Blueberry Casebeetle – Neochlamisus cribripennis

Blueberry Casebeetle   Scientific Name: Neochlamisus cribripennis Common Name:  Blueberry casebeetle, blueberry case Appearance:  Blueberry casebeetle is a reddish beetle with a cylindrical body, ranging in size from 3 to 4 mm. The larval form of casebeetle is white with a brown head and consists of an external case made of its own excrement. The larva uses the case for protection and also pupates in it. Host Plants or Food: Blueberry casebeetles are herbivores and feed on blueberry shrubs, therefore found in fields where blueberry is grown. Territory: Throughout North America, Eastern USA, Western USA Mode of Damage:  They feed on the blueberry leaves and the stem, causing significant defoliation. While the larva and adult both are leaf chewers, the adults are stem and twig damagers and may cause the death of the plant. Habits and Life History: Blueberry casebeetle is found in all places where blueberries can be grown. They are mostly found on low-growing blueberry shrubs, leaves, or near the base. The female lays eggs during the summer in June, and the eggs overwinter during the cold months to hatch into the larva. It takes almost ten days for the eggs to hatch into the larva, feeding on the foliage to grow further. Casebeetles go through 3 instars before turning into a pupa, usually in the month of July. The pupa gives rise to adult beetles that feed on the barks and stems.