Diplotaxis belfragei
Fall, 1909
loamy-ground dromo tiger beetle
Diplotaxis belfragei is a small scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae. The was described by Fall in 1909 and is found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. are attracted to lights at night and have been observed congregating on low vegetation, possibly in association with trails for mate location. The species is part of a large and taxonomically challenging where many species remain undescribed and identification often requires examination of genitalia.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Diplotaxis belfragei: /ˌdɪpləˈtæksɪs ˈbɛlfrəˌdʒaɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Members of Diplotaxis are small that can be challenging to identify to level. D. belfragei is distinguished from the closely related D. pruinina by its granulated elytral surface, in contrast to the smooth of D. pruinina. Definitive identification typically requires examination of male genitalia. The species is part of a where many species are undescribed and collecting from vegetation is often more productive than light trapping for obtaining identifiable specimens.
Habitat
Found in sandy dune and adjacent areas. Observed in the Mescalero Sand Dunes of New Mexico. Associated with open, sandy environments where low vegetation provides perching sites for .
Distribution
United States: Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Utah. Mexico: Coahuila, Nuevo León.
Seasonality
active in summer months. Observed in early June in New Mexico.
Behavior
are and attracted to lights. Have been observed congregating on low plants, possibly to intercept trails for mate location. Mating occurs on food plants.
Human Relevance
Of interest to coleopterists studying scarab diversity. The Diplotaxis is noted as having many undescribed species, making specimens valuable for taxonomic research.
Similar Taxa
- Diplotaxis pruininaPreviously considered or a , but distinguished by smooth versus the granulated elytra of D. belfragei; distributions overlap in central Texas with apparent lack of intergrades
More Details
Taxonomic Complexity
The Diplotaxis is taxonomically challenging with many undescribed species. Most do not fly readily to lights or do so reluctantly, making collecting from vegetation a major method for advancing knowledge of the group. The New Mexico Diplotaxis fauna is considered depauperate compared to the Arizona fauna.
Historical Context
The was referenced in a 2018 collecting trip report where of Diplotaxis were photographed on vegetation but not collected. A noted that such aggregations likely represent feeding or mating activity on plants.