Rutpela maculata
This record describes Rutpela maculata (species). Recorded family: Cerambycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a large but well-marked longhorn beetle with a variable pattern of black and yellow markings. Usually found along hedgerows and woodland margins where the adults are most often seen on Hawthorn or umbel flowers. The larvae live in rotten wood and emerge into adults in May. Common and widespread in England and Wales, much less common further north.
Wikipedia reference for Rutpela maculata: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rutpela_maculata.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Cerambycidae
- Genus
- Rutpela
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found along hedgerows and woodland margins where the adults are most often seen on Hawthorn or umbel flowers.
Seasonal Activity
May until September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae live in rotten wood and emerge into adults in May.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in England and Wales, much less common further north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Rutpela maculata. 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 Rutpela maculata (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rutpela maculata
What is Rutpela maculata?
Rutpela maculata is a species in the family Cerambycidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Rutpela maculata found?
Habitat: Usually found along hedgerows and woodland margins where the adults are most often seen on Hawthorn or umbel flowers.
When is Rutpela maculata active?
Rutpela maculata: seasonal activity - May until September..
What is the life cycle of a Rutpela maculata?
The larvae live in rotten wood and emerge into adults in May.