Kansas State University

–by Dr. Raymond Cloyd

If you want to see the destructive ability of an extensive population of elm leaf beetle, Pyrrhalta luteola, larvae; there are three large Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) trees located on the south-side of Old Claflin Road on the campus of Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS) that have been heavily fed upon by the larval stage to the point that nearly all the green content of the leaves has been removed (Figure 1).

Fig 1. Feeding damage caused by elm leaf beetle larvae (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU

In fact, the populations are so extensive that adults and larvae are present simultaneously (Figure 2).

Fig 2. Elm leaf beetle adult and larvae on tree trunk (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

In addition, larvae are accumulating and pupating on the trunk (Figure 3)

Fig 3. Elm leaf beetle pupae in the crevices of the tree trunk (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KS

and at the base of the trees (Figures 4 and 5). As of this past weekend (July 14-15), adults were migrating upward to feed (on what is left). The infestation is almost ‘biblical’ in proportion…it is absolutely AWESOME (from an entomological stand-point).

Fig 4. Elm leaf beetle larvae and pupae at the base of a tree (Author–Raymond Cloyd)

Fig 5. Close-up of elm leaf beetle larvae and pupae at the base of a tree (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

Elm leaf beetle adults are 1/4 inches in length, yellow to dull-green, with a black stripe on each wing cover extending the entire length of the abdomen. The head and thorax have distinct black spots (Figure 6).

Figure 6. Adult elm leaf beetle (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

Adults feed between the major veins resulting in leaves having a ‘shot hole’ (similar to ‘buckshot’) appearance. The larvae are 1/2 inch long and yellow, with two lines of black spots on the back (Figure 7).

Fig 7. Elm leaf beetle larvae on tree trunk (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU

They feed on the underside of leaves causing the leaves to appear skeletonized, and eventually turning brown (Figure 8). The larvae normally migrate down the trunk of trees and tunnel into or reside on the soil surface to pupate, with adults emerging later on that will migrate upward on the tree trunk. There are two generations per year in Kansas. A contact insecticide can be applied when adults and larvae are feeding on leaves. However, thorough coverage of leaf undersides is important as this is where the adults and larvae tend to feed.

Fig 8. Feeding damage to elm leaf caused by elm leaf beetle larvae (Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

–by Dr. Raymond Cloys

* Bagworms

* Grasshoppers

* Chiggers

* Ticks

* Squash bug

* Lace bugs

* Colorado potato beetle

* Flea beetles

* Harlequin bug

* Twelve spotted cucumber beetle

* Twospotted spider mite

Also, many butterflies, including the Monarch, are feeding on flowering plants such as zinnia. In addition, Monarch butterfly larvae or caterpillars are feeding on common milkweed, Asclepias syriaca plants (Figure 1).

Fig 1. Monarch butterly larvae or caterpillar feeding on common milkweed plant (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

If you have any questions or comments regarding any of these arthropod pests please contact your county based extension office or the Department of Entomology at Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS).

–by Dr. Raymond Cloyd

We have received several inquiries regarding information pertaining to the relationship between tick bites and allergic reactions after eating meat, which doctors have called the ‘Alpha-Gal Syndrome.’ The information is correct. What happens is that the gut of a lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum (Figure 1),

Fig 1. Lone star tick female (Author–Pestworld.org)

after feeding on a mammal; such as a raccoon or mouse, becomes filled with a carbohydrate-based molecule called alpha-galactose or alpha-gal. Alpha-galactose enters the body when an infected lone star tick feeds/bites a human, which stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that will ward-off the molecule. Consequently, if the immune system encounters alpha-galactose again, then a potentially life-threating allergic reaction may ensue. So, what is the problem? Well, many meat products including beef (Figure 2)

Fig 2. Beef tenderloin (Author–delish.com)

and pork contain alpha-galactose, and anyone having been bitten by a lone star tick, and then later on consuming meat may develop an allergic reaction. However, fish and chicken can be eaten without concern because they do not have the antigens associated with alpha-galactose. Therefore, it is important to protect yourself in order to avoid being bitten by ticks, in this case, the lone star tick, by taking the recommended precautions (e.g. use repellents, wear light-colored clothing, tuck pant legs into white socks, and inspect yourself after having returned from wooded areas) so you can continue to enjoy eating meat at home or at your favorite restaurant.

–by Dr. Raymond Cloyd

Japanese beetle, Popilla japonica, adults are out in full-force in most regions of Kansas feeding on different plant species, including: roses, Rosa spp.; littleleaf linden, Tilia cordata; and Virginia creeper, Parthenocissus quinquefolia, among many other plant species. The means of dealing with the adult stage of Japanese beetle are limited, and have been for many years, with the use of insecticides still being the primary strategy. Japanese beetle adults are one of the most destructive insect pests of horticultural plants in both landscapes and gardens. In addition, the larva or grub is a major turfgrass insect pest in home lawns, commercial settings, and golf courses.

Japanese beetle adults are 9/16 of an inch in length and metallic green with coppery-brown wing covers (Figure 1).

Fig 1. Japanese beetle adults feeding and mating on a leaf (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU

There are about 14 tufts of white hair present along the edge of the abdomen (Figure 2).

