Acmaeoderopsis junki
(Théry, 1929)
Acmaeoderopsis junki is a of metallic wood-boring beetle in the Buprestidae, first described by Théry in 1929. The species has been documented from mesquite and acacia in the southwestern United States, particularly Arizona, and is also reported from Central America and North America more broadly. It is one of two recognized in the , with A. j. junki and A. j. peninsularis described.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acmaeoderopsis junki: //ˌæk.miːˌoʊ.dəˈroʊp.sɪs ˈdʒʌŋ.kaɪ//
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Habitat
Documented from Prosopis glandulosa (mesquite) and Vachellia constricta (whitethorn acacia) in desert chaparral and dry woodland . Observations suggest association with living or recently dead branches of these plants. The has been collected at elevations ranging from lower desert elevations to oak-juniper woodland transition zones.
Distribution
Central America and North America. Specific collection records exist from Arizona (Superstition Mountains, Dragoon Mountains, Huachuca Mountains region), with broader distribution indicated across the southwestern United States and into Mexico. GBIF records confirm presence in Middle America and North America.
Seasonality
have been collected in late May through early June in Arizona. Activity appears to coincide with the pre-monsoon period in the southwestern United States, with adults observed on flowering mesquite and beaten from dead branches.
Host Associations
- Prosopis glandulosa - collected from living and dead branches; likely larval .Multiple observations of beaten from dead branches and swept from foliage.
- Vachellia constricta - collection . beaten from branches in Arizona.
Behavior
have been observed on flowers and beaten from dead branches of plants. When disturbed, individuals may exhibit rapid to branch tips, a noted in and suggesting similar evasive behavior in this . Adults appear to be active during daylight hours.
Similar Taxa
- Acmaeoderopsis hulli in same with similar size, coloration, and preferences; both found on mesquite in southwestern habitats.
- Acmaeodera speciesSimilar metallic coloration and buprestid ; distinguished by -level characters including antennal structure and body form.
More Details
Subspecies
Two recognized: Acmaeoderopsis junki junki and Acmaeoderopsis junki peninsularis (Barr, 1972). The latter was described from the Baja California peninsula region.
Collection Methodology
Successfully collected using beating sheets on dead branches of mesquite and aerial netting of foliage. The ' pulverescent (dusty) can make specimens difficult to spot on collection sheets.