Net-winged beetle (Carabus clathratus)

Systematic position: The net-winged beetle (Carabus clathratus) belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Carabidae. While most ground beetles are beneficial predators, certain species may sporadically impact agriculture when their natural habitat is transformed into arable land.

Biology and life cycle: The lifecycle of this beetle is highly dependent on moist environments, such as floodplains and marshes. Adults hibernate in the soil or under debris. Upon emergence in the spring, they feed and reproduce. The larvae are also active predators and go through several instars before pupation, primarily inhabiting the upper layers of the soil.

Damaged crops: Although not typically classified as a major agricultural pest, Carabus clathratus can occasionally cause damage to cereal crops, vegetables, and berry plantations when their native environment is disrupted or when populations spike due to favorable climate conditions.

Character of damage and harm: Both adults and larvae can cause mechanical damage to emerging seedlings. They may chew on plant tissues or damage the root systems of young crops. The harm is usually localized but can lead to significant stand reduction in fields adjacent to wetlands or high-moisture areas.

Protection measures: Agronomic management is the key to preventing population outbreaks:

• Implementing crop rotation to disrupt the beetle's life cycle.
• Managing field moisture levels to reduce attraction to marshy areas.
• Using seed treatments with systemic insecticides for early-stage protection.
• Encouraging the presence of natural enemies and maintaining field edge biodiversity.