taxonID	type	description	language	source
3E6A87DAFFCEFF984993FDDBFE94FB4E.taxon	materials_examined	Type species: Lethrus microbuccis Ballion, 1871 by original designation	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF984993FDDBFE94FB4E.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Dorsal surface of each mandible in both sexes with oblique keel; keel on the left mandible nearly longitudinal, subparallel to lateral margin of mandible; keel on the right mandible nearly transverse, subparallel to anterior margin of mandible, can be obtuse and less distinct; keels do not reach the lateral margin of mandibles (Figs. 1 – 8, 45). Mandibles of male lacking mandibular processes (shape of mandibles same as in females), only sometimes in L. dyonini A. Shapovalov & Bagaturov, new species, left mandible with small obtuse protrusion approximately at middle of ventral margin (Fig. 38). Labrum slightly asymmetrical, right lobe more weakly developed than left one (Figs. 1 – 8). Postorbital denticles very small or indistinct (Figs. 1 – 8, 32 – 37). Anterior angles of pronotum rounded (Figs. 1 – 8). Elytral apices truncate or slightly prominent in males, more or less angularly prominent in females (Figs. 40 – 41). Epipleural keel not reaching elytral apex. Subapical visible ventrite with tuft of long erect setae (Figs. 40 – 43), or (in L. inermis) ventrites 1 – 5 usually with prominent denticle distally (Fig. 39). Femora entirely unarmed.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF984993FDDBFE94FB4E.taxon	discussion	Notes. According to Nikolajev (2003), the subgenus is divided into two species groups based on the shape of the mandibles and male genitalia. These groups were not formally named in his work, therefore we use the senior species-names for these groups: the L. inermis - species group and the L. microbuccis - species group. The record on distribution of the subgenus Mesolethrus in southern Kazakhstan (Bagaturov & Hillert 2023) is erroneous.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF984993FA85FC1BF93E.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Dorsal surface of mandibles in both sexes with sharp, elevated keels (Figs. 1 – 2). Elytral striae definitely impressed (Figs. 1 – 2). Ventrites 1 – 5 with prominent central denticle posteriorly (rarely denticles indistinct), denticles apically with erect setae (Fig. 39). Subapical ventrite with sparse semierect setae, density of setae not clearly differing between sexes. Parameres straight, narrowly rounded apically (Figs. 9 – 10); sclerotized apex of endophallus elongate, subclavate, noticeably curved in lateral view, in dorsal view appearing trilobed anteriorly, surface sharply spiny-granular (Figs. 22 – 23). Dorsal surface of the body shiny (Figs. 1 – 2), but in older and abraded specimens surface nearly black or black.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF984993FA85FC1BF93E.taxon	discussion	Notes. The species group includes the only species L. inermis.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF9B4993F955FDBFF878.taxon	description	(Figs. 1 – 2, 9 – 10, 22 – 23, 32, 39)	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF9B4993F955FDBFF878.taxon	materials_examined	Type material examined. None Additional material examined. Uzbekistan. 1 ♀: Qashqadaryo Reg., Akrabat Pass [= Oqravot Dovon Pass, about 38 ° 15 ’ N, 66 ° 50 ’ E, ~ 1590 m a. s. l.], 2. v. 1995, S. Ovchinnikov leg. (SKPC); 1 ♀: Surxondaryo Reg., near Akmechet’ [= Oqmachit] vill., Babatag Mt. Range, 20. v. 1994, S. Ovchinnikov leg. (SKPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: Surxondaryo Reg., 20 km W Ak-Mechet’, Babatag Mt. Range, 26. iii. 1998, A. Klimenko leg. (ASPC); 3 ♀♀: same data (MBPC); 2 ♂♂ 1 ♀: Babatag Mt. Range, Chagam, 21. iii. 2001, O. Legezin leg. (GNPC). Tajikistan. 