Machilinus aurantiacus

(Schött, 1897)

Rocky Mountain Golden Bristletail

Machilinus aurantiacus is a of rock bristletail in the Meinertellidae, found in North America. measure 6–8 mm in length and are covered in silvery with yellow-brown legs. The species is diurnally active, distinguishing it from many bristletails. Two are recognized: M. a. aurantiacus and M. a. setosus.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Machilinus aurantiacus: //mæˈkɪlɪnəs ɔːˌrænˈtaɪəkəs//

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Identification

Distinguished from other Machilinus by the combination of silvery covering, yellow-brown legs, and activity. The two differ in setation: M. a. setosus has more prominent setae compared to the nominate subspecies.

Habitat

Rocky ; specific microhabitat preferences are not well documented in available sources

Distribution

North America; precise range boundaries are not well documented

Behavior

Diurnally active; this represents a notable departure from the activity pattern typical of many

Similar Taxa

  • Other Machilinus speciesSimilar body plan and ; distinguished by coloration, leg color, and activity pattern
  • Meinertellidae species in other generaShare -level characteristics; -level differences in genitalia and patterns require expert examination

More Details

Subspecies

Two are recognized: Machilinus aurantiacus aurantiacus (Schött, 1897) and Machilinus aurantiacus setosus Sturm & Bach, 1992

Nomenclatural note

Authority sometimes cited as Schött, 1897; original combination and type locality details require verification from primary literature

Sources and further reading