G. it. Ent., 13 (59): 417-428
January 2014
Size variation in Phobetus sleeperi Hardy
with description of the female from Baja California, Mexico, observations on the type locality,
and comparisons with Phobetus desertus Blom & Clark
(Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)
by
PAUL E. BLOM & WILLIAM H. CLARK
Abstract - Phobetus sleeperi Hardy, from Baja California, Mexico, was described from only the male holotype with no published natural history information. Variability in specimens collected from the type locality and surrounding area on 3 January 1989 is described, including two females. Analysis of this variability indicates that P. desertus Blom & Clark should remain a distinct species. Observations on flight activity, habitat, and predation for both P. sleeperi and P. desertus are provided. There appears to be a positive relationship between winter precipitation and adult activity for both species. The spider Eustala conchlea (McCook) (Araneae, Araneidae) was observed to prey on males of P. sleeperi, which adds to knowledge of this spider's natural history. We also report collection information for a single specimen that appears to represent a fourth undescribed Phobetus species from the Baja California peninsula.
