Omophron nitidum
LeConte, 1847
Shiny Round Sand Beetle
Omophron nitidum is a small to the United States. are , sheltering in burrows and leaf litter during daylight hours. The has been recorded breeding from late summer through December. It is one of several North species in the Omophron, which are adapted to sandy .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Omophron nitidum: /oʊˈmɒfrɒn nɪˈtaɪdəm/
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Identification
Members of the Omophron are distinguished from other by their rounded, convex body form and short that leave several abdominal tergites exposed. O. nitidum specifically can be recognized by its shiny, polished surface. The combination of rounded body shape, exposed abdominal , and separates it from typical with elongated bodies and complete elytra.
Images
Habitat
Sandy areas, including riverbanks and lakeshores. shelter in burrows and leaf litter during the day.
Distribution
United States: recorded from Indiana, Minnesota, Nebraska, Alabama, and Texas.
Seasonality
Breeding activity has been observed from late summer through December. are active year-round but are .
Behavior
are , remaining concealed in burrows or leaf litter during daylight hours.
Similar Taxa
- Omophron labiatumShares the rounded body form and exposed abdominal tergites characteristic of the ; differs in surface sculpturing and geographic distribution
- Omophron americanumSimilar preferences and body shape; distinguished by differences in elytral striation and coloration