Phyllophaga drakii
(Kirby, 1837)
May beetle, June beetle
Phyllophaga drakii is a of scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae, commonly known as May beetles or June beetles. The species is found across North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan) and the United States (Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and eastern states west to New Mexico and South Dakota). Like other members of the Phyllophaga, are and attracted to lights. The genus contains over 400 species in North America, making it one of the most species-rich scarab genera on the continent.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phyllophaga drakii: //ˌfɪloʊˈfeɪɡə ˈdreɪkaɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
-level identification within Phyllophaga is notoriously difficult and typically requires examination of male and female genitalia. No specific distinguishing external morphological features for P. drakii are documented in the available sources. The is characterized by robust, oval to elongate bodies, clubbed with segments, and generally dull brown to black coloration.
Images
Distribution
Nearctic region: Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan); United States (Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, eastern states west to New Mexico and South Dakota).
Seasonality
are active during spring and early summer (May-June), typical for the .
Life Cycle
Larvae are soil-dwelling "white " that feed on plant roots. emerge from the soil to mate and feed on foliage.
Behavior
are and attracted to artificial lights.
Ecological Role
Larvae may impact plant through root herbivory; contribute to nutrient cycling through foliar feeding.
Similar Taxa
- Phyllophaga cribrosaSimilar oval, convex body shape and shining black coloration, but P. cribrosa is distinguished by its cribrose (sieve-like) elytral surface, 10-segmented , flightless , and distinct longitudinal elytral furrows. P. cribrosa is restricted to Oklahoma and Texas, while P. drakii has a broader distribution.