Journal of Insect Science (2013) 13 (48), 1-15

Charles M. Oliveira and Marina R. Frizzas (2013)
Field biology of the beetle Aegopsis bolboceridus in Brazil, with a list of host plants
Journal of Insect Science 13 (48), 1-15
Abstract: The white grub, Aegopsis bolboceridus (Thomson) (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae), is an important vegetable and corn pest in central Brazil. The objective of this study was to examine the biology of A. bolboceridus in the field and to update the list of its host plants. The study was conducted in an area with vegetable crops and corn located in the Federal District of Brazil. Samplings were taken to observe the biological stages of A. bolboceridus, preferred oviposition sites, and the adult swarming period. A. bolboceridus exhibited a univoltine cycle that lasted approximately 12 months from egg to active adults. Its eggs were found from October to November. The larval stage lasted approximately eight months, occurring between October and May. Pre-pupae were observed between April and June, and pupae were found between May and July. Inactive adults were observed in July and August, and the swarming period was between September and October. The females preferred to oviposit in sites with taller plants. Four new plant species were identified as hosts for this pest, and two new locations were recorded for its occurrence. This study is the first to describe the biology of a representative of the tribe Agaocephalini in Brazil.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Charles Martins de Oliveira

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
population dynamics/ epidemiology
general biology - morphology - evolution

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Aegopsis bolboceridus	Beet/sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris)	Brazil (south)
	Aegopsis bolboceridus	Maize/corn (Zea mays)	Brazil (south)
	Aegopsis bolboceridus	Strawberry (Fragaria)	Brazil (south)
	Aegopsis bolboceridus	Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)	Brazil (south)
	Aegopsis bolboceridus	Solanum (crop)	Brazil (south)