Lymexylidae

Common name
Timberworm beetles
Number of species
2
Size Range
7-18mm
Tarsal formula
5-5-5

Images:

  • Hylecoetus dermestoides
  • Lymexylon navale
Description

Two species in Britain, Hylecoetus dermestoides (L.) and Lymexylon navale (L.).  They are medium-sized (7-18mm) orange and black beetles, resembling Cantharidae with soft, pubescent elytra but unlobed tarsi.  Both species are woodborers, and are associated with wood pasture and woodland.  Lymexylon navale is mainly found in the southeast, while H. dermestoides is largely found north of a line between the Severn and the Wash.