Cottonwood Borer

About Cottonwood Borer

A large longhorn beetle with bold black and white patterning and long antennae. Its larvae bore into the roots and lower trunks of cottonwood and willow trees.

How to Identify Cottonwood Borer

Cottonwood Borer (Plectrodera scalator) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Cerambycidae. Adults typically measure 25-40 mm.

Cottonwood Borer Habitat

Cottonwood Borer is found in rivers & streams habitats, particularly across Central and eastern United States. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Cottonwood Borer Diet and Feeding

Cottonwood Borer feeds on plant roots, typically during its larval stage. Root feeders can affect plant health and are sometimes considered agricultural pests.

Where Is Cottonwood Borer Found?

Cottonwood Borer can be found in Central and eastern United States, where it inhabits rivers & streams environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Is Cottonwood Borer Dangerous?

Cottonwood Borer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.

Cottonwood Borer Role in Nature

Cottonwood Borer is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.

Seasonal Activity