Podabrus fissus
LeConte, 1881
soldier beetle, leatherwing
Podabrus fissus is a in the , first described by LeConte in 1881. As a member of the Podabrus, it shares the characteristic elongate body form and soft, flexible typical of leatherwings. The is found in North America and exhibits the -feeding common to many Cantharidae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Podabrus fissus: //poʊˈdæbrʊs ˈfɪsəs//
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Identification
Members of the Podabrus can be distinguished from other genera by their 11-segmented, threadlike typically held forward of the body, wider than the and wider than long, and soft, velvety-appearing . Specific identification of P. fissus requires examination of finer morphological details not covered in general sources.
Habitat
Observed on flowers and leaves infested with or other -excreting .
Distribution
North America.
Diet
Feeds on and other soft-bodied .
Behavior
When disturbed, may withdraw their legs and drop to the ground as if dead. Adults are active during the day.
Ecological Role
of and other soft-bodied , contributing to natural pest control in gardens and agricultural settings.
Human Relevance
Considered in gardens and agricultural contexts due to .
Similar Taxa
- CantharisAnother common of in California, sharing the but differing in genus-level characteristics
- ChauliognathusCommon California , distinguished from Podabrus by morphological differences in and antennal structure