Cantharis transmarina
Motschulsky, 1860
Species Guides
1Cantharis transmarina is a soldier beetle in the Cantharidae. It is recognized as the nominate of a found across North America. The species includes two subspecies: Cantharis transmarina transmarina and Cantharis transmarina scopa. Like other soldier beetles, it belongs to a group commonly known as "leatherwings" due to their soft, flexible .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cantharis transmarina: //ˈkænθərɪs trænzˈmærɪnə//
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Identification
The nominate Cantharis transmarina transmarina can be distinguished from the subspecies C. t. scopa by subtle morphological differences, though specific diagnostic features are not documented in available sources. As a member of Cantharis, it can be separated from other soldier beetle such as Chauliognathus and Podabrus by features of the pronotum and overall body form, but -level identification within Cantharis requires examination.
Distribution
North America. The has been recorded as present across the continent, though specific regional distributions for each are not detailed in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- Cantharis transmarina scopaThe two are distinguished by morphological differences described by LeConte (1866) for scopa versus the nominate form described by Motschulsky (1860), though specific distinguishing characters are not detailed in general sources.
- Other Cantharis speciesNumerous Cantharis occur in North America; accurate identification to species level typically requires examination of genitalia and other fine structural characters not visible in field observations.
More Details
Taxonomic Status
GBIF lists the taxonomic status of Cantharis transmarina as "DOUBTFUL," indicating potential uncertainty about its validity or circumscription that may require further taxonomic revision.
Subspecies
Two are recognized: Cantharis transmarina transmarina (Motschulsky, 1860) and Cantharis transmarina scopa (LeConte, 1866).