Neoclypeodytes

Young, 1967

Species Guides

Neoclypeodytes is a of small diving beetles in the Dytiscidae, tribe Bidessini, distributed across western North America and northern Central America. The genus was revised in 2001, with 25 valid recognized and 11 new species described. A single synapomorphy—two maculae on each —supports its monophyly. Relationships to other bidessine genera remain unresolved.

Neoclypeodytes cinctellus by (c) Even Dankowicz, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Even Dankowicz. Used under a CC-BY license.

Neoclypeodytes cinctellus by (c) Matthew Pintar, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Matthew Pintar. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Neoclypeodytes: //ˌniːoʊˌklɪpiˈɒdaɪtiːz//

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Identification

May be distinguished from other bidessine by the presence of two maculae on each , a pattern proposed as the sole synapomorphy for the genus. -level identification requires examination of male genitalia and other fine morphological characters; a diagnostic key is available in the 2001 revision.

Images

Distribution

Western North America and northern Central America, including Mexico. occur across a range of elevations and aquatic systems in this region.

Similar Taxa

UvarusBoth are bidessine diving beetles; Neoclypeodytes was historically confused with related and phylogenetic analysis uses Uvarus lacustris as an outgroup.
LiodessusAnother bidessine used as outgroup in phylogenetic analysis; shares small body size and general aquatic habits but lacks the paired elytral maculae characteristic of Neoclypeodytes.