California Root Borer vs Reticulated Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute California Root Borer Reticulated Beetle
Scientific Name Prionus californicus Tenomerga cinerea
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Cerambycidae Cupedidae
Size 35-60 mm 10-14 mm
Habitat Orchards Woodlands
Diet Root Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Western United States, British Columbia North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Reticulated Beetle

A living fossil from one of the most ancient beetle families still extant.

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Did You Know?

Its family dates back to the Triassic period over 230 million years ago.