Parallelostethus attenuatus
(Say, 1825)
Attenuated Click Beetle
Parallelostethus attenuatus is a of click beetle in the Elateridae. males are strongly attracted to 1,8-octanediol di-hexanoate, which may constitute their complete sex attractant . The species has been studied for the detailed of its thoracic hinge mechanism used in the characteristic "click" jumping of the family. In Indiana, it is commonly found in rotten logs feeding on decaying moist wood tissue.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Parallelostethus attenuatus: //ˌpærəˌlɛloʊˈstɛθəs əˌtɛnjuˈeɪtəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Habitat
Decaying moist wood in rotten logs. Based on Indiana observations, it occupies hardwood decay environments.
Distribution
Canada (Ontario, Manitoba); United States (Indiana, with records implying broader eastern North American range).
Diet
Decaying moist wood tissue (based on Indiana observations of feeding in rotten logs).
Behavior
males respond strongly to 1,8-octanediol di-hexanoate, a sex attractant that may be the sole compound involved in attraction. The exhibits the characteristic elaterid "click" mechanism, with detailed morphological studies conducted on its thoracic hinge structure.
Ecological Role
Decomposer in decaying wood .
Human Relevance
Subject of research due to the specific attraction of males to 1,8-octanediol di-hexanoate. The simplicity of its pheromone system (potentially a single compound) makes it of scientific interest for understanding chemical communication in beetles.
More Details
Pheromone chemistry
1,8-octanediol di-hexanoate is strongly attractive to male P. attenuatus, and this compound may constitute the entire sex attractant of the —an unusually simple pheromone system if confirmed.
Morphological research
The hinge used for the 'click' mechanism has been studied in detail in this , contributing to understanding of the biomechanics underlying elaterid jumping .