Sphaerobothris ulkei
(LeConte, 1860)
Sphaerobothris ulkei is a metallic wood-boring in the . The is to arid regions of North America and Central America. It has been documented in association with Ephedra species (joint-fir), particularly Ephedra trifurca in desert of the southwestern United States. The beetle is considered uncommon and requires targeted searching to locate.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sphaerobothris ulkei: //sfɛ.roʊˈboʊθ.rɪs ˈʌl.kaɪ//
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Habitat
Arid desert and semi-desert environments. Specifically associated with Ephedra (joint-fir) vegetation in sandy or gravelly desert flats. The has been collected in dry sandhill woodland and desert thorn-scrub where its plants occur.
Distribution
Central America and North America. Documented from the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and adjacent regions. Specific localities include desert flats near Portal, Arizona, and areas in southeastern Arizona within the Chiricahua Mountains region.
Seasonality
activity appears to peak during summer months. Documented records from July and August in Arizona. Activity likely coincides with monsoon season conditions in the southwestern United States.
Host Associations
- Ephedra trifurca - Three-pronged joint-fir; primary documented . have been observed and collected on this in desert flats of southeastern Arizona.
- Ephedra - -level association; specific Ephedra may serve as larval , though this has not been confirmed.
Behavior
are and have been observed flying to and landing on plants. They appear to be relatively sedentary once on vegetation. The is not readily attracted to ultraviolet lights. Searching for adults requires visual of host plants, particularly Ephedra trifurca, and can require extensive effort—one documented search lasted nearly three hours before specimens were located.
Similar Taxa
- Hippomelas sphenicus large found in same desert flat on Acacia and Prosopis; similar size and may cause initial confusion, but distinct body shape and coloration differ.
- Gyascutus caelatusCo-occurs in same on sweet acacia (Acacia rigidula); large, active, flighty that can distract searching for S. ulkei.
- Plionoma suturalisFound on same plants (Acacia, Prosopis) in overlapping range; smaller but similar preferences.
More Details
Collecting Notes
The is considered uncommon and requires deliberate searching. Successful has involved: (1) locating stands of Ephedra trifurca in desert flats, (2) visual of plants from multiple angles, (3) sweeping or beating vegetation when are not immediately visible. Multiple hours of searching may be required. The species is not reliably collected at lights.
Taxonomic History
Originally described by LeConte in 1860. The Sphaerobothris is a small group within with limited in North America.