Eleodes pedinoides
LeConte, 1858
clown beetle
Eleodes pedinoides is a darkling beetle ( Tenebrionidae) native to Mexico. Like other members of the Eleodes, it exhibits the defensive 'headstand' characteristic of clown beetles, raising its when disturbed to release defensive secretions. The is closely related to E. suturalis and E. hispilabris, with which it shares general body form and dark coloration. Available information on this species is limited compared to its better-known North American .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eleodes pedinoides: /ɛˈlɛoʊdiːz pɛdɪˈnɔɪdiːz/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
Mexico
Behavior
Performs defensive 'headstand' typical of Eleodes, raising end when threatened.
Similar Taxa
- Eleodes suturalisSimilar size, shape, and dark coloration with reddish-brown sutural stripe; E. suturalis distinguished by sharply laterally carinate and broadly explanate pronotum
- Eleodes hispilabrisNearly identical coloration including possible reddish sutural stripe; requires close examination of pronotal and elytral margins for separation
- Eleodes acutaSympatric with E. suturalis in some regions; E. acuta has rounded rather than upturned lateral pronotal borders and averages larger (around 30 mm vs. under 26 mm)