Milkweed Longhorn Beetle
(Tetraopes tetrophthalmus)

Interesting facts:
The word beetle comes from the Middle English Betylle and Old English bitula, meaning "to bite." The species name tetrophthalmus is latin for four eyes. This refers to this beetle's having fully divided compound eyes.

Description:
The milkweed longhorn beetle is red with black dots, black antennae, and black legs. The antennae of the males are almost the same length as the body (12 to 15 mm).

Habitat and behavior:
This beetle is found in grasslands, meadows, and prairies. The female lays eggs on or near the milkweed plant.

Food:
The larvae bore into the stems and roots of the milkweed plant. Adults eat the leaves and buds of the milkweed.

Predators:
Birds

Distribution and status:
The milkweed longhorn beetle is found throughout the United States.

Location in Illinois:
It is found throughout Illinois.