Trachykele

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Trachykele: /træˈkɪkəlɛ/

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Summary

Trachykele is a genus of beetles within the family Buprestidae, notable for its unique morphological features and distribution across western and southeastern U.S. regions, with several species known.

Physical Characteristics

Distinguished by three small deep pits along the basal margin of the pronotum; scutellum not visible.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinctive pits on the pronotum and the lack of a visible scutellum.

Habitat

Typically found in forested areas and regions with abundant vegetation.

Distribution

Western U.S. (British Columbia to Colorado and New Mexico) and southeastern U.S. (Virginia to Texas), with T. fattigi specifically known from Stone Mountain, GA.

Diet

Primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials; specific diet varies among species.

Life Cycle

Involves a complete metamorphosis with egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Reproductive habits are typical for beetles in the family Buprestidae, involving oviposition on host plants.

Predators

Natural predators may include birds, mammals, and other insectivorous species.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in the decomposition of wood and plant materials, contributing to nutrient cycling.

Collecting Methods

• Light traps
• Hand collecting under bark of trees
• Trap trees

Preservation Methods

• Pinning
• Alcohol preservation
• Drying specimens

Evolution

Trachykele is part of the subtribe Trachykelina, which contains only one other monotypic genus from Southeast Asia, indicating a specific evolutionary lineage within the Buprestidae.

Similar Taxa

• Buprestidae
• Trachykelina
• Chrysobothris

Tags

• beetles
• Buprestidae
• Trachykele
• insects