PEST

NAME
Pumpkin Beetle
Aulacophora hilaris

ORDER
Coleoptera

FAMILY
Chrysomelidae

Description of the Pest
The 6mm long adult beetle is yellowish-orange with two prominent black spots on the upper outer corners of each wing cover. Larvae are cream coloured and up to 12mm long. Both adults and larvae have chewing mouth parts.

     

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
The pumpkin beetle is a native insect found throughout Australia and commonly seen throughout NSW, but more especially in inland regions.

Life Cycle
This insect has a Holometabolouslife cycle, ie. When metamorphosisis observed during the pupalstage.
Larvae pupate in the soil. Adults live for up to ten months.

Period of Activity
Most active from late Spring to early Autumn.

Damage Caused
Larvae feed on roots; adults feed in clusters on leaves, flowers and fruit. Plant tissue is completely removed, but plants seldom sustain significant damage.

Susceptible Plants
Cucurbitaceaefamily (pumpkins, marrows, cucumbers).

Cultural Control
Remove by hand if numbers are small. Control is usually unnecessary.

BiologicalControl
None known.

Chemical Control
Dust small plants and seedlings with Maldison or spray with Carbaryl.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.