Chrysobothris ephedrae
This record describes Chrysobothris ephedrae (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Chrysobothris ephedrae ephedrae Knull - TL: Las Cruces, NM (Knull 1942) Chrysobothris ephedrae vogti Knull - TL: 5 mi. W. Sullivan City, Starr Co., TX (Knull 1964)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Buprestoidea
- Family
- Buprestidae (Metallic Wood-boring Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Buprestinae
- Tribe
- Chrysobothrini
- Genus
- Chrysobothris
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Range of two subspp. collectively: NM-TX
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Adults on Ephedra and Acacia
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: "The author takes pleasure in naming this subspecies for G. B. Vogt, who has added greatly to our knowledge of Buprestidae in the Lower Rio Grande Valley." (Knull 1964)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Chrysobothris ephedrae. 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 Chrysobothris ephedrae (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Richard L. Westcott; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysobothris ephedrae
What is Chrysobothris ephedrae?
Chrysobothris ephedrae is a species in the family Buprestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Chrysobothris ephedrae?
6-7.5 mm (Knull 1942, Knull 1964)
Where is Chrysobothris ephedrae found?
Range: Range of two subspp. collectively: NM-TX
What does Chrysobothris ephedrae eat?
The diet of the Chrysobothris ephedrae includes Adults on Ephedra and Acacia.