Chemsakiella
Monné, 2006
Species Guides
1Chemsakiella is a of longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) established by Monné in 2006. It contains four described , all native to Mexico and Central America. The genus belongs to the tribe Trachyderini, a diverse group of cerambycines often characterized by robust bodies and frequently colorful or patterned . The genus name honors the American entomologist John A. Chemsak, who described three of the four included species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chemsakiella: /kɛm.saˈkiː.ɛ.lə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Chemsakiella can be distinguished from other Trachyderini by the combination of: not notably longer than body in males; pronotum without prominent lateral or spines; often with green or bluish metallic coloration or distinct pale markings; and relatively compact, somewhat flattened body form. The genus is most similar to Trachyderes and related genera, but differs in details of antennal structure and male genitalia. Specific identification to species level requires examination of the and comparison of elytral pattern.
Distribution
Mexico and Central America. Chemsakiella michelbacheri and C. virgulata are known from Mexico; C. virens occurs from Mexico to Panama; C. ricei is known from Mexico.
Similar Taxa
- TrachyderesBoth belong to Trachyderini and share robust body form and often metallic coloration. Trachyderes typically have more elongated bodies, longer relative to body length, and more pronounced pronotal .
- DerobrachusBoth are robust cerambycines with sometimes similar coloration. Derobrachus is immediately distinguished by its greatly elongated (especially in males) and prominent , features absent in Chemsakiella.
More Details
Etymology
The name Chemsakiella is a patronym honoring John A. Chemsak (1929–2013), American entomologist and in Cerambycidae, who described three of the four now placed in this genus.
Taxonomic history
Prior to 2006, the now in Chemsakiella were classified in other , primarily Trachyderes. Monné established Chemsakiella to accommodate species that differed in genitalic and external morphological characters from typical Trachyderes.