The antennae have alternating black and white bands. Adult beetles can live for several weeks, and each female can lay up to 32 eggs. Single eggs are placed into small holes chewed through the bark of a tree. Within two weeks, the egg hatches and a tiny larva begins to bore into the inner bark of the tree. As the larva grows to its full length, it tunnels deeper and deeper into the tree, eventually reaching the heartwood.
Larval tunnels weaken branches and disrupt the vascular system of infested trees.
In late spring, the larva ceases feeding and pupates. The complete cycle usually takes one year, but it can be as long as two years. The affected area in Chicago has been quarantined to prevent the accidental spread of the beetle. Individuals are prohibited from moving raw wood or insects from within the quarantine zone. Also prohibited is tree-trimming or cutting, since such activities may provoke beetle slights into new uninfested areas.