Ponderous Borer vs Dogbane Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Ponderous Borer | Dogbane Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Trichocnemis spiculatus | Chrysochus auratus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Cerambycidae | Chrysomelidae |
| Size | 40-60 mm | 8-11mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Grasslands |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Western United States, British Columbia | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Ponderous Borer
One of the largest cerambycids in North America, this prionine breeds in the roots and lower trunks of dead ponderosa pines. Adults are dark brown with a somewhat rough body surface. They are nocturnal and attracted to lights.
Did You Know?
Larval development can take up to six years in dry dead wood, one of the longest development times for any beetle.
Dogbane Beetle
An iridescent beetle displaying blue, green, copper, and crimson colors. It feeds on toxic dogbane plants and sequesters the toxins for defense.
Did You Know?
Its brilliant rainbow shimmer is produced by layers in its exoskeleton that reflect light at different wavelengths.