Platyceroides opacus
(Fall, 1906)
Platyceroides opacus is a of in the Lucanidae. It is known from California in western North America. The Platyceroides contains small to medium-sized stag beetles with reduced compared to many other lucanids.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Platyceroides opacus: /ˌplætɪsɛˈrɔɪdiːz oʊˈpɑːkəs/
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Identification
Members of Platyceroides can be distinguished from the related Platycerus by the form of the and antennal club. Platyceroides generally have less dramatically developed mandibles than many stag beetles. Specific diagnostic features for P. opacus relative to require examination of male genitalia and detailed morphological study.
Distribution
Recorded from California, USA. The broader distribution within North America is poorly documented beyond this state record.
Similar Taxa
- Platycerus spp.Similar small stag beetles in the same ; Platyceroides differs in structure and antennal club .
- Other Platyceroides species such as P. agassii and P. latiusculus occur in western North America and require detailed examination for separation.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Platyceroides was established for previously placed in Platycerus, distinguished by morphological characters including the structure of the antennal club and male genitalia. P. opacus was originally described by Fall in 1906.