Helymaeus

Mediterranean Helymaeus
CerambycinaeCallichromatini ⚘ Pollinator
W. Palearctic spp.
2
European spp.
4
Body length
12–22 mm
Activity
Diurnal
Flight season
Summer–Autumn
Overwinters as
larva
Larva type
MRTVE_TV
Biotope
forest-saproxylic
Overview

Helymaeus

Helymaeus Thomson, 1864 is a small cerambycid genus of the Eastern Mediterranean region, with species recorded from Turkey and Iran at elevations up to 1,500 m. Adults measure 12–22 mm and display variable coloration, sometimes with patterned elytra that may serve cryptic or mimetic functions. Larvae develop in dead or dying Quercus and Fagus, progressing from subcortical galleries into the sapwood over one to three years. Adults are attracted to fresh dead wood and UV light, and may be encountered from May through August.

Seasonal activity

Flight season: Summer–Autumn

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Green = active months · Orange = peak

Host plants

Primary hosts: oak beech

QuercusFagus
⚑ Conservation note: none

External resources

GBIF

Field tip: On dead wood or under bark. Hosts: Quercus.