G. it. Ent., 8 (46): 335-339
August 31, 1997
Review of the biology of the Australian longicorn beetle,
Tessaromma undatum Newman
(Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
by
TREVOR J. HAWKESWOOD & JAMES R. TURNER
Abstract - The larval host plants and general biology of the Australian longicorn beetle, Tessaromma undatum Newman (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) are reviewed from the literature and recent observations. The beetle is a cryptically coloured species which is known to breed in the wood of 11 plant species from the genera Nothofagus (Fagaceae), Acacia (Mimosaceae) and Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae). Eucalyptus appears to be the preferred host with 9 species having been recorded in the literature. Host plant evidence suggests that the genus Tessaromma originated in rainforest and that at least one species, T. undatum has adapted to drier habitats and has co-evolved with Eucalyptus while retaining rainforest links.
