Epicauta lauta
(Horn, 1885)
Epicauta lauta is a of blister beetle in the Meloidae, first described by George Henry Horn in 1885. It belongs to the subgenus Macrobasis within the Epicauta. The species is distributed across Central America and North America, with museum holdings indicating substantial collections from the southwestern United States and Mexico. Like other members of its genus, it possesses chemical defenses based on .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Epicauta lauta: //ˌɛpɪˈkaʊtə ˈlaʊtə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Epicauta lauta is placed in the subgenus Macrobasis, which is distinguished from the nominate subgenus Epicauta by features of the male genitalia and antennal structure. -level identification within Epicauta requires examination of male genitalia and subtle characters of punctuation, , and coloration. The species is not readily distinguished from related Macrobasis species without dissection and reference to specialized taxonomic keys.
Images
Distribution
Central America and North America. Museum records indicate presence in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Similar Taxa
- Epicauta (Macrobasis) spp.Other members of the subgenus Macrobasis share similar body form and require genitalic examination for definitive separation.
- Epicauta (Epicauta) spp.Members of the nominate subgenus differ in antennal and genitalic structure but may appear superficially similar in coloration and size.
More Details
Taxonomic placement
The is classified in the subgenus Macrobasis, as indicated by museum holdings (Epicauta (Macrobasis) lauta). The subgenus Macrobasis is primarily New World in distribution and contains numerous species in the southwestern United States and Mexico.