Palo Verde Root Borer

Arid regions and desert landscapes, particularly near Palo Verde, mesquite, and citrus trees.

Larvae feed on the roots of trees; adults generally do not feed, focusing on mating during their short lifespan.

Nocturnal insects attracted to bright lights during the summer monsoon season. They have a multi-year larval stage underground followed by a brief adult stage.

Adults can deliver a painful bite if handled, though they are not venomous. They are beneficial to the ecosystem as decomposers, but larvae can weaken or kill trees if infestations are heavy.