Agrilus scitulus
Horn, 1891
Native Soapberry Borer, Beautiful Soapberry Borer
Agrilus scitulus is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae, commonly known as the native soapberry borer or beautiful soapberry borer. It is native to North America and is associated with soapberry plants (Sapindus). Like other members of the Agrilus, it develops as a larva in woody tissue, though specific details of its remain limited.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrilus scitulus: /ˈaɡrɪləs ˈsɪtjʊləs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Habitat
Associated with soapberry (Sapindus) plants; specific preferences beyond host association are not documented.
Distribution
North America; present in Nearctic region according to distribution records.
Diet
Larvae develop in soapberry (Sapindus) wood; feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Sapindus - larval soapberry; specific plant not documented
More Details
Nomenclature note
The 'native soapberry borer' distinguishes this from the 'western soapberry borer' (Agrilus prionurus), which attacks the same plants but is not native to North America.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
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