Trichonotuloides aphoderrans
Skelley & Warner, 2015
Trichonotuloides aphoderrans is a of aphodiine described from Arizona in 2015. The Trichonotuloides comprises small to -sized associated with decomposing matter. This species is distinguished from by specific morphological features of the and . It is known only from the locality in the southwestern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Trichonotuloides aphoderrans: /ˌtrɪkəˌnɒtjʊˈlɔɪdiːz ˌæfəˈdɛrænz/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Trichonotuloides by the combination of: with distinct marginal , elytral intervals with fine punctation, and specific male genitalic structures. The species name "aphoderrans" refers to its similarity to Aphodius species. For definitive identification, examination of male is required.
Habitat
Known from montane or upland areas in Arizona; specific microhabitat preferences are not documented but are associated with decaying matter and .
Distribution
Known only from Arizona, United States. locality and all confirmed records are from this state.
Ecological Role
As a member of , likely contributes to through processing of decomposing matter, though specific ecological functions for this are undocumented.
Similar Taxa
- Trichonotuloides speciesOther members of the share general body form and associations; T. aphoderrans is distinguished by specific pronotal and elytral characters described in the original description.
- Aphodius speciesSimilar superficial appearance in size and general habitus, reflected in the epithet; distinguished by genitalic and characters.
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet "aphoderrans" derives from Aphodius (a related of ) + Latin "errans" (wandering/deviating), referring to the ' resemblance to Aphodius while being classified in a different genus.
Taxonomic History
Described by Paul E. Skelley and William B. Warner in 2015 as part of a revision of North Trichonotuloides. The description was based on specimens from Arizona.