Mecynorhina polyphemus
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.
| Mecynorhina polyphemus | |
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| Male | |
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| Female | |
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| Tribe: | Goliathini |
| Subtribe: | Coryphocerina |
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| Subgenus: | Mecynorhina |
| Species: | M. polyphemus |
| Binomial name | |
| Mecynorhina polyphemus (Fabricius, 1781) | |
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 35–80 mm.[2]
Subspecies
- Mecynorrhina polyphemus polyphemus Fabricius, 1781 (Ivory Coast, Ghana; Size: ♂ 44–72 mm; ♀ 41–50 mm)
- Mecynorrhina polyphemus confluens Kraatz, 1890 (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Gabon and Uganda; Size: ♂ 42–80 mm; ♀ 42–55 mm)
References
- "Insect Collection". Archived from the original on 2011-07-13. Retrieved 2010-12-29.
- "CHELORRHINA". Retrieved 2010-12-29.
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