California Root Borer vs Coronated Jewel Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute California Root Borer Coronated Jewel Beetle
Scientific Name Prionus californicus Stigmodera coronata
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Cerambycidae Buprestidae
Size 35-60 mm 15-25 mm
Habitat Orchards Heathland
Diet Root Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Western United States, British Columbia Australia
Conservation Least Concern Data Deficient

California Root Borer

A massive prionine beetle found in western North America, one of the largest beetles in the region. Males have conspicuously large, serrated antennae. Larvae are root borers that attack both living and dead trees.

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Did You Know?

Larvae of this species have been found feeding on roots over 2 meters deep in the soil.

Coronated Jewel Beetle

A recently described jewel beetle from southwestern Western Australia with striking metallic colors. The genus Stigmodera contains only seven species, all endemic to Australia.

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Did You Know?

It was formally described as a new species as recently as 2019.