Acmaeodera princeps
Kerremans, 1909
Acmaeodera princeps is a metallic wood-boring in the . The occurs in North America, with confirmed observations in Texas and New Mexico. have been collected on flowers of Thelosperma filifolium (stiff greenthread) and are active in late spring to early summer. Like other Acmaeodera species, adults likely feed on pollen and are flower visitors.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acmaeodera princeps: /ˌækmiːoʊˈdɛrə ˈprɪnsɛps/
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Habitat
Xeric grasslands and prairies; associated with flowering herbaceous plants in open, dry environments.
Distribution
North America; specifically recorded from Texas and New Mexico in the United States.
Seasonality
Late spring to early summer; observed in late May.
Diet
feed on pollen of flowering plants, including Thelosperma filifolium (stiff greenthread).
Host Associations
- Thelosperma filifolium - feeding site collected on flowers
Behavior
flower visitor; active on blossoms during daylight hours.
Ecological Role
Pollen feeder; may contribute to of flowers.
Similar Taxa
- Acmaeodera mixta and syntopic; both occur on Thelosperma flowers, but A. princeps is distinguished by its vittate (striped) elytral pattern compared to the spotted pattern of A. mixta
- Acmaeodera miliarisAlso collected on Thelosperma filifolium; A. princeps differs in elytral maculation pattern and body proportions