Lycus
Fabricius, 1787
Netwing Beetles
Lycus is a of in the , characterized by soft, flexible with a distinctive reticulate (-like) pattern. These are notable for their aposematic coloration, typically featuring bold black and orange or red patterns that advertise their chemical defenses to . The genus is widely distributed and includes that frequent flowers, where feed on pollen and nectar.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lycus: /ˈlaɪkəs/
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Identification
Distinguished from other by the combination of reticulate elytral forming a -like pattern, soft and flexible that do not fully cover the , and often striking black-and-orange or black-and-red aposematic coloration. The is typically expanded laterally and may bear distinctive projections. Similar to Calopteron but differs in specific venation patterns and antennal structure.
Images
Habitat
Found in diverse terrestrial including forests, woodlands, and scrublands; frequently observed on flowers, particularly goldenrods (Solidago spp.) and other Asteraceae.
Distribution
Widely distributed across North America, with ranging from the southwestern United States through Mexico; also present in other regions globally. Specific species such as Lycus loripes documented in Arizona and Texas.
Seasonality
activity primarily during summer months; observations from July in Texas and Arizona indicate peak activity in mid to late summer.
Diet
feed on pollen and nectar; are predatory or feed on decaying wood and fungal in rotting logs.
Life Cycle
with , larval, pupal, and stages; develop in decaying wood or under bark.
Behavior
are and frequently found on flowers; slow, deliberate pattern. When disturbed, may reflex-bleed from leg joints, releasing defensive compounds. Known to aggregate on flowers.
Ecological Role
serve as while feeding on flowers; contribute to decomposition of dead wood. The is part of a complex with other chemically defended , including such as Lycomorpha pholus.
Human Relevance
Occasionally encountered by and naturalists; no significant economic impact. Some are collected for scientific study. The bright coloration makes them conspicuous and subject of interest for nature photography.
Similar Taxa
- CalopteronSimilar with reticulate ; distinguished by differences in antennal structure and specific patterns
- Lycomorpha pholusA that mimics Lycus in coloration and pattern as part of a complex; distinguished by structure and