Harpalus retractus

LeConte, 1863

Harpalus retractus is a ground beetle in the Carabidae, Harpalinae, described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1863. It is recorded from Mexico and the United States. Like other members of the Harpalus, it is a ground beetle. The species is part of a large genus containing over 400 species worldwide, with many species being granivorous as .

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Harpalus retractus: /ˈhɑːrpələs rɪˈtræktəs/

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Identification

Members of the Harpalus can be distinguished from similar ground beetle genera by their (thread-like) , lack of prominent mandibular teeth, and typically rounded pronotum. -level identification within Harpalus requires examination of male genitalia and detailed comparison of elytral microsculpture and setation patterns. H. retractus specifically would require comparison with or authoritative keys to distinguish from .

Distribution

Recorded from Mexico and the United States (North America).

Behavior

, as is typical for the Harpalus.

Similar Taxa

  • Harpalus pensylvanicusCommon North American with similar size and general appearance; both are ground beetles that may occur in similar . Distinguished by differences in elytral striation and male genitalia.
  • Harpalus caliginosusAnother large North American Harpalus with which H. retractus might be confused. Separation requires detailed examination of genitalic characters and elytral microsculpture.

More Details

Taxonomic History

Described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1863. LeConte was one of the most prolific American coleopterists of the 19th century, describing thousands of .

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