Pelonides granulatipennis

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pelonides granulatipennis: //pɛlɒˈnaɪdiːz ɡrænjʊˌlætɪˈpɛnɪs//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Pelonides P1040032a by 
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Pelonides granulatipennis, commonly known as a checkered beetle in the family Cleridae, is characterized by its elongate black body with distinctive red and black elytra. It is commonly found in the southern United States, particularly in Texas, and is often observed on mesquite flowers.

Physical Characteristics

Elongate black body, elytra covered with small granules; red elytra with two large black spots on each side, usually confluent; elytra distinctly broader than thorax at base; size ranges from 3.8 to 7.5 mm.

Identification Tips

Look for the unique granulation on elytra and the contrasting red and black coloration.

Habitat

Often found on the flowers of mesquite.

Distribution

Recorded from southern Texas to Mexico, with most records from southern Texas.

Diet

Not specified in the source material, but generally, checkered beetles are predatory on other insects.

Life Cycle

Details on life cycle were not provided in the source material.

Reproduction

Not detailed in the source material.

Predators

Not specified; however, could be preyed upon by birds and other insectivorous animals.

Conservation Status

Not provided in the source material.

Ecosystem Role

As a predatory insect, it likely plays a role in controlling pest populations.

Economic Impact

Not mentioned in the provided text.

Cultural Significance

Not addressed in the source material.

Health Concerns

No health concerns mentioned.

Evolution

No specific evolutionary information provided.

Misconceptions

There are no misconceptions mentioned regarding this species.

Tags

  • Coleoptera
  • Cleridae
  • checkered beetle
  • Pelonides granulatipennis
  • insect identification