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Asparagus Beetle


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Asparagus beetle—Crioceris asparagi.

 

Common names: Asparagus Beetle, Spotted Asparagus Beetle

 

Size: Spotted asparagus beetle—1/3", asparagus beetle—1/4", larva—less than 1/3"

 

Identification: Blue-black cross on the back of adults; looks like four white spots on the wing covers. Eggs are shiny black and laid on young asparagus spears. Larvae are plump, long, off-white, gray, or greenish worms with black head and legs.

 

Biology and life cycle: Adults overwinter in plant debris. Multiple generations per year. Complete metamorphosis.

 

Habitat: Asparagus plants

 

Feeding habits: Adults and larvae eat young asparagus spears in the spring and summer.

 

Economic importance: Severe crop damage.

 

Natural control: Soil health, adapted plants, and beneficial insects—wasps, lady beetles, and green lacewings.

 

Organic control: Spray with plant oil products and dust plants with all-purpose flour and diatomaceous earth.

 

Insight: Spotted asparagus beetle has spots instead of the cross marking.

 

 

 

 

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