Phylogenetic revision of the Neotropical weevil genus Trichodocerus Chevrolat (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Since the description of the genus Trichodocerus Chevrolat in 1879 its phylogenetic position within Curculionidae has remained enigmatic due to several peculiar morphological features. Although current classification places the genus in its own tribe withinin the Conoderinae, there is a lack of cladistic evidence supporting its relationship with the conoderines or any of the other three subfamilies it was previously placed in. The genus is revised and new insights from cladistic analysis regarding its relationship to other weevils are discussed along with its natural history and behavior.