Diplotaxis saylori
Cazier, 1940
Diplotaxis saylori is a small scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae, first described by Cazier in 1940. Like other members of the Diplotaxis, it is a with that are attracted to lights at night. The is known from the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona. Little detailed biological information has been published for this particular species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Diplotaxis saylori: /ˌdɪpləˈtæksɪs ˈseɪləri/
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Distribution
Known from Arizona, United States. GBIF records indicate presence in the Nearctic region, specifically within the USA: Arizona.
Behavior
have been observed congregating on low plants at night, where they position themselves to detect trails in search of mates. This has been documented for the Diplotaxis generally, though specific observations for D. saylori are not separately recorded.
Similar Taxa
- Diplotaxis spp.Other small in the same share similar size, general body form, and . Identification to level requires examination of specific morphological characters described by Cazier (1940).
- Other small scarab chafers (Rutelinae, Melolonthinae)Similar size and general appearance, but Diplotaxis typically have distinctive antennal club structure and elytral microsculpture that distinguish them from related .
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Mont A. Cazier in 1940. The Diplotaxis is part of the tribe Diplotaxini within the Melolonthinae. The epithet 'saylori' likely honors an individual, though the specific etymology was not stated in the original description.
Data limitations
This has zero observations recorded in iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff, suggesting it is rarely encountered or underreported. Most information about the comes from studies of more common Diplotaxis species rather than D. saylori specifically.