Promachus vertebratus
(Say, 1823)
Promachus vertebratus is a in the , one of three "tiger-striped" Promachus in eastern North America characterized by and black abdominal striping. It is distinguished from the more southern P. hinei and more southeastern P. rufipes by specific leg and abdominal coloration patterns. Like other Promachus species, it is a large, conspicuous aerial of other .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Promachus vertebratus: /proʊˈmækəs vɜrˈtiːbrətəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from P. hinei by smaller dark areas dorsally on abdominal and less contrasting two-toned legs. Distinguished from P. rufipes by black rather than reddish . The three "tiger-striped" eastern Promachus (P. vertebratus, P. hinei, and P. rufipes) all show and black abdominal striping.
Images
Habitat
Associated with glade and open . Has been observed in glade environments in Missouri and similar open, sunny habitats across its range.
Distribution
Eastern North America; more northern in distribution compared to P. hinei and P. rufipes. Specific range boundaries not well documented in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- Promachus hineiOverlaps in eastern U.S.; distinguished by P. hinei having larger dark areas dorsally on abdominal and distinctly contrasting two-toned legs, plus more southern distribution
- Promachus rufipesOverlaps in eastern U.S.; distinguished by P. rufipes having reddish versus black and more southeastern distribution
More Details
Taxonomic context
One of three 'tiger-striped' Promachus in eastern North America, forming a distinguished primarily by coloration and geographic distribution.