The family Buprestidae, is one of the most remarkable and diverse groups of beetles found throughout the world. These beetles are particularly interesting because of their attractive colouration and shiny surface of the trunk, which has earned them the nickname “jewel beetles”. Their bodies are often covered in various shades of green, blue, red and gold, allowing them to blend in perfectly with their surroundings. Buprestidae is a large family with over 15,000 described species divided into several subfamilies. Although found all over the world, the greatest diversity of these beetles can be found in tropical regions.
One of the characteristic features of wood-boring beetles is their larval stage. The larvae of these beetles live inside the wood of plants and trees and feed on woody material. Depending on the species, the larvae can attack both living trees and dead plant parts.
Adult beetles feed on nectar, pollen and plant leaves. Their activity is highest during the warm summer months when they can be observed mating and laying eggs in suitable host plants. The females have developed a so-called ovipositor, which they use to deposit their eggs in cracks in the bark of trees. Scientists study them from many different angles. One of them is studying their fascinating behaviour and life cycle. The other is to analyse the chemicals in the beetles’ bodies that help them survive in their hostile environment full of predators and parasites.
The study of these beetles can provide valuable information about the ecology, evolution and conservation of our planet’s biodiversity. These beetles are often associated with forests, as many species are found in deciduous and coniferous forests. Some species also live on savannas, steppes and deserts. Buprestids are usually active during the day and look for flowers on which to collect nectar.
Buprestidae are also popular objects of collecting. Many people collect these beautiful beetles for their aesthetic appearance and collectible value. However, due to forest loss and habitat degradation, some species are becoming endangered.