Cretafrica orapensis: a new genus and species of Mycetoporinae (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) from lacustrine deposits at Orapa Diamond Mine, Botswana

Abstract

Abstract A new genus and species of staphylinid beetle, Cretafrica orapensis gen. nov. et sp. nov. is described using a single well-preserved impression fossil from an Upper Cretaceous fossil insect deposit, the Orapa Diamond Mine in Botswana. Cretafrica is placed in the extant subfamily Mycetoporinae based on its general habitus, typical sublimuloid medium-to-large body form, elongated head, visible ridge on ventral side of head under eyes, antennomeres increasing in length and width apically, scutellum with basal carina that is distinctly divided medially, elevated area along suture of the elytra, and presumably large metacoxae, and tapering abdomen. It differs from other Mycetoporinae by its triangular head and elytra with broadly rounded apico-lateral margins. A possible preservation distortion illustrates brush-like or fork-like mouthparts. The fossil insect may have been found in forest litter or fresh and rotting mushrooms at Orapa. It confirms the widespread distribution of mycetoporines with phytophagous or mycophagous lifestyles during the mid-Cretaceous. Moreover, like other described fossil staphylinids, the fossil portrays morphological stasis dating back to the Cretaceous. It further confirms the proposed punctuated equilibrium pattern of evolution.