Leptanthicus
Werner, 1958
Species Guides
1Leptanthicus is a of antlike flower beetles in the Anthicidae, containing a single described , L. staphyliniformis. The genus was established by Werner in 1958. Members of this genus exhibit the characteristic -like common to Anthicidae, including an elongated body and pronotal constriction that creates a narrow 'waist.'
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Leptanthicus: /lɛpˈtænθɪkəs/
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Identification
Leptanthicus can be distinguished from other Anthicidae by its staphyliniform (rove beetle-like) body shape, as indicated by its type epithet. The genus name itself references this slender, elongate form ('leptos' = slender/gracile, 'anthicus' = -like flower beetle).
Similar Taxa
- AnthicusBoth are antlike flower beetles in Anthicidae, but Leptanthicus has a more pronounced staphyliniform (slender, elongate) body shape.
- Staphylinidae (rove beetles)Leptanthicus staphyliniformis converges on rove beetle ; distinguished by Anthicidae's covering most of the and geniculate (elbowed) .
More Details
Etymology
The name combines Greek 'leptos' (slender, thin, or delicate) with 'Anthicus,' referencing the slender, -like body form of these beetles.
Taxonomic history
Described by Werner in 1958, the remains with only L. staphyliniformis formally described. The single iNaturalist observation suggests it is rarely encountered or poorly sampled.