Insects and Spiders - native

Amethyst Cedar Borer (Semanotus amethystinus) on Jun 19, 2024

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

Big blue beetle. Large antennas, looks just like the images found on-line. I have specimen saved in a sandwich bag, sorry, it's dead.

Commentary

Thank you for your report! I agree with your identification. These are a native species and not pests. They feed in stressed or recently dead cedar. They don't attack healthy trees.

Tom Valente
June 21, 2024, 2:40 a.m.

Location

On my leg, on the back porch under my cedar trees. Corner of Fairview Ave Se and High St, Salem, Or, 97302. I have very large Cedar trees on the property I rent. The beetle in question is an Amythist Wood Borer. Pictures attached.

Expert Reviewer

Tom Valente
Oregon Department of Agriculture

© 2025 Portland State University | Contact us for questions regarding site content