About Pamphagus sardeus (Herrich-Schäffer, 1840)
Scientific name: Pamphagus sardeus (Herrich-Schäffer, 1840).
Description: Adult males of this species reach a length of 45.9–61 millimetres (1.81–2.40 in), while adult females grow to 55–70 millimetres (2.2–2.8 in). Its overall body shape matches the typical form of the family Pamphagidae, and is very similar to the related species Pamphagus marmoratus. As a result, this species was long recorded and referred to as P. marmoratus, until studies published by Harz in 1969 and 1975 definitively separated the two species. Harz distinguished P. sardeus based on its longer cerci, the different profile of its ultimate tergite, and the distinct shape of male genitalia.
Distribution and habitat: This species is found exclusively on the island of Sardinia. It is encountered most often during spring and summer in the southern part of the island, where it inhabits dry natural grassland.