1 ♂: Babatag Mt. Range, 12. iv. 1960, I. Lindt leg. (GNPC); 4 ♂♂: Khatlon Reg., Dahanakiik, 23. iii. 2001, O. Legezin leg. (GNPC); 2 ♂♂ 1 ♀♀: same locality and collector, 27. iv. 2001 (GNPC); 1 ♂: 12. iv. 1975, G. Nikolajev leg. (GNPC); 2 ♂♂ 1 ♀: same locality and collector, 19. iv. 1975 (GNPC); 1 ♂: Aktau Mt. Range above of Dahanakiik, 15. iii. 1969, V. Mikhailov leg. (GNPC); 1 ♂: Dushanbe env., 20. iii. 1961, I. Lopatin leg. (GNPC); 1 ♂: same data (MBPC); 1 ♂: South of Gissar Mt. Range, N env. of Dushanbe, Gulpista, 17. iii. 2008, h = 1100 m, O. Pak leg. (MBPC); 4 ♂♂: Khatlon Reg., Nurek, 29. iv. 1975, G. Nikolajev leg. (GNPC); 2 ♂♂ 1 ♀: Khatlon Reg., Yavon, 14. iv. 1977, G. Nikolajev leg. (GNPC); 1 ♀: Khatlon Reg., Fayzobod, 20. iii. 1955, Yu. Antonova leg. (GNPC); 1 ♀: Khatlon Reg., Shahrinav, 5. v. 1961, Sh. Baratov leg. (GNPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: Khatlon Reg., Surkhu Mt. Range, Chormagzak [= Zardolu] Pass [about 38 ° 27 ’ 59.57 ” N 69 ° 10 ’ 20.12 ” E, ~ 1587 m a. s. l.], 10. iv. 1972, G. Nikolajev leg. (GNPC); 1 ♀: Khatlon Reg., Surkhu Mt. Range, near Chormagzak [= Zardolu] Pass, Kalaimalik [= Kalimirak], 12. iv. 2007, 1600 m a. s. l., E. Ivanova leg. (MBPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: same locality, but 28. iii. 2008, O. Pak leg. (MBPC); 1 ♂: Khatlon Reg., Pushta-Mazor [probably Pashtamazar, 38 ° 20 ’ 15 ’’ N 69 ° 32 ’ 45 ’’ E], Vakhsh Mt. Range, 9. v. 1970, V. Mikhailov leg. (GNPC).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF9B4993F955FDBFF878.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Generally coincides with the diagnosis of the species group (see above). Gena subrectangular, but with more or less arcuate anterior margin, laterally obliquely truncate, anterolateral and posterolateral angles usually distinct (Figs. 1, 32), less often anterolateral angle rounded (Fig. 2); gena 2.1 – 2.6 times as large as eye width. Punctation of head and pronotum more or less coarse (Fig. 2), but on the disc punctation sometimes relatively fine (Fig. 1). Body length 12 – 21 mm.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF9B4993F955FDBFF878.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Southwestern Tajikistan and southeastern Uzbekistan, recorded from the following mountain ranges: Hissar, Karategin, Surkhu, Vakhsh, Babatag, Aktau, Aruktau, Vakhsh Karatau (Nikolajev 2003). Known also from Oqravot Dovon Pass (westernmost locality) on the south of the Chakchar Mountain Range — southwestern spur of the Hissar Mountain Range (see map, Fig. 44). All records for Kyrgyzstan must be regarded as erroneous (see note below).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF9B4993F955FDBFF878.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology. The species inhabits foothills and mountains at altitudes from about 1000 to 1800 m. Activity of imago is recorded from March to late May. According to the studied material, L. inermis probably occurs sympatrically with L. elisae near the Oqravot Dovon Pass.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCEFF9B4993F955FDBFF878.taxon	discussion	Note. The species has also been recorded for Kyrgyzstan in many works (e. g., Protzenko 1968, 1972, 1976; Nikolajev 1987, 2003; Král & Nikolajev 2006; Bagaturov & Nikolajev 2015; Nikolajev et al. 2016). Nevertheless, all these data were based on records by Protzenko (1968, 1972, 1976) from the southern part of the Fergana Valley in Kyrgyzstan — northern foothills of the Turkestan and Alai Mountain Ranges. The first record of L. inermis from Kyrgyzstan was published from environs of Katta-Taldyk (Protzenko 1968), now Taldyk in Kara-Suu District of Osh Region, north slopes of Alai Mountain Range on about 2000 m a. s. l. In the next paper by Protzenko (1972) the species was recorded from the same territory “ Alai [zoogeographical] subdistrict ”. In the last work, Protzenko (1976) mentioned: “ In our collection, there is [L. inermis] from the foothills of the Alai and Turkestan Mountain Ranges. The species inhabits foothill (adyrs [dry foothills with ephemeral plants, resembling “ badlands ”]) wormwood-ephemeral-saltwort belt (1000 – 1400 m up to sea level) ”. However, the presence of L. inermis in the mentioned localities seems impossible, because Fergana Valley is