Vesperelater
Costa, 1975
Species Guides
1Vesperelater is a of bioluminescent click beetles in the tribe Pyrophorini, established by in 1975. were originally split from Pyrophorus and later expanded with new descriptions. The genus occurs in the southwestern United States and Central America. possess lateral luminous spots on the prothorax and a small abdominal organ.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Vesperelater: /vɛs.pɛ.rɛ.lɑː.tər/
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Identification
Distinguished from Deilelater by male genitalia structure: Vesperelater has a lobe abruptly narrowed near the apex, while Deilelater possesses a well-developed median lobe with numerous cuticular, minute . The lateral luminous spots and abdominal organ are characteristic of Pyrophorini but specific arrangement and body proportions help separate Vesperelater from related .
Images
Distribution
United States (Arizona: Patagonia Mountains) and Central America from Mexico to Rica. Mexican records include Jalisco (Chamela, 'Chihualtan', Puerto Vallarta), Guerrero (Chilpancingo), Michoacán (Arteaga), and Islas Marías.
Behavior
Bioluminescent, with light production from lateral thoracic spots and abdominal organ. The specific function of luminescence in this has not been separately documented from general Pyrophorini .
Similar Taxa
- DeilelaterAlso in tribe Pyrophorini with overlapping geographic range in southeastern United States and Mexico. Distinguished by male genitalia: Deilelater has well-developed lobe with numerous cuticular, minute versus abruptly narrowed median lobe in Vesperelater.
- PyrophorusOriginal from which Vesperelater were split; Vesperelater established as distinct based on morphological differences including genitalia structure and body proportions.