Catopocerus appalachianus
Peck, 1975
Catopocerus appalachianus is a small in the , Catopocerinae. It was described by Peck in 1975 and is to the Appalachian region of the eastern United States. The species belongs to a characterized by reduced and subterranean or cave-associated habits. Records indicate it has been collected from Alabama, Illinois, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Catopocerus appalachianus: //ˌkætoʊpoʊˈsɛrəs ˌæpəˌlæʃiˈeɪnəs//
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Identification
Members of the Catopocerus are distinguished from other by their strongly reduced or absent , elongated appendages, and pale, depigmented associated with subterranean existence. C. appalachianus specifically may be separated from by geographic range and subtle differences in male and antennal structure, though detailed diagnostic features require examination of material.
Habitat
Subterranean environments including caves, deep soil, and mesocavernous in karst regions of the Appalachian Mountains.
Distribution
to the Appalachian region of the eastern United States. Documented from Alabama, Illinois, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Similar Taxa
- Catopocerus mississippiensisOccurs in adjacent geographic regions (Mississippi River drainage); distinguished by differences in male and structure.
- Other Leiodidae (non-Catopocerinae)Catopocerinae are distinguished by their troglomorphic features ( reduction, depigmentation) and elongated appendages compared to surface-dwelling .
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Stewart B. Peck in 1975 as part of his revision of North Catopocerinae. The specific epithet refers to the Appalachian Mountains, the primary range of the .
Conservation status
Not formally assessed by IUCN. Like many subterranean , it likely threats from destruction, groundwater pollution, and climate change affecting cave microclimates.