Palo Verde Root Borer

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

Adults typically do not eat or drink, focusing on mating; larvae (grubs) eat the roots of trees and shrubs.

They are most active during the summer monsoon season. They are nocturnal, attracted to bright lights, and are capable of flight despite their large size.

They have strong mandibles and can deliver a painful bite if handled, but they are not venomous. In the ecosystem, they help decompose old root systems, though they can occasionally weaken stressed landscape trees.