Plocamus

LeConte, J.L., 1876

flower weevils

Species Guides

2

Plocamus is a of flower weevils in the Curculionidae, established by LeConte in 1876. The genus contains nine described , distributed primarily in North America. Members are associated with flowering plants, though specific relationships remain poorly documented. The genus includes the porcupine weevil (Plocamus echidna), one of the more frequently referenced species.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Plocamus: /ploˈka.mus/

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Identification

Plocamus can be distinguished from other flower weevils by their compact body form and the presence of distinctive setal patterns on the . P. echidna and P. hystrix bear notably spiny or hispid (bristly) , reflected in their species epithets. The is characterized by a short, broad rostrum relative to many other Curculionidae. Species-level identification requires examination of genitalia and detailed setal arrangement patterns.

Habitat

Found in association with flowering vegetation; specific microhabitat preferences vary by . P. echidna has been collected from various herbaceous plants and low vegetation.

Distribution

North America, with records from the United States and likely extending into adjacent regions of Mexico and Canada. Most described were based on specimens from the southern and western United States.

Similar Taxa

  • AnthonomusBoth contain flower-associated weevils with compact bodies; Plocamus differs in rostral proportions and lacks the pronounced elongation seen in many Anthonomus .
  • GymnetronShares flower weevil habits, but Plocamus generally exhibit more robust body forms and distinct setal patterning on the .

More Details

Taxonomic History

The was erected by John Lawrence LeConte in 1876, with P. hispidulus as the type . Alphonse Hustache described five additional species in 1950, substantially expanding the genus.

Nomenclatural Note

The specific epithet 'echidna' (Greek: viper) and 'hystrix' (Greek: porcupine) both reference spiny appearances; 'hispidulus' similarly refers to bristly texture.

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