Chrysobothris humilis
Horn, 1886
Chrysobothris humilis is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae. The exhibits striking sexual dichromatism, with males and females displaying different coloration patterns. It has been documented in mesquite-dominated in the southwestern United States. The species appears to be uncommonly encountered and is associated with Prosopis glandulosa (honey mesquite).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chrysobothris humilis: /kriː.soʊˈbɒθ.rɪs ˈhjuː.mɪ.lɪs/
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Identification
Sexual dichromatism is pronounced: males and females show distinctly different coloration. This trait distinguishes C. humilis from many . The is a medium-sized Chrysobothris with metallic coloration typical of the . Specific morphological characters distinguishing it from similar Chrysobothris species require examination of diagnostic features such as elytral and prosternal process shape.
Habitat
Mesquite/saltbush chaparral on rocky gypsum and red siltstone slopes. Associated with Prosopis glandulosa (honey mesquite) stands. Occurs in arid to semi-arid environments with sparse woody vegetation.
Distribution
Documented in southeastern New Mexico (Chaves County) and likely occurs more broadly in the southwestern United States and potentially into northern Mexico. GBIF records indicate presence in Middle America and North America.
Seasonality
have been observed in mid-May in New Mexico. Activity likely corresponds with warming temperatures and mesquite foliage development.
Host Associations
- Prosopis glandulosa - association collected from living honey mesquite branches; likely larval given typical Chrysobothris
Behavior
have been observed resting on mesquite foliage during cool conditions, becoming torpid and allowing hand collection. activity patterns unknown. Response to beating suggests typical buprestid of dropping when disturbed.
Ecological Role
As a buprestid, larvae likely function as wood-borers in mesquite, contributing to nutrient cycling in dead or dying woody material. may serve as visitors though this is not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Chrysobothris octocolaSympatric in mesquite ; distinguished by lack of sexual dichromatism and different elytral coloration patterns
- Chrysobothris lateralisAlso found on Prosopis glandulosa; separated by coloration and structural features, does not exhibit strong sexual dichromatism
- Chrysobothris mescaleroOccurs in similar southwestern but associated with Quercus havardii rather than mesquite
More Details
Sexual dichromatism
One of the few Chrysobothris with pronounced sexual dichromatism, making it immediately recognizable in the field when both sexes are present. This trait facilitated recognition by the collector who had not previously encountered the species.
Collection circumstances
First documented specimens from New Mexico were collected during cool evening conditions when beetles were torpid on mesquite branches, allowing easy hand-picking without beating equipment.