Isomira ruficollis
Hamilton, 1893
red-necked false blister beetle
Isomira ruficollis is a of false blister beetle in the Tenebrionidae. The species has been documented visiting flowers of Prunus mexicana (Mexican plum) and Amelanchier arborea (downy serviceberry) in Missouri during early spring. It belongs to a whose members are typically associated with flowers and fungal substrates. The specific epithet "ruficollis" refers to the reddish coloration of the pronotum.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Isomira ruficollis: /aɪˈsɒmɪrə ruːfɪˈkɒlɪs/
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Distribution
Documented from Missouri, USA. The has been observed in Franklin County, Missouri, specifically at Long Ridge Conservation Area. As a member of the Isomira, its range likely extends more broadly in eastern North America, though specific distribution records are sparse.
Seasonality
Active in early spring. Documented observations from early April in Missouri, coinciding with flowering of Prunus mexicana and Amelanchier arborea.
Diet
have been observed feeding on flowers of Prunus mexicana (Mexican plum) and Amelanchier arborea (downy serviceberry). Larval diet unknown.
Host Associations
- Prunus mexicana - food sourceObserved feeding on flowers in early April
- Amelanchier arborea - food sourceObserved on flowers, though less abundant than on Prunus mexicana
Behavior
are and active on flowers. Mating pairs have been observed on flowers. The has been found in association with other flower-visiting beetles including Orsodacne atra.
Similar Taxa
- Orsodacne atraSympatric leaf beetle found on the same flowers (Prunus mexicana, Amelanchier arborea); distinguished by (Chrysomelidae vs. Tenebrionidae) and likely by body form and coloration
More Details
Nomenclature note
The epithet "ruficollis" (red-necked) describes the reddish pronotum characteristic of this species. The "red-necked false blister beetle" reflects both this coloration and the 's historical association with blister beetles (Meloidae), though Tenebrionidae are not capable of producing .