Cafius lithocharinus
(LeConte, 1863)
Cafius lithocharinus is a of rove beetle in the Staphylinidae, tribe Staphylinini, subtribe Philonthina. Originally described as Philonthus lithocharinus by LeConte in 1863, it was later transferred to the Cafius. The species occurs along the Pacific coast of North America from British Columbia to Mexico. It is one of approximately 35 species in the genus Cafius, a group predominantly associated with marine and intertidal .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cafius lithocharinus: //ˈkæfiˌʊs ˌlɪθoʊkəˈraɪnəs//
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Identification
Members of Cafius are distinguished from related Philonthina by their association with coastal and specific adaptations to intertidal environments. C. lithocharinus can be separated from other Cafius by geographic range and subtle differences in body proportions and male genitalia. The species has a relatively robust body form compared to some , with the characteristic abbreviated of Staphylinidae exposing most of the .
Images
Habitat
Coastal marine and intertidal environments, including sandy beaches, rocky shores, and drift material along the high tide line.
Distribution
Pacific coast of North America: British Columbia (Canada), California and Washington (USA), and Mexico.
Ecological Role
in intertidal , likely feeding on small stranded in wrack and tidal debris.
Similar Taxa
- Cafius canescensOverlaps in range (Pacific Northwest); distinguished by differences in body coloration and male genitalia structure.
- Philonthus speciesFormerly classified in Philonthus; Cafius are distinguished by coastal specialization and morphological adaptations to intertidal conditions.