Smicronyx species (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), economically important seed predators of witchweeds (Striga spp.) (Scrophulariaceae) in sub-Saharan Africa

The taxonomy of three species of Smicronyx that are potential biocontrol agents of witchweeds (Striga spp.) in West Africa is revised. The two most abundant species are identified as Smicronyx(Afrosmicronyx) umbrinus Hustache and S. (Smicronyx) guineanus Voss. A third species is described as Smicronyx (Afrosmicronyx) dorsomaculatus Cox, sp. n. Diagnostic descriptions and a key, to separate adults of the three species from each other and from Sharpia bella Faust, are presented. Mature larvae of the three Smicronyx species are separated through a key and diagnoses. A lectotype is selected for Smicronyx umbrinus. All available host and distribution data are summarized for each species.