The jewel scarabs are a genus belonging to the family of scarab beetles. They are known for their iridescent exteriors and are a separate species from the jewel beetles.
Size: 0.59–1.38 in (1.5–3.5 cm)
Color: Bright green is the most common coloration among all the species, but metallic tinges of gold and silver are observed as well such as in Chrysina aurigans.
Other Characteristic Features: Their exoskeleton is capable of reflecting light, giving them a shiny appearance.
The larva of these beetles is white.
After maturing they pupate, but the mortality rate of this stage is extremely high.
Eggs are laid on rotting wood, which later acts as a food source for the hatching larvae.
| Lifespan | 3 months |
| Distribution | The southwestern United States to some parts of South America, such as Ecuador and Venezuela |
| Habitat | Juniper, pine, or pine-oak forests |
| Predators | Not recorded |
| Seasons active | Rainy season |
| Host Plants | Rotting wood |
| Diet of adults | Foliage from juniper, oak, and pine trees |
Jewel scarabs do not cause any significant damage.
Image Source: myrmecos.files.wordpress.com, content.invisioncic.com, bugguide.net, arthurevans.files.wordpress.com
The jewel scarabs are a genus belonging to the family of scarab beetles. They are known for their iridescent exteriors and are a separate species from the jewel beetles.
Size: 0.59–1.38 in (1.5–3.5 cm)
Color: Bright green is the most common coloration among all the species, but metallic tinges of gold and silver are observed as well such as in Chrysina aurigans.
Other Characteristic Features: Their exoskeleton is capable of reflecting light, giving them a shiny appearance.
The larva of these beetles is white.
After maturing they pupate, but the mortality rate of this stage is extremely high.
Eggs are laid on rotting wood, which later acts as a food source for the hatching larvae.
| Lifespan | 3 months |
| Distribution | The southwestern United States to some parts of South America, such as Ecuador and Venezuela |
| Habitat | Juniper, pine, or pine-oak forests |
| Predators | Not recorded |
| Seasons active | Rainy season |
| Host Plants | Rotting wood |
| Diet of adults | Foliage from juniper, oak, and pine trees |
Jewel scarabs do not cause any significant damage.
Image Source: myrmecos.files.wordpress.com, content.invisioncic.com, bugguide.net, arthurevans.files.wordpress.com
