Visual-orientation
Guides
Agrilus subcinctus
Native Ash Borer
Agrilus subcinctus, commonly known as the native ash borer, is a North American jewel beetle (Buprestidae) that develops in ash (Fraxinus) trees. Unlike the invasive emerald ash borer (A. planipennis), this species is restricted to dead ash twigs for larval development. Adults are active from late May through mid-August, with peak flight in June. The species serves as host for multiple hymenopteran parasitoids and has been studied for its distinct mating behavior, which involves visual aerial orientation followed by contact chemical signal evaluation.
Calosoma sycophanta
forest caterpillar hunter, Agreeable Caterpillar Hunter
Calosoma sycophanta is a large, metallic ground beetle renowned for its specialized predation on caterpillars. Adults reach 21–35 mm in length and display striking iridescent green elytra with a bluish scutellum, though coloration shifts with light angle to show blue, bronze, copper, gold, or black tones. Both adults and larvae are arboreal hunters, ascending trees to prey on caterpillars including Lymantria dispar (gypsy moth), Thaumetopoea processionea (oak processionary), and Thaumetopoea pityocampa. The species is diurnal and visually orients toward dark objects and tree bases in forests. Native to Europe, it has been introduced to North America for biological control and is now established in the northeastern United States.
Hylobius warreni
Warren's rootcollar weevil, Warren rootcollar weevil
Hylobius warreni is a flightless weevil native to boreal forests of Canada, where it is a significant pest of coniferous trees. Adults feed on bark of spruce, pine, and other conifers before oviposition, while larvae tunnel in the root collar region, often girdling and killing young trees. The species has emerged as a particular concern in areas affected by mountain pine beetle outbreaks due to increased reforestation efforts. Population levels are influenced by stand density, tree age, and depth of duff material around tree bases.
Trialeurodes vaporariorum
Greenhouse Whitefly, Glasshouse Whitefly
Trialeurodes vaporariorum is a globally distributed pest of protected horticulture, frequently found in greenhouses and polytunnels. Adults are 1–2 mm with yellowish bodies and four wax-coated wings held parallel to the leaf surface. The species has a broad host range exceeding 300 plant species across multiple crop families. It causes economic damage through direct phloem feeding, honeydew excretion, and associated sooty mold growth. Population dynamics show seasonal peaks in late autumn, with densities reaching 5–7 adults plus nymphs per leaf in greenhouse broccoli systems.