Palo Verde Root Borer

Arid desert regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico, typically near Palo Verde, mesquite, or citrus trees.

Adults may feed on nectar or not eat at all during their short lifespan; larvae feed on the roots of trees and shrubs.

Adults are active during the summer monsoon season, often attracted to lights at night. They have a long larval stage (3-4 years) living underground before emerging to mate.

They are harmless to humans but can deliver a painful pinch with their mandibles if handled. While they assist in decomposition, heavy larval infestations can stress or kill host trees.