strongly separated from the main range of the species in Tajikistan by the high mountains Zarafshan and Alai Mountain Ranges (Fig. 44) with glaciers and peaks higher than 5000 metres. No specimens of L. inermis from Kyrgyzstan have been found either in ZIN (where some of Protzenko’s material is deposited in) or among identified specimens in Protzenko’s material in the Institute of Biology National Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek (D. A. Milko, personal communication, 2022). There are also no Kyrgyzstan specimens of L. inermis in the private collection of G. V. Nikolajev (Almaty, Kazakhstan). So, we consider the records of L. inermis from Kyrgyzstan published by Protzenko (1968, 1972, 1976) as erroneous, probably based on misidentifications of females of L. sulcipennis, common on this territory, or the later described L. shakhristanicus Nikolajev, 2003.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCBFF9D4993FD3FFD29F8D0.taxon	description	(Figs. 3, 11 – 12, 24, 33)	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCBFF9D4993FD3FFD29F8D0.taxon	materials_examined	Type material examined. Lethrus (M.) shakhristanicus. Paratype ♂ with labels “ Tajikistan, [Sughd Region] Turkest [an]. khr [Mountain Range,]. env. [of] Shakhristan [= Shahriston] 26. v. 1972 g. Shukhronaev S. [leg.] ” [in Russian], “ Paratypus Lethrus shakhristanicus Nikolajev 2003 ” [red label] (GNPC). Lethrus (M.) nuratavicus. Paratypes 1 ♂ 1 ♀: “ Uzb. [ekistan, Jizzax Reg.,] Nuratau [Mt. Range,] Asmansay [,] 15. v. 1986 [, G.] Nikolajev [leg.] ” [in Russian], “ Paratypus Lethrus nuratavicus Nikolajev ” [printed red text on white paper] (GNPC). Additional material examined. Uzbekistan. 1 ♂: Uzbekistan, Jizzax Reg., Nuratau Mt. Range, Jangiqishlak, 24. iv. 2002, O. & I. Legezin leg. (MBPC); 7 ♂♂ 4 ♀♀: Uzbekistan, Jizzax Reg., 28 km SW Zaamin, Malguzar Mt. Range, 39 ° 43 ’ 12 ” N, 68 ° 14 ’ 57 ” E, 2000 m a. s. l., 17. iv. 2021, S. Dyonin & I. Dyonina leg. (ASPC); Kyrgyzstan. 15 ♂♂ 12 ♀♀: Kyrgyzstan, Batken Reg., Leilek Distr., 9 km S Ai-Kol, Turkestan Mt. Range, 39 ° 43 ’ N 69 ° 38 ’ E, 13. v. 2016, 2100 m a. s. l. (ASPC); 1 ♂ 3 ♀♀: same data (MBPC).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCBFF9D4993FD3FFD29F8D0.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Gena near rectangular: laterally widely truncate, anterolateral and posterolateral angles nearly right (Figs. 3, 33); gena 1.9 – 2.5 times as large as eye width. Punctation of head and pronotum comparatively fine and small, elytral striae thin and superficial (Fig. 3). Dorsal surface of body with faint bronze tinge, in older and abraded specimens — black. Parameres relatively narrow, sinuous along inner edge, in lateral view apically appearing acuminate (Figs. 11 – 12). Sclerotized apex of endophallus wide at the base, in dorsal view suboval, anteriorly with prominent spine (Fig. 24). Body length 11 – 18 mm.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCBFF9D4993FD3FFD29F8D0.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan. Central part of the Turkestan Mountain Range in northern Tajikistan and south-western Kyrgyzstan, Nuratau and Malguzar Mountain Ranges in Uzbekistan (see map, Fig. 44).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCBFF9D4993FD3FFD29F8D0.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology. The populations in 9 km southwards Ai-Kol and 28 km south-westwards Zaamin are inhabits steppe landscapes partly planted with local rainfed fields near beginning of the juniper belt (Figs. 46 – 47) at altitudes about 2000 – 2100 m. Studied material from another localities of the species lacks altitude data. Activity of imago is recorded from middle of April to late May. The species is occurs sympatrically with L. nuratavicus and L. microbuccis.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCBFF9D4993FD3FFD29F8D0.taxon	discussion	Notes. Among the type series of L. nuratavicus we found two paratypes (one male and one female) which are actually belongs to L. shakhristanicus because of fine punctation of head and pronotum, faint bronze tinge of dorsal surface of body and shape of the male genitalia.