The Buprestidae, also known as jewel beetles or metallic beetles, form a large family of insects characterized by their iridescent sheen and elongated shape. They are often observed on dead or dying wood, where their xylophagous larvae bore galleries into the wood. These insects play an important role in forest ecosystems, both as decomposers and as indicators of forest health. Their spectacular beauty, combined with their fascinating biology, makes them prized subjects in macrophotography. This page provides an overview of their main morphological characteristics, life cycle, and species that can be encountered in our regions.