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California Root Borer

California Root Borer

Prionus californicus

A species of Prionus, Also known as California prionus, Giant root borer beetle

The california Root Borer (Prionus californicus) is a reddish-brown beetle with long antennae. Males are much smaller than females, but their antennae are stronger and often curve upward. It is a serious pest for fruit trees due to the fact that its larvae can kill the roots of the tree, reducing the tree's nutrients, water, and growth.

General Info About California Root Borer
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Attributes of California Root Borer
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
deciduous tree; shrub; conifer; bramble; agricultural crop
Adult Food Sources
Tree sap, nectar, plant juices, decaying wood, fruit
Larva Food Source
Roots of deciduous trees, roots of fruit trees, roots of berry bushes, roots of nut trees, roots of vines
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The California Root Borer is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of California Root Borer
It is native to the American west. It occurs widely in western North America from Alaska to Mexico.
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Distribution Area of California Root Borer
American west
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Appearance of California Root Borer
The 2.5 - 6 cm adults, which are reddish-brown with smooth shiny wing-cases. The males are smaller than the females and have more strongly serrated antennae. The larvae, cream to brown in color and strongly segmented, seek out roots shortly after hatching. The 2.5 - 5 cm cream pupa look like the adults. Shortly after mating the female lays single cream to yellow-brown 5 mm eggs.
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How to Identify California Root Borer?

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Predators of California Root Borer Larvae
Birds, rodents, carnivorous insects
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Predators of Adult California Root Borer
Birds, rodents, mammalian predators
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Interesting Facts About California Root Borer
California Root Borer larvae can create a noticeable chomping sound as they burrow through wood, almost like an audible representation of their destructive path.
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Scientific Classification of California Root Borer
Tips for Finding California Root Borer
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Youth Habitat of California Root Borer
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of California Root Borer
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract California Root Borer
For adult california Root Borer, use fermented bait such as fruit or tree sap as they are attracted to sugary substances. For larvae, no food trap is applicable as they are typically found inside the wood.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe California Root Borer
Mild, humid evenings are ideal for finding adult california Root Borer as they prefer not to be active during dry, hot conditions. Larvae are less affected by weather as they live within the wood.
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How and Where Can You Find California Root Borer at Different Life Stages
Larva Larvae of california Root Borer are found within decaying or dead wood, especially in hardwood trees. To find them safely, inspect soft, rotting logs for entry holes or sawdust, which indicates their presence. Do not damage healthy trees while searching.
Pupal Pupal california Root Borer are located inside the wood as they transition from larvae to adults. Locating pupae involves finding infested logs and carefully splitting open the wood to reveal the chambers inside.
Adult Adult california Root Borer can be found on the trunks of trees, often attracted to sap flows or light sources. Look for them at night using a flashlight, or set up light traps in wooded areas.
Are California Root Borer harmful?
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Harmful Effects of California Root Borer
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Forestry Pest

Larvae of california Root Borer target host roots, boring into them for sustenance. In small numbers, they cause minor root disturbances. Large infestations can lead to significant root damage, compromising tree stability and health, with potential consequences such as tree death, posing a risk to forest ecosystems and, indirectly, to human economic interests in forestry.

More Effects of California Root Borer

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