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCBFF9D4993FF27FBAAFD97.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Dorsal surface of the mandibles in both sexes with low, not sharp keels (Figs. 3 – 8), keel on the right mandible less distinct and can be obtuse. Elytral striae indistinct or distinct, but not definitely impressed (Figs. 3 – 8). Ventrites without denticles; subapical ventrite with tuft of long erect setae, which is denser in females (Figs. 40 – 43). Dorsal surface of the body usually more or less dull (Figs. 3 – 8), although metallic tinge can be rather well pronounced (Fig. 5). Parameres anteriorly curved downwards, in lateral view apically appearing roundish or acuminate (Figs. 11 – 21); sclerotized apex of endophallus not subclavate (Figs. 24 – 31) and not curved in lateral view (Figs. 26, 31), resembling an anteriorly bilobed subrectangular plate (Figs. 28 – 30) or elongate (Figs. 24 – 27), surface more or less finely granular (Figs. 24 – 31).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCBFF9D4993FF27FBAAFD97.taxon	discussion	Notes. The species group includes all the other five species of the subgenus: L. shakhristanicus, L. nuratavicus, L. microbuccis, L. elisae and L. d yonini A. Shapovalov & Bagaturov, new species.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9C4993FF27FC63FBB1.taxon	description	(Figs. 4, 13 – 14, 25 – 27, 34)	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9C4993FF27FC63FBB1.taxon	materials_examined	Type material examined. Paratypes. 2 ♂♂ 3 ♀♀: “ Uzb. [ekistan, Jizzax Region] Nuratau [Mountain Range] Asmansay [,] 15. v. 1986, [G.] Nikolajev [leg.] ”, “ Paratypus Lethrus nuratavicus Nikolajev ” [printed red text on white paper] (GNPC); 1 ♂: same data (SKPC). Additional material examined. Uzbekistan. 4 ♂♂ 2 ♀♀: Uzbekistan, Jizzax Reg., 28 km SW Zaamin, Malguzar Mt. Range, 39 ° 43 ’ 12 ” N 68 ° 14 ’ 57 ” E, 2000 m a. s. l., 9. v. 2014, S. Dyonin & I. Dyonina leg. (MBPC); 3 ♂♂ 1 ♀: same locality and collectors, 17. iv. 2021 (ASPC).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9C4993FF27FC63FBB1.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Gena nearly rectangular: laterally widely truncate, anterolateral and posterolateral angle near right; gena 2 – 2.4 times as large as eye width (Figs. 4, 34). Punctation of head and pronotum comparatively coarse and larger, than in L. shakhristanicus, elytral striae thin and superficial (Fig. 4). Dorsal surface of body with faint blue tinge (Fig. 4), in older and abraded specimens — black. Parameres wide, near straight along the inner edge, in lateral view apically appearing acuminate (Figs. 13 – 14). Sclerotized apex of endophallus narrow at the base, in dorsal view distinctly elongated, anteriorly rounded (Figs. 25 – 27). Body length 14 – 19 mm.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9C4993FF27FC63FBB1.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Uzbekistan. Nuratau Mountain Range and Malguzar Mountain Range in the system of Turkestan Mountain Range (see map, Fig. 44).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9C4993FF27FC63FBB1.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology. The species inhabits steppe landscapes of foothills and mountains up to beginning of the juniper belt (Figs. 46) at altitudes from about 1000 to 2000 m. Activity of imago is recorded from middle of April to late May. The species occurs sympatrically with L. shakhristanicus and L. microbuccis.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9F4993FBDCFEBFF9DF.taxon	description	(Figs. 5, 15 – 16, 28, 35, 42 – 43, 45)	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9F4993FBDCFEBFF9DF.taxon	materials_examined	Type material examined. None. Additional material examined. Kyrgyzstan. 