Tribolium parallelum
(Casey, 1890)
Tribolium parallelum is a of in the , Tribolium. The genus includes several economically important stored product pests, though specific information about T. parallelum's biology and pest status is limited in available sources. It is to Mexico.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tribolium parallelum: //trɪˈboʊliəm pəˈrælələm//
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Identification
Tribolium parallelum can be distinguished from other Tribolium by its parallel-sided body shape, which gives the species its name. Detailed diagnostic features separating it from the more commonly studied (T. castaneum) and (T. confusum) are not well documented in available literature.
Distribution
Mexico
Human Relevance
Tribolium parallelum is a member of a containing major stored product pests, though its specific economic impact has not been quantified in available sources. The congeneric Tribolium castaneum and T. confusum are among the most damaging of stored grain products worldwide.
Similar Taxa
- Tribolium castaneum; shares and general body form, but has more rounded sides and is a well-documented pest of stored products
- Tribolium confusum; shares and preferences, but has clubbed with four versus three in T. castaneum, and prefers cooler temperatures
More Details
Taxonomic note
Tribolium parallelum was described by Casey in 1890. It is less studied than the economically important congeneric T. castaneum and T. confusum, which are frequently referenced in stored product literature.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
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