Agrilini

Agrilini

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Agrilini: //ˌæɡrɪˈlaɪnɪ//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Agrilus bilineatus (48349925451) by Christina Butler from Georgia, United States. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Agrilus concinnus P1280648b by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Agrilus arcuatus torquatus 3046008 by James Solomon, USDA Forest Service. Used under a Public domain license.
Agrilus auroguttatus by Mike Lewis. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.
Agrilus cyanescens 293411362 by Gilles San Martin. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Agrilus anxius by wikipedia. Used under a Public domain license.

Summary

Agrilini is a tribe of metallic wood-boring beetles with significant biodiversity both regionally and globally, with several genera primarily represented by the genus Agrilus.

Physical Characteristics

Metallic coloration with a hard, shiny exterior, typical of wood-boring beetles.

Identification Tips

Look for elongated bodies and a metallic sheen in coloration. Check for the characteristic rounded or elongate shape associated with wood-boring beetles.

Habitat

Primarily forested areas where they can be found boring into wood of hardwood and softwood trees.

Distribution

Found throughout North America; globally present with peak diversity in the Neotropics.

Diet

Larvae primarily feed on the wood of trees; adults may feed on foliage and flowers.

Life Cycle

Life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, with larvae developing within wood.

Reproduction

Typically reproduce sexually with females laying eggs in or on wood suitable for larval development.

Predators

Birds, small mammals, and other insect predators may feed on adult beetles and larvae.

Ecosystem Role

Important decomposers; larvae help in the breakdown of dead trees, contributing to nutrient cycling.

Economic Impact

Some species are considered pests as they can damage timber and living trees.

Collecting Methods

  • Light traps
  • Hand collection from infested wood
  • Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol
  • Pinning
  • Freezing

Evolution

Part of the diverse family Buprestidae, known for their vivid coloration and wood-boring habits, they have evolved to exploit wood as a resource.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for other types of beetles due to their metallic appearance; some may confuse them with pests that are more harmful to agriculture.

Tags

  • beetles
  • Agrilini
  • metallic wood-borers
  • Buprestidae
  • entomology