Plateros sollicitus
(LeConte, 1847)
Plateros sollicitus is a of net-winged beetle in the Lycidae, originally described by LeConte in 1847. It is recorded from North America. As a member of Lycidae, it possesses the characteristic soft, flexible with net-like venation patterns that define this family. The Plateros is among the most species-rich genera of net-winged beetles in the Nearctic region.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Plateros sollicitus: /ˈpla.te.ros sɔˈl.li.kɪ.tus/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Identification to level within Plateros requires examination of fine morphological details, including pronotal shape, elytral venation patterns, and male genitalia. The Plateros can be distinguished from other North American lycid genera by combinations of pronotal structure, antennal form, and elytral patterns. P. sollicitus specifically is distinguished from by subtle differences in pronotal and elytral ; accurate identification typically requires comparison with or keys. The species was described from specimens collected in the southeastern United States.
Appearance
As a net-winged beetle in the Lycidae, P. sollicitus possesses soft, flexible with a distinct reticulate (net-like) venation pattern. The body is elongate and somewhat flattened. Lycidae beetles are typically orange, red, or brown in coloration, often with black markings. The pronotum is usually expanded laterally and may have distinctive projections. are serrate or pectinate in males, and usually serrate in females. The elytra lack the hardened, shell-like texture characteristic of most beetles.
Habitat
Specific preferences for P. sollicitus are not documented. Members of the Plateros are generally associated with forested environments, particularly areas with decaying wood and fungal growth. Net-winged beetles in the Lycidae are typically found in moist woodland habitats where their larval food sources occur.
Distribution
Recorded from North America. The was described by LeConte based on specimens from the southeastern United States. Distribution records in GBIF indicate presence in North America without specific locality details beyond this regional designation.
Similar Taxa
- PlaterosOther within the Plateros are morphologically similar and require detailed examination for separation; this is the most likely source of identification confusion.
- Lycidae (other genera)Other net-winged beetle in North America (e.g., Calopteron, Lycus, Eros) share the characteristic soft with reticulate venation and can appear superficially similar, though they differ in pronotal structure, body proportions, and color pattern.
More Details
Taxonomic History
Described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1847, making it one of the earlier-described in this large . The genus Plateros remains taxonomically challenging, with many species distinguished by subtle morphological characters.
Research Needs
Basic biological information including larval , associations, and detailed distribution records are lacking for this . Most knowledge of the is based on specimens from light traps and general collecting.