Chalcolepidius lenzi
Chalcolepidius lenzi is a click beetle in the Elateridae. It has been documented in Arizona, specifically in the Santa Rita Mountains, where it was observed at sap flows on Baccharis sarothroides (desert broom). The Chalcolepidius is known for large, robust click beetles with metallic coloration. Observations suggest this species is associated with woody vegetation in arid and semi-arid environments.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chalcolepidius lenzi: //ˌkalkoʊˈlɛpɪdiəs ˈlɛnzi//
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Habitat
Arid and semi-arid environments with woody vegetation. Documented from desert broom (Baccharis sarothroides) in canyon . Associated with sap flows on living or stressed plants.
Distribution
Known from southeastern Arizona, USA. Documented from the Santa Rita Mountains (Lower Madera Canyon area). The full range is likely broader but insufficiently documented.
Seasonality
Observed in July/August in Arizona, suggesting summer activity during the monsoon season.
Host Associations
- Baccharis sarothroides - sap flow associationObserved at sap flows on this plant
Behavior
Has been observed at sap flows on desert broom, suggesting attraction to fermenting sap or exudates. Like other click beetles, possesses the ability to right itself using the prosternal process and mesosternal groove clicking mechanism.
Similar Taxa
- Chalcolepidius smaragdulaSympatric in Arizona; also associated with Baccharis sarothroides. C. lenzi distinguished by specific morphological features (detailed comparisons require specimen examination).
- Chalcolepidius webbiiAnother large southwestern Chalcolepidius ; geographic and morphological distinctions apply
More Details
Taxonomic note
Chalcolepidius is a New World of large click beetles placed in tribe Chalcolepidiini. The genus is characterized by robust bodies and often metallic or iridescent coloration. C. lenzi is one of several in the genus occurring in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Collection context
The documented observation comes from a 2018 collecting trip to Arizona by entomologist Ted C. MacRae, who photographed the at a sap flow on Baccharis sarothroides in Lower Madera Canyon, Santa Rita Mountains.