Mecas pergrata Classification Family Cerambycidae > Subfamily Lamiinae > Tribe Saperdini > Genus Mecas Diagnostic Features of Larvae Larva. Form short, somewhat robust, cylindrical, tapering posteriorly; integument finely granulate to wrinkled, sparsely clothed with rather stiff hairs. Head thick, conical, tapering posteriorly; clypeus rather narrow; labrum broadly oval, anterior margin beset with short golden hairs; mandible shortly triangular, cutting-edge very oblique, dorsal angle sharply toothed; ocellus distinct; antennal ring closed. Ventral mouthparts thick, fleshy; mentum not defined posteriorly, transverse; maxillary palpi conical, second joint shortest, last shorter than last labial; anterior edge of hypostoma deeply curved; gula not distinct. Prothorax quadrangular; similar to that of Oberea except that no asperities are present on the ventral surface. Mesothorax and metathorax having no asperities or tubercles. Ampullae very narrow, projecting, smooth, shining, dorsal with a lateral short impression and two transverse ones meeting distally, deeply furrowed in the middle; epipleurum protuberant on all segments, tubercles narrow, oval, bearing two hairs but no pores; spiracles lenticular. Adapted from Craighead (1923). Biology and Economic Importance These larvae have been collected in the stems of wild asters from Colorado. The larva feeds in the stems and down into the roots, completely hollowing the latter. Subsequently that portion of the stem of the plant breaks off at the surface of the ground. Small heaps of frass are exuded about the base of the plant. Only one larva is found in each stem. Adapted from Craighead (1923). Selected References to Larvae Specimens Craighead, 1923