Notes on biological cycle and feeding behaviour of Heterogomphus hopei Burmeister (Dynastinae, Oryctini) associated with Aechmea sp. (Bromeliaceae) in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

We document the larval development of Heterogomphus hopei Burmeister (Dynastinae: Oryctini) within the soft tissue stem of Aechmea sp. bromeliads from the Atlantic Forest, northeast of Brazil. Larvae excavated galleries extending from the root zone towards the stem core of the plant, sealing these galleries with a brown secretion when disturbed. Under laboratory conditions, we observed larvae, pupae and emerging adult females. These findings contribute to the limited understanding of the natural history of H. hopei and underscore the significance of bromeliads as microhabitats that support associated Scarabaeoidea.