Phaulotypus socotranus (Popov, 1957)

Figs 110, 111, 112, 113

References for Socotra.

Popov (in Uvarov and Popov (1957)): 367, figs 12, 13 [as Brachytypus socotranus]; Descamps 1970: 124, 126, 127, 129–130, figs 10–22, 31; Descamps 1977: 50, 78, 80, figs 140–152, 161; Popov 1997: 120–122, figs 13–15; Wranik 2003: 319, plates 150, 154.

Diagnostic notes.

Phaulotypus socotranus is the largest member of the Thericleidae family. It is a bright green species with a characteristic bluish dorso-median line on the abdomen with yellow spots (Fig. 110). In females, the median carina of the pronotum is evenly convex. In males, the pronotum is only slightly humped in the middle (Fig. 111). The ventral carina of the hind femur is strongly granulose in both sexes.

Distribution and occurrence.

P. socotranus is a rather scarce Socotran endemic. The species is only recorded in and around the Hagher and on the eastern limestone plateaus (Fig. 112). It is probably under-recorded because of its arboreal lifestyle.

Habitat and biology.

Popov (in Uvarov and Popov (1957)) mentioned this species as strongly associated with Jatropha unicostata . The specimens collected in 2010 were all found in this shrub (Fig. 113). P. socotranus occurs from 25–1000 m a. s. l. Records are from all seasons.