Longhorn beetles are a family of beetles with over 35,000 species. They are recognized from their long antennae, longer than the insect’s entire body in some species.
These beetles are separated into several subfamilies, which consist of several genera.
Size: 0.75 to 1.5 in (1.9 to 3.8 cm)
Color:They are shiny black, with irregular white spots.
Other Characteristic Features: The only common feature among all the beetles in this family is their long antennae, which are connected with sockets located on their face.
The larvae of these beetles, called roundheaded borers, bore into the wood of host plants.
Pupation occurs inside the tunnels excavated during the larval stage. This stage lasts for 13-24 days.
The females lay 25-40 eggs, which hatch in 1-2 weeks.
| Other names | Long-horned beetles, longicorns |
| Lifespan | Males: 50 days Females: 66 days |
| Distribution | Native: Asia and South America Invasive: North America |
| Habitat | Forests and woodlands |
| Predators | Birds, lizards, scorpions, spiders, small mammals, and toads |
| Seasons active | Late May through October |
| Host Plants | Elm, maple, poplar, and willow |
| Diet of adults | Leaves and twigs |
Some species, like the old house borer beetle, can cause damage to timber and living trees in the larval stage.
