Hesperoboreus
Penny, 1977
Species Guides
1Hesperoboreus is a of snow scorpionflies (Mecoptera: Boreidae) established by Norman Penny in 1977. Members of this genus are small, wingless insects adapted to cold environments. The genus is distinguished from the related Boreus by morphological features of the male genitalia. Very few observations exist, with only three records documented on iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hesperoboreus: //ˌhɛspəroʊˈbɔːriəs//
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Identification
Distinguished from the Boreus by characteristics of the male genitalia, particularly the structure of the and parameres. Males possess abdominal claspers used to grasp females during mating. Like all Boreidae, are completely wingless with reduced, non-functional wings in females represented only as small . Body is slender and dark-colored.
Habitat
Cold, moist environments including snowfields, moss beds, and forest litter in montane and regions.
Distribution
Western North America.
Seasonality
Active during winter months when temperatures are near freezing; have been observed on snow.
Behavior
are known to walk on snow surfaces during winter. Males use abdominal claspers to grasp females during mating.