Melanotus
Melanotus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Elateroidea
- Family: Elateridae
- Subfamily: Elaterinae
- Tribe: Melanotini
- Genus: Melanotus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melanotus: //mɛˈlænətəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Melanotus is a genus of click beetles in the family Elateridae, containing at least 30 described species, known for their distinctive pectinate claws and their presence in various regions including North America.
Physical Characteristics
Body size ranges from 5.2 to 18 mm; claws are pectinate.
Identification Tips
Refer to the key for North American species for specific identification.
Habitat
Found in various habitats across North America.
Distribution
Holarctic, Oriental, Afrotropical regions; primarily across North America.
Diet
Herbivorous, feeding on various plant materials.
Life Cycle
Generally undergo complete metamorphosis with egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Details on reproduction are limited, but they typically lay eggs in soil or plant material.
Predators
Natural predators may include birds and other insectivorous animals.
Ecosystem Role
Act as decomposers, playing a role in nutrient cycling.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection
- Sweep netting
Preservation Methods
- Pinned
- Ethanol preservation
Similar Taxa
- Other genera in the family Elateridae
- Other species in the subtribe Melanotina
Tags
- Melanotus
- click beetles
- Elateridae
- Coleoptera