Agrilus subcinctus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Agrilus subcinctus: /ˈæɡrɪləs sʌbˈsɪŋktəs/

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Summary

Agrilus subcinctus, the native ash borer, is a metalic wood-boring beetle native to North America, primarily associated with dead ash trees. It may experience population fluctuations in relation to the invasive emerald ash borer, which affects its habitat.

Physical Characteristics

Approximately 4 mm in length; metallic appearance typical of wood-boring beetles.

Identification Tips

Distinguished from the emerald ash borer (EAB) by its smaller size and native status. Look for adults on ash foliage during peak abundance in late May to early July.

Habitat

Primarily found in forests and wooded areas where Fraxinus (ash trees) are present, especially in areas with dead ash twigs.

Distribution

Native to the United States, observed in states such as New Mexico, Florida, New York, and Nebraska.

Diet

Adults feed on ash foliage, while larvae develop in the phloem of dead ash twigs.

Life Cycle

Adult beetles feed and lay eggs on recently dead ash twigs. Larvae develop throughout the summer and fall, overwintering as larvae or pupae.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs primarily on recently dead ash twigs where larvae can later develop.

Conservation Status

High-moderate risk of endangerment due to competition from the emerald ash borer (EAB).

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a decomposer by breaking down dead ash trees, although populations may increase following the decline of ash due to EAB.

Collecting Methods

• Manual collection of adults from ash trees
• Traps designed to capture buprestid beetles

Preservation Methods

• Direct preservation in ethanol
• Pinning specimens for museum display

Similar Taxa

• Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis)
• Other species in the Buprestidae family

Misconceptions

Often confused with the invasive emerald ash borer, which poses a severe threat to ash populations in North America.

Tags

• Agrilus subcinctus
• Native Ash Borer
• Buprestidae
• Insect
• Beetle
• Wood-boring Beetle