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==External link==
==External link==
{{wikispecies|Prionoplus reticularis|Huhu beetle}}
* [http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/biodiversity/invertebratesprog/invertid/bug_details.asp?Bu_Id=199 Landcare Research] - data
* [http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/biodiversity/invertebratesprog/invertid/bug_details.asp?Bu_Id=199 Landcare Research] - data
{{wikispecies|Prionoplus reticularis|Huhu beetle}}


[[Category:Cerambycidae]]
[[Category:Cerambycidae]]

Revision as of 07:17, 2 May 2007

Huhu beetle
Scientific classification
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P. reticularis
Binomial name
Prionoplus reticularis
Linnaeus, 1758

The huhu beetle, Prionoplus reticularis, is the largest endemic beetle found in New Zealand, a member of the longhorn beetle family Cerambycidae.

File:Huhugrub.jpg
The larvae of the huhu grub is considered edible.

It is known to the Māori as Pepe tunga. The whitish larvae are up to 70 mm long. They are edible, and are said by some to taste like buttery chicken (although opinions differ).

A common name for the beetle is haircutter because of the long legs and antenna covered with sharp hooks. If a huhu beetle lands on the hair of a person they become so entangled that scissors must be used for extraction.

The beetles are most active at night and are often heard flying into window panes with a loud thump, attracted by the lights of the dwelling.