Polyphylla pubescens
Cartwright, 1939
Eglin Uplands Scarab Beetle
Polyphylla pubescens is a rare, scarab beetle restricted to the upland of Eglin Air Force Base and adjacent inland areas in the Florida panhandle. are moderately sized for the , with males measuring 17.5–19 mm and females slightly larger at 19–20 mm. The is distinguished from by a strong lateral elytral margin that extends to the base. Like other members of the genus Polyphylla, males possess greatly enlarged, fan-like used to detect female , while females are likely flightless and remain buried in sandy substrates. The species is part of the pubescens species group within Polyphylla.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Polyphylla pubescens: //ˌpɒlɪˈfɪlə pjuːˈbɛsɛnz//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from related Polyphylla by the strong lateral elytral margin reaching the base of the . Males measure 17.5–19 mm in length, females 19–20 mm. is evident in : males possess the characteristic enlarged, (fan-like) antennae of the , while females have reduced antennae. The specific epithet "pubescens" suggests a hairy or downy appearance, though detailed description of pattern is not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Upland on or near Eglin Air Force Base in the Florida panhandle. Specific habitat details such as soil type, vegetation, or moisture requirements are not documented, though related in the pubescens group are often associated with sandy substrates.
Distribution
to a highly restricted range in Florida, USA. Known only from inland areas on or near Eglin Air Force Base in the Florida panhandle. No other have been documented.
Behavior
Males are attracted to lights at night and are active fliers. Based on , males likely use their enlarged to detect released by flightless females buried in the substrate. Mating has not been directly observed in this but is presumed similar to other Polyphylla species, where males locate females on the ground and multiple males may be attracted to a single female.
Human Relevance
The occurs on a restricted military installation (Eglin Air Force Base), which provides some de facto protection. However, this also makes the species vulnerable to military activities, development, and management practices that could impact its limited habitat. Its restricted range and single known locality make it of conservation concern.
Similar Taxa
- Polyphylla hammondiSimilar size and general appearance; distinguished by distribution (P. hammondi occurs in sand dunes of Kansas and the Great Plains) and subtle morphological differences in elytral margin structure.
- Other Polyphylla speciesMany Polyphylla share the characteristic enlarged male and general body form; P. pubescens is distinguished specifically by the strong lateral elytral margin reaching the base and its unique Florida panhandle distribution.