G. it. Ent., 7 (39): 257-260
April 30, 1995
A note on the larval host plant and biology of
Melobasis nervosa (Boisduval) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)
from Australia
by
J. R. TURNER & T. J. HAWKESWOOD
Abstract - The larval host plant, Acacia dealbata Link (Mimosaceae), is here recorded for the first time for the Australian buprestid beetle, Melobasis nervosa (Boisduval) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Buprestinae). Its habitat is briefly reported and aspects of the larval/pupal chamber are described. The host plants recorded for other Melobasis species are also considered. There are now 4 species of Melobasis known to develop in Acacia wood, viz. M. cupriceps (Kirby), M. nervosa (Boisduval), M. purpurascens (Fabricius) and M. vertebralis Carter.
