Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle
Pogonocherus hispidulus
This record describes Pogonocherus hispidulus (species). Recorded family: Cerambycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 8 mm. Similar to P. hispidus but generally larger and with longer teeth at the tip of each elytron. This species has white marked antennae and a white band on the scutellum. Well camouflaged on trees and shrubs by its lichen like appearance. Deciduous trees and shrubs especially Lime. The larvae feed on small branches and twigs of dead wood. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Cerambycidae
- Genus
- Pogonocherus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Deciduous trees and shrubs especially Lime.
Seasonal Activity
Spring and autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed on small branches and twigs of dead wood.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pogonocherus hispidulus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle
What is Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle?
Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle (Pogonocherus hispidulus) is a species in the family Cerambycidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle?
5 to 8 mm. Similar to P. hispidus but generally larger and with longer teeth at the tip of each elytron. This species has white marked antennae and a white band on the scutellum. Well camouflaged on trees and shrubs by its lichen like appearance.
Where is Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle found?
Habitat: Deciduous trees and shrubs especially Lime.
When is Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle active?
Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle: seasonal activity - Spring and autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Greater Thorn-tipped Longhorn Beetle?
The larvae feed on small branches and twigs of dead wood.