Pachybrachis mellitus
Bowditch, 1909
Dark-honey Creosote Pachy
Pachybrachis mellitus is a small leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae, first described by Bowditch in 1909. The is known from southwestern North America and has been documented in association with creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) and other desert vegetation. The "Dark-honey Creosote Pachy" reflects both its coloration and apparent preference. It is one of numerous Pachybrachis species found in the arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pachybrachis mellitus: //ˌpækɪˈbreɪkɪs mɛˈlaɪtəs//
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Habitat
Desert scrub and arid grassland , particularly areas with creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) and mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa). Has been collected in mesquite/acacia scrub in southeastern Arizona.
Distribution
Southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and northern Mexico. Documented from southeastern Arizona (Santa Rita Mountains, Huachuca Mountains) and southern New Mexico.
Seasonality
have been collected in late July in southeastern Arizona, suggesting summer activity.
Host Associations
- Larrea tridentata - associated 'Dark-honey Creosote Pachy' suggests association with creosote bush
- Prosopis glandulosa - collected nearcollected in mesquite/acacia scrub
Behavior
have been observed at ultraviolet/mercury-vapor light stations, indicating activity and attraction to artificial light sources.
Similar Taxa
- Other Pachybrachis speciesThe Pachybrachis contains numerous small, often similarly colored leaf beetles that require careful examination for identification. P. mellitus is distinguished by specific morphological characters described by Bowditch (1909).
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by F.H. Bowditch in 1909. The specific epithet 'mellitus' refers to honey-like coloration.
Collection notes
Specimens have been collected by beating vegetation and at light stations. One record from the Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona, in July 2021, where two of Pachybrachis were collected at a UV/MV light setup in mesquite/acacia scrub.