Pachybrachis postfasciatus
Fall, 1915
Pachybrachis postfasciatus is a of case-bearing leaf beetle described by Fall in 1915. It belongs to the Chrysomelidae, a large group of herbivorous beetles commonly known as leaf beetles. The species is documented from North America. Like other members of the Pachybrachis, it is likely associated with vegetation in its , though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pachybrachis postfasciatus: /ˌpækɪˈbreɪkɪs ˌpoʊstˌfæsɪˈeɪtəs/
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Distribution
North America. Specific records include Arizona, where specimens have been collected at light stations in mesquite/acacia scrub and oak/juniper woodland.
Seasonality
activity has been observed in late July in southeastern Arizona.
Behavior
have been documented coming to mercury-vapor and ultraviolet light stations, indicating attraction to artificial light sources.
Similar Taxa
- Pachybrachis spp.Other members of the Pachybrachis share similar small size, rounded body form, and case-bearing larval habits. Identification to level requires examination of specific morphological characters such as coloration patterns and genitalia.
More Details
Collection Records
Specimens have been collected in the Atascosa Mountains of Arizona on Quercus oblongifolia (Mexican blue oak) and in the Huachuca Mountains at light stations. A collector noted obtaining a 'nice series' of two Pachybrachis , including P. postfasciatus, at a light station in mesquite/acacia scrub.
Taxonomic Note
The was described by Henry Clinton Fall in 1915. The Pachybrachis is part of the Cryptocephalinae, whose members are known as case-bearing leaf beetles due to their larvae constructing portable cases from fecal material and .