Listrochelus duncani
This record describes Listrochelus duncani (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Similar in many regards to several other species of Listrochelus. Best differentiated using the characteristics of the male genitalia. Saylor (1940) states that the species is known only from the male holotype. The species appears to be uncommon but considering the need to dissect males for positive ID, it is likely that many specimens go undetermined. I have seen a dozen or so specimens, both male and female. The female is likely still undescribed.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Melolonthinae
- Tribe
- Rhizotrogini
- Genus
- Listrochelus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Santa Cruz and Cochise Counties, Arizona (pers. observ. - R. Androw)
Seasonal Activity
mid-July to mid-August (pers. observ. - R. Androw)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Listrochelus duncani Barrett, 1933
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Listrochelus duncani. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Listrochelus duncani (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Robert Androw
Frequently Asked Questions About Listrochelus duncani
What is Listrochelus duncani?
Listrochelus duncani is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Listrochelus duncani?
Similar in many regards to several other species of Listrochelus. Best differentiated using the characteristics of the male genitalia.
Where is Listrochelus duncani found?
Range: Santa Cruz and Cochise Counties, Arizona (pers. observ. - R. Androw)
When is Listrochelus duncani active?
Listrochelus duncani: seasonal activity - mid-July to mid-August (pers. observ. - R. Androw).