings has a priori been regarded as a plesimorphic character, but Whiting

et al. (2003) have shown that wings within the Phasmatodea can not only be lost but also recovered

during the evolutionary process of certain clades, a hypothesis which is supported by several examples

and has already received acceptance by certain subsequent authors (e.g. Hennemann & Conle 2008).

The decision on whether the presence of wings in the males of Lobofemora gen. nov. is plesiomorphic

or apomorphic for the tribe Clitumnini is difficult to make at present and certainly warrants a detailed

phylogenetic analysis of this and potentially closely related taxa. If it is regarded as an autapomorphy

of Lobofemora gen. nov., this would be a further and very striking example for the recovery of wings

in stick insects and support the hypothesis of Whiting et al. (2003), since all other known taxa of the

very diverse and speciose tribe Clitumnini and also the related Medaurini are exceptionally wingless.

Another fact that makes the presence of wings in Lobofemora gen. nov. even more remarkable is the

capability of the winged males of L. scheirei sp. nov. to stridulate. This striking specialization is also not

found in the winged males of the supposedly closely related tribe Pharnaciini (regarded as a subordinate

taxon of the subfamily Clitumninae by Hennemann & Conle 2008) and hence is unique in that entire

subfamily. The sounds are produced by rubbing the tegmina against the radial and subcostal veins of

the alae, which bear numerous very minute tooth-like structures. Morphologically this is an analogy

to the wing structures, e.g., seen in certain winged taxa of the predominantly New Guinean genus

Dimorphodes Westwood, 1859 (Phasmatidae: Xeroderinae: Xeroderini), members of the Mascarean

tribe Achriopterini or the New World genus Pterinoxylus Audinet-Serville, 1838 (Cladomorphinae:

Hesperophasmatini). It is hoped that future phylogenetic studies will deal with the interesting new genus

described herein to clarify its taxonomic and phylogenetic position.

However, one must be aware that most genera in Clitumnini need to be redefined and several appear

to be polyphyletic in their present configuration. For that reason, it is of utmost importance that DNA-

based phylogenetic studies contain, for each genus, at least the type species to be well supported.

24

BRESSEEL J. & CONSTANT J., Vietnam Phasmida: Lobofemora gen. nov. (Clitumnini)

Acknowledgments

We thank Dr Hong Thai Pham (VNMN), Mr Vu Tru Hoang and Mr Thieu Du Tran (Institute of Ecology

and Biological Resources, Hanoi, Vietnam) for all their help and friendship during collecting trips,

Dr Bruno Kneubiihler (Luzern, Switzerland) for his excellent pictures and all his help in breeding

the species we study, Mr Tim Bollens (Herselt, Belgium) for providing live specimens, Mr Ludovic

Nicolas for mounting numerous specimens we brought back from the field and the authorities of the

different national parks and reserves for their support to our studies. All the authors’ collecting trips were

supported through grants issued by the capacity building Programme of the Belgian Global Taxonomic

Initiative National Focal Point that runs with financial support from the Belgian Directorate-General for

Development Cooperation. Dr Patrick Grootaert, Dr Yves Samyn and Dr Marie-Lucie Susini (RBINS)

are also thanked for their permanent support to our projects in Vietnam. We warmly thank Mr Frank

Hennemann (Hohenecken, Germany) for his valuable comments, which greatly improved our work.

References

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to the phasmid genera based on egg structure. Systematic Entomology 22 (2): 97-122. http://dx.doi.

org/10.1046/i. 1365-3113.1997.d01-30.x

Clark Sellick J.T. 1998. The micropylar plate of the eggs of Phasmida, with a survey of the range of

plate form within the order. Systematic Entomology 23 (3): 203-228. http://dx.doi.Org/10.1046/i. 1365-

3113.1998.00056.x

Hennemann F.H. & Conle O. V. 2008. Revision of Oriental Phasmatodea: The tribe Pharnaciini Gunther,

1953, including the description of the world’s longest insect, and a survey of the family Phasmatidae

Gray, 1835 with keys to the subfamilies and tribes (Phasmatodea: “Anareolatae”: Phasmatidae). Zootaxa

1906: 1-316.

Whiting M.F., Bradler S. & Maxwell T. 2003. Loss and recovery of wings in stick insects. Nature 421:

264-267. http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/nature01313

Manuscript received: 26 January 2015

Manuscript accepted: 25 February 2015

Published on: 10 March 2015

Topic editor: Koen Martens

Desk editor: Charlotte Thionois

Printed versions of all papers are also deposited in the libraries of the institutes that are members of the

EJT consortium: Museum national d’Histoire naturelle, Paris, France; Botanic Garden Meise, Belgium;

Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren, Belgium; Natural History Museum, London, United

Kingdom; Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Belgium; Natural History Museum of

Denmark, Copenhagen, De nm ark.

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