Odontophotopsis aufidia
Mickel, 1983
Odontophotopsis aufidia is a of velvet ant ( Mutillidae) described by Mickel in 1983. The Odontophotopsis belongs to the Sphaeropthalminae and is characterized by distinctive mandibular and genitalic features. Like other mutillids, this species is likely a solitary with wingless females and winged males. The species is part of a North American genus with limited published ecological data.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Odontophotopsis aufidia: /oʊˌdɒntoʊfoʊˈtɒpsɪs ɔːˈfɪdiə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Members of Odontophotopsis can be distinguished from related in Sphaeropthalminae by the presence of a single tooth on the inner mandibular margin and specific male genitalic structures. -level identification within Odontophotopsis requires examination of male genitalia and other subtle morphological characters; females are particularly difficult to identify due to reduced wing venation and convergent color patterns with other mutillid genera.
Distribution
The has been documented in the southwestern United States. Specific locality data is sparse in published literature.
Similar Taxa
- Odontophotopsis hammettiCongeneric described by Pitts; shares the diagnostic mandibular tooth characteristic of the but differs in male genitalic and geographic distribution
- SphaeropthalmaRelated in Sphaeropthalminae with similar female coloration; distinguished by mandibular and male genitalic structure
More Details
Taxonomic History
The Odontophotopsis was established to accommodate previously placed in Photopsis that possess a single inner mandibular tooth. Mickel's 1983 revision of the genus provided the foundation for modern species concepts in this group.
Sexual Dimorphism
As with all Mutillidae, females are wingless and typically larger and more robust than males, which possess fully developed wings. This dimorphism complicates field identification and association of sexes.