Zabrotes chavesi
Kingsolver, 1980
Zabrotes chavesi is a small leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae, described by Kingsolver in 1980. The was named in honor of Franklin Chaves, director of Santa Rosa National Park in Rica, which serves as its type locality. It is distributed across the Americas from northern South America through Central America to the southwestern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Zabrotes chavesi: /zəˈbroʊtiːz ˈtʃaveɪsi/
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Identification
A small chrysomelid (1.6–2.8 mm) with brown coloration and grey markings. Distinguished from other Zabrotes by its specific distribution and association with Senna plants; definitive identification requires examination of genitalic characters.
Habitat
Associated with dry tropical and subtropical where plants in the Senna occur. The type locality is Santa Rosa National Park in Rica, a tropical dry forest reserve.
Distribution
Found from northern South America (Venezuela) through Central America to Mexico and Arizona, USA. Present in Middle America, North America, and South America.
Diet
Specialized seed feeder on plants in the Senna (Fabaceae). Documented include Senna hirsuta (as Cassia leptocarpa), Senna bicapsularis (as Cassia emarginata), and Senna spectabilis.
Host Associations
- Senna hirsuta - primary Type ; seeds
- Senna bicapsularis - Seeds
- Senna spectabilis - Seeds
Ecological Role
Seed on Senna , potentially influencing plant through seed mortality.
Human Relevance
Named to honor conservation efforts; no documented economic or agricultural significance.
Similar Taxa
- Other Zabrotes species members share small size and seed-feeding habits on legumes; require detailed morphological examination for separation.
More Details
Etymology
Named for Franklin Chaves, director of Santa Rosa National Park ( Rica), the type locality.
Type locality
Santa Rosa National Park, Rica.
Original description
Described by John M. Kingsolver in 1980.