Necydalis

Necydalis

Among the most extraordinary mimics in the European beetle fauna, *Necydalis* Linnaeus, 1758 has evolved a body form so closely resembling a large wasp that even experienced observers are routinely deceived. The elytra are dramatically abbreviated, leaving the broad membranous hindwings fully exposed, while the slender, yellow-brown body and active diurnal flight complete the illusion. Adults visit wounded bark and sap flows on old deciduous trees — principally *Fagus*, *Carpinus*, and *Quercus* — where larvae develop for approximately three years in decaying heartwood of living trunks, cavities, and exposed, barkless sections. With only two species occurring in Europe, both associated with …

Seasonal activity

Flight season: Summer–Autumn

Green = active months · Orange = peak

Host plants

Primary hosts: beech poplar birch

External resources

GBIF · Wikidata · Käfer der Welt

Field tip: Resembles a large wasp! Short elytra. In cavities of old deciduous trees. Rare indicator of ancient forests.