Explanation of Names
Author of family is
Latreille, 1810
Greek οιδειν 'swell' + μηροσ 'thigh'
(1)Numbers
~90 spp. in 18 genera north of Mexico, ca. 1500 spp. in 115 genera worldwide
(2); 13 spp. in Canada
(3)
Overview of our fauna:
Family OEDEMERIDAE
Tribe Asclerini Asclera,
Copidita,
Eumecomera,
Heliocis,
Hypasclera,
Oxacis,
Oxycopis,
Paroxacis,
Rhinoplatia,
Sisenes,
Vasaces,
Xanthochroina
Identification
Antennae with 11 long filiform, serrate or clavate antennomeres. Tarsal formula 5-5-4. 5-6, 2 connate ventrites. Elongate, pubescent, often brightly colored. Head not abruptly constricted posteriorly. Prothorax without margins, expanded anteriorly, then narrowed, sides rounded.
Food
Adults take pollen, typically on early spring flowers
Life Cycle
Adults often found on spring flowers, e.g., Asclera. Mating takes place on flowers. Larvae develop in the soil. Like true Blister Beetles, these beetles have toxic chemical defenses, and caution should be exercised in handling them.
