What type of wood do Buprestidae typically attack?

Buprestidae, commonly known as jewel beetles, typically target dead or dying trees, especially the wood found in dead tree limbs and logs. This preference is primarily linked to their reproductive habits; females lay eggs in the bark or wood of weakened trees, where developing larvae can feed on the decaying wood, which provides a suitable environment rich in nutrients necessary for their growth.

Unlike live trees, which usually have defenses in place to deter pests, or seasoned structural wood in homes that may have been treated to prevent infestations, the dead timber offers a more accessible substrate for egg-laying and larval development. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the specific natural behavior of Buprestidae, making dead tree limbs and logs their preferred target for infestation. This understanding is crucial for pest control operators, as it influences how they approach inspections and treatment strategies for wood-boring insects.