Oak Jewel Beetle
Agrilus biguttatus
This record describes Agrilus biguttatus (species). Recorded family: Buprestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
It is similar to some other members of the genus with shiny metallic looking elytra, but the elytra of Agrilus biguttatus are rounded at the tips, and there is only one white scaly patch on each elytron somewhere at the end of the second third and beginning of the last third. No other white scaly patches are located on the elytra. The larva of Agrilus biguttatus develops exclusively in different species of oak. After hatching the beetles feed on the oak foliage in the crowns of the trees. In sunny and warm weather the beetles sit on the leaves of the breeding trees, or on trunks or bushes and trees nearby. They are not found on blossoms. They fly very well and reach new breeding trees in this way. The beetle's lifespan is about three weeks. An uncommon beetle in Britain, though thought to be increasing in numbers here. It is found mainly in the south Midlands and south eastern England. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Buprestidae
- Genus
- Agrilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with ancient oak.
Seasonal Activity
May to November.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larva of Agrilus biguttatus develops exclusively in different species of oak. After hatching the beetles feed on the oak foliage in the crowns of the trees. In sunny and warm weather the beetles sit on the leaves of the breeding trees, or on trunks or bushes and trees nearby. They are not found on blossoms. They fly very well and reach new breeding trees in this way. The beetle's lifespan is about three weeks.
Additional species information
Recorded status
An uncommon beetle in Britain, though thought to be increasing in numbers here. It is found mainly in the south Midlands and south eastern England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Agrilus biguttatus. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oak Jewel Beetle
What is Oak Jewel Beetle?
Oak Jewel Beetle (Agrilus biguttatus) is a species in the family Buprestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Oak Jewel Beetle found?
Habitat: Associated with ancient oak.
When is Oak Jewel Beetle active?
Oak Jewel Beetle: seasonal activity - May to November..
What is the life cycle of a Oak Jewel Beetle?
The larva of Agrilus biguttatus develops exclusively in different species of oak. After hatching the beetles feed on the oak foliage in the crowns of the trees. In sunny and warm weather the beetles sit on the leaves of the breeding trees, or on trunks or bushes and trees nearby. They are not found on blossoms. They fly very well and reach new breeding trees in this way. The beetle's lifespan is about three weeks.