Abstract
Longhorn beetles (family Cerambycidae) are globally distributed insects with important ecological roles. Here we present
the first discovery of fossil longhorn beetles from Australia. The two new taxa described, Ventiala beattiei gen. et sp. nov.
and Ferrucornus gulgongensis gen. et sp. nov. are from McGraths Flat, New South Wales, a finely-layered (laminated)
fossiliferous goethite deposit dated to the Miocene (11–16 million years ago). One specimen hosts a nematode, providing
rare insight into ancient species interactions. These findings enhance our understanding of Miocene mesic ecosystems and
underscore the importance of McGraths Flat as a crucial site for studying the evolutionary history of Australia's terrestrial
arthropod biodiversity.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1-8 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Die Naturwissenschaften |
Publication status | Published - Dec 2024 |