Chaseleodes Thomas, a new subgenus of Eleodes Eschscholtz, is described and proposed to hold two species from central Mexico, Eleodes connatus Solier and Eleodes curtus Champion (designated as type species). A key, map, illustrations, and diagnoses are provided for the species. Characters that in combination define the new subgenus include the wedge-shaped elytron, broadly based epipleuron, and the female valvifers. The subgenus is named in honor of Dr. Chas. A. Triplehorn.