Eucanthus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
Family: Geotrupidae
Subfamily: Bolboceratinae
Genus: Eucanthus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eucanthus: //juːˈkænθəs//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Eucanthus impressus - inat 56837746 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Eucanthus is a genus of earth-boring scarab beetles within the family Bolboceratidae, comprising several species distributed primarily in Nearctic regions and featuring distinct morphological traits for identification.

Physical Characteristics

Eyes not completely divided by canthus. Median row of pronotal punctures extends through the pronotal ridge or does not, depending on the species.

Identification Tips

Distinguish Eucanthus species by examining the median row of pronotal punctures and the protrusion of the canthus.

Habitat

Eucanthus species are typically found in areas conducive to earth-boring, likely including open, moist habitats where they can dig into the soil.

Distribution

Primarily Nearctic, with one species in South America and two potential species in Australia.

Ecosystem Role

As earth-boring scarab beetles, Eucanthus plays a role in soil aeration and the decomposition of organic matter.

Collecting Methods

Soil excavation
Light traps

Preservation Methods

Pinning
Alcohol preservation

Evolution

Eucanthus is a member of the Bolboceratinae subfamily in the Geotrupidae family, characterized by their burrowing behavior and life cycle adapted to underground habitats.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Eucanthus species with other burrowing beetles due to their similar habitats and appearance.