Plectonotum excisum
Schaeffer, 1908
Plectonotum excisum is a of soldier beetle ( Cantharidae) described by Schaeffer in 1908. It belongs to a of small to medium-sized beetles characterized by soft . The species is recorded from North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Plectonotum excisum: /ˌplɛktoʊˈnoʊtəm ɛkˈsaɪsəm/
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Identification
Plectonotum are distinguished from other Cantharidae by their pronotal structure; specific characters for P. excisum require examination of the original description. Within the , identification relies on subtle differences in pronotal and elytral sculpturing, body proportions, and male genitalia. Accurate determination may require comparison with or keys.
Distribution
North America, with presence confirmed in the region. Specific locality records are sparse in available databases.
Similar Taxa
- Plectonotum punctatumCongeneric with overlapping distribution in North America; distinguished by differences in pronotal punctation and elytral coloration patterns.
- Other Cantharidae genera (e.g., Cantharis, Rhagonycha)Similar general body plan of soft-bodied beetles with flexible ; Plectonotum is separated by pronotal with distinct lateral margins and specific antennal structure.
More Details
Taxonomic note
Plectonotum is a relatively small within Cantharidae. The Cantharidae (soldier beetles) contains approximately 130 genera worldwide, with larvae generally predatory and often feeding on pollen and nectar.