Agrilus cochisei
Knull, 1948
Agrilus cochisei is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae, described by Knull in 1948. The occurs in Central America and North America. have been observed on Ambrosia psilostachya (western ragweed) and Sphaeralcea flowers in western Texas.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrilus cochisei: /əˈɡraɪləs koʊˈtʃiːsaɪ/
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Identification
are small, slender beetles typical of the Agrilus, with metallic coloration characteristic of Buprestidae. Specific diagnostic features distinguishing A. cochisei from are not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Associated with Ambrosia psilostachya (western ragweed) in open, arid environments. Observed in western Texas in sandy or rocky areas with sparse vegetation.
Distribution
Central America and North America. Specifically documented from western Texas (Toyahyale area, Davis Mountains region).
Seasonality
active in late April to May in western Texas. Peak activity appears to occur in early to mid-May based on collection records, though adults have been found in late April during early season collecting.
Diet
feed on Ambrosia psilostachya (western ragweed); observed feeding on flowers of Sphaeralcea sp.
Host Associations
- Ambrosia psilostachya - feeding western ragweed; swept abundantly from this plant
- Sphaeralcea sp. - feeding observed on flowers
Behavior
are readily swept from vegetation. Mating pairs have been observed on host plants. Adults appear to be and associated with low-growing herbaceous vegetation rather than woody plants.
Similar Taxa
- Agrilus obtususBoth are small Agrilus found in western Texas on herbaceous ; A. obtusus occurs on Senna roemeriana rather than Ambrosia
- undescribed Acmaeodera sp.Found sympatrically in western Texas and collected using similar sweeping techniques on flowers, but belongs to different with distinct body form