Description
Beetle, Platerodrilus foliaceus, Trilobite Beetle specimen.
You will receive this specimen or one like it.
These specimens are from Mt. Bawang – W. Kalimantan, Indonesia.
Platerodrilus foliaceus is a captivating species of trilobite beetle native to the tropical rainforests of Borneo, particularly in regions like South Sarawak and East Kalimantan. Described in 2014 by entomologists Michal Masek and Ladislav Bocak, this beetle is renowned for its unique morphology and life history.
🪲 Distinctive Features
- Neotenic Females: Adult females retain a larval form throughout their lives—a phenomenon known as neoteny. They measure approximately 50–80 mm in length and possess a flattened, segmented body with large, plate-like structures over the head, closely resembling extinct trilobites.
- Dimorphic Males: In contrast, males are significantly smaller (about 8–10 mm), fully metamorphosed, and equipped with wings. They resemble typical net-winged beetles and are capable of flight.
🌿 Habitat and Ecology
Platerodrilus foliaceus inhabits the humid, tropical forests of Borneo. Females are typically found in decaying wood and forest litter, where they feed on microorganisms present in rotting wood and slime molds. Males, being more mobile, are often observed on flowers, feeding on nectar.
⚠️ Conservation and Captivity Challenges
These beetles are notoriously difficult to maintain in captivity. Their specialized diet, reliance on specific microhabitats, and complex life cycle make them unsuitable for breeding outside their natural environment. As a result, they are rarely found in private collections and are primarily of interest to researchers and conservationists. (reddit.com)
