Mecynorhina polyphemus | |
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Female | |
Scientific classification | |
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Subgenus: | Mecynorhina
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Species: | M. polyphemus
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Binomial name | |
Mecynorhina polyphemus (
Fabricius, 1781)
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Mecynorhina polyphemus is a large scarab beetle of the subfamily Cetoniinae found in dense tropical African forests, sometimes called the Polyphemus beetle. It is a frequent feeder on fruits and sap flows from tree wounds.
The larvae develop in decomposing log compost. The third instar constructs an ovoid cocoon for metamorphosis and attaches it to a solid surface. In captivity, the instar may attach the cocoon to a glass container wall allowing the opportunity to view the transformation. [1]
Male and female are dimorphic. The female has a shiny surface texture, reflective prismatic coloration, and no horns. The male has horns and flat, velvety coloration. Females are typically 35–55 mm, while males range from 35 to 80 mm. [2]
Mecynorhina polyphemus | |
---|---|
| |
Male | |
![]() | |
Female | |
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | |
Phylum: | |
Class: | |
Order: | |
Family: | |
Subfamily: | |
Tribe: | |
Subtribe: | |
Genus: | |
Subgenus: | Mecynorhina
|
Species: | M. polyphemus
|
Binomial name | |
Mecynorhina polyphemus (
Fabricius, 1781)
|
Mecynorhina polyphemus is a large scarab beetle of the subfamily Cetoniinae found in dense tropical African forests, sometimes called the Polyphemus beetle. It is a frequent feeder on fruits and sap flows from tree wounds.
The larvae develop in decomposing log compost. The third instar constructs an ovoid cocoon for metamorphosis and attaches it to a solid surface. In captivity, the instar may attach the cocoon to a glass container wall allowing the opportunity to view the transformation. [1]
Male and female are dimorphic. The female has a shiny surface texture, reflective prismatic coloration, and no horns. The male has horns and flat, velvety coloration. Females are typically 35–55 mm, while males range from 35 to 80 mm. [2]