Stenus latissimus
Bernhauer, 1938
Stenus latissimus is a of in the Steninae, first described by Bernhauer in 1938. Members of the Stenus are known for their specialized hunting , including the ability to eject mouthparts using blood pressure to capture . The species has a transcontinental distribution spanning northern Asia and western North America. As with other Steninae, it is a of small .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stenus latissimus: //ˈstɛ.nus ləˈtɪs.ɪ.mus//
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Identification
Within the Stenus, identification typically requires examination of and detailed morphological features. Stenus latissimus can be distinguished from other Steninae by its relatively broad body form, as suggested by the specific epithet "latissimus" (meaning "broadest"). Accurate identification requires reference to the original description and comparison with .
Habitat
Found in moist environments including shorelines and areas near water bodies. The Liupan Shan region of Ningxia, where related Steninae were discovered, includes mountainous areas with higher humidity than the surrounding arid landscape.
Distribution
Northern Asia: Russia (eastern Siberia, Far East), Mongolia, and China (Jiangxi). North America: Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon Territory) and USA (Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Washington). The disjunct transcontinental distribution suggests possible Beringian connections or human-mediated introduction.
Diet
of small , particularly () and other microarthropods found in leaf litter and moist substrates.
Behavior
As with other Stenus , likely employs the characteristic hunting technique of rapidly extending the using blood pressure to capture . The bear adhesive secretions that immobilize prey upon contact. Water-gliding ability in this species has not been documented; this trait is variably present across the .
Ecological Role
controlling of small soil and litter-dwelling . Contributes to through consumption of fauna.
Similar Taxa
- Stenus biwenxuaniAnother Stenus described from the same region (Ningxia, China), but distinguished by its shoreline and presumed water-gliding ability.
- Stenus liupanshanus from the same region that inhabits leaf litter and lacks water-gliding ability.
- Dianous species Steninae with which it shares preferences; Dianous are generally smaller and have more pronounced water-gliding .