A preliminary survey of the blister beetles of New Mexico

A preliminary list of the blister beetles of New Mexico was compiled using data based primarily on specimens from the NMSU Arthropod Collection and from field collections in 2007 and 2008. Little information is currently available for these economically important insects in the state. However, this list will be expanded during 2008 into 2009 to include other museums in NM and surrounding states. Our current list revealed that a variety of genera and species are present in New Mexico. Most common is the genus Epicauta, which appears to be well represented in alfalfa and rangeland settings. Future research will investigate cantharidin levels and biology of important species in the state. The ultimate goal of this research will be to determine the blister beetle species that are of importance to alfalfa production and impact the safety of livestock in the state of New Mexico.