Lytta rathvoni
LeConte, 1853
Lytta rathvoni is a blister beetle in the Meloidae, native to North America. The was named in honor of Simon Rathvon, a 19th-century American entomologist. As a member of the Lytta, it shares the characteristic chemical defense of blister beetles, producing . The species is placed in the subgenus Poreospasta within Lytta.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lytta rathvoni: /ˈlɪtə rəˈθvoʊni/
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Distribution
North America. The has been recorded in the western United States, with museum specimens held from locations including California.
Human Relevance
Like all blister beetles, L. rathvoni produces , a potent irritant that causes blistering upon contact with skin. This chemical defense is shared across the Meloidae and serves as protection against . The itself is not specifically documented as a significant agricultural pest or medical concern, but general cautions regarding blister beetle handling apply.
Similar Taxa
- Lytta vulnerataBoth are North American Lytta with similar body plans; L. vulnerata is more widespread and better documented, with distinct black and orange coloration in some that distinguishes it from L. rathvoni.
- Lytta magisterAnother large western North American Lytta that could be confused with L. rathvoni; L. magister is generally larger and has been more extensively collected and documented.
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet honors Simon Rathvon (1812-1899), an American entomologist known for his work on Coleoptera in the mid-19th century.
Taxonomic placement
L. rathvoni is classified in the subgenus Poreospasta of Lytta, a group characterized by specific antennal and pronotal features. The was described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1853.