Chelorrhina polyphemus

Chelorrhina polyphemus
Chelorrhina polyphemus
Male
Female
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Family: Scarabaeidae
Genus: Chelorrhina
Species: C. polyphemus
Binomial name
Chelorrhina polyphemus
(Johan Christian Fabricius, 1781)

Chelorrhina polyphemus is a large scarab beetle of the subfamily cetoniinae found in dense tropical African forests. It is a frequent feeder on fruits and sap flows from tree wounds. There are several varieties including C. polyphemus polyphemus, C. polyphemus confluens, and C. polyphemus rufuino. [1]

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] [2]

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.[1] Females are typically 35-55 mm, while males range from 35–80 mm.[3]

Common names include Polyphemus beetle, magnificent flower beetle, giant African fruit beetle.

References

  1. ^ a b c "Chelorrhina polyphemus". http://www.naturalworlds.org/scarabaeidae/species/Chelorrhina_polyphemus.htm. Retrieved 2010-12-29. 
  2. ^ "Insect Collection". http://www.insect-collection.com/-InsectCaresheet-/-CetonidaeBreedingPg5-. Retrieved 2010-12-29. 
  3. ^ "CHELORRHINA". http://www.flower-beetles.com/chelorrhina.html. Retrieved 2010-12-29. 
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