Calyptomerus oblongulus
(Mannerheim, 1853)
Calyptomerus oblongulus is a minute beetle in the Clambidae, first described by Mannerheim in 1853. The is native to North America with confirmed records from western Canada and Alaska. Like other members of Clambidae, it belongs to a small family of beetles often associated with decaying plant matter and fungal .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Calyptomerus oblongulus: //kəˌlɪptoʊˈmɛrəs ɒbˈlɒŋɡjələs//
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Identification
As a member of Clambidae, this can be recognized by the traits: minute size (usually under 3 mm), compact body form, and with a weakly clubbed or gradually thickened terminal segment. Within the Calyptomerus, C. oblongulus is distinguished by its elongate-oval body shape, as suggested by the specific epithet. Definitive identification requires examination of genitalic structures and comparison with related species such as C. dubius.
Distribution
North America. Confirmed records include Alberta and British Columbia in Canada, and Alaska in the United States.
Similar Taxa
- Calyptomerus dubiusAnother North American in the same ; requires detailed morphological comparison for separation.
- Other Clambidae generaClambus and other share the minute size and general habitus; Calyptomerus is distinguished by antennal structure and body proportions.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Clambidae is a small group within Coleoptera, sometimes placed in the superfamily Scirtoidea. These beetles are poorly studied and many remain difficult to identify without examination.