Pachyonychus paradoxus
F.E. Melsheimer, 1847
Greenbriar Leaf Beetle
Pachyonychus paradoxus is a flea beetle in the Chrysomelidae, representing the sole described species in its . It occurs in the United States and is commonly known as the Greenbriar . The species was first described by F.E. Melsheimer in 1847. As a member of the flea beetle group, it possesses enlarged hind adapted for jumping. The genus Pachyonychus is , with no other described species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pachyonychus paradoxus: /ˌpækiˈɒnɪkəs ˌpærəˈdɒksəs/
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Identification
Pachyonychus paradoxus can be distinguished from other Chrysomelidae by its placement in the Pachyonychus. As a flea beetle, it possesses characteristically enlarged hind that enable jumping. Specific diagnostic features for -level identification within its range require examination of morphological details such as elytral punctation, coloration patterns, and genitalia structure. The species lacks close for direct comparison due to the monotypic status of its genus.
Images
Distribution
United States; North America
Host Associations
- Smilax - feeds on plant commonly known as greenbriar or catbrier, referenced in
Similar Taxa
- Other Chrysomelidae flea beetles (tribe Alticini)Share enlarged hind for jumping, but distinguished by generic placement in Pachyonychus and associated morphological characters
More Details
Taxonomic Status
The Pachyonychus contains only this single described , making it . The species was described in 1847 and remains the sole representative of the genus.