Agrilus bespencus
This record describes Agrilus bespencus (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A. bespencus has a very slightly, medially depressed upper frons, visible in this photo, (which A. pubescens doesn't have). Det. Norm Woodley, 2020 Type Locality: Sheffield, Pecos Co., Texas, Apr- 1924, Collector J. O. Martin
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Buprestoidea
- Family
- Buprestidae (Metallic Wood-boring Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Agrilinae
- Tribe
- Agrilini
- Genus
- Agrilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
most records from southern edge of the Edwards Plateau
Geographic Range
w. to c. TX (Sheffield to Bastrop to Stephenville)
Seasonal Activity
March-July
Diet and Behavior
Life History
host(s) unk.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Agrilus bespencus Barr 2008
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Agrilus bespencus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Agrilus bespencus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Agrilus bespencus
What is Agrilus bespencus?
Agrilus bespencus is a species in the family Buprestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Agrilus bespencus?
4.8mm (type)
How do you identify Agrilus bespencus?
A. bespencus has a very slightly, medially depressed upper frons, visible in this photo, (which A. pubescens doesn't have). Det. Norm Woodley, 2020
Where is Agrilus bespencus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | most records from southern edge of the Edwards Plateau |
| Range | w. to c. TX (Sheffield to Bastrop to Stephenville) |
When is Agrilus bespencus active?
Agrilus bespencus: seasonal activity - March-July.
What is the life cycle of a Agrilus bespencus?
host(s) unk.