Longhorn Beetles

Other than the typical long antennal length, the most consistently distinctive feature of adults of this family is that the antennal sockets are located on low tubercles on the face; other beetles with long antennae lack these tubercles, and cerambycids with short antennae still possess them. They otherwise vary greatly in size, shape, sculpture, and coloration. Some species mimic ants, bees, and wasps, though most are cryptically colored. The titan beetle (Titanus giganteus) from northeastern South America is often considered the largest insect (though not the heaviest, and not the longest including legs), with a maximum known body length of just over 16.7 cm (6.6 in). Larvae are 0.5–22 cm (0.20–8.66 in) long, elongate in shape and lightly sclerotized. The prothorax is often enlarged and the sides of the body have lateral swellings (ampullae). The head is usually retracted into the prothorax and bears well-sclerotized mouthparts. The legs range from moderately developed to absent. The spiracles are always annular.

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