Taxonomic position of Tetrops peterkai Skořepa, 2020 (Сoleoptera: Сerambycidae) and its cryptic distribution

Abstract. In this study, we sequenced the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene from Tetrops peterkai specimens collected in northern Ukraine, obtaining the first barcodes for this species from the region. These barcodes revealed major genetic differences, supporting the distinction between T. peterkai and its sibling Tetrops praeustus and refuting the early suggestion to synonymize them. These findings underscore the need to formally restore the name Tetrops peterkai Scořepa, 2020, nom. res. Our analysis reveals wide distribution of Tetrops peterkai across Northern and Eastern Europe and Northern Balkans, including the first barcode-based records in Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, France, Norway, and Sweden. In contrast, Tetrops praeustus is more common in southern and western Europe. The ranges of both species broadly overlapping in Central and Eastern Europe. Additionally, the Tetrops species introduced to North America has been identified as Tetrops peterkai, likely originating from France.