Phengodes frontalis
LeConte, 1881
glowworm beetle
Phengodes frontalis is a of glowworm beetle in the Phengodidae, first described by LeConte in 1881. are bioluminescent, with females retaining a larval-like appearance (paedomorphosis) and lacking wings. The species occurs in North America, including Mexico. Larvae are of millipedes, employing a unique feeding strategy that circumvents chemical defenses.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phengodes frontalis: /fɛnˈɡoʊdiːz frɒnˈtælɪs/
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Distribution
North America, including Mexico (MX). Records indicate presence in the region based on GBIF distribution data.
Diet
Larvae are of millipedes (Diplopoda). They subdue prey by piercing thinner regions of the 's , such as intersegmental on the surface, with hollow sickle-shaped . Gastric fluids are injected that paralyze the millipede, preventing discharge of defensive benzoquinones and hydrogen cyanide from the millipede's glands. This allows the larva to safely imbibe liquified contents.
Behavior
Larvae are ambush . females are bioluminescent and flightless, with a larval-like due to paedomorphosis.
Ecological Role
of millipedes; occupies a narrow predatory circumventing chemical defenses that deter most other predators.
Similar Taxa
- Phengodes laticollisAlso a phengodid glowworm beetle with larval ; P. frontalis distinguished by distribution and subtle morphological differences in females.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
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