Insects Associated with Broom Snakeweed [Xanthocephalum sarothrae] and Threadleaf Snakeweed [Xanthocephalum microcephala] in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico

Abstract

Immature and adult insects representing 8 orders, 86 families, and 338 species were collected from broom snakeweed (Xanthocephalum sarothrae) or threadleaf snakeweed (X. microcephala) in the western half of Texas and eastern New Mexico during 1976 and 1977. Most of the 46 sampling locations were visited three times each year. Insects were collected by hand, sweep net, or D-Vac. The aboveground vegetation of 30 plants and the root systems of 10 plants were sampled at each location during most visits. Immature forms were determined by rearing or association. Several native insect species inflict damage to broom snakeweed and threadleaf snakeweed, including a leaf-tying moth, (Synnoma lynosyrana), a weevil (Myrmex sp. nr. lineata), roundheaded borers (Crossidius discoideus and Crossidius pulchellus), a flatheaded borer (Agrilus gibbicollis), and two species of mealybugs (Phenacoccus helianthi and Eriococcus cryptus).