2 ♂♂ 1 ♀: SW Kyrgyzstan, Batken Reg., Leilek Distr., Turkestan Mt. Range, 9 km S Ai-Kol, 39 ° 43 ’ N 69 ° 38 ’ E, 2100 m a. s. l., 13. v. 2016, A. Shapovalov leg. (ASPC); 55 ♂♂ 21 ♀♀: SW Kyrgyzstan, Batken Reg., Leilek Distr., Turkestan Mt. Range, Golbo env., 39 ° 48 ’ N 69 ° 38 ’ E, 1759 m a. s. l., 8 - 9. v. 2016, A. Shapovalov leg. (ASPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: same data (MBPC). Tajikistan. 1 ♂: N Tajikistan, Sughd Reg., Turkestan Mt. Range, Shakhristan env., 26. v. 1972, Shukhronaev leg. (GNPC); 1 ♂: N Tajikistan, Sughd Reg., valley of Zarafshan, Sudzhina, 17. v. 1967, I. Lopatin leg. Uzbekistan (GNPC). Uzbekistan. 1 ♂ 1 ♀: Uzbekistan, Jizzax Reg., N foothills of Turkestan Mt Range., Zaamin env., 22. iv. 1998, A. Klimenko leg. (MBPC); 16 ♂♂ 14 ♀♀: Uzbekistan, Jizzax Reg., 28 km SW Zaamin, Malguzar Mt. Range, 39 ° 43 ’ 12 ” N, 68 ° 14 ’ 57 ” E, 2000 m a. s. l., 17. iv. 2021, S. Dyonin & I. Dyonina leg. (ASPC); 1 ♂: Jizzax Reg., Nuratau Mt. Range, Jangiqishlak, 24. iv. 2002, O. & I. Legezin leg. (MBPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: Jizzax Reg., Nuratau Mt. Range, southwards Jangiqishlak, 14 – 15. iv. 2004, O. Legezin leg. (MBPC); 1 ♀: Samarkand reg., 11 km SE Djush, N of Aktau Mt. Range, 7. iv. 2013, S. Dyonin leg., 250 m a. s. l.; 2 ♂♂ 3 ♀♀: Samarkand Reg., Samarkand env., 9. iii. 2001, O. Legezin leg. (GNPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: Dzhizzax Reg., Mullabulak, 8. iii. 2001, O. Legezin leg. (GNPC); 1 ♂ 3 ♀♀: Nuratau Mt. Range, iv. 2002, O. Legezin leg. (GNPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: Qashqadaryo Reg., Ruskishlak vill., Zarafshan Mt. Range, 10. iv. 1991, S. Ovchinnikov leg. (SKPC); 1 ♀: Samarkand Reg., 65 km on Samarkand to Qarshi road, Zarafshan Mt. Range, 19. iv. 1997, A. Klimenko leg. (MBPC); 3 ♂: same locality and collector, but 14. IV. 1997 (MBPC); ♂ 1 ♀: Qashqadaryo Reg., 30 km East to Kitab, tributary of Qashqadaryo Riv., 9. v. 1982, G. Medvedev leg. (MBPC); 4 ♀♀: Qashqadaryo Reg., Qarshi env., 11. iii. 2001, O. Legezin leg. (GNPC); 1 ♂: same locality, but 1. iv. 1998, A. Klimenko leg. (MBPC); 5 ♂♂ 4 ♀♀: Qashqadaryo Reg., 20 km S Guldara, W spurs of Hissar Mt. Range, 18. iii. 2001, I. Legezin leg. (GNPC); Qashqadaryo Reg., W Hissar Mt. Range, Guldara gorge, 18. iii. 1991, Legezin leg. (SKPC).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9F4993FBDCFEBFF9DF.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Gena laterally rounded or narrowly and obliquely truncate, anterolateral angle usually rounded, posterolateral angle obtuse or indistinct (Fig. 35); gena usually 1.8 – 2.0 times as large as eye width or rarely gena can be up to 2.4 – 2.5 times as large as eye width and anterolateral angle rather sharp (recorded in specimens from southern part of the species area — Hissar Mountain Range). Punctation of head and pronotum rather coarse and relatively large (Fig. 5). Elytra finely shagreened, with fine simple punctation; elytral striae distinct and partly impressed with convex interstriae in specimens from most of the species area (Fig. 5), but in populations from Hissar Range specimens with superficial striae are prevailed. Dorsal surface of the body with rather distinct metallic cupreous, bronze, less often golden-bronze, bluish or greenish tinge, in older and abraded specimens dorsal surface sometimes nearly black. Parameres comparatively narrow, curved inward and usually slightly widened apically (Figs. 15 – 16). Sclerotized apex of endophallus resembles a subrectangular (longer than wide) plate, in dorsal view with a pair of lobes (about as long as basal part of sclerite) anteriorly and deep suboval emargination between them, lobes about as long as basal part of sclerite or only slightly shorter, sclerite laterally subparallel-sided (Fig. 28). Comparatively small species, body length 9 – 16 mm.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9F4993FBDCFEBFF9DF.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Eastern Uzbekistan, southwestern Kyrgyzstan and northwestern Tajikistan. Widespread on the foothills and midlands of Hissar-Alai, known from Nuratau, Malguzar, western and central part of Turkestan, west of Zarafshan and west of Hissar Mountain Ranges (see map, Fig. 44).