Agrilus frosti
Knull, 1920
Agrilus frosti is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae, described by Knull in 1920. It is found in North America, with documented occurrences in Canada (Manitoba, Nova Scotia) and the United States. The is poorly known and rarely collected; in Missouri, only two specimens have been documented—one beaten from post oak at Lichen Glade Natural Area and another captured in a in central Missouri.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrilus frosti: /ˈæɡrɪləs ˈfrɒsti/
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Identification
Distinguishing Agrilus frosti from other Agrilus requires examination of morphological details, particularly the arrangement of elytral punctures and male genitalia. Specific diagnostic characters are not documented in the available sources. As with many Agrilus species, identification typically requires comparison with or consultation with .
Habitat
In Missouri, the has been collected from sandstone glades and associated dry woodlands dominated by post oak (Quercus stellata) and blackjack oak (Quercus marilandica). The single documented collection from woody vegetation occurred at the edge of a glade .
Distribution
Documented from North America, including the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Nova Scotia. In the United States, confirmed records exist from Missouri. GBIF indicates broader presence data, though these may include unverified or aggregated records.
Seasonality
In Missouri, the has been collected in late May. No information is available regarding period or seasonal activity in other parts of its range.
Host Associations
- Quercus stellata - larval Single specimen beaten from post oak at Lichen Glade Natural Area, Missouri
Behavior
have been collected by beating woody vegetation. No other behavioral information is documented.
Similar Taxa
- Agrilus impexusHistorical taxonomic confusion; specimens from Missouri initially misidentified as A. impexus but later determined to represent true A. impexus, which is rare and poorly known. A. frosti is distinct but both are rarely collected and may be confused without careful examination.
- Agrilus paraimpexusDescribed by Hespenheide (2007) to accommodate the common southwestern U.S. previously misidentified as A. impexus. A. frosti, A. impexus, and A. paraimpexus all require careful morphological study for accurate identification.
More Details
Rarity in Missouri
Only two specimens of Agrilus frosti are known from Missouri: one collected by beating post oak at Lichen Glade Natural Area, and another captured in a in central Missouri by state agriculture personnel. The collector of the Lichen Glade specimen has not encountered the again despite repeated visits to the site.
Taxonomic context
The Agrilus is the largest genus in Buprestidae and one of the largest genera of beetles, with many poorly known and difficult to identify. A. frosti exemplifies this pattern, with sparse collection records and limited biological data.