Gyascutus caelatus
(LeConte, 1858)
Gyascutus caelatus is a of metallic wood-boring in the . The species is distributed across Central America and North America. Field observations from Arizona indicate are active during summer months and are associated with Acacia species, particularly sweet acacia (Acacia rigidula).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Gyascutus caelatus: /ˈdʒaɪəˌskjuːtəs sɛˈleɪtəs/
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Images
Habitat
Observed in desert thorn-scrub with sweet acacia (Acacia rigidula) and creosote (Larrea tridentata). Also recorded from mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) and other Acacia in desert flats and canyon environments.
Distribution
Central America and North America. Specific records from Arizona (USA) including Chiricahua Mountains, Tombstone area, and Naco region. GBIF records indicate presence in Middle America and North America.
Seasonality
active in July and August based on field observations from Arizona. Activity coincides with summer monsoon season and blooming period of Acacia .
Host Associations
- Acacia rigidula - association found abundantly on sweet acacia in bloom; extremely flighty and difficult to catch
- Prosopis glandulosa - associationrecorded from mesquite in desert flats
- Acacia rigida - associationcollected from this
Behavior
are described as extremely flighty and difficult to catch. Observed flying around plants and landing on Acacia . One observation describes a large (possibly this species) flying and landing high in the top of a Rhus tree.
Similar Taxa
- Hippomelas sphenicus large found in same on same plants (Acacia rigida, Prosopis glandulosa); distinguished by and
- Lampetis webbii large in Arizona; observer initially confused a flying individual for Gyascutus caelatus before confirming identity
More Details
Collection Difficulty
Field observers note this is challenging to collect due to extremely flighty , with typically obtaining only small numbers (e.g., four individuals) despite abundant presence on plants.
Taxonomic History
Originally described by LeConte in 1858.