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9F4993FBDCFEBFF9DF.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology. The species inhabits steppe landscapes of foothills and mountains up to beginning of the juniper belt (Figs. 46 – 47) at altitudes from about 1000 to 2100 m. Activity of imago is recorded from mid February (Nikolajev 2003) to late May. The species occurs sympatrically with L. nuratavicus and L. shakhristanicus from Nuratau Mountain Range to the system of Turkestan Mountain Range.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFCAFF9F4993FBDCFEBFF9DF.taxon	discussion	Notes. The type material of L. puncticollis must be studied. This name is considered as a junior synonym of L. microbuccis by Semenov (1894) and subsequent authors (Nikolajev 2003; Nikolajev et al. 2016). But according to the type locality (Samarkand) and characters from the description (elytra with faint bluish tinge) (Kraatz 1882) this name can be a senior synonym of L. nuratavicus (known from Nuratau Mountain Range northwards from Samarkand).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC9FF934993F976FCFDFDCB.taxon	description	(Figs. 6, 17 – 18, 29, 36)	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC9FF934993F976FCFDFDCB.taxon	materials_examined	Type material examined. Paratypes 1 ♂ 4 ♀♀: “ Uzb. [ekistan,] Baysuntau [Mountain Range, Surxondaryo Region] Shurob [38 ° 11 ’ N, 66 ° 56 ’ E], 20 km N Derbent [,] 20. iii. 2001 [,] I. Legezin [leg.] ” [in Russian], “ Paratypus Lethrus elisae Nikolajev ” [printed red text on white paper] (GNPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: “ Uzb. [ekistan, Qashqadaryo Reg.,] Gumbulak [= Gumbuloq, about 38 ° 28 ’ N, 66 ° 26 ’ E,] (10 km E of Guzar) [,] 20. iii. 2001 [,] O. Legezin [leg.] ” [in Russian], “ Paratypus Lethrus elisae Nikolajev ” [printed red text on white paper] (GNPC); 1 ♂ with same labels (MBPC). Additional material examined. Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan, Qashqadaryo Reg. 1 ♂ 1 ♀: N Akrabat Pass (= Oqravot Dovon Pass, about 38 ° 15 ’ N, 66 ° 50 ’ E, ~ 1590 m a. s. l.), 14. iv. 1994, S. Ovchinnikov leg. (SKPC); 2 ♂♂: SW Hissar Mts., Shurob env., 6. iii. 2004, O. Legezin leg. (MBPC); 1 ♂ 1 ♀: Baysun (= Boysun; about 38 ° 12 ’ N, 67 ° 11 ’ E), 26. iv. 2003, O. Legezin leg. (GNPC).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC9FF934993F976FCFDFDCB.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Gena laterally narrowly and obliquely truncate, anterolateral angle usually more or less rounded, posterolateral angle obtuse (Figs. 6, 36); gena 2.1 – 2.8 times as large as eye width. Punctation of head and pronotum usually rather fine (but in one pair from Boysun, punctation coarse) and relatively small (Fig. 6). Elytra finely shagreened, with fine simple punctation, striae thin and superficial with flattened interstriae (Fig. 6). Dorsal surface of the body with faint bronze or bluish tinge, in older and abraded specimens — black. Shape of male genitalia is very similar to L. microbuccis and almost lacks distinct differences, only parameres comparatively narrow and not widened apically, weakly curved inward (Figs. 17 – 18); sclerotized apex of endophallus usually arcuate laterally (Fig. 29), but sometimes with nearly parallel sides. Body length 14 – 19 mm.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC9FF934993F976FCFDFDCB.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Southern Uzbekistan. The species is known from the south-western spurs of the Hissar Range, localities are situated in the south part and foothills of Chakchar and Baysuntau Mountain Ranges (see map, Fig. 44). The species is apparently vicariant to L. microbuccis in the south.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC9FF934993F976FCFDFDCB.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology. The species inhabits steppe landscapes of foothills and mountains at altitudes from about 800 to 1600 m. Activity of imago is recorded from early March to late April.