Atalantycha
Kazantsev, 2005
Soldier beetles
Species Guides
3- Atalantycha bilineata(Two-lined Leatherwing)
- Atalantycha dentigera
- Atalantycha neglecta(Neglected Soldier Beetle)
Atalantycha is a of soldier beetles ( Cantharidae) established by Kazantsev in 2005. The genus contains at least four described , including Atalantycha bilineata, commonly known as the two-lined cantharid. Atalantycha bilineata has been documented visiting apple flowers, contributing to pollination services in agricultural settings.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Atalantycha: //ˌætəˈlæntɪkə//
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Identification
in Atalantycha are distinguished from other Cantharidae by specific morphological features established in the 2005 revision, though detailed diagnostic characters require examination of original taxonomic descriptions. Atalantycha bilineata is recognized by two longitudinal dark stripes on the , corresponding to its .
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Distribution
Distribution records indicate presence in the United States, including Vermont. Specific range details for the beyond North America are not documented in available sources.
Seasonality
Atalantycha bilineata has been observed on apple flowers during bloom period, suggesting spring activity coinciding with fruit tree flowering.
Behavior
Atalantycha bilineata has been observed visiting apple flowers at night, indicating activity. This was documented during a study of nocturnal in Arkansas apple orchards.
Ecological Role
Atalantycha bilineata contributes to pollination of apple flowers. The 2021 study in Arkansas demonstrated that nocturnal pollination by insects including this produced seed sets comparable to pollination, indicating meaningful pollination services.
Human Relevance
Atalantycha bilineata provides pollination services in apple production systems. This represents an example of beneficial services from a group not typically recognized as crop .
Similar Taxa
- CantharisOther soldier beetle in the same ; Atalantycha was separated from related genera based on morphological revision in 2005.
More Details
Taxonomic History
The was established by S.V. Kazantsev in 2005 through revision of North American Cantharidae, reclassifying previously placed in other genera.