Red Turnip Beetle – Entomoscelis americana

Red Turnip Beetle (Entomoscelis americana) Common Name: Red Turnip Beetle Latin Name: Entomoscelis americana Appearance:  The Red Turnip Beetle, Entomoscelis americana, is an affecting beetle known for its vivid red colouration. The body is smooth and lustrous, elongated, slightly oval. The elytra, or stiffened forewings, may also have black patches or patterns. Typically, it includes black markings, including a black head. Predators are alerted to the beetle’s potential toxicity or unpleasantness by its vivid red hue. Host Plants:  Red Turnip Beetles mainly feed on plants belonging to the mustard family (Brassicaceae), which consists of cruciferous crops such as turnips, radishes, and other vegetables. Territory:  These beetles are found in various regions where their host plants are cultivated, particularly in North America. Damages caused by Red Turnip Beetle:  Brussels sprouts can sustain harm from both the adult beetles and their larvae. The host plant’s leaves and roots are the larvae’s primary food source. They are called red turnip beetle larvae. The feeding action may cause the crops to develop less quickly, provide fewer yields, or sustain aesthetic harm. Life History and Habits: Egg Stage: Female Red Turnip Beetles lay eggs in the soil near the base of host plants. Larval Stage: The eggs hatch into larvae, commonly called root maggots. The larvae feed on the roots of cruciferous plants. Pupal Stage: Fully grown larvae pupate in the soil. Adult Beetle: Adult Red Turnip Beetles emerge from pupae. The adults can cause additional harm and feed on the leaves of the host plants.