Agrilus politus
(Say, 1825)
willow gall limb borer, common willow agrilus
Species Guides
1Agrilus politus is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae. The is commonly known as the willow gall limb borer or common willow agrilus. It is associated with willow (Salix) and has been documented as part of the prey provisions collected by the crabronid Cerceris fumipennis. The species occurs in Central America and North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrilus politus: /ˈæɡrɪləs pəˈliːtəs/
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Identification
Agrilus politus belongs to the large Agrilus, which contains over 3,000 worldwide. Species in this genus are generally characterized by elongated, somewhat flattened bodies with short and metallic coloration. Distinguishing individual Agrilus species typically requires examination of specific morphological features including elytral , body proportions, and genitalia. Without detailed diagnostic descriptions in the provided sources, specific identification criteria for A. politus cannot be reliably stated.
Habitat
The has been collected from willow (Salix nigra) in riparian areas. It is associated with woody vegetation in areas where plants occur.
Distribution
Central America and North America. Specific records include Oklahoma (United States) and Alberta (Canada).
Seasonality
have been collected in early June.
Diet
Larvae are wood-borers, developing within willow (Salix) branches. have been observed feeding on foliage.
Host Associations
- Salix nigra - larval black willow
Life Cycle
Larval development occurs within living or dying willow branches. emerge and are active during early summer.
Behavior
have been beaten from foliage of plants. The has been documented as prey of the crabronid Cerceris fumipennis, which provisions its nests with paralyzed buprestid beetles.
Ecological Role
As a wood-boring , larvae contribute to branch dieback in willow trees. The serves as prey for specialized predatory .
Similar Taxa
- Agrilus quadriguttatusSimilar size and (also collected from cottonwood and willow); distinguished by elytral markings and specific associations
- Agrilus obsoletoguttatusCollected in same and often found together; distinguished by elytral pattern
More Details
Cerceris fumipennis association
Agrilus politus is among the most frequently collected buprestid from Cerceris fumipennis nests and foraging areas. In one documented collection from a single field on a single date in Missouri, 14 specimens of A. politus were recovered from wasp provisions, representing one of the most abundant species in the .