Parastasia brevipes
(LeConte, 1856)
Long-clubbed Scarab
Parastasia brevipes is a of in the . The species is classified within the , a group commonly known as leaf . It is to eastern and central North America, with records from multiple states in the United States. The species is relatively well-documented with 173 observations on iNaturalist.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Parastasia brevipes: /ˌpærəˈsteɪʒə ˈbrɛvɪˌpiːz/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The Parastasia is characterized by elongated, clubbed in males, which distinguishes it from related genera. The specific epithet 'brevipes' (short-footed) may refer to relatively short or legs compared to , though this requires verification. As a , likely exhibit metallic coloration typical of the . Accurate identification to level requires examination of male and comparison with .
Images
Distribution
Eastern and central United States. Documented from Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Similar Taxa
- Parastasia nigraAnother in the same , likely similar in general appearance but distinguished by coloration and male .
- Other Rutelinae genera (e.g., Anomala, Popillia)Similar body form and metallic coloration, but Parastasia is distinguished by the elongated, clubbed male .
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The Parastasia was historically classified within the tribe Rutelini, but molecular evidence suggests a closer relationship to the , specifically near the genus Parastasia. This remains under revision.
Nomenclature
The was described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1856, one of the most prolific of the 19th century.