Palo Verde Beetle
Borer Beetle Looks Like Giant Cockroach
Newcomers to the Phoenix area are sometimes horrified when they get their first glimpse of a huge bug that, for some, resembles a monstrous cockroach. Yes, this adult bug can be up to six inches long. Even worse--it flies.
It is the Palo Verde Beetle. More specifically, the Palo Verde Root Borer (Derobrachus geminatus). They have long antennae and spiny collars. They come out each July, and are most active in the early evening. The young Palo Verde bugs fed on the roots of distressed trees and shrubs,
particularly the Mexican Palo Verde tree. After a few years, they leave the tree roots. You'll be able to see the exit holes around the roots of the tree. It does no good to spray inside the holes after the Palo Verde beetles have already left.
 |
|
Palo Verde Borer Beetle |
Soon after emerging from underground, the Palo Verde Root Borer will mate, and the female will deposit her eggs in holes beneath host trees. The adults usually die soon after.
There's not much that can be done about the Palo Verde Beetle, except to keep trees as healthy as possible with water and fertilizer. If branches of your trees start dying gradually, the cause may be that there are young Palo Verde beetles feeding off the roots.
Adult Palo Verde bugs are attracted to light, so turn off outside lights if you don't want them visiting you. They won't try to get into your home, but might end up there if the light attracts them. They don't harm humans, but they do have the ability to bite if they are provoked. The best advice is to leave them alone, or be swift in your own attack.
| More About the Palo Verde Bug |
|
|
You Might Also Want To Know |
