Blue Monkey Beetle, Scelophysa trinmeni
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arks
- Distinguished Virtual Ranger
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Blue Monkey Beetle, Scelophysa trinmeni
Can anyone help with an ID of the insect on this flower? Seen at Bokbaai (West Coast) in early October 2019.
RSA 2024-2025
21 November-13 February Cape Town & Darling
21 November-13 February Cape Town & Darling
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ross hawkins
- Senior Virtual Ranger
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Re: Insect ID needed.
This beetle could possibly under the family Scarabaeidae which includes dung beetles and scarab beetles. Maybe have a look at Monkey Beetles, Scelophysa sp. as they feed on pollen, nectar and flowers themselves of Daisies and Mesems
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ross hawkins
- Senior Virtual Ranger
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- Location: JHB, Gauteng
Re: Insect ID needed.
Andy M wrote:Hello arks.
ross hawkins is spot on.
The beetle in the photo on the Gazania is a female Blue Monkey Beetle, Scelophysa trinmeni
The males are powder blue to greenish, while the females are green to brown. The adults feed on flowers, in particular blue flax (sporrie).
Thank you Andy