Most information regarding biology results from research on borers on pecan in Georgia. Tilehorned prionus infests roots, larvae feeding on roots for 3-5 years before pupating. Broadnecked prionus has been reported damaging apple roots in Rhode Island. Its range is eastern U.S., into Oklahoma. Adults may be collected on lawns, etc., near oak.
Adults emerge from the soil in the early evening.
They are nocturnal, spending the day hiding under debris and organic matter. The sex ratio is about six females per male. In the lab, adult females live about 7 days, males about 5 days. Most egg laying activity takes place in July. A gradual decline and tree death results from young larvae feeding on root bark and older larvae tunneling into the roots.