Diplotaxis brevicollis

LeConte, 1856

short-necked scarab

Diplotaxis brevicollis is a small scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae. The is distributed across western North America from Canada through the Rocky Mountains to Mexico. are known to aggregate on low vegetation, apparently to detect trails for mate location. The specific epithet 'brevicollis' refers to the short-necked appearance of this .

Diplotaxis brevicollis by (c) Nomadkris, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nomadkris. Used under a CC-BY license.

Diplotaxis brevicollis by no rights reserved, uploaded by Robbie Hannawacker. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Diplotaxis brevicollis: /ˌdɪpləˈtæksɪs ˌbrɛvɪˈkɒlɪs/

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Identification

Diplotaxis brevicollis can be distinguished from other Diplotaxis by its relatively short pronotum (giving a 'short-necked' appearance, referenced in the specific epithet). The species is small in size compared to many scarab beetles. Accurate identification typically requires examination of genitalia and comparison with .

Images

Habitat

Found in arid and semi-arid environments including sand dunes, grasslands, and open rangeland. Associated with low vegetation where aggregate. The occurs in with sufficient moisture to support plants, often following rainfall events that trigger insect .

Distribution

Western North America: Canada (Alberta, British Columbia), USA (Rocky Mountain states, Pacific Coast states, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas), and Mexico (Chihuahua, Durango, Sinaloa).

Seasonality

active from late spring through summer, with peak activity following rainfall events. June collections have been documented in New Mexico and Texas.

Behavior

have been observed forming on low plants, where they appear to 'catch' trails to locate mates. This represents a mate-finding strategy where males and females congregate in response to chemical cues. The is nocturnally active and has been collected at lights, though some individuals may not fly readily to lights.

Similar Taxa

Other Diplotaxis speciesSimilar small size and general scarab ; D. brevicollis distinguished by short pronotum and specific genitalic characters
Polyphylla speciesSimilar size and light-attracted ; Polyphylla are larger with more elaborate and different body proportions

More Details

Etymology

The specific epithet 'brevicollis' derives from Latin 'brevis' (short) and 'collis/collum' (neck), referring to the relatively short pronotum that gives the its characteristic appearance.

Collection notes

The is mentioned in entomological literature as being sought by collectors in sand dune . One collector noted failing to find D. brevicollis in the Mescalero Dunes in the 1980s, suggesting patchy distribution or specific habitat requirements.