Agrilus

Agrilus is a genus of beetles in the family Buprestidae, commonly called jewel beetles. The genus includes hundreds of described species found worldwide, especially in temperate regions. Adults are small to medium and often slender with metallic or iridescent elytra. Larvae are wood-borers, living under bark or in sapwood.

Life cycle and feeding: Eggs are laid on host trees; hatched larvae bore through bark into the cambium and xylem, where they develop, sometimes overwintering as larvae. Pupation occurs in the wood and adults emerge through exit holes in the bark.

Ecology and hosts: Many Agrilus species specialize on hardwoods; common hosts include ash, birch, elm, willow, and oak. Some species target conifers. Infestations can girdle and kill trees, especially when populations are high or trees are stressed.

Economic importance: Several species are notable pests. Agrilus planipennis, the emerald ash borer, native to Asia, has caused extensive mortality of ash trees in North America and in parts of Europe due to introductions. Agrilus anxius, the bronze birch borer, is another important pest in North America.

Management: Control relies on early detection, removal of infested material, and quarantine to limit spread. Biological control using introduced parasitoid wasps (for example Tetrastichus planipennisi, Oobius agrili, and Spathius spp.) has been explored and implemented in some regions. Integrated pest management also includes monitoring with traps and public awareness.