Chalcolepidius apacheanus
Casey
Apache click beetle
Chalcolepidius apacheanus is a large click beetle ( Elateridae) native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The belongs to a characterized by metallic coloration and substantial body size among click beetles. Field observations indicate are associated with dead or dying coniferous trees, particularly ponderosa pine, where they have been observed at the base of trunks and in association with wood-boring galleries. The species is active during summer months in montane pine-oak woodlands.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chalcolepidius apacheanus: /ˌkælkoʊˌlɛpɪˈdaɪəs əˌpætʃiˈænəs/
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Images
Habitat
Montane coniferous forests, particularly ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) dominated areas at higher elevations. Associated with recently dead or dying pine trees showing evidence of wood-boring .
Distribution
Southwestern United States (Arizona) and northern Mexico (Sonora). Documented from the Huachuca Mountains in southeastern Arizona and recorded from the Mexican state of Sonora.
Seasonality
active in mid to late summer (July).
Host Associations
- Pinus ponderosa - /oviposition site observed at base of dead/dying trees; larvae likely develop in wood
Behavior
have been observed at the base of dead pine trunks, apparently engaged in oviposition. The exhibits the characteristic click beetle defense mechanism of body flexion to produce an audible click when disturbed.
Ecological Role
As a large elaterid, likely contributes to wood decomposition through larval development in dead coniferous wood.
Similar Taxa
- Chalcolepidius approximatusCongeneric with overlapping Mexican distribution; distinguished by specific morphological characters not detailed in available sources
- Other Chalcolepidius species contains 63+ , many with metallic coloration; C. apacheanus distinguished by combination of distribution and specific elytral and pronotal characteristics