California Root Borer vs Walnut Husk Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute California Root Borer Walnut Husk Fly
Scientific Name Prionus californicus Rhagoletis completa
Order Coleoptera Diptera
Family Cerambycidae Tephritidae
Size 35-60 mm 5-7 mm
Habitat Orchards Orchards
Diet Root Feeders Fruit Feeders
Regions Western United States, British Columbia North America, Southern Europe
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.

Walnut Husk Fly

A fruit fly whose larvae feed inside walnut husks, staining and damaging the nuts. It has become an invasive pest in European walnut-growing regions.

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Did You Know?

Larval feeding stains walnut shells black, making them unmarketable even though the nut inside may be fine.