Entomologist Quentin Wheeler of Arizona State University announced the discovery and naming of the beetle, now dubbed Orectochilus orbisonorum, during a Roy Orbison Tribute Concert on Jan. 25.
The ending of the species name, "orum," denotes it was named after a couple. If the beetle were just named after Roy it would end in "i," and for just Barbara, the name would end in "ae."
©Charles J. Kazilek, Arizona State University |
This lateral view shows the new species of whirligig beetle, revealing its divided eyes (above and below the water line) and its white underside. |