Oberea oculaticollis
(Say, 1824)
Oberea oculaticollis is a of longhorned beetle in the Cerambycidae, described by Thomas Say in 1824. It is distributed across central North America from Manitoba to Texas. The species is characterized by its dark covered with dense, grayish . An was observed on black willow (Salix nigra) in Oklahoma, which may represent the first documented plant association for this species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Oberea oculaticollis: /oʊˈbɛr.iə ˌɒk.jʊˌlæt.ɪˈkɒl.ɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Oberea and similar longhorned beetles by the combination of dark and dense, grayish . The Mecas shares the gray pubescent appearance but has a broader body form; Oberea oculaticollis has a notably longer and narrower body. The specific epithet 'oculaticollis' (meaning '-necked') may refer to a distinctive eye or pronotal feature, though this requires confirmation.
Appearance
Dark with dense, grayish covering the body. Body form is long and narrow, typical of the Oberea. are relatively long.
Habitat
Associated with riparian supporting willow trees. One documented observation occurred in a state park campground area near a small lake surrounded by black willow (Salix nigra) and cottonwood (Populus deltoides).
Distribution
Central North America, ranging from Manitoba and Ontario in Canada south to Texas in the United States. Documented from Oklahoma, with distribution records indicating presence across the central plains and prairie regions.
Host Associations
- Salix nigra - feeding or breedingSingle observed on black willow sapling; may represent first record
Behavior
appear relatively calm and cooperative when disturbed, allowing close approach and photography. capability is well-developed; individuals can take flight immediately when disturbed.
Human Relevance
Of interest to collectors due to its relative rarity in collections. A documented observation from Oklahoma in 2013 represented a new state record and potential first plant documentation for the .
Similar Taxa
- Mecas spp.Similar dense gray , but distinguished by broader body form versus the long, narrow form of Oberea oculaticollis
More Details
Host Plant Documentation
As of 2013, no published information existed for this . An observation of an on black willow (Salix nigra) in Beaver Dunes State Park, Oklahoma, may represent the first clue to its host plant association, though the specimen was lost before voucher collection could be completed.
Taxonomic History
Described by Thomas Say in 1824, one of the earliest American entomologists. The has remained relatively obscure in the literature, with few documented observations and limited collection records.