Insect - unknown ID

[Geoff M]

Not a very natural b/g. This thing was on the kids outdoor chair and I grabbed a few shots with the 60mm f2.8 micro. Can anyone make the ID?
The last is a crop of the 2nd just to show the jaws

[blacknstormy]

Hey Geoff - aren't they gorgeous !!!!
This is a longicorn beetle - I know I've seen this one before, but for the life of me I can't remember what it is

All members in this family are commonly called Longicorn Beetles. They are also known as Long-horned Beetles. They have very long antennae, typically 11 segmented. The length of their antenna is more than two-thirds, some are even three times as their body length. Their antenna can directed backwards over their body. Their compound eyes are notched at the base of the antennae.

Adults are active fliers. Their body usually elongated and cylindrical in shape. Their legs are medium long. They have obvious strong mandibles for chewing, many feed on flowers.

Longicorn Beetles lay their eggs in cracks of bark or under bark. Most Longicorn Beetle larva are wood borers. Usually they are host specific of living or dead trees, usually infest severely weakened trees, dying or felled logs. Their life cycles are from few months to more than a year.

Larvae are usually white grubs with large dark brown head with strong mandibles. They are slightly tapering towards the end. Some species tunnel deep into the heartwood and some bore largely under the bark. They pupate inside the wood. When hatch, the adults cut emergence holes through the bark.

[PaulTheNikonian]

I have no idea on an ID (I'm sure Blacknstormy is correct anyway )... but I like the shots!

I think the red background, although not natural looking, really makes the bug stand out!

Nice and sharp too by the looks of them

Paul

[Geoff M]

Thank you Rel. I knew i could rely on you for the ID