Queen Christmas Beetle
Anoplagnathus viriditarsus
With a range of brightly coloured species appearing during summer, the glittering Christmas beetles are most beloved of Australian insects.
The largest Christmas beetle species found in Sydney is the queen beetle which grows to 30 mm in length. Adults feed on eucalyptus leaves while the larval grubs feed on roots of grasses beneath. The beetles thrived in the open woodlands prior to clearing for expanding agriculture and housing. Loss of tree canopy means suburban areas no longer support the beetles that were enjoyed by children of past generations.
The decline of Christmas beetle numbers has prompted entomologists at the Australian Museum to open a citizen science project. An app provides taxonomic tips to help identify beetles. Sightings can be recorded to help establish the range of beetle populations.
The Queen Christmas Beetle is named for the green reflections glinting off the dark feet.
Woodblock print
Hand carved and hand printed
on handmade Japanese washi
Tom Kristensen 2024 ǂ
Blue Christmas beetle deluxe folder card mini print
Hand carved and printed beetle and eucalyptus leaves folder. The beetle is mounted on gold paper with notes on a golden slip behind the beetle. An absolute favourite print, easy to display. 14 x 20cm (with folder closed)
A$150.00
Green Christmas beetle deluxe folder card mini print
Hand carved and printed beetle and eucalyptus leaves folder. The beetle is mounted on gold paper with notes on a golden slip behind the beetle. An absolute favourite print, easy to display. 14 x 20cm (with folder closed)
A$150.00
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