Bumelia Borer

Plinthocoelium suaveolens

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
Family: Cerambycidae
Subfamily: Cerambycinae
Tribe: Callichromatini
Genus: Plinthocoelium
Species: suaveolens

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Plinthocoelium suaveolens: //plɪn.θəˈsiː.li.əm swɑːˈviː.oʊ.lɛnz//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Summary

Plinthocoelium suaveolens, commonly known as the bumelia borer, is a large, metallic-colored longhorn beetle found in North and Central America, known for its larval wood-boring behavior in specific host plants.

Physical Characteristics

Large beetle measuring 25-40 mm in length, exhibiting a highly variable metallic color ranging from green, bronze, to blue. The femora are red in color.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic long antennae typical of longhorn beetles; the metallic coloration can help in distinguishing it from other species.

Habitat

Found primarily in wooded areas where host plants like Tupelo, Gum Bully, and Mulberry are present.

Distribution

Distributed across the southern United States to Arizona and into Mexico.

Diet

Larvae are wood borers, feeding on the trunk and roots of host plants such as Tupelo, Gum Bully (Sideroxylon), and Mulberry.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details not extensively provided, but adults are typically observed from May to August.

Reproduction

Reproductive habits not specified in the data provided.

Predators

Specific predators are not mentioned, but typical predators of beetles may include birds and other insectivorous animals.

Ecosystem Role

As a wood-boring beetle, it plays a role in the decomposition of wood and can impact forest health by aiding in the breakdown of dead trees.

Collecting Methods

UV light traps
Hand collecting during adult activity period

Preservation Methods

Drying specimens
Freezing for preservation

Evolution

Belongs to the family Cerambycidae, known for its diverse forms and ecological adaptations in feeding and reproduction.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse it with other metallic longhorn beetles due to color variation.