Ten-Lined June Beetle (Polyphylla decemlineata)
Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the Ten-Lined June Beetle.
Updated: 1/26/2017; Authored By Staff Writer; Content ©www.InsectIdentification.org
Ten-Lined June Beetle
The well-defined Ten-Lined June Beetle is a western native that sticks to its roots and even gets a little hissy when disturbed.
When counting the white lines on a Ten-Lined June Beetle, count the middle line twice because it forms two separate lines once the wings open. The short lines on the sides of the elytra (wing covering) also count as part of that ten. This Scarab Beetle is larger than others and can grow to almost 2 inches in length. Adults are harmless and do not cause any real trouble, but their larvae can kill a tree, or stunt its growth, by devouring the roots. Often, the damage to the tree is unseen until it dies or falls over. These grubs live underground for 2-3 years, feasting on roots, which gives the tree no time to recover from season to season. For this reason, they are considered agricultural pests. Ending an infestation is only possible by removing affected trees and those near them (even if they are healthy). The holes where the removed trees lived are treated with an insecticide to prevent the next generation of trees from getting attacked. Covering soil with a phosphate-based insecticide between trees when adults are first seen can also help reduce population numbers. Apple trees and other orchard fruit trees are familiar food sources.
When mature, female Ten-Lined June Beetles release a pheromone into the air that males find irresistible. Males are also attracted to lights and large groups of them can be trapped by luring them with blacklight traps. Fertilized eggs are laid on the soil and larvae burrow down to find food and protection for winter months. Adults are active from middle to late summer.
