Saprinus pensylvanicus
(Paykull, 1811)
Pennsylvania Clown Beetle
Saprinus pensylvanicus is a of clown beetle in the Histeridae, distributed across eastern North America from New England to Florida. Like other histerid beetles, it is predatory and associated with decomposing organic matter. The species is part of a diverse of small, compact beetles known for their shiny appearance and habit of playing dead when disturbed.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Saprinus pensylvanicus: /ˈsæprɪnəs pɛnˌsɪlˈvænɪkəs/
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Distribution
Eastern North America, recorded from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Florida. Illinois records are considered questionable.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Pixelated Entomology: Analyzing Beetles' Flower Use Through Digital Samples
- Bug Eric: More Beetles from Bones
- Beneficial Beetle Diversity Blooms on Strip-Tilled Farms
- Two new Clown beetle genera and 4 new species | Blog
- Bug Eric: Grape is Blooming
- Amorpha borer on goldenrod | Beetles In The Bush