Palo Verde Root Borer

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Derobrachus hovorei: //dɛɹ.oʊˈbɹeɪ.kəs ˈhoʊ.vəˌraɪ//

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Summary

Derobrachus hovorei, formerly known as Derobrachus geminatus, is a large longhorn beetle from the family Cerambycidae, notable for its association with palo verde trees and other species. Adults are capable flyers but somewhat awkward in flight. The larvae are known for their prolonged underground development, leading to interactions with gardeners.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are black or brown, reaching lengths of 54-66 mm (approximately 2 to 2.6 inches). They have long antennae and spines on the thorax. Larvae are cream colored to pale green, typically with a brown head.

Identification Tips

Distinguished from true D. geminatus by more weakly striolate antennae. Body size and color can also aid in identification.

Habitat

Commonly associated with mesquite and palo verde trees. Found in upland areas and various urban environments including parks and college campuses.

Distribution

California to Texas, Nevada, and northern Mexico.

Diet

Larvae feed on the roots of living trees such as Populus, Quercus, Prosopis, Ulmus, Parkinsonia, Morus, Citrus, and Vitis.

Life Cycle

Life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, with larvae living underground for up to three years before maturing into adult beetles that emerge in summer to mate.

Reproduction

Mature adults emerge in summer to mate; specific mating behaviors are not detailed.

Ecosystem Role

Larvae play a role in the decomposition process by feeding on tree roots, though they can also contribute to tree stress or decline.

Economic Impact

May cause damage to economically valuable trees by feeding on their roots, leading to decline or death of the trees.

Health Concerns

Not harmful to humans, though they can bite in self-defense.

Collecting Methods

• Attracted to lights during adult emergence periods.

Preservation Methods

• Standard entomological preservation techniques (not specified).

Evolution

Nomenclatural changes have led to the establishment of D. hovorei as the correct name for this species, separating it from its previously confused identity as D. geminatus.

Similar Taxa

• Derobrachus geminatus
• Derobrachus forreri

Misconceptions

Historically confused with the related species D. geminatus; prior literature incorrectly used the name geminatus for this species before its proper classification as D. hovorei in 2007.

Tags

• beetle
• Cerambycidae
• Derobrachus
• palo verde
• root borer