Integrative taxonomic review of the genus Peschetius (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae) from India with description of two new species

Abstract

The diving beetle genus Peschetius Guignot, 1942 (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae) in India is reviewed. Integrative taxonomic approach using morphology, multivariate morphometry and genetic analysis of cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 revealed the presence of four species, two of which are described here as new: Peschetius bistroemi sp. nov. from southern Western Ghats (Kerala) differs from all known congeners with distinctly broadened male antennomeres IV and V, shape of the prosternal process and the male genitalia; P. nilssoni sp. nov. from northern Western Ghats, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh is similar to the widespread Indian P. toxophorus Guignot, 1942, from which it differs in habitus, elytral colour pattern and the shape of the male genitalia. New records are presented for the remaining Indian species, namely P. quadricostatus (Aubé, 1838) and P. toxophorus. All species are diagnosed, illustrated and a key to their identification is provided.