Ateloplus
Scudder, 1894
shield-backed katydids
Species Guides
6- Ateloplus coconino(Coconino Shieldback)
- Ateloplus hesperus(Western Shieldback)
- Ateloplus luteus(Yellow Shieldback)
- Ateloplus minor(Lesser Shieldback)
- Ateloplus schwarzi(Schwarz's Shieldback)
- Ateloplus splendidus(Splendid Shieldback)
Ateloplus is a of shield-backed katydids in the Tettigoniidae, first described by Scudder in 1894. The genus contains approximately eight described , distributed primarily in the southwestern United States. Species within this genus are characterized by their shield-like pronotum that extends over the , a trait common to the shield-backed katydid group. The genus includes the yellow shieldback (Ateloplus luteus), named for its distinctive coloration.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ateloplus: //ˌætɛˈlɒpləs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Members of Ateloplus can be distinguished from other tettigoniid by the enlarged, shield-like pronotum that covers most or all of the and wings. This pronotal structure gives the group its of shield-backed katydids. Specific identification within the genus requires examination of male genitalia and subtle differences in body proportions and coloration.
Images
Distribution
Southwestern United States, specifically recorded from Arizona and California.
Similar Taxa
- Other shield-backed katydid genera (e.g., Idiostatus, Steiroxys)Similar shield-like pronotum structure, but differ in geographic distribution and specific morphological details of the pronotum and genitalia.
- Typical katydid genera (e.g., Tettigonia, Scudderia)Lack the enlarged shield-like pronotum that characterizes Ateloplus; have more elongate bodies with exposed wings and .
More Details
Species diversity
The comprises eight described : Ateloplus coconino, A. hesperus, A. joaquin, A. luteus (yellow shieldback), A. minor, A. notatus, A. schwarzi, and A. splendidus.
Taxonomic history
The was established by Scudder in 1894, with additional described by Caudell (1907), Hebard (1934-1935), and Rentz (1972), indicating sustained taxonomic interest in this group over nearly a century.