Idiostatus
Pictet, 1888
Species Guides
13- Idiostatus aberrans(Aberrant Shieldback)
- Idiostatus aequalis(uniform shieldback)
- Idiostatus apollo(Apollo Shieldback)
- Idiostatus bechteli(Bechtel's Shieldback)
- Idiostatus birchimi(Birchim's Shieldback)
- Idiostatus californicus(Pictet's Shieldback)
- Idiostatus fuscus(Dark Shieldback)
- Idiostatus gurneyi(Gurney's Shieldback)
- Idiostatus hermannii
Idiostatus is a of katydids in the Tettigoniidae, tribe Platycleidini, native to western North America. The genus was established by Pictet in 1888 and contains approximately 28 . A diagnostic feature is the lateral lobes of the prothorax, which are as deep as they are long. These insects are part of the diverse bush- fauna of the region.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Idiostatus: /ˌɪdioʊˈsteɪtəs/
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Identification
Distinguished from similar Platycleidini by the prothoracic lateral lobes being as deep as long (equilateral or subquadrate in lateral profile). This contrasts with relatives where lateral lobes are typically longer than deep. Examination of the pronotum in lateral view is necessary for confident identification.
Images
Appearance
Katydids with lateral lobes of the prothorax that are as deep as they are long. As members of Tettigoniidae, they possess long, thread-like exceeding body length, enlarged hind legs adapted for jumping, and a generally slender body form. Specific coloration and body proportions vary among the 28 included .
Distribution
Western North America. Documented from California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, and Oregon.
Similar Taxa
- Other Platycleidini generaSimilar body plan and general , but differ in prothoracic lateral lobe proportions (typically longer than deep rather than equilateral)
More Details
Species diversity
The contains 28 recognized , indicating substantial diversification within its western North American range.