Screech beetle

The screech beetle (Hygrobia tarda) is a unique species of water beetle belonging to the family Hygrobiidae. As the only representative of this family in Europe, it resides primarily in the bottom layers of stagnant or slow-moving water bodies, such as ponds, ditches, and wetlands.

In an agricultural context, this species is identified as a pest in specialized facilities involved in the cultivation of aquatic plants. Both adult beetles and their larvae can cause damage to young shoots and root systems, which results in stunted growth and reduces the commercial value of aquatic ornamental or agricultural crops.

The biology of the species involves a complex life cycle. Adults are active during the warmer months, with females laying eggs on submerged parts of aquatic vegetation. Larvae develop in the water column or on the substrate, undergoing several developmental stages. They possess external gills, allowing them to breathe dissolved oxygen efficiently while submerged in bottom sediments.

Damage symptoms include mechanical punctures and scraping of the plant epidermis. In cases of high population density, the pest can cause significant deformation of the plant's aerial parts. The primary damage is attributed to the larvae, which feed on organic debris and the tender tissues of living plants, particularly during peak vegetative periods.

Control measures include a comprehensive approach:

• Regular cleaning of ponds to remove excess vegetation and excessive bottom silt.
• Water level management in aquaculture areas to disrupt the larvae's developmental cycle.
• Implementation of biological control agents and preservation of natural predators.
• Application of approved insecticides in cases of severe infestation, strictly adhering to environmental water usage regulations.