Lioon
Casey, 1912
pill beetles
Species Guides
2- Lioon nezperce(pill beetle)
- Lioon simplicipes(pill beetle)
Lioon is a of pill beetles in the Byrrhidae, established by Casey in 1912. The genus contains at least four described distributed in North America. Members of this genus are small, compact beetles capable of conglobation (rolling into a ball), a defensive characteristic of the family Byrrhidae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lioon: /liˈoʊn/
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Identification
Members of Lioon can be distinguished from other Byrrhidae by their compact, rounded body form and association with the tribe Simplocariini. The genus is characterized by specific antennal and tarsal structures, though detailed diagnostic features require examination of . Lioon puncticeps and Lioon speculare were described by Casey, while Lioon simplicipes was transferred from earlier classifications.
Distribution
North America. Known from western regions including areas inhabited by the Nez Perce (Lioon nezperce named in reference).
Behavior
Conglobation (rolling into a ball) when disturbed, a defensive mechanism characteristic of pill beetles.
Similar Taxa
- ByrrhusLarger in the same ; Lioon generally smaller with more compact body form
- SimplocariaMember of same tribe Simplocariini; separation requires examination of male genitalia and tarsal structure
More Details
Etymology
Lioon nezperce is named in reference to the Nez Perce people and region.
Species list
Four described : Lioon nezperce Johnson, 1991; Lioon puncticeps Casey; Lioon simplicipes (Mannerheim, 1852); Lioon speculare Casey.