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC4FF944993FB1DFAC1FB9F.taxon	description	(Figs. 7 – 8, 19 – 21, 30 – 31, 37 – 38, 40 – 41)	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC4FF944993FB1DFAC1FB9F.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality. Uzbekistan, Tashkent Prov., S env. of Tashsay, 41 ° 03 ’ 52.19 ” N 69 ° 38 ’ 27.79 ” E, 838 m a. s. l. Type material. Holotype, ♂ (ZIN), Uzbekistan, Tashkent Prov., 10 km SSW Krasnogorskyi, S env. of Tashsay, W footh. of Chatkal Mt. Range, 23. iii. 2014, 838 m a. s. l., 41 ° 03 ’ 52.19 ” N 69 ° 38 ’ 27.79 ” E S. Dyonin & I. Dyonina leg. Paratypes: allotype, ♀ (ZIN) and 5 ♂♂, 2 ♀♀ (ASPC, MBPC), same locality and collector as for holotype, but 18. – 31. iii. 2018; 5 ♂♂, 2 ♀ (ASPC, MBPC), same data as for holotype; 8 ♂♂, 6 ♀♀ (ASPC), Uzbekistan, Tashkent Prov., 14 km SSW Krasnogorskyi, S from Belovutsoy Riv., W footh. of Chatkal Mt. Range, 25. iii. 2023, 794 m a. s. l., 41 ° 01 ’ 43.38 ” N 69 ° 38 ’ 27.71 ” E, S. Dyonin & I. Dyonina leg.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC4FF944993FB1DFAC1FB9F.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Gena 2.5 – 3.1 times as large as eye width, laterally narrowly and obliquely truncate, anterolateral angle usu-ally more or less rounded, posterolateral angle obtuse (Figs. 7 – 8, 37). Punctation of pronotum relatively coarse, but not large, punctation of elytra double (sparse points and smaller dense points), elytra with only superficial thin trace of striae (Figs. 7 – 8). Dorsal surface of body with faint blue, green or bronze tinge or without distinct tinge (Figs. 7 – 8). Parameres comparatively wide and straight, but apically not widened, weakly curved inward (Figs. 19 – 21). Sclerotized apex of endophallus resembling a subrectangular plate (Figs. 30 – 31), in dorsal view anteriorly with pair of relatively short lobes (distinctly shorter than basal part of sclerite) and emargination between them.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC4FF944993FB1DFAC1FB9F.taxon	description	Description of holotype (♂). Body length with mandibles 17.2 mm, body length to clypeal margin 15 mm, maximal width of body (elytra behind base) 9.8 mm. Body (Fig. 7) rounded, convex; dorsal surface black, head and pronotum with faint bluish tinge, elytra with faint greenish tinge, venter with blue tinge; head and pronotum slightly shiny, elytra matt. Head (Fig. 7). Labrum bilobed, right lobe weakly more developed than left one; anterior margin with row of long dark-brown setae. Clypeus transverse, trapezoidal with rounded anterior angles. Frontal impressions very fine, frontal tubercles indistinct. Frontoclypeal suture weakly visible only laterally; keels separating gena from frons not sharp, but more or less distinct. Gena exceeding eyes, noticeably projected laterally, in dorsal aspect 2.5 times as large as eye width, laterally narrowly and obliquely truncate, anterolateral angle rounded, posterolateral angle distinct. Postorbital denticles very small. Pleurostomal process short, hardly exceeding ventrolateral mandible outline, gradually narrowed from base to apex. Punctation double, relatively dense, coarse, partly merged and rugose, punctures less deep on clypeus; gena with fine rugose sculpture, punctures scattered and superficial. Mandibles (Fig. 7) ventral processes lacking, ventral margin of left mandible weakly arcuate before middle, ventral margin of right mandible near straight; in dorsal aspect mandibles symmetrical, subapically slightly emarginate, dorsal mandible surface with only short low keels: longitudinal keel on left mandible in the distal third and transversal keel on right mandible distal of the middle. Pronotum (Fig. 7) transverse, distinctly broader than base of elytra, maximum width behind middle; margins entirely bordered, not crenulate. Anterior angles weakly projecting anteriorly, rounded; posterior angles widely rounded. Punctation relatively coarse, punctures sparser on disc, denser and coarser on lateral sides; micropunctures poorly visible on disc, more