Homichloda barkeri (Jacoby) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), a candidate agent for the biocontrol of prickly acacia, Acacia nilotica (Mimosaceae) in Australia

Abstract

The status of Homichloda barkeri (Jacoby) n. comb. is discussed. A key is presented to four Afrotropical Homichloda species, including fulva n. sp. The eggs, larvae and pupae of H. barkeri are described for the first time. Unusual adult and immature stage characters are discussed in relation to the placement of Homichloda in the Alticinae.

Keywords :

• Coleoptera
• Chrysomelidae
• Alticinae
• Homichloda
• Weiseana
• taxonomy
• new combinations
• new species
• eggs
• larva
• pupa
• Acacia nilotica
• biocontrol
• Queensland