Myrmecoderus
Aalbu, Andrews & Pollock, 2005
Species Guides
1Myrmecoderus is a of narrow-waisted bark beetles in the Salpingidae. The genus contains three described : M. dominicensis, M. laevipennis, and M. rileyi. These beetles are characterized by their constricted waist between the pronotum and , a trait that distinguishes them from other groups. The genus was formally described in 2005.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Myrmecoderus: /ˌmɜːrmɛˈkoʊdərəs/
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Identification
Members of Myrmecoderus can be recognized by the narrow, constricted waist between the pronotum and , giving them a distinct 'narrow-waisted' profile. This feature separates them from other bark beetles in Salpingidae that lack such pronounced constriction. The three within the are distinguished by subtle differences in body shape and surface sculpturing, though specific diagnostic characters require examination of .
Distribution
The includes with disjunct distributions: Myrmecoderus dominicensis occurs in the Dominican Republic, M. laevipennis is known from the southwestern United States, and M. rileyi has been recorded from the southeastern United States.
Similar Taxa
- Other Salpingidae generaLack the pronounced narrow waist between pronotum and that characterizes Myrmecoderus
More Details
Etymology
The name Myrmecoderus likely derives from Greek roots suggesting an -like (myrmeco-) appearance combined with -derus, possibly alluding to the neck-like constriction.
Taxonomic history
Two of the three were originally described in other (M. dominicensis and M. laevipennis in Horn, 1876 and 1893 respectively) before being transferred to Myrmecoderus when the genus was erected in 2005.