Flower Chafer (likely a species of Scarab beetle, possibly genus Gymnetis or Cotinis based on appearance)

Scientific Name: Varies by species; examples include Gymnetis hololeuca or Cotinis nitida (Green June Beetle)

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Scarabaeidae, Subfamily: Cetoniinae (Flower Chafers)

Size: Typically ranges from 15 mm to 30 mm (0.6 to 1.2 inches) in length, depending on the species.

Flower Chafer (likely a species of Scarab beetle, possibly genus Gymnetis or Cotinis based on appearance)

Natural Habitat

Flower chafers are typically found in gardens, woodlands, orchards, and areas with abundant flowering plants and decaying vegetation. Their larvae are found in soil rich in organic matter, compost piles, and decaying logs.

Diet & Feeding

Adult flower chafers primarily feed on nectar, pollen, sap from trees, and ripe fruits. The larvae (grubs) feed on decaying wood, leaf litter, and other organic matter in the soil.

Behavior Patterns

Adult flower chafers are active during the day and are often attracted to bright colors. They are strong flyers and can be seen visiting flowers and feeding on fruit. Larvae live in decaying wood or compost piles, where they feed on organic matter. Adult beetles mate and the females lay eggs in suitable decaying material.

Risks & Benefits

Flower chafers are generally harmless to humans and do not bite or sting. In their larval stage, they can sometimes be considered minor pests if present in very high numbers in gardens, as they might feed on plant roots, but generally, they are beneficial decomposers. Adults can occasionally damage ripe fruits by feeding on them. Benefits include pollination of flowers by adults and decomposition of organic matter by larvae, contributing to nutrient cycling.

Identified on: 8/19/2025