Agrilus andersoni
Hespenheide, 2008
Agrilus andersoni is a small jewel beetle described from Mexico in 2008. The is notable for its specialized association with mistletoe in the Phoradendron ( Viscaceae), an unusual relationship within the enormous genus Agrilus. exhibit purplish-red coloration with complex patterns of golden setae on the , which may function as against the host foliage. The species is known from Guerrero and Puebla states.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrilus andersoni: //ˈnuː ˌd͡ʒiːnəs ˈnɪər ˌnʊərɒˈbæθrə ˈnuː ˈspiːʃiːz//
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Identification
Distinguished from its Agrilus howdenorum by larger size and differences in the overall color and pattern of golden setae on the . Resembles Agrilus turnbowi in purplish-red ground coloration and complex golden setal pattern on elytra, but differs in specific details of setal arrangement and geographic distribution. Male genitalia provide definitive diagnostic characters.
Habitat
Associated with mistletoe plants in the Phoradendron growing on woody trees and shrubs in tropical and warm temperate regions.
Distribution
Mexico: known from Guerrero and Puebla states.
Host Associations
- Phoradendron - larval develops in dead stems of mistletoe; association represents unusual specialization within Agrilus
Life Cycle
Larval development occurs in dead stems of Phoradendron mistletoe. Specific details of developmental stages and have not been documented.
Behavior
have been observed on foliage of plants. The golden setae on the are hypothesized to serve as , potentially making beetles less conspicuous against mistletoe leaves.
Ecological Role
Specialized herbivore associated with an obligate hemiparasitic plant. Contribution to nutrient cycling through utilization of dead mistletoe wood.
Similar Taxa
- Agrilus howdenorumSuperficially very similar congeneric from Oaxaca, Mexico; differs in smaller size and elytral setal color and pattern
- Agrilus turnbowiRelated from southern Texas with similar purplish-red coloration and complex golden setal pattern; known from Phoradendron tomentosum on mesquite