Dellacasiellus fucosus
(Schmidt, 1917)
Dellacasiellus fucosus is a of scarab beetle in the Aphodiinae, first described by Schmidt in 1917. It belongs to a of aphodiine dung beetles found in arid and semi-arid regions of western North America. The species has been recorded from scattered localities across the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dellacasiellus fucosus: /ˌdɛləkæˈsiːələs fjuːˈkoʊsəs/
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Identification
May be distinguished from other Dellacasiellus by subtle differences in elytral coloration and male genitalia, though specific diagnostic features require examination. The Dellacasiellus is characterized by small size, compact body form, and reduced wings typical of aphodiine dung beetles adapted to arid environments.
Habitat
Recorded from arid and semi-arid regions including desert and dry grassland environments in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Distribution
United States: Arizona, California, North Dakota; Mexico: Baja California, San Luis Potosí.
Similar Taxa
- Other Dellacasiellus speciesCongeneric share similar small, compact body forms and occur in overlapping geographic ranges; precise identification requires examination of male genitalia and subtle morphological characters.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Dellacasiellus was established for previously placed in Aphodius, reflecting revised understanding of aphodiine . The specific epithet 'fucosus' (Latin for 'dark-colored' or 'tawny') likely refers to the 's coloration.