This is one of the more distinctive western Stenamma, most readily recognized by the peculiar sculpturation of the first tergite. Very nearly the entire segment is shagreened and finely, densely punctulate. Over the basal third of the segment extend a variable number of fine longitudinal rugulae which tend to form a reticulate pattern in some specimens. Finally, scattered over the entire segment are numerous coarse punctures, from each of which arises a long, coarse hair. The overall effect is very peculiar and is shared, in North American species, only with Stenamma xasperatum. Other western species, such as Stenamma californicum, Stenamma dyscheres and Stenamma punctatoventre have sculptured first tergites, but in these species the sculpturation consists of fine, dense punctulation and is restricted to the basal third, or less; fine longitudinal basal striae may be present or not. These species wholly lack the conspicuous coarse, piligerous punctures.
Snelling 1973
