Lucanus placidus
Say, 1825
Smooth Stag Beetle
Lucanus placidus is a of described by Thomas Say in 1825. It is commonly known as the Smooth Stag Beetle. The species occurs across much of eastern and central North America, with records extending from Ontario south to Alabama and west to New Mexico and Oregon. It is one of the more frequently observed Lucanus species in North America based on citizen science records.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lucanus placidus: /luːˈkaːnʊs ˈplaːkɪdʊs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The specific epithet 'placidus' and 'Smooth ' suggest reduced surface sculpturing compared to , though this requires verification against similar such as Lucanus capreolus and Lucanus elaphus. Males of Lucanus species typically possess enlarged ; the relative size and shape in L. placidus would aid separation from other North stag beetles.
Images
Distribution
Eastern and central North America: Canada (Ontario); USA (Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Wisconsin).
Similar Taxa
- Lucanus capreolusAnother widespread North ; L. placidus may be distinguished by smoother and different male , though detailed comparison is needed.
- Lucanus elaphusLarger eastern North with more pronounced in males; L. placidus is generally smaller and smoother.