Spilodiscus sellatus
(LeConte, 1857)
clown beetle
Spilodiscus sellatus is a of clown ( ) described by LeConte in 1857. It is found in western North America, with records from Canada, the United States, and possibly Mexico. The species belongs to a characterized by distinctive elytral markings.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Spilodiscus sellatus: /ˌspaɪloʊˈdɪskəs sɛˈleɪtəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The Spilodiscus is characterized by two red maculations (spots) on the . -level identification within Spilodiscus requires examination of detailed morphological features not described in available sources.
Habitat
Has been observed in sandy including dunes. One record notes collection from hard-packed sandy soil near flowers of Pyrrhopappus pauciflorus in Beaver Dunes State Park, Oklahoma.
Distribution
Western North America: Canada (British Columbia), United States (California, Oregon, Washington), and possibly Mexico.
Seasonality
activity has been recorded in early May in Oklahoma.
Behavior
One individual was observed on the ground near flowers, suggesting possible flower-visiting , though this may have been incidental.
Similar Taxa
- Other Spilodiscus speciesShare the characteristic two red elytral maculations; require detailed morphological examination to distinguish.
- Other HisteridaeSimilar body form and size; Spilodiscus distinguished by the paired red elytral spots.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Hister sellatus by LeConte in 1857, later transferred to Spilodiscus.
Observation rarity
Only 41 observations recorded on iNaturalist as of source date, suggesting it is infrequently encountered or underreported.