Lepturini
Lepturini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
- Family: Cerambycidae
- Subfamily: Lepturinae
- Tribe: Lepturini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lepturini: /lɛpˈtjʊrɪnaɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Lepturini is a diverse tribe of flower longhorn beetles known for their long antennae and pollination behavior. They are important to various ecosystems as pollinators and can be identified by their elongated features and floral habits.
Physical Characteristics
Lepturini, commonly known as flower longhorns, are characterized by their elongated bodies and long antennae that can sometimes be longer than the body itself. They exhibit a variety of colors, often with striking patterns to blend into their floral habitats.
Identification Tips
To identify members of the Lepturini tribe, look for their distinctive long antennae and floral associations. They are often found on flowers where they feed and mate.
Habitat
Members of Lepturini are typically found in diverse habitats, primarily associated with flowering plants where they feed on nectar or pollen.
Distribution
In our area, there are 112 species in 34 genera, while the New World hosts approximately 260 species across 53 genera. Globally, there are about 120 genera known.
Diet
The diet of Lepturini primarily consists of nectar and pollen from flowers, as adults are often found on various flowering plants.
Life Cycle
Lepturini undergo complete metamorphosis, which consists of egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. Larvae generally develop in decaying wood, feeding on the plant matter.
Reproduction
Reproduction in Lepturini typically involves the female laying eggs in areas conducive to larval development, such as decaying wood or near flowering plants.
Ecosystem Role
Lepturini play a significant role in pollination due to their feeding habits on flowers, contributing to the reproductive success of flowering plants.
Collecting Methods
- Netting from flowering plants
- Light trapping at night
Preservation Methods
- Pinning specimens
- Ethanol preservation
Evolution
Lepturini are part of the subfamily Lepturinae within the family Cerambycidae, which showcases a high degree of evolutionary specialization towards floral habitats and behaviors.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some may confuse Lepturini with similar-looking beetles; however, their lengthy antennae and association with flowers help distinguish them from others.
Tags
- Lepturini
- Cerambycidae
- flower longhorns
- insect
- entomology