Pachyschelus
Pachyschelus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Buprestoidea
- Family: Buprestidae
- Subfamily: Agrilinae
- Tribe: Tracheini
- Genus: Pachyschelus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pachyschelus: //pəˈkɪskɪləs//
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Summary
Pachyschelus is a genus of metallic wood-boring beetles in the family Buprestidae, consisting of at least 270 described species, predominantly found in tropical regions of the New World and Oriental areas.
Physical Characteristics
Small, flattened, rhomboidal leaf-mining beetles measuring 2-3 mm in length. They are characterized by broad, flattened tibiae, a large triangular scutellum, and mandibles that are hidden beneath the prosternum.
Identification Tips
Differentiate from similar genera such as Taphrocerus and Brachys by their broad, flattened tibiae and distinct large triangular scutellum.
Habitat
Primarily tropical regions, primarily found in the New World and Oriental regions.
Distribution
New World & Oriental; primarily tropical regions.
Diet
Possibly detritivorous or herbivorous, typical of leaf-mining beetles, though specific diet details are not well documented.
Life Cycle
Details about the life cycle are not provided; life cycles in beetles typically include egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Reproductive habits are not specified; typical reproduction in beetles includes internal fertilization with oviposition of eggs.
Predators
Information on specific predators is not provided; as beetles, they may be preyed upon by birds, mammals, and other insectivores.
Conservation Status
Not assessed; no specific conservation status provided.
Ecosystem Role
As members of the ecosystem, they likely play a role in leaf-mining and may contribute to decomposition processes.
Economic Impact
No direct economic impact is noted.
Cultural Significance
No cultural significance provided.
Health Concerns
No health concerns mentioned.
Evolution
Part of the subtribe Pachyschelina containing approximately 280 species in 2 genera, suggesting an evolutionary adaptation to tropical habitats.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
No specific misconceptions noted.
Tags
- beetles
- Pachyschelus
- Buprestidae
- tropical insects
- leaf-mining beetles