Prioninae
Prioninae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
- Family: Cerambycidae
- Subfamily: Prioninae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Prioninae: /praɪˈoʊnɪni/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Prioninae is a large subfamily of long-horned beetles, characterized by their robust build and prominent antennae. They often inhabit decaying wood, where their larvae develop while adults are nocturnal and attracted to light.
Physical Characteristics
Typically large (25–70 mm), robust, usually brown to black; long, prominent, sometimes flattened antennae; sexually dimorphic with males having large mandibles used in intraspecific fights.
Identification Tips
Look for large size and prominent antennae as major identifying traits; sexually dimorphic males can be recognized by their large mandibles.
Habitat
Typically found in environments associated with trees, especially rotting wood and stumps.
Distribution
Over 350 species in approximately 100 genera across the New World; more diverse in tropical regions, with some species ranging far north.
Diet
Larvae feed on rotting wood or roots; adults may have varied diets but specifics often unknown.
Life Cycle
Life stages include egg, larval (boring into wood), pupal, and adult stages; larvae are often found in congregation in rotting wood.
Reproduction
Reproductive habits vary but generally include mating behaviors that may involve male-male combat for access to females.
Predators
Predators include larger insects and birds that consume beetles.
Ecosystem Role
Play a role in decomposing wood and contributing to nutrient cycling within forest ecosystems.
Collecting Methods
- Using light traps to attract nocturnal adults
- Searching for larvae in rotting wood
Preservation Methods
- Pinning specimens
- Preserving in alcohol
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some may mistake them for similar-looking beetles that lack the robust mandibles characteristic of males in this subfamily.
Tags
- beetles
- insects
- entomology
- Prioninae
- Coleoptera