Geomyphilus insolitus
(Brown, 1928)
Geomyphilus insolitus is a of scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae, Aphodiinae. The species was described by Brown in 1928. It belongs to a associated with pocket gopher (Geomys spp.) burrows, suggesting a commensal or symbiotic relationship with these rodents. The species is known from multiple states in the central United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Geomyphilus insolitus: //dʒiː.oʊˈmaɪfɪləs ˌɪnˈsɒlɪtəs//
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Habitat
Associated with pocket gopher (Geomys spp.) burrow systems. The name Geomyphilus (Greek: geo- earth, mys- mouse, philus- loving) directly references this ecological association with rodents.
Distribution
Nearctic region: United States (Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, Wisconsin).
Host Associations
- Geomys - burrow associate name and ecological context indicate association with pocket gopher burrows; specific nature of relationship unknown
More Details
Etymology
The name Geomyphilus derives from Greek roots: ge (earth), mys (mouse), and philus (loving), referring to the ecological association with pocket gophers ( Geomyidae). The specific epithet insolitus is Latin for 'unusual' or 'strange'.
Taxonomic History
Originally described by Brown in 1928. The has been maintained in the Geomyphilus without major taxonomic revision.
Collection Context
Not represented in the UCR Entomology Research Museum holdings based on available collection databases. The is relatively obscure in entomological literature.