Strangalia virilis
LeConte, 1873
strange virile bycid
Strangalia virilis is a of flower longhorn beetle in the Cerambycidae. It occurs in North America, with documented records from Texas and Oklahoma. The species is associated with flowering plants, particularly Torilis arvensis (erect hedge parsley). It was described by LeConte in 1873.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Strangalia virilis: //strænˈɡeɪliə ˈvɪrɪlɪs//
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Identification
Strangalia virilis can be distinguished from the similar Strangalia sexnotata by geographic range and plant associations. In Oklahoma, S. virilis has been observed on Torilis arvensis, while S. sexnotata occurs on Coreopsis tinctoria at the same localities. Males and females have been collected together, suggesting similar activity patterns.
Images
Habitat
Native prairie and open areas with abundant wildflowers. Documented from sandstone glades and prairie in Oklahoma and Texas.
Distribution
North America; specifically documented from Texas and Oklahoma. Described as a "Texas/Oklahoma specialty."
Seasonality
active in June. Observations from June 7–11, 2019 in Oklahoma.
Host Associations
- Torilis arvensis - flower visitationerect hedge parsley, introduced plant; primary flower where observed
Behavior
visit flowers, particularly Torilis arvensis. Males and females have been observed together on the same plant stands. Adults are and active during sunny conditions.
Ecological Role
Flower visitor; likely contributes to pollination of plants.
Similar Taxa
- Strangalia sexnotatasympatric in Oklahoma and Texas; distinguished by plant preference (S. sexnotata on Coreopsis, S. virilis on Torilis arvensis)
More Details
Collection history
Considered a desirable for collectors due to its limited range. First collected by the author of the Arkansas/Oklahoma trip report in 2019 after searching specifically for this species.