Ischyropalpus turgidicollis
(Casey, 1895)
antlike flower beetle
Ischyropalpus turgidicollis is a small antlike flower beetle in the Anthicidae, measuring 2.4–3.2 mm in length. The is recognized by its notably swollen or thickened pronotum, as suggested by the specific epithet 'turgidicollis' (from Latin 'turgidus' meaning swollen and 'collum' meaning neck). It inhabits western North America across a broad latitudinal range from temperate to arid regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ischyropalpus turgidicollis: /ˌɪs.kəˈroʊ.pæl.pəs ˌtɜːrˌdʒɪd.ɪˈkɑː.lɪs/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Ischyropalpus by the swollen, thickened pronotum. The combination of small size (under 3.5 mm), -like form, and pronounced pronotal swelling separates it from similar anthicids in western North America.
Distribution
Western North America: from British Columbia, Canada, south through the western United States to Baja California, Mexico, and east to Texas.
Similar Taxa
- Other Ischyropalpus speciesSimilar -like appearance and small size; I. turgidicollis distinguished by pronounced pronotal swelling.
- Other Anthicidae generaShare -like form; require examination of pronotal shape and other structural details for separation.
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet 'turgidicollis' directly references the diagnostic swollen 'neck' (pronotum), from Latin 'turgidus' (swollen) and 'collum' (neck).