distinct on lateral sides. Abdomen. Subapical visible ventrite with tuft of long erect setae distally. Elytra (Fig. 7) almost semicircular, apices of elytra truncate, epipleuron strongly narrowed apicad, epipleural keel not reaching elytral apex. Surface with superficial thin trace of striae; punctation smaller than on pronotum, superficial, double: sparse points and smaller dense points. Legs (Fig. 7). Protibia with eight external teeth gradually diminishing proximad, and with row of tubercles on ventromedial edge. Male genitalia (Figs. 19 – 21, 30 – 31). Aedeagus with oblong parameres: in ventral view parameres about half as long as phallobasis, parameres gradually narrowed, comparatively wide, straight along the interior margin, apices curved downwards and relatively weakly curved inward, in lateral view apically roundish. Sclerotized apex of endophallus resembles a subrectangular plate, in dorsal view anteriorly with a pair of relatively short lobes (distinctly shorter than basal part of sclerite) and emargination between them. Variability of males. Body length with mandibles 15.1 – 17.4 mm, body length to clypeal margin 13.1 – 15.4 mm, maximal width of body (elytra behind base) 8.9 – 10 mm. Dorsal surface of the body as in holotype, or with faint bronze tinge or nearly black (in older and abraded specimens). Gena (Fig. 37) in dorsal aspect 2.5 – 3.15 times as large as eye width. Sometimes left mandible on ventral margin with small obtuse angulate protrusion near the middle (Fig. 38). Apices of elytra as in holotype (Fig. 40) or sometimes slightly prominent. Females (Figs. 8, 41). Body length with mandibles in allotype 15.8 mm, body length to clypeal margin 14.1 mm, maximal width of body (elytra behind the base) 9.3 mm. Dorsal surface of the body in allotype with bronze tinge (Fig. 8). Variability in females: body length with mandibles 15.2 – 16.6 mm, body length to clypeal margin 13.4 – 14.6 mm, maximal width of body (elytra behind base) 8.9 – 9.5 mm. Apices of elytra angularly (Fig. 41) or roundish prominent. Tuft on subapical ventrite with relatively numerous setae (Fig. 41).	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC4FF944993FB1DFAC1FB9F.taxon	distribution	Distribution. The new species is known from two close localities about 30 km south-east of Tashkent near Tashsay and southwards of Belovutsoy River, in western foothills of Chatkal Mountain Range (see map, Fig. 44). Lethrus dyonini A. Shapovalov & Bagaturov, new species is distributed distantly from all other species of the subgenus Mesolethrus, and apparently vicariant with L. microbuccis in the north.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC4FF944993FB1DFAC1FB9F.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The species is named in honour of Sergei Vladimirovich Dyonin (Tashkent, Uzbekistan), photographer, collector of insects and naturalist who has dedicated his life to the study of fauna and flora in Uzbekistan.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC4FF944993FB1DFAC1FB9F.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology. Lethrus dyonini A. Shapovalov & Bagaturov, new species is found in foothills at an altitude of about 800 m a. s. l. in savannoid steppe (Fig. 48). Activity of imago is recorded in the second half of March. According to labels of studied material, the species occurs sympatrically with L. (Paralethrus) bituberculatus bituberculatus Ballion, 1871.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
3E6A87DAFFC4FF944993FB1DFAC1FB9F.taxon	discussion	Notes. The record of L. microbuccis for Tashkent (Semenov & Medvedev 1936) was not considered by Nikolajev (1987; 2003), but this data can be connected with Lethrus dyonini A. Shapovalov & Bagaturov, new species.	en	Shapovalov, Andrey M., Bagaturov, Mikhail F. (2023): A review of the subgenus Mesolethrus Nikolajev, 2003 of the genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae: Lethrinae) with description of a new species. Zootaxa 5351 (4): 435-452, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5351.4.2
