Tile-horned Prionus
Prionus imbricornis
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
- Family: Cerambycidae
- Subfamily: Prioninae
- Tribe: Prionini
- Genus: Prionus
- Species: imbricornis
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Prionus imbricornis: //ˈpraɪənəs ˌɪmbɹɪˈkɔːrnɪs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Prionus imbricornis, commonly known as the Tile-horned Prionus, is a longhorn beetle species recognized for its size and distinctive long antennae. The species primarily inhabits deciduous forests and is notable for its larval feeding behavior on the roots of various trees.
Physical Characteristics
♂ 20.7–39.0 mm, ♀ 28.0–54.8 mm; Antennae with 16–23 segments in ♂, 15–21 in ♀.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinctive longhorn antennae; males generally have longer and more segmented antennae than females.
Habitat
Deciduous forests and adjacent areas.
Distribution
Eastern United States (NY–FL to e.KS–e.TX); numerous records outside that area are considered in error.
Diet
Larvae feed in living roots, primarily oak and chestnut, but also grape, pear, and corn.
Life Cycle
Female lays 100–200 eggs at the base of trees, vines, and herbs; larval stage lasts ≥3 years.
Reproduction
Female lays eggs at the base of trees, vines, and herbs.
Ecosystem Role
Plays a role in the decomposition process by feeding on tree roots and bark.
Collecting Methods
- Light traps during mid-summer nights.
- Hand collecting near lighted windows.
Preservation Methods
- Pinning specimens in entomological display cases.
- Storing in insect storage boxes.
Misconceptions
Often mistaken for other similar-sized longhorn beetles due to its distinctive appearance; distributions noted in error may lead to confusion regarding its range.
Tags
- Prionus imbricornis
- Tile-horned Prionus
- longhorn beetle
- Coleoptera
- Cerambycidae