The first fossil longhorn beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) from Australia

Lachlan J. Hart, Adam Slipinski, Michael FRESE, Tara Djokic, Matthew R. McCurry

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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 languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1-8
Number of pages8
JournalDie Naturwissenschaften
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2024

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