Japanese Beetle
Popillia japonica
Not established in BC. Included so growers and scouts can watch for it. Report a suspected find to the BC Blueberry Council.
Overview
This pest is widespread in US. In Canada, its distribution is limited to New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Quebec.
Damage
Adult beetles eat leaves, flowers, and fruit and can rapidly defoliate plants if present in high numbers. Larvae feed on plant roots. Beetles feed on foliage and can be a serious contaminant in harvested fruit.
Insect
Adult beetles are 13 mm long with a metallic green thorax and shiny, brown wing covers. The adults appear in early summer and are active for 6-8 weeks, particularly on warm, sunny days. Mating occurs soon after female emergence. Eggs are laid in the soil within 7-10 days. Larvae are milky white, C-shaped with three pairs of legs and are present in the soil. There is one generation per year.
Photo reference
2 field photos
Select any photo to enlarge.