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Locust borer

Locust borer

Megacyllene robiniae

A species of Megacyllene, Also known as Locust longhorn borer

From a distance, M. robiniae can easily be mistaken for a wasp or bee, due to its black and yellow striped pattern. It can also be mistaken for two closely related species: M. caryae and M. decora. The adult beetle can be 11 to 28 mm (0.43 to 1.10 in) long, and it has a W-shaped third stripe on the elytra. The antennae of both sexes are dark brown to black. The male's antennae are two-thirds its body length, and the female's are one-half. The legs are reddish brown. The full grown larvae are legless, white, and robust, growing to roughly 25 mm (0.98 in) long.

General Info About Locust borer
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Attributes of Locust borer
Colors
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
black locust trees
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, sap, plant juices
Larva Food Source
Wood of black locust trees, inner bark, phloem tissue, xylem tissue
Non-poisonous
The Locust borer is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
The Locust borer can bore into the wood and may damage its structure, or even harm the health of trees. Stay alert if you frequently observe it in your house.
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Locust borer feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Locust borer
Common and widespread
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Distribution Area of Locust borer
Eastern North America
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Life Cycle of Locust borer
Egg The egg of locust borer is laid by the female on a suitable substrate. The egg is small, oval, and often off-white or tinted with color. It remains static during this stage, serving as an incubation period before the larva emerges.
Larva Upon hatching, the larval locust borer is worm-like with a voracious appetite. It's elongated and pale, with no wings, and gradually darkens, molting several times as it grows in size and prepares for pupation.
Pupal The locust borer enters the pupal case to undergo transformation. It's immobile and encased within a protective shell. During this period, the insect reorganizes internally, developing wings and adult body features.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult locust borer’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Locust borer
1.2 - 2 cm
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Interesting Facts About Locust borer
Although locust borer is known for its distinct markings, it plays a unique role in forest ecosystems as a natural recycler of dead wood.
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Scientific Classification of Locust borer
Tips for Finding Locust borer
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Youth Habitat of Locust borer
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Locust borer
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Locust borer
Since locust borer larvae bore into wood, trap food could include fermenting tree sap or bait formulated with ethanol to attract adult locust borer.
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Habitat Preferences of Locust borer Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of locust borer are typically found burrowing in the wood of black locust trees, exhibiting a preference for stressed or dying hosts, where they create tunnel systems during their development. Pupation occurs within these woody tunnels. Searching for these larvae involves inspecting damaged or rotting sections of black locusts. Adult locust borer, however, are commonly found on the bark or foliage of black locust trees, often present from late summer to fall. To find adults, one might check the flowers or stems of goldenrods and other late-blooming plants, as they are attracted to these areas for feeding.
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How and Where Can You Find Locust borer at Different Life Stages
Larva Locust borer adults can be found on or near host trees during their active period, typically late spring to midsummer. To find adult locust borer, search around the base of trees, on trunks, or on foliage, especially during warm and sunny weather. Attract locust borer by using specific pheromone lures that mimic the chemicals used by locust borer to communicate or traditional light traps during dusk when they are most active. When using light traps, ensure they are placed in strategic locations where adult locust borer are known to frequent and that the lights are sufficient to attract insects but not so bright as to disturb local wildlife or residents. This method should always be conducted with respect to the local environment and in accordance with any relevant local wildlife preservation laws. Use a soft net to gently capture the insects if needed for closer inspection or collection. It is important when handling locust borer to use care not to harm them, and any collected specimens should be handled in line with ethical research and collection practices to minimize stress and injury to the creatures.
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Harmful Effects of Locust borer
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Forestry Pest

Adult locust borer laying their eggs into the stems and roots of deciduous trees. Emerging larvae feed within, seriously compromising structural integrity. Infestations may lead to tree death, aesthetic damage, and potential hazard for humans due to falling branches or trees.

More Effects of Locust borer

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