Agrilus obtusus
Horn, 1891
Agrilus obtusus is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae, described by Horn in 1891. It is a herbivore associated with Senna roemeriana (two-leaved senna). The occurs in western Texas and surrounding regions of North America. are small, typically collected by beating or sweeping plants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrilus obtusus: /ˈa.ɡrɪ.lus ɔbˈtuː.sus/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Can be distinguished from other Agrilus by association with plant Senna roemeriana and geographic occurrence in western Texas. Specific morphological characters for separation from similar not provided in sources. are small and likely require examination of genitalia or other fine structural characters for definitive identification.
Habitat
Associated with stands of Senna roemeriana (two-leaved senna) in xeric and semi-arid environments. Occurs in open, rocky and glade-like areas where the plant grows.
Distribution
North America: recorded from western Texas (Val Verde County, Garner State Park area). The GBIF record indicating broader distribution to Central America could not be verified against specimen records in provided sources.
Seasonality
active in late April to early May based on collecting records from western Texas. Activity coincides with flowering period of plant Senna roemeriana.
Diet
Larval feeding habits unknown. feed on foliage of Senna roemeriana (two-leaved senna), as evidenced by collection records of adults being beaten from this plant.
Host Associations
- Senna roemeriana - feedingTwo-leaved senna; beaten from foliage
Behavior
are cryptic on plant foliage and typically not visible until disturbed. They drop readily when host plants are beaten or tapped. Adults have been observed mating on host plants. activity or attraction to light not documented.
Ecological Role
Herbivore; likely contributes to nutrient cycling through larval wood-boring activity (unconfirmed for this ).
Human Relevance
No documented economic or agricultural significance. Of interest to coleopterists studying buprestid- plant relationships and regional biodiversity of western Texas.
Similar Taxa
- Agrilus cochiseiSympatric congeneric in western Texas, but associated with Ambrosia psilostachya (western ragweed) rather than Senna roemeriana
- Other Agrilus speciesMany share similar body form and metallic coloration; plant association and geographic range are primary distinguishing features
More Details
Collection method
Best collected by beating or sweeping Senna roemeriana foliage, as are cryptic and drop when disturbed. Visual detection before beating is difficult.
Type locality
Not specified in provided sources; described by Horn in 1891.