Roundhead Oak Twig Girdler

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Styloxus fulleri: //staɪˈlɒksəs ˈfʊlɛri//

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Summary

Styloxus fulleri, known as the Roundhead Oak Twig Girdler, is a species of longhorn beetle distinguished by its small size and long antennae. They are primarily found in decaying wood and have a unique lifecycle as round-headed borers that emerge as adults after developing within the wood.

Physical Characteristics

Styloxus fulleri is a smaller species of longhorn beetle, measuring about 12–13 mm in length. The elytra do not completely cover the hind wings, ending about two-thirds down the length of the body. Males typically have longer antennae than females, with the antennae being extremely long and thin. The eyes are large relative to the small head.

Identification Tips

Look for the extremely long and thin antennae and the distinctive body shape with partially covered elytra. The size can help in distinguishing adults from other beetles.

Habitat

Mostly found in regions where dead or decaying wood is present, as larvae typically inhabit such environments.

Distribution

Southwestern United States (Texas, Oregon, California) and Mexico.

Diet

Adult longhorn beetles feed on flower nectar, sap, or leaves and bark. Larvae feed on dead and decaying wood.

Life Cycle

The lifecycle includes a larval stage where they tunnel inside the wood as round-headed borers before emerging as adults.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in the decomposition of dead wood and can influence the health of plant communities.

Collecting Methods

• Light traps
• Manual collection at night

Preservation Methods

• Pinning
• Alcohol preservation

Similar Taxa

• Other species in the family Cerambycidae
• Other longhorn beetles

Tags

• beetle
• Cerambycidae
• longhorn beetle
• Styloxus fulleri
• insect
• entomology