Darkling beetles
Darkling beetles are dull bluish black or brown. They never have color patterns on the back. In most
species, the segments at the tip of the antenna are slightly larger than segments at the base. Darkling
beetles are found throughout California.
Identification of species
DamageDarkling beetles chew off seedlings or feed on foliage of several different vegetable crops. Feeding
in some fruit crops, such as figs, may also occur. Beetles are most active at night but occasionally run
on the ground in the daytime. They often hide under clods or debris during the hot parts of the day.
Solutions
To help reduce population levels, remove
or hasten the breakdown of organic matter to reduce the available
host material for larvae. Be sure the garden and borders
are weed and debris-free before you plant.
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