Metrionella
Spaeth, 1932
Species Guides
1Metrionella is a of tortoise beetles (Cassidinae) in the Chrysomelidae, established by Spaeth in 1932. The genus comprises approximately 12 described . As members of the tortoise beetle , these beetles are characterized by a distinctive shield-like body form with the and pronotum expanded to cover the legs and when at rest.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Metrionella: //ˌmɛtrioʊˈnɛlə//
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Identification
Members of Metrionella can be recognized by the tortoise beetle body plan: and pronotum extended laterally and posteriorly to form a continuous shield covering the body. Specific -level identification requires examination of subtle differences in body outline, coloration patterns, and punctation on the elytral surface. The is distinguished from related cassidine genera primarily by genitalic and subtle structural characters visible only under magnification.
Images
Similar Taxa
- CassidaBoth are tortoise beetle with shield-shaped bodies; Metrionella generally have more rounded body outlines and different elytral punctation patterns
- DeloyalaShares the tortoise beetle form; Metrionella differs in having more convex profile and distinct antennal groove structure