Polyphylla nigra
Casey, 1914
Polyphylla nigra is a scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae, described by Casey in 1914. It belongs to the Polyphylla, commonly known as lined June beetles, which are characterized by large body size and sexually dimorphic . The is distributed in western North America and parts of Mexico. Like other members of its genus, males likely possess enlarged, fan-like antennae used to detect female .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Polyphylla nigra: //ˌpɒlɪˈfɪlə ˈnɪɡrə//
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Distribution
Recorded from the western United States (California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington) and Mexico (Baja California). GBIF distribution records indicate presence in the Nearctic and .
More Details
Taxonomic note
The specific epithet 'nigra' (Latin for 'black') likely refers to the coloration of this , distinguishing it from other Polyphylla species which often exhibit prominent longitudinal stripes.
Genus characteristics
Members of Polyphylla are among the largest Melolonthinae, with males possessing greatly enlarged, that can be splayed to detect female . Many are restricted to sand dune , and females of several species are flightless.