G. it. Ent., 12 (55): 205-212
May 2009
Melobasis abigailae sp. nov.
(Coleoptera: Buprestidae), a new jewel beetle from Australia,
with observations on its larval host plant and biology
by
JAMES R. TURNER & TREVOR J. HAWKESWOOD
Abstract - Melobasis abigailae sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Buprestinae) is herein described from the Sofala area of New South Wales, Australia. Aspects of the larval/pupal chambers and habitat are described. This is the first record of a Melobasis species utilizing Acacia spectabilis A. Cunn. ex Benth. (Mimosaceae) as a larval host plant. Some brief comparisons are provided for known hosts of other Melobasis species.
