Agrilus ater

Agrilus ater is a beetle species in the family Buprestidae, commonly referred to as metallic wood-boring beetles or jewel beetles, native to Europe. It primarily infests trees like Salix (willows) and Populus (poplars). The larvae are wood borers, creating serpentine tunnels, or galleries, under the bark. Adults are found on the foliage of host trees, where they mate and lay eggs in bark crevices. The hatched larvae can cause significant damage, including disrupting nutrient flow and weakening the tree. This pest is a significant concern in forestry and horticulture due to its potential to harm valuable tree species. Agrilus ater, like A. suvorovi, poses a serious threat to poplars, especially in urban areas where these trees are commonly planted. While their biology is similar, A. ater differs by developing in parts with very thick bark, such as trunks and large branches, where the pupal chamber is located within the bark. Because of this, exit holes are not visible after removing the bark. In case of A. suvorovi, they are visible, as it pupate in the wood.