The Harlequin Beetle - Acrocinus longimanus

Harlequin Beetle

The Harlequin Beetle is a large tropical longhorned beetle found from Mexico to Brazil. It burrows a nest in trees covered in bracket fungus in order to camouflage its larvae. The young beetles live in this tree hole for up to 12 months before emerging as adults.

The beetles are known to host a species of tiny arachnid that live on their abdomens, resulting in a commensalist relationship as no harm comes to the beetle. The larger threat to these beauties is the destruction of its habitat by deforestation and other human disturbances.

Species: Acrocinus longimanus
Photo: Sarah Folts | TheButterflyBabe