Serica aemula

Dawson, 1947

Serica aemula is a small scarab beetle described by Dawson in 1947. measure approximately 8 mm in length. The is to Texas and is most readily distinguished from its Serica contorta by coarser and denser puncturation on the and a smoothly arcuate reflexed margin.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Serica aemula: /sɛˈriːka ˈaɪmjʊlə/

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Identification

Distinguished from the closely similar Serica contorta by two consistent characters: the puncturation is coarser and denser than in contorta, and the reflexed margin is evenly arcuate rather than subangulate medially. No other diagnostic features are documented.

Appearance

reach a length of about 8 mm. The body surface exhibits coarse and dense puncturation. The reflexed margin is evenly arcuate, lacking the subangulate projection seen in similar .

Distribution

Recorded from Texas, United States. GBIF distribution records confirm presence in the Nearctic region, specifically the USA: Texas.

Similar Taxa

  • Serica contortaExtremely similar in general appearance; distinguished by finer, less dense puncturation and a subangulate (rather than evenly arcuate) reflexed margin.

More Details

Taxonomic note

Described by Dawson in 1947. The epithet 'aemula' is Latin, meaning 'rival' or 'emulator', possibly alluding to its close resemblance to S. contorta.

Sources and further reading