Plinthocoelium schwarzi

(Fisher, 1914)

Tamaulipan Bumelia Borer

Plinthocoelium schwarzi is a large, striking cerambycid beetle in the tribe Callichromatini, described by Fisher in 1914. It is closely related to the well-studied Plinthocoelium suaveolens, sharing the 'bumelia borer' and similar ecological associations with Sideroxylon trees. The occurs in the Tamaulipan region of southern Texas and northeastern Mexico, where it is considered a desirable target for collectors using fermenting traps.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Plinthocoelium schwarzi: /plɪnθoʊˈsiːliəm ˈʃwɑrtsi/

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Identification

Distinguished from the similar Plinthocoelium suaveolens by having black rather than orange. Both are large cerambycids with metallic green , coppery and pronotum, and exceptionally long and legs.

Distribution

Southern Texas (USA) and northeastern Mexico (Tamaulipan region). GBIF records confirm presence in Mexico and the United States.

Host Associations

  • Sideroxylon - larval Presumed based on congeneric P. suaveolens association; collected on flowering shrub along Texas coast

Behavior

have been observed on flowering shrubs. Like related , likely attracted to fermenting baits.

Human Relevance

Target for cerambycid collectors using fermenting traps. Considered among the most desirable North American longhorned beetles for collectors.

Similar Taxa

More Details

Collection notes

A collector reported capturing P. schwarzi on a flowering shrub along the Texas coast, noting the black that distinguished it from P. suaveolens. The is specifically mentioned as a target for trapping efforts in the Rio Grande Valley in June.

Sources and further reading