Derived from the Boieldieu genus Niptus combined with the greek lachno. The first character state appears to be uniquely derived while the second and third have similar states or convergences in other ptinine taxa. The fourth character state is hypothesized to be a reversal to the pleisiomorphic state. Lachnoniptus lindae New Species Figs. This species is easily recognized by the variegated pattern of brown and tan pubescence on the elytra.
Pronotal tufts are usually absent or, at most, very loose and indistinct.
Body very robust and globular, covered with dense fine short brown and tan pubescense, on pronotum and elytra relatively longer and more erect than the rest of the body, also much longer scattered erect or suberect setae arising above short setae that usually have the tips curved towards the posterior. Named after my wife Linda, in recognition of her support and encouragement of my career. Discussion Lachnoniptus lindae is one of the more highly derived ptinines as characterized by fused elytra, winglessness, and a very globular body form. The majority of species in this group use dung or other accumulated organic material of animal or plant origin as a food source. Most specimens have been captured with dung baited pitfall traps.