Dyscolus

Dyscolus is a genus of longhorn beetles belonging to the family Cerambycidae. These beetles are characterized by their elongated antennae, which often exceed the length of their bodies, and their sturdy, cylindrical bodies. The genus Dyscolus is found in the Neotropical region, with species reported from various countries in South America.

The larvae of Dyscolus beetles, like those of most longhorn beetles, are wood-borers. They typically develop within the wood of dead or dying trees, feeding on the decaying organic matter. The adult beetles are usually nocturnal or crepuscular, and their diet consists primarily of sap, pollen, or nectar from various plants. Information on the specific life cycles and ecological roles of many Dyscolus species is limited, as is common for many less-studied insect genera.

Taxonomic classification places Dyscolus within the subfamily Lamiinae, a diverse group of longhorn beetles. Further research is ongoing to better understand the phylogenetic relationships within the genus and its placement within the broader Cerambycidae family. Conservation status for Dyscolus species is generally not well-defined, but like many forest-dwelling insects, they may be indirectly affected by habitat loss and deforestation.