Epicauta alastor
Skinner, 1904
Epicauta alastor is a blister beetle in the Meloidae, placed in the subgenus Macrobasis. The was described by Skinner in 1904 and occurs in North America. Like other Epicauta species, it produces the defensive toxin . The subgenus Macrobasis is characterized by males having serrate or pectinate , distinguishing it from the nominate subgenus Epicauta.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Epicauta alastor: //ˌɛpɪˈkaʊtə əˈlæstɔr//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Placement in the subgenus Macrobasis is indicated by the male , which are serrate or pectinate rather than . This character distinguishes Macrobasis from those in the nominate subgenus Epicauta. Specific diagnostic features for E. alastor are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
North America; Middle America. The is recorded in museum collections from North American localities.
Similar Taxa
- Epicauta (Macrobasis) arizonicaSame subgenus with similar male antennal structure; geographic range may overlap in southwestern North America
- Epicauta (Epicauta) puncticollisBelongs to nominate subgenus with male , distinguishing it from E. alastor's serrate/pectinate antennae
More Details
Subgenus placement
E. alastor is placed in subgenus Macrobasis based on male antennal . The subgenus was established by Werner in 1944 and includes approximately 60 primarily distributed in North America.
Type information
The was described by Henry Skinner in 1904. Type locality and specimen details would require examination of the original description.