Notoxus lustrellus
Casey, 1895
Notoxus lustrellus is a of monoceros beetle in the Anthicidae, described by Casey in 1895. It is one of approximately 300 described species in the Notoxus, commonly known as ant-like flower beetles. The species is known from North America. Members of the genus Notoxus are characterized by a distinctive forward-projecting horn on the pronotum, a trait that gives the group its 'monoceros beetles.'
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Notoxus lustrellus: //nɔˈtoʊksəs lʌˈstɹɛləs//
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Identification
Members of the Notoxus can be distinguished from other Anthicidae by the presence of a prominent, forward-projecting horn on the pronotum. This horn is a diagnostic feature of the genus. Specific identification of N. lustrellus requires examination of fine morphological details, including antennal structure, pronotal shape, and body proportions. The is small-bodied, consistent with the -like form typical of the .
Distribution
North America. Specific locality records are sparse, with only two observations documented in iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff.
Behavior
of Notoxus are frequently attracted to ultraviolet light sources at night, as has been observed for other members of the .
Similar Taxa
- Notoxus garudaAnother North American in the same , distinguished by specific morphological features of the pronotum and .
- Other Anthicidae genera (e.g., Anthicus, Tomoderus)Lack the diagnostic forward-projecting pronotal horn that characterizes Notoxus.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was described by Thomas L. Casey in 1895. The Notoxus was formerly placed in the Notoxidae but is now classified within Anthicidae.