One more image showing the light band at the apex of the elytra. Liljeblad (1) states that the species "is somewhat variable in markings and color", and "This species is rather prettily marked and does not resemble any other of our species of Mordellistena"... One key among several others is the light coloration along the elytral apex. Few, if any other tumblers have such a band actually reaching the apex...."