Chrysobothris rossi
Van Dyke, 1942
Chrysobothris rossi is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The has been collected from mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa), soapberry (Sapindus saponaria), and various acacia species (Vachellia constricta, Senegalia greggii). are attracted to ethanol-baited traps and can be collected by beating dead or dying branches of plants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chrysobothris rossi: /kɹaɪsəˈbɒθrɪs ˈrɒsaɪ/
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Identification
Chrysobothris rossi can be distinguished from similar Chrysobothris by its specific association with mesquite and related leguminous plants in arid and semi-arid regions. The species belongs to the diverse Chrysobothris , whose members typically exhibit metallic coloration and require careful examination of elytral and color patterns for definitive identification.
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Habitat
Arid and semi-arid environments including dry post oak woodlands, xeric igneous prairies (glades), juniper chaparral, and riparian corridors. Associated with mesquite-acacia scrub, dry hilltop forests, and renovated prairie remnants. Found at elevations ranging from lowland desert flats to moderate elevations in mountainous terrain.
Distribution
Central America and North America. Documented from Texas (Val Verde County, Pecos River area, Devils River at Bakers Crossing), New Mexico, Arizona, and likely ranges into Mexico. The has been recorded from the Chihuahuan Desert region and adjacent areas.
Seasonality
Active from mid-May through early June based on field observations. have been collected in late May (May 15–June 6 timeframe) in Texas and are likely active during the pre-monsoon period in Arizona.
Host Associations
- Prosopis glandulosa - mesquite; abundant on dead branches, collected by beating
- Sapindus saponaria - soapberry; collected from foliage
- Vachellia constricta - whitethorn acacia; smaller numbers collected from dead branches
- Senegalia greggii - catclaw acacia; single specimen collected by beating
- Celtis sp. - hackberry; collected from dead branches
Behavior
are and readily collected by beating dead or dying branches of plants. They are quick to scatter when disturbed, requiring rapid collection technique. Adults are attracted to ethanol-baited jug traps, with both pure ethanol and 50:50 ethanol:red wine mixtures effective. Multiple individuals may fall from a single branch when beaten, sometimes two or three at once.
Ecological Role
Larval development occurs in dead or dying woody branches of plants, contributing to nutrient cycling in arid woodland . The is part of the diverse buprestid fauna associated with leguminous trees in southwestern North American deserts.
Human Relevance
Of interest to entomologists and collectors due to its association with common southwestern tree . The species has been documented in biodiversity surveys and collecting trips targeting metallic wood-boring beetles. No known economic importance or pest status.
Similar Taxa
- Chrysobothris mescaleroSimilar size and (oak-associated), but C. mescalero is specifically associated with Quercus havardii (shin oak) in sand dune habitats rather than mesquite-acacia scrub
- Chrysobothris octocolaCollected from similar Prosopis , but distinguished by specific associations and likely elytral color pattern differences; C. octocola has been observed ovipositing on freshly killed mesquite
- Chrysobothris merkeliiFound in similar Arizona desert on Vachellia constricta, but distinguished by specific plant preferences and geographic distribution patterns
More Details
Collecting Methodology
Most effectively collected by beating dead branches of Prosopis glandulosa with a beating sheet, particularly during late afternoon and early evening when temperatures moderate. Ethanol-baited jug traps placed in mesquite trees are also effective. The appears to favor branches showing signs of recent death or stress rather than fully decayed wood.
Flight Period
activity coincides with the late spring to early summer period before the onset of summer monsoons in the southwestern United States. In Texas, peak activity occurs in late May; in Arizona, activity likely extends into June at higher elevations.