Cyclodinus
Mulsant & Rey, 1866
antlike flower beetles
Species Guides
6Cyclodinus is a of antlike flower beetles in the Anthicidae, established by Mulsant & Rey in 1866. The genus contains more than 40 described . Members of this genus exhibit the characteristic -mimicking typical of Anthicidae, with narrow, elongate bodies and that contribute to their resemblance to ants. The genus has been documented across parts of Europe including Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cyclodinus: /sɪˈklɒdɪnəs/
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Identification
As a within Anthicidae, Cyclodinus share the traits of antlike flower beetles: narrow, elongate body form; relatively long legs; and that may be thickened or clubbed toward the tips. Species-level identification requires examination of genitalia and other fine morphological characters. The genus is distinguished from other anthicid genera by subtle differences in antennal structure, pronotal shape, and elytral sculpturing, though these characters require knowledge to assess.
Distribution
Documented from Denmark (DK), Norway (NO), and Sweden (SE) based on GBIF records. The likely has a broader Palearctic distribution given its , but specific range data beyond northern Europe is not confirmed in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- NotoxusAnother large of Anthicidae with antlike appearance; distinguished by structural differences in the pronotum and , though field identification is challenging
- AnthicusType of Anthicidae with similar -mimicking form; Cyclodinus generally differ in antennal and pronotal proportions
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Cyclodinus was established by Mulsant & Rey in 1866. With over 40 described , it represents one of the more species-rich genera within Anthicidae. The Anthicidae as a whole is in need of modern taxonomic revision, and species boundaries within Cyclodinus may be refined with further study.
Observation data
iNaturalist records 131 observations for the , suggesting moderate levels of citizen science documentation, though many of these likely remain at genus level due to identification challenges.