Pelidnota
MacLeay, 1819
Precious Metal Scarabs
Species Guides
2- Pelidnota lugubris(shining leaf chafer)
- Pelidnota punctata(Grapevine Beetle)
Pelidnota is a of scarab beetles in the Scarabaeidae, containing over 180 described . Members are commonly known as Precious Metal Scarabs. The genus is restricted to the Neotropics. Beetles in this genus are generally robust and often exhibit metallic coloration.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pelidnota: /pɛ.lɪdˈno.tə/
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Identification
Pelidnota are recognized by their robust, often oval body shape and frequently metallic green, gold, or coloration. They possess (plate-like) characteristic of scarab beetles. Species-level identification requires examination of specific morphological details such as pronotal and elytral sculpturing, which vary among the 180+ described species.
Images
Distribution
Neotropical region, including Central and South America. Some records indicate presence in Vermont, USA, though this may represent vagrant individuals or misidentifications given the primarily tropical distribution.
Similar Taxa
- Rutelinae (other genera)Other ruteline scarabs share the and often metallic appearance; Pelidnota is distinguished by specific combinations of pronotal and elytral characteristics.
- Cetoniinae (flower chafers)Some flower chafers have similar robust, metallic bodies; they differ in antennal club structure and often in preferences.