Click beetle Lacon lateralis

Lacon lateralis belongs to the family Elateridae, commonly known as click beetles. These insects are classified within the order Coleoptera and are notorious in agricultural settings because their larval stage is recognized as one of the most persistent soil-borne pests, often referred to as wireworms. They are characterized by their unique ability to right themselves with a clicking sound when placed on their backs.

This pest affects a wide range of agricultural crops, particularly cereals, maize, potatoes, and various root vegetables. Because the larvae are soil-dwelling, they cause hidden damage to the root systems of plants. Their presence is often identified only after significant stand loss occurs, making them a challenging issue for growers during the early establishment of crop cycles.

The life cycle of the species involves complete metamorphosis through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larval stage is the most destructive and longest, often lasting for several years depending on soil conditions and climate. Adults are generally found in sheltered environments, such as leaf litter or beneath tree bark, but they migrate to fields to lay eggs near preferred host plants.

The damage caused by these larvae primarily involves feeding on the roots and underground stems of seedlings, leading to reduced nutrient uptake and plant death. Furthermore, the tunnels created by the larvae in root crops or tubers provide entry points for secondary pathogens like fungi and bacteria, which cause further decay and degrade the market value of the harvested produce.

Management strategies require an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. Cultural controls include maintaining clean fields by removing weeds, optimizing drainage, and practicing crop rotation to disrupt the pest's life cycle. Deep tillage helps by exposing larvae to predators and desiccation. Chemical control options include seed treatments with systemic insecticides and the application of granular soil insecticides at the time of sowing.