Anoplognathus parvulus
Anoplognathus aureus
Introduction
The specific name parvulus means “very small”.
What does Anoplognathus parvulus look like?
Identification
Metallic golden green, rarely metallic coppery red but with gold still present. Underside metallic green-gold, sometimes metallic red; thorax with very fine, sparse, white hair except on midline; abdomen with very few, fine, white hairs. Legs non-metallic, light brown; tarsi dark.
Clypeus
Clypeus: Slightly contracted behind apex; recurved; front margin slightly flared.
Foretibia
Foretibia: Two distinct tibial teeth.
Metaventral process
Metaventral process: Short; broadly rounded; flat; apex not extending past mid coxae.
Pygidium
Pygidium: Metallic green gold, sometimes metallic red; slightly rough surface; with few short, erect, yellow hairs at apex.
Where is Anoplognathus parvulus found?
Distribution
East QLD coast, from Cape York to Gold Coast.
What species are similar to Anoplognathus parvulus?
Similar species
Anoplognathus aureus
Anoplognathus parvulus is very similar to A. aureus. However, it is usually larger (15-18mm), a greener gold and has a short, blunt metaventral process, not long or sharply pointed. The male clypeus is longer and more squarely cut.
The species has different colour forms which need to be considered for proper identification.
