Pyrota concinna
Casey, 1891
Pyrota concinna is a in the , distributed across Central America and North America. The has been observed visiting flowers of Isocoma pluriflora (southern goldenbush) in saltbush chaparral in southeastern New Mexico. As a member of the tribe Pyrotini, it exhibits the typical blister beetle defensive chemistry and soft-bodied form characteristic of the family.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pyrota concinna: //paɪˈroʊtə kənˈsɪnə//
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Identification
Identification to level within Pyrota requires careful examination of elytral pattern, body proportions, and male . P. concinna can be separated from similar species such as P. bilineata and P. palpalis by differences in the extent and shape of dark markings on the and . The species is part of a complex of brightly colored Pyrota that are often found on flowers in arid regions.
Habitat
Saltbush chaparral and adjacent dry grassland . Specifically observed in mesquite/saltbush chaparral below gypsum/red siltstone slopes in southeastern New Mexico. Associated with flowering stands of Isocoma pluriflora (southern goldenbush).
Distribution
North America and Central America. Documented in the southwestern United States, specifically Chaves County, New Mexico. GBIF records indicate presence across Middle America and North America.
Seasonality
active in late summer and early fall. Observed in September in New Mexico, consistent with flowering period of plants.
Diet
feed on flowers and foliage of Isocoma pluriflora (southern goldenbush). Larval diet unknown but likely involves on or , typical of hypermetamorphic larvae.
Host Associations
- Isocoma pluriflora - food sourceObserved feeding on flowers in saltbush chaparral, Chaves County, New Mexico
Life Cycle
Typical of : hypermetamorphic development with mobile first that seek out or nests, followed by sedentary -like feeding stages. Specific details for P. concinna not documented.
Behavior
observed visiting flowers during daylight hours. Like other , can reflex-bleed defensive -containing from leg joints when disturbed.
Ecological Role
function as while feeding on flowers. likely serve as or of other , potentially regulating of or .
Human Relevance
Contains and can cause blistering if handled roughly. Potential concern for livestock if ingested in hay, as with other . Not a significant agricultural pest.
Similar Taxa
- Pyrota bilineataSimilar -orange and black patterning; distinguished by differences in elytral stripe configuration and body proportions.
- Pyrota palpalisOverlapping distribution and use; separated by palpal and genitalic characters.
- Pyrota mutataSimilar bright coloration and flower-visiting ; pattern elements differ in extent and shape of dark markings.
More Details
Collection circumstances
Specimens observed and photographed by Ted C. MacRae on September 17, 2024, at Palmer Lake Campground, Bottomless Lakes State Park, Chaves County, New Mexico. Multiple individuals were present on flowering Isocoma pluriflora in saltbush chaparral .
Museum holdings
The Research Museum at the University of California, Riverside holds 38 specimens of Pyrota concinna as of April 2010, indicating it is a moderately represented in collections.