Acmaeodera horni
Fall, 1899
Acmaeodera horni is a rare of in the , described by Fall in 1899. It has been documented from the Dragoon Mountains of southeastern Arizona, where have been found on flowers of Fallugia paradoxa (Apache plum). The species is considered one of the rarest Acmaeodera in North America, with very few collection records and observations.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acmaeodera horni: /ækməɪoʊˈdɛrə ˈhɔrni/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Acmaeodera by its association with Fallugia paradoxa flowers in the Dragoon Mountains of Arizona. have been observed alongside the more common A. quadrivittatoides and A. variegata on the same . Specific morphological diagnostic features are not described in available sources.
Habitat
Dry washes and adjacent slopes in the Dragoon Mountains of southeastern Arizona, where Fallugia paradoxa (Apache plum) grows. The is characterized by oak-juniper woodland with xeric conditions.
Distribution
Known from the Dragoon Mountains, Cochise County, Arizona, USA. GBIF records indicate presence in the .
Seasonality
have been observed in mid-May to early June. One record notes adults present as late as June 1st, though peak activity appears to occur in mid-May.
Host Associations
- Fallugia paradoxa - feeding site found on flowers; primary known association for this
Behavior
have been observed flying to and landing on flowers of Fallugia paradoxa. When disturbed, individuals may drop from flowers and remain motionless ().
Human Relevance
Of interest to due to its rarity. The was a priority target for during the 2022 Six-State Trip, with successful collection representing a significant find.
Similar Taxa
- Acmaeodera quadrivittatoidesOccurs sympatrically on same (Fallugia paradoxa); more abundant and commonly encountered
- Acmaeodera variegataAlso found on Fallugia paradoxa flowers in same ; distinguished by morphological features not detailed in sources
More Details
Rarity and conservation status
Considered one of the rarest Acmaeodera in North America. Prior to 2022, known from very few specimens. Successful collection in 2022 involved three individuals from a single locality after extensive searching.
Collection history
First discovered in the Dragoon Mountains by Norm Woodley. The 2022 trip represents one of the few documented instances of active being found and collected.