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 Holometabolous life cycle, ie. When metamorphosis is observed during the pupal stage.
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
Cucurbitaceae family (pumpkins, marrows, cucumbers). 

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

Biological Control
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.