G. it. Ent., 8 (44): 191-206
December 31, 1996
Taxonomy, biology, geographic distribution and conservation
of the rare Australian jewel beetle,
Stigmodera (Castiarina) armata Thomson
(Coleoptera: Buprestidae)
by
J. R. TURNER & T. J. HAWKESWOOD
Abstract - The taxonomy, biology and geographic distribution of the rare Australian jewel beetle, Stigmodera (Castiarina) armata Thomson (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) are considered in detail, mostly from recent research and field collections by the first author. The species is restricted mainly to central eastern New South Wales (Sydney Basin), where adults occur in Eucalyptus sclerophylla - Angophora bakeri low open woodlands on the flowers of species of Kunzea, Leptospermum or Angophora (Myrtaceae) during the summer months of November and December. The larval host plant is unknown. The habitat in the Sydney region is fast disappearing and recommendations for the conservation of the species are provided.
