Lytta melaena
LeConte, 1858
Lytta melaena is a of blister beetle in the Meloidae, described by LeConte in 1858. It belongs to the subgenus Paralytta within the Lytta. The species is known from western North America. Like other members of its genus, it produces , a defensive compound that causes blistering upon contact with skin.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lytta melaena: /ˈlɪtə mɪˈliːnə/
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Distribution
Western North America. The is recorded from the southwestern United States and adjacent regions, with museum specimens documented from areas including California and neighboring states.
Human Relevance
Produces , a toxic defensive compound that causes skin blistering. All Lytta share this defensive chemistry.
Similar Taxa
- Lytta vulnerataBoth belong to subgenus Paralytta and share similar body forms and black-and-orange or black-and-red coloration patterns; L. vulnerata is more widespread and shows distinct subspecific variation in elytral sculpturing.
- Lytta magisterLarge sympatric Paralytta with similar overall appearance, though L. magister typically shows more extensive orange or reddish coloration on the .