have been spread all over the tropics and subtropics

with eucalyptus, and can now be found in Africa,

South America, southern Europe, and parts of

Asia. As they only attack an introduced, non-native,

fast-growing tree, it is a matter of perspective

whether they are considered a pest or a biological

control agent.

The subfamily includes large and brightly

colored species, mostly found in tropical forests, but

a few extend into northern latitudes. For example,

the blue and gray Rosalia alpina of Central Europe,

England, and carbon dated as almost

4,000 years old. This large beetle is no

longer found in Britain at all, so these

ancient dead beetles can teach us about the

climate and environment in prehistoric times

left | Rosalia alpina

The Alpine Longhorn

is one of the most

beautiful of European

beetles. Historically

a rarity, it has become

more common in

recent decades.

right | Necydalis ulmi A mating pair

of this bizarre, wasp-like European

beetle. Species in this genus and related

genera are sometimes placed in their

own subfamily, Necydalinae.

a rare and protected species of warm beech

forests, is often considered one of the most

beautiful of all beetles. The tribe Clytini includes

many wasp beetles that are mimics of stinging

Hymenoptera, not only resembling them

physically, but mimicking their jerky movements

and the movement of their antennae. Bright

metallic green or blue members of the tribe

Callichromatini are sometimes called musk

beetles, as the adults can produce a strong musky

smell when handled.