Serica campestris

Dawson, 1919

Serica campestris is a small scarab beetle in the Scarabaeidae, first described by Dawson in 1919. measure approximately 8.5 mm in length and are characterized by their very dark mahogany coloration with a bare, polished, and shining upper surface that lacks any sericeous or luster. The species is known from a limited distribution in the central United States.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Serica campestris: /ˈsɛrɪkə kæmˈpɛstrɪs/

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Identification

Serica campestris can be distinguished from other Serica by its very dark mahogany coloration and the complete absence of sericeous or luster on the upper surface, which appears bare, polished, and shining. The specific epithet 'campestris' (Latin for 'of the fields') may relate to its preferences, though this connection is not explicitly documented. Identification to species level within the large Serica typically requires examination of male genitalia and other microscopic characters.

Appearance

reach a length of about 8.5 mm. The color is very dark mahogany. The upper surface is bare, polished and shining, without any trace of sericeous or luster.

Distribution

North America: recorded from Iowa, Nebraska, and Texas in the United States. GBIF records confirm presence in the Nearctic region with specific localities in these three states.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Serica speciesThe Serica contains numerous that are morphologically similar; microscopic examination of male genitalia is typically required for definitive identification.

More Details

Taxonomic Note

The was described by Dawson in 1919. The Serica is part of the tribe Sericini within the Melolonthinae, a diverse group of scarab beetles often referred to as May beetles or June beetles.

Etymology

The specific epithet 'campestris' is Latin for 'of the fields' or 'relating to plains,' though the precise reference in the original description is not available in the provided sources.

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