PEST
 
   NAME
     Jewel Beetles
     Various Jewel Beetle Species
 
   ORDER
     Coleoptera
 
   FAMILY
     Buprestidae

Description of the Pest
There are many species of Jewel beetles and generally have flat and elongated bodies with metallic, iridescent-patterned shells in orange red or yellow. The plump larvae are cream-coloured legless grubs, shaped like a cobra head with a large body segment behind the head.

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
They are common throughout Australia particularly in the drier regions.

Life Cycle
This insect has a Holometabolous life cycle, ie. When metamorphosis is observed during the pupal stage.
Eggs are laid in cracks in the bark of the host, upon which the mature larvae pupates.

Period of Activity
Most active from spring through summer.

Damage Caused
The larvae feed beneath the bark, producing oval (in cross-sectioned) tunnels with much sawdust (“frass”) around the entrance. The larvae burrow into the cambium layer. Stressed or damaged plants are more susceptible to infestation and may display branch die-back; occasionally the larvae may ring-bark the trunk.

Susceptible Plants
Many plants are attacked especially in the Myrtaceae family such as the Eucalyptus, Leptospermum and Melaleuca species.  Allocasuarina are also attacked.

Banksia species may be attacked by the Banksia Borer (Cyria imperialis).

Cupressus species are attacked by the Cypress Jewel Beetle (Diadoxus erythrurus).

Cultural Control
Remove damaged branches or repair using arboriculture techniques. Improve the culture of the plant.

Biological Control
No effective biological controls.

Chemical Control
No practical chemical control of the larvae is available. Tree injection is unsuccessful because the larvae tunnel into the woody part of the plant.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.