CerambycidaeLepturinaeXylosteiniXylosteus

Xylosteus

Spinola Longhorn
LepturinaeXylosteini ⚘ Pollinator
W. Palearctic spp.
3
European spp.
3
Body length
8–15 mm
Activity
Diurnal
Flight season
Summer
Overwinters as
larva
Larva type
MRTVE_TV
Biotope
forest-saproxylic
Overview

Xylosteus

*Xylosteus* Frivaldszky, 1838 is a monotypic genus of Lepturinae known from central and south-eastern Europe, where its single species, *X. spinolae*, is associated exclusively with ancient stands of beech and oak. Adults are diurnal and relatively strong fliers, frequenting flowers of Apiaceae and Rosaceae along forest edges and rides during June and July. The genus is considered a reliable indicator of forest maturity and old-growth continuity, and *X. spinolae* is regarded as a candidate species under the EU Habitats Directive. At 8–15 mm, adults are elongate and tapered, often showing bright coloration with sparse, dark pubescence.

Seasonal activity

Flight season: Summer

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

Green = active months · Orange = peak

Host plants

Primary hosts: oak beech

FagusQuercus
⚑ Conservation note: none

External resources

GBIF · Käfer der Welt

Field tip: On flowers (Apiaceae, Rosaceae) in forests and margins. Hosts: Fagus. Monotypic genus — rare.