Lycochoriolaus
Linsley & Chemsak, 1976
Species Guides
1Lycochoriolaus is a of longhorn beetles ( Cerambycidae, Lepturinae) described by Linsley & Chemsak in 1976. The genus contains approximately 11 distributed primarily in the Americas. One species, L. lateralis, has been documented in Florida, where it exhibits lycid mimicry—an apparent case of Batesian or Müllerian mimicry involving distasteful lycid beetles (family Lycidae). The beetles are not skittish and can be handled easily, likely due to their protective mimicry. The genus is classified within the tribe Lepturini, a group of flower-visiting and foliage-associated cerambycids.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lycochoriolaus: //laɪkoʊˌkɔriˈoʊlaʊs//
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Distribution
The occurs in the Americas based on descriptions. L. lateralis has been recorded in Florida, USA, specifically in dry oak/pine sandhill woodland . Other species are distributed across Central and South America based on their original descriptions (e.g., L. angustatus from Brazil, L. ater and L. angustisternis from Argentina).
Seasonality
In Florida, have been observed in early April, suggesting spring activity. The cool morning conditions during observations suggest they may be active during cooler periods of the day.
Host Associations
- Serenoa repens - flower visitationL. lateralis observed on saw palmetto inflorescences in Florida
- Ilex cassine - flower visitationLycid beetles (Lyconotus lateralis) on dahoon holly may indicate similar use by Lycochoriolaus mimics
- Opuntia australisPresent in where L. lateralis was collected but not confirmed as
Behavior
are not skittish and can be picked up easily, attributed to their lycid mimicry which provides protection from . This contrasts with most other longhorn beetles, which are typically wary and quick to escape.
Similar Taxa
- Elytroleptus floridanusAnother lycid-mimicking cerambycid in Florida; both exhibit similar mimicry of Lycidae but belong to different cerambycid
- Lyconotus lateralisThe lycid model for L. lateralis mimicry; distinguished by true lycid characteristics including soft and different antennal structure
More Details
Mimicry system
L. lateralis represents a documented case of a cerambycid beetle mimicking lycid beetles ( Lycidae), which are known to be distasteful to due to defensive compounds. This is one of several cerambycid lineages that have independently evolved lycid-like appearance.
Taxonomic history
The was established by Linsley & Chemsak in 1976 within the Lepturinae. were previously described under other genera (e.g., Leptura, Strangalia) before being transferred to Lycochoriolaus.
Field recognition
The lycid-like appearance—typically with black and red or orange coloration, soft-bodied appearance, and relatively broad —distinguishes these beetles from most other cerambycids. However, they possess the long characteristic of Cerambycidae and hardened elytra typical of the .