The beetle family Carabidae of Costa Rica: The genus Epikastea Liebke of the Plochonida Group, with new Neotropical species and notes on their way of life (Insecta: Coleoptera, Lebiini, Agrina)

Abstract

Genus Epikastea Liebke 1936, of the Plochionida Group of Subtribe Agrina, Lebiini, with six species is revised. Subtribe Agrina consists of those species formerly included in the Subtribe Calleidina. The species of Epikastea Liebke 1936 are diagnosed, described, and illustrated. One species occurs in Costa Rica; five are new South American species and are here assigned to this genus. The five new species described are: Epikastea biolat Erwin, n. sp. (PER , MADRE DE DIOS, Rio Manu, BIOLAT Biodiversity Station, Pakitza Guard Station, 356m, 11 56 47 S, 071 17 00 W), Epikastea grace Erwin, n. sp. (PER , LORETO, Samiria River, Camp Manco Capac, 04 43 0 S, 074 18 0 W), Epikastea mancocapac Erwin, n. sp. (PER , LORETO, Samiria River, Camp Manco Capac, 04 43 0 S, 074 18 0 W), Epikastea piranha Erwin, n. sp. (ECUADOR. ORELLANA, Hauorani Territory, Camp Pira a, 0 39' 25.685" S, 76 27' 10.813" W), Epikastea poguei Erwin, n. sp. (PER , MADRE DE DIOS, Rio Manu, BIOLAT Biodiversity Station, Pakitza Guard Station, 356m, 11 56 47 S, 071 17 00 W). A definition of the Plochionida Group and an identification key to the Western Hemisphere genera included are provided. A key to the known species of Epikastea Liebke is given. Distribution data are provided for all species and a map is provided for the Costa Rican taxon. Adults of Epikastea Liebke have been found on rotting logs in rainforests and fogged from the canopy of tropical trees and palms.