Imantocera plumosa is a species of the Flat-faced Longhorn Beetles, notable for its elongated body and spectacularly long antennae, which can extend well beyond the length of its body. The species is distinguished by a plumose (feathery-looking) appearance on its antennae, giving rise to its name. The body coloration is typically a mix of browns and grays, often with mottled patterns that help in camouflage.
Flat-faced Longhorn Beetles
Imantocera plumosa
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Arthropoda
CLASS
:
Insecta
ORDER
:
Coleoptera
FAMILY
:
Cerambycidae
GENUS
:
Imantocera
SPECIES
:
Imantocera plumosa
Other Information
Venomous?
Imantocera plumosa does not possess any poison or venom and is harmless to humans in terms of chemical defenses.
A Danger to Humans?
There is no direct danger to humans from Imantocera plumosa. The primary concern with many longhorn beetles, including this species, is their potential as wood borers, which can damage living trees or wooden structures.
Population Status
Specific data on the population size of Imantocera plumosa is not readily available, but like many longhorn beetles, they are typically not considered endangered unless their habitat is threatened.
Life Span:
The life span of Imantocera plumosa can vary, but it generally spans several years from egg through larval, pupal, and adult stages. Most of their life is spent in the larval stage, which is wood-boring.
Weight and Length:
This beetle is relatively large compared to other beetles, with body lengths ranging from 20 to 40 mm. The weight, while not specifically documented, would be consistent with beetles of similar size, making it quite light.
Distribution:
Imantocera plumosa is found primarily in Southeast Asia, including regions like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Its presence is often associated with forested areas where its host trees are abundant.
Habits and Lifestyle:
These beetles are mostly nocturnal and spend much of their life within the wood of trees, where the larvae feed and develop. Adults are more visible and can be found on tree trunks and branches, especially during the mating season.
Diet and Nutrition:
The larvae of Imantocera plumosa bore into wood, feeding on the inner bark and cambium layers, which provides them with necessary nutrients. Adults may feed on plant matter but do not generally cause significant damage once mature.
Mating Habits:
Mating typically occurs on or near the host trees. Females lay eggs into cracks in the wood or under bark, and the emerging larvae continue to live and feed inside the wood, repeating the cycle. The species’ reproductive habits are closely tied to their woody environment, which supports both their development and the continuation of the species.