Serica atratula

LeConte, 1856

Serica atratula is a small scarab beetle ( Scarabaeidae) native to the south-central United States. measure approximately 6 mm in length and are characterized by their polished, black coloration. The is recognized to include two : S. a. atratula (Oklahoma, Texas) and S. a. monita (Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas).

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Serica atratula: /sɛˈriːka æˈtrætjʊlə/

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Identification

Distinguished from similar Serica by its small size (approximately 6 mm), uniformly black coloration, and highly polished, shining surface. The two recognized (S. a. atratula and S. a. monita) are separated geographically, with S. a. monita described from Louisiana and extending into Oklahoma and Texas.

Appearance

reach approximately 6 mm in length. The body is black (pitch-black) with a polished, shining surface. The overall form is typical of small scarab beetles in the Serica.

Distribution

United States: Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. The nominate S. a. atratula occurs in Oklahoma and Texas; S. a. monita occurs in Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Sources and further reading