Cassida relicta

Spaeth, 1927

Pink Plains Cassidine

Cassida relicta is a of in the , Cassidinae. It is found in North America and is commonly known as the Pink Plains Cassidine. Like other tortoise beetles, it possesses a flattened, shield-like body form with the capable of being drawn beneath the for protection. The species was described by Spaeth in 1927.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cassida relicta: //ˈkas.sɪ.də rɛˈlɪk.ta//

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Identification

Members of the Cassida can be distinguished from other genera by their relatively uniform, flattened body shape and the manner in which the can be completely withdrawn beneath the . Within Cassida, identification typically requires examination of elytral coloration, pattern, and male . Cassida relicta specifically may be recognized by its pinkish coloration and association with plains , though definitive identification may require comparison with related species such as C. rubiginosa or other North Cassida.

Appearance

As a member of the Cassida, this exhibits the characteristic : a flattened, broadly oval body with expanded and that form a shield-like covering. The body shape allows the to withdraw its and appendages beneath this protective shell when disturbed. The "Pink Plains Cassidine" suggests coloration involving pinkish or rose tones, though specific details of the elytral pattern and coloration are not well documented in available sources.

Habitat

The "Pink Plains Cassidine" suggests association with plains or prairie . As with many Cassida , it likely occurs in open, herbaceous environments where its plants grow. Specific microhabitat preferences are not documented.

Distribution

North America. The is recorded from this broad geographic region, though specific state or provincial records are not detailed in available sources.

Behavior

Like other , likely exhibit the characteristic defensive of withdrawing the and appendages beneath the expanded and when disturbed, presenting only the hard, shield-like surface to potential .

Ecological Role

As a herbivorous , it likely functions as a primary consumer in its , feeding on foliage. Its specific role in and interactions is not documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Cassida rubiginosaAnother North Cassida (thistle ), but distinguished by association with thistles (Cirsium spp.) and more documented biology
  • Other Cassida speciesMany Cassida share similar body form and require detailed examination of coloration, pattern, and for separation

More Details

Taxonomic History

Described by Spaeth in 1927. The specific epithet "relicta" (Latin for "abandoned" or "left behind") may refer to its apparent relictual distribution or isolated occurrence.

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Sources and further reading