The thoracic morphology of Archostemata and the relationships of the extant suborders of Coleoptera (Hexapoda)

摘要: Thoracic structures of Tetraphalerus bruchi are described in detail. The results were compared with features found other representatives Archostemata and coleopteran suborders. Differences between thoracic members archostematan subgroups discussed. External internal characters larval adult 37 genera the suborders outlined, coded analysed cladistically, four groups Neuropterida as outgroup taxa. strongly suggest branching pattern Archostemata + [Adephaga + (Myxophaga + Polyphaga)]. Coleoptera excluding supported a high Bremer support. Important evolutionary changes linked this event simplifications skeleton resulting reduced degrees freedom (i.e. restricted movability, especially at leg bases), distinct simplification muscle system. This development culminates Polyphaga, which also clade. Internalization partly propleura, further losses, fusion mesoventrites metaventrites—with reversal Scirtoidea Derodontidae—are autapomorphies Polyphaga. is small relict group contrast to highly successful xylobiontic less efficient locomotor apparatus, lack cryptonephric Malpighian tubules, rise angiosperms beetle primarily adjusted them may have contributed decline Archostemata. © Willi Hennig Society 2008.