Physonota calochroma
(Blake, 1965)
Species Guides
1Physonota calochroma is a tortoise beetle in the Chrysomelidae, originally described by Blake in 1965. The species is currently treated as a synonym of Eurypepla calochroma. As a member of the tortoise beetle Cassidinae, it possesses the characteristic domed formed by modified and pronotum. Larvae of the Physonota construct distinctive fecal umbrellas using and , held aloft by urogomphi structures.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Physonota calochroma: /ˌfaɪsoʊˈnoʊtə ˌkæloʊˈkɹoʊmə/
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Distribution
Recorded from North America and the Caribbean region.
Behavior
Larvae construct protective umbrellas from accumulated () and shed skins (), supported by urogomphi—paired extensions. These structures are carried dorsally and can be repositioned to threats. The number of shed capsules in the umbrella indicates larval age.
More Details
Taxonomic status
Physonota calochroma is currently considered a synonym of Eurypepla calochroma (Blake, 1965) according to Catalogue of Life and GBIF.
Larval umbrella structure
The fecal umbrella serves multiple hypothesized functions: physical camouflage, chemical defense through volatile compounds released from accumulated , and direct mechanical barrier against .