Hawthorn Jewel Beetle
Agrilus sinuatus
This record describes Agrilus sinuatus (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 10 mm. This is a reddish-brown rather bronze-metallic looking species. Adults are active from mid-June to late September. The species is associated with Hawthorn, the larvae bore beneath the bark producing a snaky, zig-zag pattern. Previously classed as nationally scarce, it seems to be becoming more frequent although it remains mainly restricted to the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Buprestoidea
- Family
- Buprestidae (Metallic Wood-boring Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Agrilinae
- Tribe
- Agrilini
- Genus
- Agrilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Anywhere that Hawthorn occurs.
Seasonal Activity
Adults are active from mid-June to late September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The species is associated with Hawthorn, the larvae bore beneath the bark producing a snaky, zig-zag pattern.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Previously classed as nationally scarce, it seems to be becoming more frequent although it remains mainly restricted to the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Agrilus sinuatus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Hawthorn Jewel Beetle (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawthorn Jewel Beetle
What is Hawthorn Jewel Beetle?
Hawthorn Jewel Beetle (Agrilus sinuatus) is a species in the family Buprestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hawthorn Jewel Beetle?
5 to 10 mm. This is a reddish-brown rather bronze-metallic looking species.
Where is Hawthorn Jewel Beetle found?
Habitat: Anywhere that Hawthorn occurs.
When is Hawthorn Jewel Beetle active?
Hawthorn Jewel Beetle: seasonal activity - Adults are active from mid-June to late September..
What is the life cycle of a Hawthorn Jewel Beetle?
The species is associated with Hawthorn, the larvae bore beneath the bark producing a snaky, zig-zag pattern.