Machiloides banksi
Silvestri, 1911
rock bristletail
Machiloides banksi is a of rock described by Filippo Silvestri in 1911. It belongs to the Meinertellidae, a group of basal insects in the order . The species is known from the eastern United States. Like other Archaeognatha, it represents one of the most primitive lineages of living insects, retaining ancestral characteristics such as the ability to spring using its caudal filaments.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Machiloides banksi: //məˈkɪloɪdiːz ˈbæŋksi//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguishable from other by characteristics of the Machiloides, though specific diagnostic features for M. banksi are not detailed in available literature. The genus is characterized by particular arrangements of bristles and , though precise identification requires examination of microscopic features.
Images
Appearance
As a member of , possesses a humped , large that meet dorsally, and three long tail-like appendages ( and caudal filament) used for springing. Body covered with . Specific morphological details for M. banksi are not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Rocky environments; specific microhabitat preferences for M. banksi are not documented, though related in the Meinertellidae are typically found in rocky crevices, under stones, and in similar sheltered situations.
Distribution
Eastern United States. Specific state records are not documented in available sources.
Behavior
Capable of springing using the caudal filaments, a characteristic of . Otherwise, specific behavioral observations for M. banksi are not documented.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The placement of Machiloides has been subject to some uncertainty. NCBI lists the family as Machilidae, while iNaturalist and GBIF list Meinertellidae. Meinertellidae is now generally accepted as the correct family for this , having been separated from Machilidae based on morphological and molecular evidence.