Acmaeodera mariposa dohrni

Horn, 1878

Acmaeodera mariposa dohrni is a of in the . It is one of approximately two dozen buprestid associated with Cercocarpus (mountain mahogany) in western North America. The species is part of the Acmaeodera mariposa complex, which includes the nominate subspecies A. m. mariposa. This subspecies has been confirmed breeding in dead branches of Cercocarpus ledifolius and is among five buprestid species exclusively associated with this .

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Acmaeodera mariposa dohrni: //æk.miˈɒ.də.rə ˈmæ.rɪˌpoʊ.sə ˈdɔːr.naɪ//

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Habitat

Associated with Cercocarpus ledifolius (curl-leaf mountain mahogany) , primarily on dry eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada and other mountainous regions of western North America. The occurs sporadically within the Lake Tahoe Basin and more commonly on dry slopes outside the basin proper.

Distribution

Western North America, primarily in mountainous regions of California and adjacent states where Cercocarpus ledifolius occurs. The has been documented at approximately 6,500 feet elevation on eastern slopes of Mt. Rose in the Lake Tahoe area.

Host Associations

Cercocarpus ledifolius - breeding Confirmed breeding in dead branches; one of five exclusively associated with Cercocarpus

Ecological Role

Wood-boring that contributes to in Cercocarpus by breaking down dead branch material.

Similar Taxa

Acmaeodera mariposa mariposaNominate of the same ; both associated with Cercocarpus
Acmaeodera rubrocupreaAnother Cercocarpus-associated with exclusive relationship; differs in coloration and distribution
Chrysobothris purpureovittata cercocarpiAnother exclusively associated with Cercocarpus; belongs to different with distinct

More Details

Taxonomic Note

Part of the Acmaeodera (s. str.) mariposa group; the dohrni was described by Horn in 1878. The shows strong fidelity to Cercocarpus.

Conservation Context

The Cercocarpus ledifolius is one of the few tree in the Lake Tahoe Basin and serves as a critical resource for a specialized fauna including this .