Post by trehopr1 on Jan 30, 2022 21:57:30 GMT -8
The Metallic wood-boring beetles or Jewel beetles
(Buprestidae) are a sizeable family of beetles so
called because of their often glossy or iridescent
colors. At over 15,000+ species placed in some 775
genera; they have been popular and endearing to
study and appreciate for generations of specialists
and collector enthusiasts alike.
Probably, nowhere else in the world have these beetles
reached such peaks of riotous coloration, pattern, and
boldness as the region of Southeast Asia (including Papua
New Guinea, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia).
The speciation in these many places is nothing short of
astounding. Color forms exist in some species and of coarse
aberrations likewise occur (here and there).
Offhand, this collector estimates that there are "roughly"
some 30 - 40 species which are relatively (commonly seen)
in the hobby and most private collections. After that, one then
steps into collecting these beetles -- on another level !
It is on that level that rarities, seldom seen species, or rarely
offered items exist so large sums often trade hands.
Below, are four common species which I only recently spread
and placed on cards. Had these in papers for years...
I have acquired some 20 species of the most commonly
offered kinds. The "top-shelf" material has always been
out of my league; though, I have had my share of chances
at ownership.
It does amaze me that some of these species are collected
with regularity and in serious numbers. I have seen several
species sold as lots of (10's); buy as many as you like...
How they go about collecting so many at once or in any one
place begs question.
Anyway, here's another photo (poor quality) which was
taken of a friend's brief holdings of these beetles. He ended
up selling these off after deciding all the best ones he desired
were too costly to chase after.
Most were common, low cost stuff but, sharp eyes will notice
a couple upscale Calodema species.
I'm certain there are a fair few other members who could regale us
with their holdings. So, don't be afraid to flatter us with some pictures.
I shall always have an appreciation for these beetles even if I may
never afford the more expensive ones. Just a really great family of
beetles.
(Buprestidae) are a sizeable family of beetles so
called because of their often glossy or iridescent
colors. At over 15,000+ species placed in some 775
genera; they have been popular and endearing to
study and appreciate for generations of specialists
and collector enthusiasts alike.
Probably, nowhere else in the world have these beetles
reached such peaks of riotous coloration, pattern, and
boldness as the region of Southeast Asia (including Papua
New Guinea, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia).
The speciation in these many places is nothing short of
astounding. Color forms exist in some species and of coarse
aberrations likewise occur (here and there).
Offhand, this collector estimates that there are "roughly"
some 30 - 40 species which are relatively (commonly seen)
in the hobby and most private collections. After that, one then
steps into collecting these beetles -- on another level !
It is on that level that rarities, seldom seen species, or rarely
offered items exist so large sums often trade hands.
Below, are four common species which I only recently spread
and placed on cards. Had these in papers for years...
I have acquired some 20 species of the most commonly
offered kinds. The "top-shelf" material has always been
out of my league; though, I have had my share of chances
at ownership.
It does amaze me that some of these species are collected
with regularity and in serious numbers. I have seen several
species sold as lots of (10's); buy as many as you like...
How they go about collecting so many at once or in any one
place begs question.
Anyway, here's another photo (poor quality) which was
taken of a friend's brief holdings of these beetles. He ended
up selling these off after deciding all the best ones he desired
were too costly to chase after.
Most were common, low cost stuff but, sharp eyes will notice
a couple upscale Calodema species.
I'm certain there are a fair few other members who could regale us
with their holdings. So, don't be afraid to flatter us with some pictures.
I shall always have an appreciation for these beetles even if I may
never afford the more expensive ones. Just a really great family of
beetles.
