Ellychnia megista
Fender, 1970
Ellychnia megista is a of dark firefly in the Lampyridae, described by Fender in 1970. Like other members of the Ellychnia, this species lacks the light-producing organs characteristic of most fireflies and is active during daylight hours rather than at night. The species is currently accepted in the genus Ellychnia, though it was originally described under Photinus. Dark fireflies in this genus are among the most commonly encountered fireflies in western North America, particularly in the southwestern United States and Rocky Mountain regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ellychnia megista: /ɛˈlɪkni.ə ˈmɛɡɪstə/
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Distribution
Western North America, including the southwestern United States and Rocky Mountain regions such as Colorado's Front Range.
Behavior
activity pattern, unlike most fireflies which are .
Similar Taxa
- PyropygaBoth are 'dark fireflies' lacking and active during the day; Pyropyga is noted as the most common firefly in Colorado and the southwest U.S., suggesting potential sympatry with E. megista.
- PhotinusOriginally described under this ; shares Lampyridae characteristics but differs in habits and lack of light organs.