Agrilus obtusus
This record describes Agrilus obtusus (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Type Locality: TX: probably near lower Rio Grande
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
Geographic Range
se. NM to c. TX / Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Larvae in Senna sp. (Fabaceae)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Agrilus obtusus Horn 1891
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Agrilus obtusus. 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 obtusus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Agrilus obtusus
What is Agrilus obtusus?
Agrilus obtusus is a species in the family Buprestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Agrilus obtusus found?
Range: se. NM to c. TX / Mex. - Map
What does Agrilus obtusus eat?
The diet of the Agrilus obtusus includes Larvae in Senna sp. (Fabaceae).