Twig Girdler: Oncideres spp. (Insecta: Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Onciderini)

The following Featured Creatures article discusses the habits, distribution, appearance, life history, ecology, and other features of twig girdlers in the genus Oncideres, with a particular focus on O. cingulata cingulata in Florida. Hallmarks of twig girdler damage are described, and the common hosts of different twig girder species are discussed. The life cycle and phenology of the insect are detailed, as are theories about the purpose of the girdling behavior. Management practices for pecan growers are overviewed, and homeowners are advised that the insect is not a serious threat to ornamental trees.