Northern Corn Rootworm – Diabrotica barberi

Northern Corn Rootworm – Diabrotica barberi. Common Name: Northern Corn Rootworm Latin Name: Diabrotica barberi Appearance: The Northern Corn Rootworm is a small beetle measuring about 1/4 to 1/3 inch long. It has a yellowish-green body with black stripes or spots on the wing covers (elytra). The head and antennae are also black.

• Egg:The eggs of the Northern Corn Rootworm are small, oval-shaped, and yellowish-white in color. They are typically laid in the soil near the base of corn plants.
• Pupae:The pupae of the Northern Corn Rootworm are also found in the soil. They are about 1/4 inch long and are enclosed in a complex, brown shell.
• Larva:The larva of the Northern Corn Rootworm is a white grub with a brown head. It has three pairs of legs and a distinctive C-shaped body. The larvae feed on the roots of corn plants, which can lead to significant yield losses.
• Adults:The adult Northern Corn Rootworm feeds on corn pollen and silks. They are active during summer and are most commonly found in cornfields.

Host plants: The Northern Corn Rootworm primarily feeds on corn plants but can also infest other crops such as soybeans and cotton. Territory: The Northern Corn Rootworm is found in the northern regions of the United States and Canada. Damages caused by Northern Corn Rootworm: The Northern Corn Rootworm can cause significant damage to corn crops by feeding on the roots of the plants. This can lead to reduced plant growth and yield losses. In severe cases, the plants may even die. Life history and Habits: The Northern Corn Rootworm overwinters as eggs in the soil. The eggs hatch in the spring, and the larvae begin feeding on the roots of corn plants. After several weeks, the larvae pupate in the soil and emerge as adults in the summer. The adults feed on corn pollen and silks and mate to lay eggs for the next generation. The Northern Corn Rootworm has one generation per year.