Anthaxia jewel beetle

Systematic position: The genus Anthaxia belongs to the Buprestidae family within the order Coleoptera. Commonly known as jewel beetles or metallic wood-boring beetles, they are recognized for their iridescent bodies and the significant structural damage their larvae cause to woody plants.

Host plants: These beetles primarily target deciduous trees and shrubs. Fruit-bearing trees such as apples, pears, cherries, plums, and apricots are the most common hosts. They frequently attack trees that are already suffering from drought stress or mechanical damage, making healthy orchard management crucial for prevention.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle typically spans one to two years depending on the species and environmental temperature. Adults emerge in spring or early summer, feeding on foliage and pollen. Females oviposit in bark crevices. Upon hatching, larvae bore into the cambium layer, creating galleries that effectively disrupt the plant's vascular system over their developmental period.

Character of damage and economic impact: The damage is primarily caused by larval feeding galleries beneath the bark. This activity girdles the stems or branches, preventing the transport of nutrients and water. Typical symptoms include wilting, foliage yellowing, branch dieback, and in severe cases, the death of the tree. The weakening caused by Anthaxia also invites wood-decaying fungi and other pests.

Control measures: Management strategies emphasize the removal of infested wood to disrupt the life cycle. Key practices include:

• Prompt pruning and disposal of dead or damaged branches.
• Maintaining tree vigor through proper irrigation and fertilization.
• Chemical control using systemic insecticides applied during the peak adult emergence period.
• Monitoring adult activity to time foliar sprays effectively.