Acmaeodera ornatoides
Barr, 1972
Acmaeodera ornatoides is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae, described by Barr in 1972. The occurs in North America, with documented records from Texas and Oklahoma. have been observed visiting flowers of Coreopsis species and Opuntia engelmannii (Engelmann's pricklypear), suggesting a floral association common among . The species is part of a diverse of flower-visiting buprestids.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acmaeodera ornatoides: //ækmiːəˈdɛrə ɔrnæˈtɔɪdiːz//
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Identification
Acmaeodera ornatoides can be distinguished from similar by its specific elytral maculation pattern. Field identification requires close examination of coloration and pattern, as many Acmaeodera exhibit similar metallic coloration. The species is smaller than some congeners such as A. mixta. Definitive identification may require reference to original description (Barr 1972) or comparison with vouchered specimens.
Images
Habitat
Documented from xeric limestone prairie (glade) with scrubby forests of oak and juniper on steep, rocky slopes. Associated with open, dry habitats in Texas and Oklahoma where flowers occur.
Distribution
North America. Documented from Texas (Garner State Park, Frio River area) and Oklahoma (Medicine Park, Wichita Mountains). GBIF records indicate presence in the Nearctic region.
Seasonality
have been collected in April, May, and June. Peak activity appears to occur in late spring to early summer, coinciding with flowering of associated plant .
Host Associations
- Coreopsis sp. - flower visitation observed on flowers
- Opuntia engelmannii - flower visitation observed on flowers
Behavior
have been observed visiting flowers, a common in the Acmaeodera. Multiple individuals may occur on the same flowering plant. Adults are and likely mate on or near flowers.
Ecological Role
may contribute to pollination of visited flowers. Larval unknown, but typically develop in dead or dying woody plants.
Human Relevance
Collected by entomologists as part of biodiversity surveys. No documented economic importance.
Similar Taxa
- Acmaeodera mixtasympatric and syntopic; A. ornatoides is smaller and has distinct elytral pattern
- Acmaeodera neglecta/neoneglectaoccur in same and on same flowers; require careful examination for separation
- Acmaeodera tubulussimilar size and flower-visiting ; differs in elytral maculation
More Details
Type locality
Not specified in available sources; described by Barr in 1972
Etymology
epithet 'ornatoides' suggests resemblance to or decorated appearance, likely referring to elytral pattern