Ambrosia Beetles (Scolytinae: Xyleborini) - Ambrosia beetles are a diverse group of forest insects within the subfamilies Scolytinae and Platypodinae (pinhole borers) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). The vast majority of ambrosia beetles attack dead or dying trees. Beetles Infestations begin when beetles locate a suitable host tree. Tree volatiles, such as ethanol, attract females. Each female bores tunnels, known as galleries, where a symbiotic fungus will grow. As the eggs hatch, the larvae will feed on the fungus.