Fig 2. Japanese beetle adult feeding. Note white tufts of hair along the edge of the abdomen (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU).

Adult Japanese beetles emerge from the soil and live up to 45 days feeding on plants over a four-to-six-week period. Adults feed on many ornamental plants including: trees, shrubs, vines, herbaceous annual and perennials, and of course—roses. Plant placement in the landscape and volatiles emitted by plants are factors that affect adult acceptance. Furthermore, Japanese beetle adults produce aggregation pheromones that attract both males and females to the same feeding location. Adults can fly up to five miles to locate a host plant; however, they tend to only fly short distances to feed and for females to lay eggs.

Japanese beetle adults feed through the upper leaf surface (epidermis) and leaf center (mesophyll), leaving the lower epidermis intact. Adults avoid feeding on tissue between leaf veins, resulting in leaves appearing lace-like or skeletonized (Figure 3).

Fig 3. Japanese beetle adult feeding damage on leaf (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

They are most active during warm days, feeding on plants exposed to full sun throughout the day, which is likely why roses are a susceptible host plant because roses require at least six hours of direct sunlight in order to flower. Japanese beetle adults start feeding at the top of plants, migrating downward after depleting food sources. Japanese beetle adults will also feed on flowers (Figure 4),

Fig 4. Japanese beetle adults feeding on rose flower (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

chewing holes in flower buds, which prevents flowers from opening or causes petals to fall prematurely.

Dealing with Japanese beetle adults involves implementing a variety of plant protection strategies, including: cultural, physical, and insecticidal controls. Cultural control is affiliated with maintaining healthy plants through proper irrigation, fertility, mulching, and pruning, which are important in minimizing ‘stress’, which may possibly decrease susceptibility. Moreover, removing weeds that are attractive to Japanese beetle adults such as smartweed (Polygonum spp.) may alleviate infestations. Physical control involves hand-picking or collecting Japanese beetle adults from plants before populations are extensive. The best time to hand-pick or collect adults is in the morning when ambient air temperatures are typically ‘cooler.’ Adults are easily collected by placing a wide-mouthed jar or bucket containing rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) or soapy water underneath each adult, and then touching them. Adults that are disturbed fold their legs perpendicular to the body, and fall into the liquid and are subsequently killed. This procedure, when conducted daily or every-other-day, particularly after adults emerge, may substantially reduce plant damage. The use of Japanese beetle traps (Figure 5)

Fig 5. Japanese beetle trap (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

within a landscape or garden is not recommended since the floral lure and synthetically-derived sex pheromone may attract more adults into an area than would ‘normally’ occur. Japanese beetle adults may also feed on plants before reaching the traps, which increases potential damage.

Spray applications of contact insecticides will kill Japanese beetle adults. However, repeat applications are required; especially when populations are excessive. The insecticide carbaryl (Sevin^®) and several pyrethroid-based insecticides; such as those containing bifenthrin or cyfluthrin as the active ingredient, will suppress Japanese beetle adult populations. However, most of these insecticides will also directly harm many natural enemies (parasitoids and predators). Continual use will result in secondary pest outbreaks of other pests including the twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae. In addition, these insecticides are directly harmful to honey bees and bumble bees. Therefore, applications should be conducted in the early morning or late evening when bees are less active. In general, systemic insecticides are not effective against Japanese beetle adults because they have to feed on leaves and consume lethal concentrations of the active ingredient. If extensive populations are present, plant damage can still occur.

The battle against Japanese beetle adults requires patience, persistence, and diligence to prevent adults from causing substantial damage to plants in landscapes and gardens.

–by Dr. Raymond Cloyd

Green June beetle, Cotinis nitida, adults are actively flying around managed and/or unmanaged grassy areas, and ‘bumping’ into people and objects. Adults are 3/4 to 1.0 inch long, velvety-green, and tinged with yellow-brown coloration (Figure 1).

Fig 1. Green June beetle adult (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

Green stripes with yellow-orange margins extend lengthwise on the front wings. The underside of the body is distinctly shiny and metallic green or gold. Adults resemble ‘dive bombers’ flying around for several weeks in July. Green June beetle has a one-year life cycle, and overwinters as a mature larva or grub. Adults typically emerge in late-June and are active during the day, resting at night on plants, in thatch, or in compost. Adults produce a sound similar to that of bumble bees. Adults will feed on ripening fruits (Figure 2)

Fig 2. Green June beetle adult feeding on fruit (Author–Raymond Cloyd, KSU)

and may occasionally feed on plant leaves. The male beetles swarm in the morning, ‘dive bombing’ to-and-fro just above managed and/or unmanaged grassy areas where females are located. Females emit a pheromone that attracts the males. Clusters of beetles may be seen on the surface of the soil or in grassy areas with several males attempting to mate with a single female, resulting in an ‘insect orgy.’ Mated females that survive the experience will lay clusters of 10 to 30 eggs in moist soil that contains a high amount of organic matter. Eggs hatch in about two weeks in early August and young larvae feed near the soil surface. The larvae feed primarily on organic matter including thatch and grass-clippings; preferring material with a high moisture content. Larvae are 3/8 (early instars) to 1.5 (later instars) inches long, and exhibit a strange behavioral trait—they crawl on their back likely due having a constant itch.