I want to know what it is, how dangerous it is to the forest, and how to recognize it in all life cycles. Would like to have photos of it's life cycle.

Reporter
Dec. 30, 2008, 4:59 a.m.

Hi Ed, I have sent your photos and description on to Jim Young at the OSU Insect Identification Lab. As soon as I hear back, I'll respond. Thank you!

Lisa DeBruyckere
Dec. 30, 2008, 5:08 a.m.

Hi Lisa. Thank you for the prompt response. I realized that I could pinpoint the exact location using the Satellite image, but now I can't get the arrow to move. Any suggestions? Ed.

Reporter
Dec. 30, 2008, 5:14 a.m.

Hi Ed, I'll check with our web development staff. I can't get it to move either.

Lisa DeBruyckere
Dec. 30, 2008, 5:20 a.m.

Ed, Jim Young with the OSU Insect Identification Lab has identified your specimen as the larva is a Cerambycid (long horn beetle). Species determination cannot be determined from the larvae of this group. The general life cycle is:

Larvae typically take 1-3 years to develop (dependent on species and environmental conditions). They feed only in dead/dieing wood that is still moist. The adults emerge anytime between spring and fall and cause a small amount of damage feeding on young branches. The adults are strong fliers that are attracted to chemicals that are given off by damaged/recently dead trees. After mating the a small notch is made in the bark of an acceptable host and the female deposits eggs.

The eggs hatch typically with in a few weeks and the larvae begin feeding.

These beetles are important for forest ecosystems because they help break down fallen material so it reenter the nutrient cycle.

Lisa DeBruyckere
Dec. 30, 2008, 12:23 p.m.

Thank you for your response. Now, how do I save it from being killed? I have it in a jar in my refrigerator. The wood that it was in is gone. It still moves when I pick it up and it gets a little warm. What do I do with it? Thanks, Ed.

Reporter
Dec. 30, 2008, 12:54 p.m.

Ed, the larvae live in moist dead and dying wood. Putting the larvae in a rotting/dead log in moist conditions will likely increase its chance for survival.

Lisa DeBruyckere
Dec. 30, 2008, 1:02 p.m.

Thank you Lisa. Now I feel really bad for disturbing it. It's actually kind of cute, and so vulnerable. I'll try to make a home for it. Thank you for your help. If you think of anything else that woould help it survive, please let me know. You have my email address. My phone number is 541-582-0641. Ed.

Reporter
Dec. 30, 2008, 1:10 p.m.