
Longhorn Beetle
Family Cerambycidae
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera; Family: Cerambycidae
- Size
- Varies by species, typically 10 to 50 mm (0.4 to 2 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in woodland areas, gardens, and around decaying wood; they may enter homes through open windows or be brought in with firewood.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae are wood-borers that feed on the wood of trees or shrubs; adults may feed on wood, bark, flowers, or sap, depending on the species.
Behavior Patterns
Many species are nocturnal and are attracted to artificial lights at night. They have a complete metamorphosis life cycle (egg, larva, pupa, adult), with the larval stage often lasting several years inside wood.
Risks & Benefits
They are generally harmless to humans, though some larger species can deliver a painful pinch with their mandibles if handled. Ecologically, they are important decomposers of dead wood, though certain species can be significant pests of timber and live trees.