Diplotaxis cribulosa
LeConte, 1856
Diplotaxis cribulosa is a of scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1856. The species is classified in the Melolonthinae and tribe Diplotaxini. Two are recognized: the nominate D. c. cribulosa and D. c. sinaloa described by Vaurie in 1958. Like other members of the Diplotaxis, this species is attracted to lights at night, where males have been observed congregating on low vegetation to detect trails of females.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Diplotaxis cribulosa: /ˌdɪploʊˈtæksɪs ˌkrɪbjʊˈloʊsə/
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Distribution
The nominate Diplotaxis cribulosa cribulosa occurs in the southwestern United States. The subspecies Diplotaxis cribulosa sinaloa is found in Sinaloa, Mexico. Specific locality records are sparse in the available literature.
Behavior
Males of this have been observed congregating on low plants at night, apparently to intercept trails in search of mates. This has been documented for Diplotaxis species generally during blacklight collecting events in New Mexico.
Similar Taxa
- Diplotaxis spp.Other members of the Diplotaxis share similar small size, activity patterns, and attraction to lights. Identification to level typically requires examination of genitalia.
- Other Melolonthinae chafersSmall scarab beetles in the Melolonthinae can appear similar in general form and habits, though Diplotaxis tend to be among the smaller attracted to lights.