Embaphion contusum
LeConte, 1858
Embaphion contusum is a of darkling beetle in the Tenebrionidae. The species was described by LeConte in 1858 and contains three recognized : E. c. contusum (the nominate subspecies), E. c. laminatum (Casey, 1890), and E. c. grande (Blaisdell, 1909). Like other members of the Embaphion, this species exhibits the explanate (flattened and expanded) body form characteristic of the group. The genus Embaphion is part of the diverse darkling beetle fauna of western North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Embaphion contusum: /ɛmˈbæfi.ɑn kənˈtuːsəm/
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Identification
Members of the Embaphion can be distinguished from other darkling beetles by their strongly explanate (flattened and expanded) body form, with the lateral margins of the expanded and often appearing wing-like. This gives the beetles a distinctive, almost disc-like appearance when viewed from above. The genus is further characterized by bead-like () typical of Tenebrionidae, with segments that are about as wide as long. The are concealed beneath the , unlike the exposed mandibles of ground beetles (Carabidae) with which they may be confused. Specific identification of E. contusum requires examination of subtle morphological features and comparison with related in the genus; the three differ in body size and degree of elytral expansion.
Images
Distribution
The occurs in western North America. The nominate E. c. contusum was described from material collected in the western United States. The subspecies E. c. laminatum and E. c. grande extend the known range, with the latter described from California material.
Similar Taxa
- EleodesBoth are darkling beetles (Tenebrionidae) that may occur in similar aridland , but Eleodes lack the strongly explanate body form of Embaphion and instead have more cylindrical bodies; Eleodes also exhibits the characteristic -standing defensive when disturbed, which Embaphion does not.
- Carabidae (ground beetles)Ground beetles may be confused with darkling beetles by general appearance, but can be distinguished by their longer, more filamentous with segments longer than wide, exposed and forward-directed , and typically rapid running ; Embaphion has bead-like antennae, concealed mandibles, and slower movement.