buprestids

Buprestids, or jewel beetles, constitute the family Buprestidae, a large cosmopolitan group of beetles known for their metallic colors and elongated, often flattened bodies. Adults typically range from about 3 to 60 mm in length and may display brilliant iridescent greens, blues, and golds, produced by microstructural sculpturing of the elytra rather than pigments. They inhabit forests, woodlands, and gardens worldwide, with greatest diversity in warmer regions.

The life cycle centers on wood. Females lay eggs on bark or exposed wood; newly hatched larvae bore into the phloem and xylem, where they create serpentine galleries. The larvae have a flattened appearance and are called flatheaded borers because of the enlarged thorax behind the head. Development often takes one to several years, depending on species and conditions; pupation occurs within the wood, and adults emerge through exit holes.

Ecology and economic impact: Many species prefer stressed or recently dead trees, but several are important pests of living trees or cut timber. Notable pests include Agrilus planipennis, the emerald ash borer, which has caused extensive ash mortality in North America, and other Agrilus and Chrysobothris species that damage hardwoods and conifers. Buprestids also play roles in nutrient cycling and as indicators of forest health; some species are attracted to recently burned areas.

Taxonomy and diversity: The family comprises about 15,000 described species, distributed across several subfamilies such as Agrilinae, Buprestinae, and Chrysochroinae. They are studied in entomology for their diversity, wood-boring behavior, and often striking coloration.