Phyllotocus marginipennis

Nectar scarab at Stromlo, ACT

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Phyllotocus marginipennis AlisonMilton 7 Jan 2023
Unverified JaneR 7 Jan 2023

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User's notes

Nearly every inflorescence in the mid-canopy on this Callistemon was covered in these beetles: the lower inflorescences were being ignored, and (as far as I could see) so was the top third of the canopy. Presumably this is due to subtle differences in nectar production within a canopy, and and phenological stage between shrubs. Another Callistemon adjacent was in flower but was not attracting these beetles. Beetle behaviour was like a feeding frenzy. I watched one beetle arrive on the individual flower then forcefully nose-dive down, and stay there. One inflorescence has at least 10 individuals visible.

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Location information

Sighting information

  • 101 - 1,000 Abundance
  • 6 Jan 2023 02:12 PM Recorded on
  • JaneR Recorded by
  • Callistemon sieberi (Sighting 4463058) Associated plant
  • 12mm to 25mm Animal size
  • Feeding on nectar or pollen Insect behaviour on flower

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Species information

Record quality

Quality score 6 / 7
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  • Verified by an expert moderator
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