Flat-headed Root-borer Capnodis tenebrionis

Photo of Flat-headed Root-borer (Capnodis tenebrionis)

(c) Santiago MartΓ­n-Bravo, some rights reserved (CC BY)

OrderBeetles (Coleoptera)
FamilyJewel Beetles (Buprestidae)
GenusCapnodis (Capnodis)

These shiny, dark beetles look innocent enough, but their larvae have serious destructive potential: they're specialized root-borers that tunnel deep into tree roots, particularly targeting stressed or weakened trees. Their distinctly flattened body shape is a perfect adaptation for burrowing through dense wood. The damage can be considerable, which is why they're especially unwelcome in orchards and vineyards across southern Europe.

Metallic sheen and a flat profile are the telltale signs when you spot one.

Think you can identify this one in the wild?

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