Eleodes armata
LeConte, 1851
Armored Stink Beetle
Eleodes armata, commonly known as the armored stink , is a of darkling beetle in the Tenebrionidae. It inhabits arid regions of the western United States and Mexico. The species is distinguished by prominent spurs on all legs, a feature reflected in its specific epithet 'armata' (armed). Like other members of the Eleodes, it exhibits the characteristic -standing defensive posture when disturbed.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eleodes armata: /ɛˈleɪoʊdiz ɑrˈmɑtə/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Eleodes by the presence of spurs on all legs. Other Eleodes lack leg spurs or have them only on certain leg pairs. The Eleodes can be separated from ground beetles (Carabidae) by bead-like segments (vs. longer, thread-like segments), concealed beneath the (vs. exposed, forward-directed mandibles), and slower, lumbering movement (vs. rapid running). When disturbed, Eleodes species characteristically stand on their , elevating the to release defensive secretions.
Images
Habitat
Arid and semi-arid environments including deserts, scrublands, and dry grasslands. Found in western North American desert .
Distribution
Western United States and Mexico. Specific states/provinces not documented in available sources.
Behavior
Exhibits the characteristic '-standing' defensive posture typical of the Eleodes when disturbed—standing on the forelegs and head while elevating the to release defensive chemical secretions from abdominal glands. Movement is slow and lumbering compared to ground beetles.
Similar Taxa
- Eleodes suturalisAnother large Eleodes with similar body form and somber coloration, but lacks spurs on all legs
- Other Eleodes speciesAll other Eleodes lack the distinctive leg spurs that characterize E. armata; identification requires examination of leg
- Ground beetles (Carabidae)Superficially similar dark beetles found in similar , but distinguished by thread-like , exposed , and rapid running