Lepidiota mansueta

Systematic position: Lepidiota mansueta belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Scarabaeidae. This species is recognized as a significant soil-dwelling pest that poses a direct threat to agricultural productivity in specific geographical zones.

Affected crops: This pest primarily targets sugarcane plantations. The larvae feed on underground plant parts, causing severe damage to the root systems. Beyond sugarcane, the pest can impact various grasses and other economically important crops if they share the same cultivation area.

Biology and lifecycle: The lifecycle follows a complete metamorphosis including the egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. The larval stage is the most destructive, spending extended periods within the soil profile feeding on roots. Adults are typically active during the wet season, emerging to feed on foliage and reproduce.

Damage and harm: The larval feeding activity destroys the root system, preventing effective nutrient and water uptake. This manifests as stunted growth, yellowing, and patches of dead plants across the field. High larval populations can lead to total crop failure and significant financial losses for producers.

• Soil application of systemic insecticides during planting.
• Use of light and pheromone traps to monitor and reduce adult populations.
• Implementation of crop rotation patterns.
• Application of entomopathogenic fungi to suppress larval numbers.
• Mechanical soil disturbance to expose larvae to natural predators.

Protection measures: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential for controlling this beetle. A combination of preventative soil treatments, regular monitoring during flight seasons, and the use of biological control agents allows growers to manage the population effectively and preserve crop yields.