Agrilus restrictus
Waterhouse, 1889
Agrilus restrictus is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae. The was described by Waterhouse in 1889 and occurs in Central America and North America. Field observations indicate it is associated with oak woodlands, specifically collected by beating Emory oak (Quercus emoryi). The species appears to be uncommon and has been noted as a desirable target for collectors in the southwestern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrilus restrictus: //ˈæɡ.rɪ.ləs rɪˈstrɪk.təs//
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Identification
Agrilus restrictus is one of numerous oak-associated Agrilus in the southwestern United States, making field identification challenging without specimen examination. It belongs to a characterized by metallic coloration, elongate body form, and short, serrate . Specific diagnostic features distinguishing it from similar oak-feeding such as Agrilus arizonicus require detailed morphological analysis and are not reliably determined from field observations alone.
Habitat
Oak woodland , specifically associated with Emory oak (Quercus emoryi) in montane regions of the southwestern United States. The has been collected in the Patagonia Mountains of Arizona at elevations where oak woodlands occur.
Distribution
Central America and North America. Documented occurrences include the southwestern United States (Arizona) and presumably extending southward through Mexico into Central America.
Seasonality
have been collected in late July to early August in Arizona, coinciding with the summer monsoon season.
Host Associations
- Quercus emoryi - Collected by beating branches of living Emory oak
Behavior
are apparently arboreal, requiring beating of tree branches for collection. The is described as uncommon, suggesting either low , cryptic habits, or limited seasonal activity windows.
Human Relevance
Of interest to coleopterists due to its apparent rarity and status as a desirable collection target. No documented economic or agricultural significance.
Similar Taxa
- Agrilus arizonicusSympatric oak-associated collected on the same collecting trip in the Patagonia Mountains; distinguished by coloration differences (A. arizonicus males brighter green, females more coppery)
- Agrilus cavatusAnother oak-associated Agrilus in the same region, though associated with prairie acacia rather than oaks; more frequently encountered and considered charismatic among collectors