Dichelonyx pusilla
Dichelonyx pusilla is a of scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae. The species is known to occur in Central America and North America. It belongs to the Melolonthinae, a group commonly referred to as May beetles or June bugs. The Dichelonyx is characterized by distinctive morphological features including cleft or split claws, a trait reflected in its name (from Greek 'dicha' meaning in two and 'onyx' meaning claw).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dichelonyx pusilla: /dɪˈkɛləˌnɪks pjuːˈsɪlə/
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Identification
Dichelonyx pusilla can be distinguished from other Dichelonyx by its small size, as indicated by the specific epithet 'pusilla' (Latin for very small). The is characterized by the diagnostic feature of bifid or cleft tarsal claws, which separates it from related melolonthine genera. Accurate species-level identification requires examination of genitalia and comparison with or authoritative keys.
Distribution
Central America and North America
Similar Taxa
- Dichelonyx albicollisLarger congeneric with which D. pusilla may be confused; distinguished by size and subtle morphological differences in pronotal and elytral
- Dichelonyx dilutaAnother small Dichelonyx ; requires careful examination of antennal club structure and male genitalia for definitive separation
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Dichelonyx was established by Harris in 1827 and is the type genus of the tribe Dichelonychini. The split claws that characterize this genus are an unusual feature within the Melolonthinae and serve as a key diagnostic character.
Collection context
A specimen of Dichelonyx pusilla was collected in a yellow bottle trap in sand dune-adjacent woodlands in southwestern Utah, suggesting the may be attracted to yellow pan traps and occurs in sandy woodland .