A taxonomic revision of the Neotropical termite genera Labiotermes Holmgren and Paracornitermes Emerson (Isoptera: Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae)

Abstract

The taxonomy of the South American termite genus Labiotermes Holmgren (sensu novo) is revised, including identification keys to soldiers and workers, and distribution maps for all 10 species. Paracornitermes Emerson is treated as a new synonym of Labiotermes. Two new species are described: L. guasu, from the Amazon rain forest and L. oreadicus, from the Cerrado of central Brazil. Paracornitermes caapora Bandeira & Cancello and P. hirsutus Araujo are placed under the synonymy of L. orthocephalus. The imagos of L. emersoni and L. orthocephalus are described for the first time. The workers of all species are described and illustrated, including the enteric valve armature and the mixed segment. The soldiers of the species previously included in Paracornitermes are redescribed. © 2006 Magnolia Press.