Microphotus fragilis
E. Olivier, 1912
Fragile glow-worm
Microphotus fragilis is a of firefly ( Lampyridae) native to North America, with particular association to desert landscapes. The species is distinguished by conspicuously large and a strongly convex pronotum. It was described by E. Olivier in 1912 and is one of the more rarely encountered North American lampyrids.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Microphotus fragilis: /ˌmaɪ.kroʊˈfoʊ.təs ˈfræ.dʒɪ.lɪs/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Microphotus and North American fireflies by the combination of disproportionately large and a strongly convex, prominently rounded pronotum. The specific epithet "fragilis" may allude to delicate body structure, though this requires confirmation from specimen examination.
Images
Habitat
Desert landscapes; specific microhabitat requirements are poorly documented.
Distribution
North America; precise range boundaries are not well established.