Silis spathulata
LeConte, 1881
Silis spathulata is a of soldier beetle in the Cantharidae, described by LeConte in 1881. It belongs to a of soft-bodied beetles commonly associated with flowers and vegetation. Records indicate presence in parts of North America, particularly eastern Canada.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Silis spathulata: /ˈsiːlɪs spæθjuːˈleɪtə/
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Identification
As a member of Silis, this likely exhibits the -characteristic soft, flexible and relatively long typical of Cantharidae. The specific epithet "spathulata" suggests spatulate (spoon-shaped) features, possibly referring to antennal or leg structures. Definitive field identification requires examination of male genitalia or other microscopic characters.
Images
Distribution
Documented from Ontario and Québec, Canada. GBIF records indicate broader presence in North America, though specific locality details beyond Canada are sparse.
Similar Taxa
- Silis percomisOverlapping distribution in eastern North America; both share similar preferences and require careful examination of male genitalia for reliable separation.
- Other Cantharidae genera (e.g., Cantharis, Rhagonycha)General resemblance in body form and coloration; Silis typically have more elongate bodies and longer relative to body length.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The was described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1881. The Silis currently contains approximately 30 described species in North America, many of which are poorly documented in terms of and distribution.