Fauna
Insect

Common Eucalyptus Longhorn

Phoracantha semipunctata

Also known as Eucalyptus Longhorned Borer, Australian Eucalyptus Longhorn

Common eucalyptus longhorns spend most of their life cycle as larvae tunneling through the cambium layer of stressed eucalyptus trees. Adults emerge during warm months, utilizing extremely long antennae to detect host volatile chemicals from miles away. Females lay clusters of eggs under loose bark, creating signature galleries that can girdle and kill weakened trees.

Wood-BorerInvasiveNocturnal
Common Eucalyptus Longhorn reference1 / 7
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Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyEucalyptus wood, Eucalyptus sap, Eucalyptus pollen
Predators
  • Parasitoid wasps
  • Woodpeckers
  • Lizards
ThreatsForestry management, parasitoid wasps, extreme cold
HabitatsEucalyptus forests, plantations, and urban trees
Life span1–2 years
Classification
  1. FamilyCerambycidae
  2. SpeciesPhoracantha semipunctata
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Capable of a sharp pinch with strong mandibles if handled; observe without direct contact.
Why it is dangerous
Powerful mandibles designed for chewing through solid timber can break skin if the beetle is pinched or pinched against hands.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognizable by antennae exceeding body length and reddish-brown wing covers marked with pale yellow patches.
What to do
Avoid grasping adults directly; use a container or tool if relocated from living spaces.
Responsible observation
  • Night Spotting: Look for adults resting on eucalyptus trunks or attracted to outdoor lights during warm summer evenings.
  • Bark Inspection: Check stressed or dying eucalyptus trees for coarse frass and oval emergence holes.
Related species
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