Mecynorhina polyphemus
Mecynorhina polyphemus | |
---|---|
Male | |
![]() | |
Female | |
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | |
Phylum: | |
Class: | |
Order: | Coleoptera
|
Family: | |
Subfamily: | Cetoniinae
|
Tribe: | |
Subtribe: | |
Genus: | |
Subgenus: | Mecynorhina
|
Species: | M. polyphemus
|
Binomial name | |
Mecynorhina polyphemus (Fabricius, 1781)
|
Mecynorhina polyphemus is a large scarab beetle of the subfamily Cetoniinae found in dense tropical African forests, sometimes called the Polyphemus beetle. It is a frequent feeder on fruits and sap flows from tree wounds.
The larvae develop in decomposing log compost. The third instar constructs an ovoid cocoon for metamorphosis and attaches it to a solid surface. In captivity, the instar may attach the cocoon to a glass container wall allowing the opportunity to view the transformation.[1]
Male and female are dimorphic. The female has a shiny surface texture, reflective prismatic coloration, and no horns. The male has horns and flat, velvety coloration. Females are typically 35–55 mm, while males range from 35 to 80 mm.[2]
Subspecies[]
- Mecynorrhina polyphemus polyphemus Fabricius, 1781 (Ivory Coast, Ghana; Size: ♂ 44–72 mm; ♀ 41–50 mm)
- Mecynorrhina polyphemus confluens Kraatz, 1890 (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Gabon and Uganda; Size: ♂ 42–80 mm; ♀ 42–55 mm)
References[]
- ^ "Insect Collection". Archived from the original on 2011-07-13. Retrieved 2010-12-29.
- ^ "CHELORRHINA". Retrieved 2010-12-29.
External links[]
Categories:
- Cetoniinae
- Beetles described in 1781
- Beetles of Africa
- Cetoniinae stubs