Phylogeny of the Neotropical wood degrading beetles (Scarabaeoidea: Passalidae) of the tribe Passalini, inferred from molecular and morphological data

Abstract Passalini comprises 209 species divided into six genera. To date there is no published work that addresses the phylogenetic relationships among genera of Passalini. Additionally, monophyly Passalus , largest genus tribe (81% its species) contested. We performed a analysis based on morphological data and partial sequence 16S ribosomal subunit, to elucidate Passalini, test their monophyly. Of for which we tested monophyly, was only found be non-monophyletic, same occurred subgenera ( ) Pertinax ). The results indicated subgenus at least four distinct lineages, one them corresponding Rodocanthopus ; thus, propose revalidation Rhodocanthopus Kaup, 1869.