Story Highlights
- Researcher James Tweed discovers unique beetle in Lamington National Park
- The beetle, nicknamed “Punk beetle,” has a mohawk-like appearance
- Experts speculate on the beetle’s distinctive features and potential purpose
Meet the Punk Beetle
Measuring less than a centimeter in length, the newly discovered longhorn beetle in Lamington National Park has tufts of spiky white hair, earning it the nickname “Punk beetle.” The entomologist described its unique appearance, stating, “A lot of the hairs stand basically straight upright, giving it a bit of a mohawk type look.”
From Bird Poop to Beetle with a Mohawk – A Case of Mistaken Identity
Initially mistaken for bird droppings, the beetle’s distinct features caught James Tweed’s attention during a camping trip in December 2021. Intrigued, he brought the insect to the CSIRO’s Australian National Insect Collection (ANIC) for further examination. Collaborating with experts, they identified it as a previously unknown species.
A Unique Specimen
The beetle’s appearance sets it apart from other insects, with its distinctive hairdo described as something special and different. Due to its uniqueness, the beetle has been classified into a new genus or group of its own.
Why So Spikey Albopilosa?
Experts speculate that the beetle’s spiky hairs may serve a purpose in camouflaging, potentially helping it evade predators by resembling bird droppings or a fungal infection. The beetle has been officially named Excastra albopilosa, deriving from Latin words meaning “from the camp” and “white and hairy,” respectively.