A new fossil Cantharidae (Insecta, Coleoptera) from the Miocene deposits of Vlădiceni, Romania

A newly discovered species of soldier beetle, Cantharis (s. str.) sesermanae sp. nov., has been identified from the Sarmatian (around 10.5 mya, Late Miocene) deposits located near Vlădiceni, Iaşi County, Romania. This discovery represents a notable addition to the fossil record, as it is the second species from the family Cantharidae to be described from this particular geological formation. Significantly, it also is the first documented fossil species of the genus Cantharis in Romania, highlighting the country’s exceptional contribution to the study of ancient biodiversity. This finding provides valuable insights into the biodiversity of Cantharidae during the Miocene. The identification of Cantharis (s. str.) sesermanae sp. nov. underscores the paleontological importance of the Vlădiceni deposits as a key site for understanding the faunal composition and environmental conditions of the Miocene period. Further research on this and other fossil specimens from the site may offer deeper perspectives on the evolutionary trajectories of Cantharidae and their role within Miocene ecosystems.