Notoxus bifasciatus

(LeConte, 1847)

Notoxus bifasciatus is a of monoceros beetle in the Anthicidae, first described by LeConte in 1847. The species is found in North America, with records from Canada (Manitoba, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan) and the United States. Like other members of the Notoxus, it is commonly known as an -like flower beetle due to its resemblance to ants.

Musée entomologique illustré (6008163863) by Bisson-Cottard (Firm); Depuiset, A.; Fischbach, Gustave; Poteau, J.; Quartley, J.; Rothschild, J.; Specht, Friedrich; Vizetelly, Henry. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Notoxus bifasciatus: /noʊˈtɒksəs baɪˌfæsiˈeɪtəs/

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Identification

Members of the Notoxus can be distinguished from other Anthicidae by the presence of a prominent horn-like projection on the pronotum (the "monoceros" or single-horn trait). The specific epithet "bifasciatus" suggests two banded markings, likely referring to color patterns on the or body. For definitive identification of N. bifasciatus, examination of genitalia and comparison with is typically required, as in this genus are morphologically similar.

Images

Distribution

North America. Documented from Canadian provinces: Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan. Present in the United States, though specific state records are not detailed in available sources.

Similar Taxa

Notoxus garudaAnother in the same , also in Anthicidae, with similar -like appearance and pronotal horn structure. Distinguished by specific morphological details and geographic distribution.
Other Notoxus speciesMultiple share the monoceros beetle with pronotal horn; -level identification requires detailed examination of genitalia and subtle color pattern differences.

More Details

Taxonomic note

The was originally described by LeConte in 1847. The Notoxus is part of the Anthicidae, commonly known as ant-like flower beetles or ant-like beetles. The "monoceros beetle" refers to the horn-like projection on the pronotum, characteristic of this genus.

Observation records

As of available data, there are limited observation records (4 on iNaturalist), suggesting the may be underreported, difficult to identify, or genuinely uncommon.