About Euchroma giganteum (Linnaeus, 1758)
Euchroma giganteum is one of the largest species in the buprestid beetle family, which is reflected in its species Latin name 'giganteum'. Adults reach a length of about 50–80 millimetres (2.0–3.1 inches). Only a few other buprestid genera, such as Catoxantha and Megaloxantha, contain species that reach a comparable body size. The body of Euchroma giganteum is robust and elongated. Its elytra have a wrinkled surface, with a metallic green base colour that bears reddish or purplish tinges. Each side of the pronotum features one dark spot. Larvae of this species reach an approximate length of 12–15 centimetres (4.7–5.9 inches). Newly emerged adult Euchroma giganteum have elytra covered in a yellowish, waxy powder, which wears away as the beetle grows older. This species is native to Central and South America, where it has been recorded in Mexico, Panama, Ecuador, Cuba, Jamaica, Peru, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and Venezuela (Guarenas-Naranjal). It inhabits warm Amazonian regions, and can be found at elevations up to 1,200 metres (3,900 ft) above sea level.
