Formicilla
LeConte, 1851
antlike flower beetles
Formicilla is a of in the . The genus contains at least three described distributed across Central and North America. Members of this genus are characterized by their -mimicking , a common trait within the Anthicidae family. The genus was established by LeConte in 1851.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Formicilla: /fɔrˈmɪsɪlɑ/
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Identification
Formicilla can be distinguished from other by their pronounced -like appearance, including a constricted waist-like structure between the and . The genus name references this (ant) resemblance. Species-level identification within the genus requires examination of specific morphological characters such as shape, antennal structure, and elytral ; F. coniceps, F. leporina, and F. munda are the three currently recognized species.
Distribution
Central and North America
Similar Taxa
More Details
Species included
Three described are currently recognized: Formicilla coniceps (Pic, 1937), Formicilla leporina (LaFerté, 1849), and Formicilla munda (LeConte, 1852)
Taxonomic history
The was established by John Lawrence LeConte in 1851, with F. munda described as the in 1852