Scaphomorphus subcylindricus

Scaphomorphus subcylindricus is a of weevil in the Curculionidae. It is to Florida, where it has been collected in dry oak/pine sandhill woodland . The species is associated with the endemic plant Lupinis ocalensis (Ocala lupine), on whose foliage it has been observed. The species was documented during field surveys in the Citrus Wildlife Management Area of Withlacoochee State Forest.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Scaphomorphus subcylindricus: /ˌskæfoʊˈmɔrfəs ˌsʌbsɪˈlɪndrɪkəs/

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

Identification

The can be distinguished from other Scaphomorphus by its subcylindrical body form. As a lixine weevil, it likely exhibits the elongated snout characteristic of the Lixinae, though specific diagnostic features for this species are not documented in available sources.

Habitat

Dry oak/pine sandhill woodland with grassy understory. Specifically documented from sandhill in Florida's Withlacoochee State Forest.

Distribution

to Florida, USA. Known from the Citrus Wildlife Management Area of Withlacoochee State Forest in central Florida.

Seasonality

Observed in early spring (March) during field surveys.

Host Associations

  • Lupinis ocalensis - foliage associationObserved on foliage of this lupine

Behavior

Observed as mating pairs on plant foliage. Activity appears to be , with collections made during morning hours.

More Details

Collection History

The was documented by entomologist Ted C. MacRae during a birthday collecting trip to Florida in March 2024, with assistance from Kyle Schnepp of the Florida State Collection of Arthropods. The observation represents a targeted search for Florida- species.

Taxonomic Notes

The Scaphomorphus belongs to the weevil Lixinae, a group characterized by elongated snouts and often associated with leguminous plants. The specific epithet 'subcylindricus' refers to the somewhat cylindrical body shape.

Tags

Sources and further reading