Girdlers

Girdlers are a type of beetle belonging to the family Cerambycidae, commonly known as longhorn beetles. These beetles are characterized by their exceptionally long antennae, which are often as long as or longer than their bodies. The term "girdler" specifically refers to certain species within this family that are known for their larval feeding habits.

The larvae of girdlers bore into woody plants, and in some cases, they feed on the bark and cambium layer. A distinctive behavior associated with some girdler species is the girdling of twigs or small branches. The larva creates a circular groove around the twig, effectively cutting off the flow of nutrients to the part of the branch beyond the girdle. This causes the tip of the branch to die and often fall off. The larva then typically bores into the detached portion to complete its development.

While girdlers are found worldwide, specific species are more prevalent in certain regions. Their feeding habits can sometimes cause damage to trees and shrubs, particularly in agricultural or horticultural settings, though they are not typically considered major pests on a large scale. The life cycle of girdlers involves egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, with the larval stage being the most destructive. Adults are usually seen during warmer months and feed on nectar, pollen, or sap.