ARS | Publication request: Two cases of homonymy in the family Berytidae (Heteroptera)

Submitted to: Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: March 15, 2008
Publication Date: July 8, 2008
Citation: Kment, P., Henry, T.J. 2008. Two cases of homonymy in the family Berytidae (Heteroptera). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 110: 811-813.

Interpretive Summary: Stilt bugs represent a relatively small, worldwide family of both predaceous and plant-feeding insects. A number of species are serious agricultural pests on such crops as tomatoes, causing millions of dollars damage, whereas many others are predators of certain pest species making them potentially important in biocontrol programs. In conducting research on these bugs, we found a problem with two duplicate names. To eliminate this conflict, we provide a replacement name for one stilt bug. Study of the second bug showed that the name was currently invalid and did not need to be replaced. These actions will serve to stabilize the two stilt bug names and prevent future confusion. This information will be important to all researchers working with the stilt bugs of agricultural importance.

Technical Abstract: Two cases of homonymy in the heteropteran family Berytidae are addressed. The genus Neometacanthus Štusák, 1965 (Hemiptera), is preoccupied by Neometacanthus Richter and Richter, 1948 (Trilobita). As a consequence, the replacement name Stusakia is proposed in honor of Czech heteropterist Josef Miroslav Štusák (1932-1993). In addition, the genus Lindbergius Josifov, 1965 (Hemiptera), is preoccupied by Lindbergius Roudier, 1957 (Coleoptera). In this case, however, Lindbergius Josifov is considered a junior synonym of Gampsocoris Fuss, 1852 (Hemiptera) and, therefore, it is unnecessary to provide a replacement name, according to the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature.