Scirtes goliai
Epler, 2012
marsh beetle
Scirtes goliai is a small marsh beetle described in 2012 from specimens collected in southern Florida, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands. The belongs to Scirtidae, a commonly known as marsh beetles for their association with wet . Its distribution is expected to extend throughout the broader Caribbean bioregion.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Scirtes goliai: /ˈskɪrtiːz ˈɡoʊli.aɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from similar Scirtes by its small size, oblong habitus, brown coloration, laminate , and distinctive male genitalia. The combination of these traits, particularly the laminate prosternum and genitalic , provides diagnostic separation from .
Appearance
Small body size with an oblong habitus. Brown coloration. Laminate (a flattened, plate-like structure on the ).
Habitat
Appears to be associated with mangrove . The wet, intertidal conditions of mangrove align with the general ecological preferences of Scirtidae.
Distribution
Known from southern Florida (USA), the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands. Expected to occur more broadly throughout the Caribbean bioregion.
Similar Taxa
- Other Scirtes species share general marsh beetle ; S. goliai distinguished by small size, oblong habitus, brown coloration, laminate , and distinctive genitalia
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described as a new by Epler in 2012 based on specimens from three disjunct localities in the Caribbean region. The specific epithet honors an individual (etymology not specified in available sources).
Habitat note
The association with mangroves is preliminary, based on collection site data rather than detailed ecological study. Further research may clarify microhabitat preferences within mangrove systems.