Neoclypeodytes fryii
(Clark, 1862)
Neoclypeodytes fryii is a small predaceous diving beetle in the Dytiscidae. It was originally described as Hydroporus fryii by Clark in 1862 and later transferred to the Neoclypeodytes. The occurs in western North America and northern Central America. Multiple junior synonyms have been synonymized under this name, indicating historical taxonomic confusion.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Neoclypeodytes fryii: //ˌniː.oʊˌklɪpi.oʊˈdaɪtiːz ˈfraɪ.i.aɪ//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Neoclypeodytes by the pattern of two maculae (spots) on each , a potential synapomorphy for the . Historical confusion with related species led to multiple synonymizations: N. americanus, N. decoratus, and N. quadrisignatus are now treated as with N. fryii. Precise identification requires examination of male genitalia and other subtle morphological characters detailed in the taxonomic revision by Miller (2001).
Images
Distribution
Western North America and northern Central America (Middle America).
Similar Taxa
- Neoclypeodytes americanus (Guignot)Formerly described as a distinct , now synonymized under N. fryii based on morphological analysis.
- Neoclypeodytes decoratus (Fall)Formerly described as a distinct , now synonymized under N. fryii based on morphological analysis.
- Neoclypeodytes quadrisignatus (Sharp)Formerly described as a distinct , now synonymized under N. fryii based on morphological analysis.