Description
This gorgeous specimen has been spread and mounted in a black, wooden frame. The frame measures 14 1/2 inches long by 9 inches wide.
This beetle’s common name refers to its beautiful pattern; the Latin (longimanus) name refers to the extremely long forelegs on the males. These legs are usually longer than the beetle’s entire body, which can measure nearly 3 inches.
In addition to serving as a sexual advertisement to females, the long legs help the males traverse the branches of trees (the beetles can fly as well as crawl). Despite its seemingly conspicuous colors, the harlequin hides itself effectively among the lichen and fungus-covered trunks of tropical woods.
Ranging from Mexico to South America, the Harlequin beetle feeds on sap and lays its eggs on the trunks of dead or dying trees. It is active during the day but can be attracted to light at night.
This piece requires an extra two weeks for delivery.
