About Coptomma variegatum (Fabricius, 1775)
Coptomma variegatum (Fabricius, 1775) can reach a maximum body length of 22 mm (0.87 in). This species looks visually similar to beetles of the genus Navomorpha, but can be distinguished by three key traits: the pronotum of Coptomma variegatum is wider than it is long, the angle of the head between the frons and vertex is greater than 100°, and Coptomma variegatum lacks an overhanging mesosternal process. This species is mainly found in forested habitats across both the North Island and South Island of New Zealand. Its larvae typically develop inside dead trees. Documented host species for this beetle include the native New Zealand species Beilschmiedia tawa, Sophora microphylla, and Sophora tetraptera, along with several introduced species: Acacia dealbata, Acacia decurrens, Acacia mearnsii, Castanea sativa (sweet chestnut), and Paraserianthes lophantha. In New Zealand, adult Coptomma variegatum are usually active in flight between the months of November and April.
