Helops angustus

LeConte, 1859

Helops angustus is a of in the , first described by LeConte in 1859. Darkling beetles in this are characterized by elongated, somewhat flattened bodies and with bead-like . Members of Helops are typically found in arid and semi-arid of western North America. The genus is distinguished from similar tenebrionid genera by its relatively slender form and antennal structure.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Helops angustus: //ˈhɛlɒps æŋˈɡʌstəs//

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Identification

Helops angustus can be distinguished from () by its bead-like antennal and concealed hidden beneath the , rather than the exposed, forward-directed of carabids. It differs from the -standing Eleodes by lacking the defensive head-stand and having a more elongate, less body form. Within Helops, H. angustus is recognized by its slender, elongated body shape consistent with its specific epithet.

Habitat

Arid and semi-arid of western North America, including desert and prairie environments.

Distribution

Western North America.

Similar Taxa

  • Eleodes spp.Both are () with similar overall body form, but Eleodes exhibits distinctive -standing defensive and has a more , rounded body shape compared to the slender Helops.
  • Carabidae (ground beetles)Superficially similar dark coloration and ground-dwelling habit, but have thread-like with longer than wide, exposed forward-directed , and typically rapid running .

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Sources and further reading