Anillinus dentatus
Anillinus dentatus is a of minute ground beetle in the Carabidae. Members of the Anillinus are eyeless, subterranean beetles adapted to life in soil and cave environments. The specific epithet "dentatus" refers to toothed characteristics, likely of the or elytral margins. These beetles are part of the diverse North American cave fauna, with species in this genus primarily distributed in the eastern and central United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Anillinus dentatus: //ænɪˈlaɪnəs dɛnˈteɪtəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Habitat
Subterranean environments including caves, soil, and groundwater . Anillinus are typically found in moist, dark habitats with stable temperatures.
Distribution
Eastern and central United States; specific locality data for A. dentatus requires verification from primary literature.
Behavior
Subterranean and troglomorphic; eyeless and depigmented, indicating to permanent darkness.
Ecological Role
in subterranean ; contributes to nutrient cycling in cave .
Similar Taxa
- Anillinus speciesOther eyeless, subterranean beetles in the same ; identification to level requires examination of male genitalia and other subtle morphological characters.
- Other trechine ground beetlesSuperficially similar small, dark beetles, but Anillinus is distinguished by complete eyelessness and specific antennal and leg proportions.