Lyconotus lateralis

(Melsheimer, 1846)

net-winged beetle

Lyconotus lateralis is a of ( ) found in North America. The species was described by Melsheimer in 1846. Like other lycid , it possesses aposematic coloration, typically appearing orange and black, which serves as a warning to of its unpalatability. The species has been documented in the southeastern United States, including Florida, where it has been observed on flowering vegetation such as Ilex cassine (dahoon holly).

Lyconotus lateralis by (c) skitterbug, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by skitterbug. Used under a CC-BY license.Lyconotus lateralis by (c) Will Kuhn, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Will Kuhn. Used under a CC-BY license.Lyconotus lateralis by (c) skitterbug, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by skitterbug. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lyconotus lateralis: /laɪkoʊˈnoʊtəs læˈtɛrəlɪs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Habitat

Found in woodland , including dry oak/pine sandhill woodland and wet sand forest. Observed on flowering vegetation, particularly on flowers of Ilex cassine (dahoon holly).

Distribution

North America; present in Mexico (MX) and the United States. Documented in Florida and other southeastern states.

Behavior

have been observed in mating pairs on flowers. The is and active during daylight hours. Notably unskittish when handled, possibly due to reliance on aposematic coloration for avoidance rather than .

Ecological Role

Serves as a model for distasteful . The Lycochoriolaus lateralis ( ) is a documented mimic of this and other .

Similar Taxa

  • Lycochoriolaus lateralis that mimics Lyconotus lateralis and other ; distinguished by length and elytral structure

Sources and further reading