Orsodacne atra

(Ahrens, 1810)

Silver-backed Orsodacnid Beetle

Orsodacne atra is a small in the , distributed across North and Central America. are frequently observed on flowers of woody shrubs and trees, particularly in early spring. The is one of the few members of its family in North America.

Orsodacne atra by no rights reserved, uploaded by Zygy. Used under a CC0 license.Orsodacne atra by (c) Christian Back, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Christian Back. Used under a CC-BY license.Orsodacne atra by (c) Owen Strickland, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Owen Strickland. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Orsodacne atra: /ɔr.soˈdak.ne ˈa.tra/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Distribution

Found in North America and Central America. Records include the United States and Canada (Alberta).

Seasonality

have been observed active in early spring, with records from April in Missouri.

Host Associations

  • Prunus mexicana - flower visitor observed feeding on or visiting flowers of Mexican plum in April in Missouri
  • Amelanchier arborea - flower visitor observed on downy serviceberry flowers in spring

Behavior

are and active on flowers. Mating pairs have been observed on blossoms of Prunus mexicana.

Ecological Role

may function as or pollen feeders on early spring-blooming .

Similar Taxa

  • Ischnomera ruficollisFrequently found co-occurring on the same flower (Prunus mexicana, Amelanchier arborea); distinguished by red neck and different body form (, )

Tags

Sources and further reading