Nearctitychus
Chandler, 1988
Species Guides
1Nearctitychus is a of ant-loving beetles in the Staphylinidae, established by Chandler in 1988. The genus is , containing a single described , N. sternalis. As a member of the Pselaphinae and tribe Tychini, these beetles are myrmecophilous, meaning they live in association with colonies.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Nearctitychus: /niːˌɑːrkˈtɪkəs/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Tychini by a combination of characters established in the original description by Chandler (1988). Specific diagnostic features for Nearctitychus include derived morphological traits of the , pronotum, and that separate it from related Nearctic and Palearctic genera. The single N. sternalis can be identified within the genus by its unique combination of these structural features.
Habitat
Found in association with colonies, as is characteristic of Pselaphinae beetles. Specific microhabitat preferences for N. sternalis have not been documented in detail.
Distribution
The name indicates a Nearctic distribution; the single described N. sternalis occurs in the Nearctic region. Precise locality data for the and additional records are not widely published.
Host Associations
- ants - myrmecophilyLives in colonies; specific ant unknown
Behavior
Exhibits myrmecophilous , living within colonies. The specific behavioral adaptations facilitating this association have not been described.
Ecological Role
As a myrmecophile, likely occupies a specialized within colony . The exact ecological function within these colonies is unknown.
Similar Taxa
- TychusBoth belong to tribe Tychini and share myrmecophilous habits; Nearctitychus is distinguished by Nearctic distribution and specific structural characters of the and genitalia
- CaccoplectusAnother in tribe Tychini with -associated ; Nearctitychus differs in body proportions and details of the elytral structure