Milkweed Longhorn Beetles
ExploreInsects
Milkweed Longhorn Beetles
Tetraopes
Milkweed longhorn beetles are colorful insects that love to munch on milkweed plants. They have long antennae and are often seen in gardens and fields during summer.
Habitat: Fields and gardens
Appearance
The Milkweed Longhorn Beetle has a striking orange-red body adorned with distinct black spots and very long, dark antennae. Its elongated, cylindrical shape and vibrant warning colors make it visually different from many other beetles found in fields.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderColeopteraFamilyCerambycidaeGenusTetraopes
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Even though they eat poisonous milkweed, the toxins don't hurt them at all!
Sometimes you can find groups of them hanging out on a single milkweed plant!
Their "longhorns" are actually super long antennae, much longer than their whole body!
They lay their eggs at the base of milkweed plants, where larvae later feed!
Special abilities
Ability
Toxic Shield
Milkweed Longhorn Beetles can absorb toxins from milkweed because of special adaptations that help them become poisonous to predators.
Ability
Warning Colors
Milkweed Longhorn Beetles has bright orange and black colors that help them warn predators away, signaling they are not tasty to eat.
Ability
Root Munchers
Milkweed Longhorn Beetle larvae can live underground for a year, using strong jaws to feed on tough milkweed roots for growth.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 20-35 mm
- Size
- 8-15 mm
- Lifespan
- 30-90 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
These beetles munch on milkweed plants, from their roots as larvae to leaves and flowers as adults!
Age differences: Larvae feed exclusively on milkweed roots underground, while adults consume leaves and flowers.
Primary Foods
- Milkweed leaves
- Milkweed stems
- Milkweed roots
- Milkweed flowers
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Grassland
Grassland habitats are terrestrial biomes dominated by grasses and herbaceous plants, supporting a variety of grazing animals.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
It's safe to look at these beetles, but don't touch them as they might be delicate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Milkweed Longhorn Beetles's wingspan?
20-35 mm
How big is Milkweed Longhorn Beetles?
8-15 mm
How long does Milkweed Longhorn Beetles live?
30-90 days
What does Milkweed Longhorn Beetles eat?
These beetles munch on milkweed plants, from their roots as larvae to leaves and flowers as adults!
Where is Milkweed Longhorn Beetles usually found?
Fields and gardens
How does Milkweed Longhorn Beetles hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Milkweed Longhorn Beetles have?
6
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