We have a species Hesperus apicalis in the guide. Is that a typo for apicialis? [edit: I confirmed it is]

The ones we have have two antenna segments distinctly paler, much more of the abdomen red, and no visible wings. Is that expected variation?

Hi John,

The antennae can vary from the last two to the last segment lighter. The red on this species can vary in brightness on specimens and sometimes isn't picked up well in photos. Also, the dorsal abdomen is obscured by the wings here and I think the ventral abdomen (shown in these photos) is typically darker. Rove beetle wings are usually folded up inside the elytra but they pop them out when they want to fly. This species was referred to incorrectly as 'apicalis' for a long time until Dr. Smetana showed that 'apicialis' was the correct name.

Thanks for correcting the spelling error in the guide,

Adam

It may have been too weak to fly. It wanted to move but settled for crawling around.

[i was about to e-mail you soliciting your input on this one]