Insects of New Junction - Jewel Beetle (Stigmodera gratiosa)

This is just one of hundreds of species of jewel beetles occurring in WA. Bodies and legs of this species were used in pieces of jewellery in earlier times because their iridescent colour never fades. The species inhabits south-western W.A. from North-West Cape to the southern edge of the Nullarbor Plain. Adults may be found visiting various white flowers during the months of September to December. They measure 1.5 to 2.0 cm in body length.

Image: Jie Yu